Here's what you need to know:
May CROWDS & PARK HOURS
Disney publishes its park hours about 78 days in advance, but those hours can (and very often do) change.
Note: This used to be about 180 days in advance, but since the reopening, they have transitioned to a 78-day window.
As the dates get closer, it isn't unusual for Disney to tweak either the opening or closing times. And during especially busy times of the year, they may change both.
That means to avoid having your plans sidetracked that you'll definitely want to keep checking the park hours - including while on your trip.
For many Disney World visitors, 78 days isn't enough time for planning. That's why we use historical data and current park hour trends to show the "Anticipated Hours" for dates around 79-110 days out. After Disney releases official park hours, we update the calendar above.
When it comes to park hours - in general - the heavier the crowds, the longer the parks will be open during the day. Of course, that also means that the parks will be open fewer hours of the day during less busy times of the years.
In May, that means that you'll typically find the parks open longer over Memorial Day.
Disney World Crowd Calendar
PRICES AND DISCOUNTS
If you are looking for a good deal, May is a pretty good time to find one.
Disney doesn't offer discounts to be nice, they do it to fill hotel rooms and for them. Since early May is typically a less busy time of the year, that means you can often find good discounts for those dates.
Guide to Disney World Discounts
SPECIAL EVENTS
International Flower and Garden Festival
Epcot never looks more lovely than during the Flower and Garden Festival, which means May is the perfect time for a visit to this iconic park.
Taking place in the spring (and sometimes early summer) this festival brings dozens of larger-than-life topiaries as well as plenty of food and drink options inspired by all things botanical.
Overview of the International Flower and Garden Festival
WEATHER
Even though May isn't even officially "summer" yet, you can expect it to be warm and even hot.
During May, the temperatures will range from lows in the upper 60s to highs in the upper 80s.
And, by the end of the month, expect those highs to creep into the 90's.
May is also the start of the rainy season. The further into the month you go, the more likely you'll run into the typical midday showers that central Florida is known for.
We recommend that you come prepared with ponchos, multiple pairs of shoes (in case one pair gets wet), and umbrellas just in case.
How to handle the weather at Disney World
Swimming in May
By May, you'll find that the pools will be one of the most popular places to be.
In addition to the pools at the resorts, Disney's 2 water parks will also see their attendance numbers increase.
If swimming is a must-do and you are worried about the crowds, consider starting your day at the pool and head to the parks later in the day. Most people reverse that plan which means the pools can get quite busy by the end of the day.
FAQ's about the Pools at Walt Disney World
WHAT TO WEAR
When packing for Disney World in May, most people will be comfortable wearing whatever they typically wear in the summer (shorts, capri pants, etc.).
One place where you might get cold, however, is inside some restaurants and attractions.
And in fact, even during the hottest months we keep a light jacket in our park bag because coming out of the sun into an air-conditioned space is sometimes too cold for our liking.
If you're the kind of person that finds sitting under the AC to be too much, you might want to consider tossing in a light jacket, too.
Ultimate Packing List for Walt Disney World
REFURBISHMENTS AND CLOSURES
While routine refurbishments aren't typically scheduled in May, you'll likely still run into a few attractions that are closed.
We keep track of those on the calendar above
To see what will be closed on your trip, toggle the "attractions closings" tab.
WHAT'S NEW?
At this time, no major new attraction, restaurant, or show is scheduled to open in May.
TIPS FOR DISNEY WORLD IN May
- The sun can be quite intense, even if the temps aren't, so don't forget to wear your sunscreen.
- Keep checking for discounts. Even if you've already booked discounts can still be applied.
- Memorial Day crowds can be heavy, but the days before and after typically aren't bad since not all schools are out by then.
- The beginning of May is a lovely time to visit and if you can plan a trip before most schools are out you'll find the crowds to be quite manageable.
