April at Disney World: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Though it's spring in much of the country, things begin to heat up to near summer levels already at Walt Disney World Resort in April; you can expect highs in the mid-80s and very little rain. Theme park crowds start to pick up as well this month.

On the upside, Disney brings out top-notch entertainment when it gets busy. Look for extended hours, parades, and shows to keep you entertained. Disney resort guests can take advantage of Extra Magic Hours in the morning or evening and get a little more play time in the parks.

Both Easter and spring break often occur in April, so expect to see heavy crowds at Disney World during these times. Rides, restaurants, and pools will be overrun as both tourists and locals take advantage of vacation days to visit the parks. Disney considers April to be part of the regular season, so you won't come across many discount offers. And prices spike during the two weeks around Easter.

You might describe April weather as pleasantly balmy, with only three days of rain, on average. This is the least humid time of year.

• Average high temperature: 82 degrees Fahrenheit (27.8 degrees Celsius)
• Average low temperature: 63 degrees Fahrenheit (17.2 degrees Celsius)

The days start to lengthen in April, with the longest at the end of the month stretching to more than 13 hours of light. April does tend to get a bit windier than other months, which can disguise the strength of the sun; don't get fooled into thinking you won't need sunblock.

The weather can fluctuate a bit in April, so it's best to pack versatile clothing that you can layer for added warmth if needed. Many places overcompensate for the weather outside with super-cooled air conditioning, so you may find yourself in need of a light sweater or hoodie. Casual attire works in the theme parks, while bathing suits and water shoes make the most practical wear for the water parks. Slather on the sunscreen even if it seems overcast or mild; the Florida sun can inflict serious damage at any time of the year.

You may not see any rain during an April visit, but it's always a good idea to pack a poncho or light jacket for everyone in your group in case of an errant storm. A light shower during this time of year should really just be seen as an invitation from the universe to play in the rain.

Disney World gears up for the summer season with a handful of active, outdoor events in April. On top of the great rides and daily fun available year-round, April is the perfect time to stop and smell the flowers and celebrate your inner Jedi Knight at Disney World.

• Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival: This event is in full bloom in April, featuring tasty bites prepared in outdoor kitchens, Disney-themed topiaries, elaborate gardens, how-to exhibits, and outdoor concerts.
• Star Wars Rival Run Weekend: Inspired by Darth Vader and the stormtroopers of Star Wars, this event includes a Star Wars 10K, Star Wars 5K, Star Wars Dark Side Challenge, and the Disney Kids Races. Star Wars characters add an air of authenticity to the course.
• Party for the Planet: This Earth-Day celebration at Disney's Animal Kingdom includes interactive activities and enhanced animal encounters.

• Look for the garden-themed playgrounds and butterfly hatchery scattered in and around Future World at Epcot if you are traveling with small children. You won't find these special exhibits and activities at any other time of year.
• Pick up a PhotoPass Card and take advantage of the sunshine, flowers, and springtime photo opportunities as Disney characters come out to meet guests in a variety of photo-friendly locations. Disney's PhotoPass Card is free; you pay only for the photos you decide to keep.
• Avoid heavy Easter crowds by taking advantage of Disney's Extra Magic Hours program, available exclusively for resort guests. On certain days, this perk allows you to enter the parks an hour ahead of the general public, and stay an extra hour in the evenings after everyone else goes home. It's a great time to enjoy the more popular rides without long waits.
• Further mitigate the holiday crowds by using FastPass+, single rider lines, and the rider switch program, and by making dining reservations in advance.

To learn more about the pros and cons of visiting Disney World during April, check out our guide on the best time to visit.

^{Edited by Dawn Henthorn, Florida Travel Expert since June 2000}