3 Days of Disney: When to Go, Part One

Disneyland is at its best in October and February.  I'm talking beautiful weather, walk on the rides, soft hotel prices perfection. Both months have advantages and disadvantages.  Here is what you need to know.

October: The weather is slightly more predictable but that also means weekends can be a little more crowded.  You can still have a long day at the park because daylight savings is in effect. Best of all, you get to enjoy Disneyland all decked out for Halloween!

February: Disney usually offers a price break on tickets between January and mid-April, the only time of year they regularly do so.  Price breaks are often buy an adult ticket for the price of a child or a discount for buying tickets online.  The third week of February can be full of spring-breakers, so try to avoid that week after President's Day.  You'll most likely need a light jacket if you stay past dark.

Disney provides two great tools to help you determine the least crowded days to visit.  When planning a trip, I first consult the annual pass holder blockout dates calendar. http://disneyland.disney.go.com/passes/southern-california-select/blockout-dates/

Any dates not blocked out on this calendar, Disney expects a lighter attendance.

Next, I consult the Park Hours and Entertainment Schedule.  Disney usually publishes this on their website 6-8 weeks ahead of time. So, you wouldn't be able to look at October's schedule until at least August. Look for days that have shorter scheduled hours (say, 9am-10pm instead of 8am-12am) and fewer scheduled shows, like World of Color or parades. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays usually have fewer visitors.  Anytime you see fireworks scheduled on a weekday, you know Disney is expecting a crowd. http://disneyland.disney.go.com/things-to-do/ (click on Park Hours)

Keep in mind that since fewer people=fewer shows, you may have to plan your entertainment schedule more carefully.  If a parade is only offered once per day, make sure you know when it begins. You might have to make a choice if two popular shows are shown at the exact same time (like fireworks and World of Color).  For me, a little planning and compromise is a great trade for shorter lines (three words: Peter Pan Ride).