A Calm Before the Summer Rush
May is a fantastic time to visit Disney World as the parks transition from the busy spring season to the early days of summer. With most Spring Breaks wrapped up, crowd levels are relatively low for much of the month, making it a great time for peaceful park days. However, Memorial Day weekend (May 24-26) marks the unofficial start of the summer travel season, so expect an uptick in visitors during this holiday period.
May 2025 marks a pivotal moment in Central Florida tourism, with Universal’s Epic Universe opening on May 22. This brand-new theme park is expected to draw massive crowds to Universal, but its impact on Disney World remains to be seen. Some travellers might opt to split their vacation between both parks, while others may focus entirely on Universal. As a result, Disney World may experience either an increase in crowds from overlapping vacations or a slight dip as some guests prioritize visiting the new park.
Wondering which month has the lightest crowds? Take a look at our 2025 Disney World Crowd Calendar for a complete overview of crowd levels throughout the year and find the best time for your visit.
April Crowd Calendar Disney World
Mother’s Day (May 11) at Disney World
Celebrate the special moms in your life with a magical Disney getaway! Mother’s Day at Disney World is an unforgettable way to show appreciation, with plenty of opportunities to pamper her:
- Special Dining Options: Many Disney restaurants, especially those at resorts like the Grand Floridian or Disney Springs, offer Mother’s Day brunches or themed meals.
- Relaxing Experiences: Treat Mom to a spa day at Disney’s Grand Floridian Spa or enjoy a relaxing ride on the Skyliner with scenic views.
- Memorable Moments: Capture a photo in front of Cinderella Castle or surprise her with a thoughtful Disney gift from the shops.
Mother’s Day falls during one of the quieter periods in May, making it an excellent time to visit without the larger holiday crowds.
Disney Memorial Day Soccer Tournament (May 24-26)
The Memorial Day Soccer Tournament brings young athletes and their families to the parks, creating a lively and competitive atmosphere.
- Participants: Boys and girls aged U9-U19.
- Impact on Parks: While the tournament is held at ESPN Wide World of Sports, expect some participants and families to visit the parks during their downtime.
Memorial Day (May 26, 2025)
Memorial Day weekend sees a spike in crowds as families take advantage of the long weekend to kick off their summer vacations. Magic Kingdom and EPCOT are particularly popular during this time, so plan accordingly.
Crowds and Park Recommendations
May offers some of the best crowd levels before the summer rush begins, with manageable waits for most attractions. Here’s how crowds vary throughout the month:
- Early May (May 1-10):
- Low crowds dominate as spring breaks are over, and most families hold off on traveling until summer.
- Ideal for visiting popular rides and dining at Disney’s top restaurants with minimal waits.
- Mid-May (May 11-23):
- Crowds remain moderate, with some increase as schools begin to wrap up their academic year.
- This is an excellent time to visit if you prefer a balance of pleasant weather and manageable crowds.
- Memorial Day Weekend (May 24-26):
- Expect high crowds, especially in the parks and resorts, as this is a popular travel weekend.
- Book dining reservations and park passes well in advance for this period.
- Post-Memorial Day (May 27-31):
- Crowds decrease slightly, but summer vacationers begin arriving, keeping the parks moderately busy.
What to Wear and Weather in May
May brings warm and sunny days, with temperatures climbing as summer approaches. Packing the right items will keep you comfortable during your trip.
- Typical Weather:
- Highs: 85°F–90°F (29°C–32°C)
- Lows: 65°F–70°F (18°C–21°C)
- Humidity levels rise, and the chance of afternoon showers increases toward the end of the month.
- What to Wear:
- Daytime: Lightweight and breathable clothing such as shorts, T-shirts, and tank tops.
- Evenings: A light jacket or sweater for cooler nights.
- Rain Gear: Pack a poncho or small travel umbrella for brief rain showers.
- Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sandals that can handle wet conditions.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against the strong sun.
May is one of the most enjoyable months to visit Disney World, thanks to its lower crowds and pleasant weather. Whether you’re taking advantage of the calm early in the month or diving into the excitement of Memorial Day weekend, May offers something special for every visitor.
