Is it Packed: Disney World in March

Photographed by Michael of Countdown to Magic

When visualizing a vacation at the Walt Disney World Resort during the month of March a picture of flowering daisies and butterflies might be the first images to appear in your mind. There’s a good reason this visual is there. During the month of March, everything at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida is in full bloom!

If you have started your vacation planning, and the month of March has been a part of that itinerary, then you have undoubtedly seen all the gorgeous blooms, blossoms, and butterflies that are a part of the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. Visiting the Walt Disney World Resort during the month of March can be very rewarding.

Disney World in March: Should I Go?

The month of March may quite possibly be the best time to go to Disney World all year long. At this time of year, the weather is cooperative most of the time, and the crowd levels are manageable.

There are dozens of things to see and explore as spring begins to bring out the best of the Walt Disney World Resort.

Crowd Levels

While the crowds will never completely dwindle away at the Walt Disney World Resort, the month of March does feature many occasions when the crowd sizes are less than normal. In the early weeks of the month, because rain may be driving locals indoors, the parks can be easy to navigate. Patrons are able to move about freely and do not generally have to wait in atrociously long attraction lines.

During the third or fourth week of the month, Orange County Schools, as well as many other Florida State School Districts will have their spring break. This vacation from school is intentionally held about a month before other school districts elsewhere because this early break will allow Florida and area residents to have their own time in the parks before the regular spring break crowd descends.

My family always visits the parks during our March spring break, and we love this time of year, but the spring break crowd can be a touch overwhelming. Things we might have done the weekend before in no time will suddenly be subject to the demanding crowds and standing in line may take twice as long, just because we elected to come to the park a week later.

So, if you are not a Florida resident and you are thinking of visiting the Walt Disney World Parks during the month of March, I highly recommend making your plans for some time during the first two weeks of the month.

If you are a Florida resident or you just cannot avoid coming during the latter weeks, that’s okay. You should know that the park will be busier than normal, and you may have to budget more time to see and do some of your favorite attractions.

During the spring break weeks in March, I have found that Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday are the best days to try and ride the roller coasters and to schedule character dining experiences. Most travelers have to head back home on Sunday morning or afternoon, so generally speaking, the parks have their least number of guests during those Sunday morning hours.

While many people do arrive in Orlando, Florida on Monday or Tuesday, a lot of folks like to start their vacation by going to Disney Springs. Especially if a flight is coming in on Monday or Tuesday morning, many guests will opt to go to the shopping complex and have dinner in Disney Springs instead of spending extra money to only have the opportunity to visit the theme parks for an abbreviated time that day.

Keep this schedule in mind if you are planning your own trip to Disney Springs. Monday and Tuesday evenings can be just as busy as the rest of the week. If you want to go to Disney Springs, think about starting your day over there.

The crowds are considerably less dense. Dining reservations are relatively easy to secure. I have even been with a group of friends when they were able to walk up to the T-Rex Café and be seated within ten minutes, without making a prior reservation. That is how smoothly things can work on a Monday or Tuesday morning during the month of March at Disney Springs.

Unfriendly Weather Forecasts

When you begin investigating the weather you can expect to experience in Orlando, Florida during the month of March, at first glance it might appear quite comical. This is really the month where anything goes in Florida. One minute you will be sweating because the sun is shining brightly, and the humidity is saturating the air.

Seconds later, you will be drenched because an afternoon rain shower that wasn’t previously on the radar just popped up out of nowhere and it caught you out without your umbrella or poncho. The rain is still pretty warm, during the day, but sometimes, during the month of March the breeze can become downright chilly.

A few friends of mine visited my family in Orlando last year and they all bought sweatshirts at the park when the temperature dipped because of the breezy and crisp air. If you venture into the season with the “anything goes” attitude though, you have no need to worry.

To combat the highs and lows in the forecast, pack sensibly. I would recommend stashing comfortable tennis shoes, cushiony socks, sensible t-shirts and shorts in your suitcase. Then, I would also toss in a pair of pants that will make you feel at your best while in the parks. (Pants should always be packed based on your personal itinerary. If you plan to get on the rides, then you should pack a pair of pants that allows you to bend and flex.

If you don’t see yourself as a roller coaster person, then you should pack a pair of pants that will move with you from day to night so that you may throw them on whenever you feel a chill.) I also think it is wise to stow a long-sleeved T-shirt into your suitcase at this time.

I know many people who don’t love long-sleeved T-shirts the way I do, but they are so versatile. You can throw one on in the morning as you are leaving your hotel and then when the heat rises in the afternoon, you can simply roll up the sleeves and keep going on with your day.

Long sleeved t-shirts are also easy to stuff into a day bag or tie around your waist when you feel the need to ditch them for the day. If you elect to go without the long-sleeved t-shirt: no worries. March at the Walt Disney World Resort is an outstanding time to purchase a sweatshirt or hoodie.

Since springtime is coming on strong, it is one of the times of year when new merchandise is available. Whether it is appropriate to the spring season or Disney is celebrating a new colorful collection, there will always be something beautiful for you to buy and take home as a wearable souvenir.

When completing your packing list, as far as taking the weather into consideration goes, since it is March, you should think of packing something that will protect you from the rain. I like to use a rain jacket, but others will prefer an umbrella or a poncho.

Umbrellas tuck nicely into the sides of backpacks, so those are handy to keep, but ponchos can be folded into almost undetectable squares, which make them perfect for tossing in a day bag. No matter what you choose, you will need to bring the rain gear into the parks with you, so you don’t have to spend an afternoon soaked and miserable.

Notable Events

The month of March is bursting with things to do around the Walt Disney World Resort. All your favorite attractions, character meet-and-greet sessions, and dining reservations will still be open and operating, but there are some special events happening this month that will only be around for a limited time.

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival: This event is a fan favorite. Because the temperatures are rather mild during this time of year, it is a delight to stroll through the park and take a look at the beautifully designed topiaries. Every year the folks at Disney come up with something new to add to this treasured collection.

While you will almost always see topiaries in the shape of Belle, Winnie the Pooh and friends, and Mickey Mouse, you may also be treated to a few unique creations like the Cars gang, including Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater, and Cruz Ramirez.

The Epcot Flower and Garden Festival runs from the beginning of March to the first part of June. Purchase a ticket to Epcot for the day or stop by the event using your Park Hopper ticket. Admission to the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival is included in those prices. No additional fees will apply.

The Garden Rocks Concert Series: While you are hanging out in Epcot, enjoying the beautiful sights, be sure to stop by the American Pavilion, located near the back of the World Showcase. In this spot, you will be able to hear a celebrated musician rocking away to their signature tunes from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and today. These artists span a range of generations, but they also represent different musical genres as well.

Usually rock bands and country music artists are the highlights of this musical treat. The Garden Rocks Concert Series is free of charge. As long as you have paid to enter the park, Epcot, you are able to attend the show.

For the duration of the Flower and Garden Festival there will be a band performing every night. With those shows running seven days a week, you are certain to find some artist you want to see and hear perform.

These shows are perfect for parties traveling with children. Each evening, a performer takes the stage to give a thirty-minute presentation. Some of the artists engage the crowd in a sing-a-long style manner, while others come straight into the audience and allow the fans to take selfies.

These shows are perfect for parties traveling with children. Each evening, a performer takes the stage to give a thirty-minute presentation. Some of the artists engage the crowd in a sing-a-long style manner, while others come straight into the audience and allow the fans to take selfies.

Usually rock bands and country music artists are the highlights of this musical treat. The Garden Rocks Concert Series is free of charge. As long as you have paid to enter the park, Epcot, you are able to attend the show. For the duration of the Flower and Garden Festival there will be a band performing every night. With those shows running seven days a week, you are certain to find some artist you want to see and hear perform.

These shows are perfect for parties traveling with children. Each evening, a performer takes the stage to give a thirty-minute presentation. Some of the artists engage the crowd in a sing-a-long style manner, while others come straight into the audience and allow the fans to take selfies.

These shows are perfect for parties traveling with children. Each evening, a performer takes the stage to give a thirty-minute presentation. Some of the artists engage the crowd in a sing-a-long style manner, while others come straight into the audience and allow the fans to take selfies.

These shows are perfect for parties traveling with children. Each evening, a performer takes the stage to give a thirty-minute presentation. Some of the artists engage the crowd in a sing-a-long style manner, while others come straight into the audience and allow the fans to take selfies.

This interactive experience lasts just long enough to keep your little ones interested, but it ends before they can start getting fidgety. The musician will give three performances each night, so if you are busy during the first one, you can still catch the act later in the evening.

Outdoor Kitchens: During the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival be sure to treat yourself to a freshly prepared baked good or a tasty nibble from a special entrée. Throughout the park there will be unique Outdoor Kitchens erected.

Some will hold distinct beverages that can only be purchased during this time of year while others will house glorious food selections. Take your time to explore and take your taste buds on a journey as you try a little of everything.

The Garden Rocks Dining Package: If the Garden Rocks Concert Series is of interest to you and you know your travel party will want to have a table service meal at least once during your vacation day then the Garden Rocks Dining Package was designed with you in mind. Most of the table service restaurants located throughout the Epcot World Showcase as well as some of those located near the front of the park in the Future Worlds like to participate in this event.

Therefore, they offer patrons an opportunity to enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner inside their establishment as well as a guaranteed seat to one of the concerts that evening. Since the concert venue is open to anyone inside the park that day, having a reserved seat for the show is an excellent idea, especially on nights when a popular band or artist is performing.

The reserved seats are located front and center in the amphitheater, so booking this reservation will be the way you make sure you and your party get to have the best seats in the house. Reservations for the Garden Rocks Dining Package must be made in advance. This cannot be done using the My Disney Experience App. You must call the Disney Dining Reservations hotline: 407-939-1947.

Disney Vacation Club Members receive a discount on this event, and they should book their reservations using the DVC Members website or the DVC Members phone reservations system.

Prices for the Garden Rocks Dining Package vary based on the time of day your party plans to do their dining and the restaurant you select to visit. Generally, breakfast prices are cheaper than dinner.

Breakfast dining packages range from $25- $45, while lunch and dinner packages can be from $45- $115. Please note that the more expensive prices usually coincide with character dining experiences at places like the Garden Grill and the Akershus Royal Banquet Hall.

Butterfly Garden: Come to Epcot for the Flower and Garden Festival and you will be treated to more than just flowers, fabulous food, and amazing concerts. You will also be able to traipse through a Butterfly Garden. The Butterfly Garden is home to many different species of butterflies.

Some have just emerged from their cocoons while others will be fully grown and flying around the enclosed space. Wander through the festive garden and watch the butterflies as they flit from place to place. Children love visiting the Butterfly Garden. Have your cameras ready to capture the moment as things move quickly inside this fun attraction.

Booking a Reservation

For those looking to stay on-site at one of the Walt Disney World Resorts and Spas, the month of March is a prime time to secure that booking. Since the crowd levels in the parks are lower during the first two weeks of the month, not only will you be able to find the room you want, but you may also be able to get that room at a discounted price.

Walt Disney World always offers a special on rooms when you stay with them during February and March. One of the best Disney World tips I can offer is to stay alert and make sure to read your emails when you get them from Disney Destinations.

Inside those emails, you will receive the best discounts. In the months of February and March sometimes rooms will be discounted up to 30% a night. But often, my favorite discount is presented during this time of year. I like the dining + room discount the best.

Disney rotates when this discount is offered, but if you are paying close attention, they make it available at least once a year. This offer usually includes a stay in one of Disney’s luxurious hotels and the Disney Dining Plan is included, free of charge.

The level of Dining Plan you receive is directly related to the hotel in which you and your family decide to stay. If you stay in one of the value resorts, like Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, you will receive the quick-service dining plan. It includes two meals at a quick-service location, as well as two snacks or non-alcoholic beverages per day.

If you elect to stay at one of the moderately priced resorts like Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, your dining plan will also be worth more money. You will be bumped up to the Disney Dining Plan. This plan includes one quick-service meal, one table service meal or character dining experience, and two snacks or non-alcoholic drinks throughout the day.

When splurging and staying in the deluxe resorts, Disney will either include the Disney Dining Plan or the Deluxe Disney Dining Plan in your package deal.

With the Disney Deluxe Dining Plan each member of your party will receive three table service meals, as well as two snacks or non-alcoholic beverages per day. Included with all the dining plans options, each member of your party will be given a collectible and refillable mug that may be used throughout the Walt Disney World Resorts.

Taking advantage of this promotion is one of the smartest things any vacation planner can do. While this sounds like a lot of food, and it is, having this option available for your party eliminates your entire food budget. You will never have to worry about anyone in your party going hungry and you may not even need to take cash or credit cards into the parks with you because the Disney Dining Plan can be loaded directly onto your Disney MagicBands.

A Home Away from Home

Staying at one of the Walt Disney World Resorts during the month of March can be a true pleasure. Visiting the parks will be an equally love experience. If you and your travel party members can set your vacation time so that you may be in Orlando, Florida during the first two weeks of the month, you will be able to see all of the sights, enjoy a good concert or two, and sample a variety of foods that will be sure to please your tummy.

Should you need to travel during the last two weeks of the month, you can still expect to have a wonderful time, but you will need to do a bit more planning before you attend. In those last two weeks, think about the local spring break crowd. Wait times for your favorite rides may be impacted by this influx of Florida residents and annual passholders. You can avoid the wait times if you stay at a Walt Disney World Resort.

By booking with an on-site hotel, you will receive access to the FastPass+ system 60 days before your vacation begins. For the locals and the annual passholders, that system does not allow them to book their passes until thirty days out. This thirty-day advantage will ensure that your party members get to ride Slinky Dog Dash, the Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and the Avatar Flights of Passage rides.

Do note that Disney World has removed their FastPass system in favor of a new system (a paid system, in fact) called Genie+.

If you are coming to the Walt Disney World Theme Parks in the month of March, book your reservation at a Walt Disney World Resort and enjoy the comfort of your home away from home.

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Is it Packed: Disney World in March