What to Wear to Disney World in July

If you’re heading to Disney World this summer, I’ll let you know (in case someone forgot to tell you) it’s really hot. It’s hot, and it’s humid. You will be primarily be outside, and you are going to sweat.

That being said, Walt Disney World is still magical, and with the right preparation and packing you can enjoy summer Disney vacation in the most magical place on Earth.

Below I’ll go over the weather at Disney, what clothes you should wear, and other things you should know about heading to the Walt Disney World Resort in July. Other than the Fourth of July, July is usually a low crowd level month, so enjoy!

But if you know how hot it is and just want a link to Amazon for the supplies you need, click the button. It’s an affiliate link, and if I earn, I’ll use the money to book a Disney trip this July.

Four out of five of us are happy to be at Disney during July. (I had so many iterations of this picture, and this is the closest to a good shot)

Weather at Disney World in July

The average high temperature at Disney World in July is 91 degrees (33 degrees Celsius, for you non-Americans) and the average lows are around 75 degrees (24 degrees Celsius). The low may sound reasonable, but it’s helpful to know exactly when you can expect a comfortable temperature.

Average temps courtesy of Weather Spark

On a typical day, when it’s not raining steadily or cloudy, you can expect the temperature to dip below 80 degrees between 10PM and 9AM. In other words, it will be hot just after park open, be extremely hot from noon to 7PM, then start to cool off. Also keep in mind that Florida’s intense humidity will raise the heat by experience by 5 to 10 degrees.

Now let’s talk about rain at Disney World. July has the highest potential for rain of any month. BUT DON’T LET THAT SCARE YOU. Late May through June gets most of the severe thunderstorms (think hail), and early fall gets more of the hurricanes. July mostly gets freak rain showers that last for 15-60 minutes.

Storm clouds coming up behind the castle and a little pixie dust from Harmony Barber Shop in my eye.

Hear this again! Even if you have rain every day in your forecast, the sun will probably be shining most of the time. Just bring your rain gear and brave through it or take a break in the air conditioning.

Other guests might give up and leave the park, and they will certainly leave the queues for outside rides. This means that some of the best attractions, like the Slinky Dog Dash roller coaster, will have momentarily short lines when the rain lets up.

Strategies for Dealing with the Heat

I won’t lie to you. It’s hot in July, but we’ve gone almost every year in July. The crowds are typically lower, so we think it’s worth it. Here are a few quick tips:

-stay hydrated

-check out the water rides. Tiana's is about open at Magic Kingdom, and Kali River Rapids is at Animal Kingdom. 

-take breaks to rest, use the pool, or water parks

The entrance to Typhoon Lagoon, one of Disney World’s two water parks

-know where the air conditioning is (most of it is at EPCOT)

-It's a good idea to get a good portable fan (Here’s my list of the best portable fans, neck fans, and stroller fans for Disney)

-rope drop and do night parties (Check out my review of the EPCOT After Hours and Magic Kingdom After Hours parties)

For twice the summer the fun for half the price, do the H20 Glow Night at Typhoon Lagoon! This was during my big beard era.

For a more comprehensive strategy for dealing with the heat at Disney World, as well as more item suggestions, check this post out.

What to Pack for Disney in July

Packing for Disney in the summer months means shorts, summer athletic wear, biker shorts, skirts, sweat wicking material, light colors, breathable fabrics, tank tops, and short sleeves. Even when it’s first thing in the morning, you won’t need long sleeves. The only reason to bring a hoodie would be if it’s cold in the hotel or if you’re a brooding teenager who is unaffected by heat. I'd personally also stay away from denim shorts because they cause more chafing than most. And, I immediately regret any time I try to wear long pants at Disney, even in the 70s. The sun and humidity are very intense.

For the kiddos, I recommend bounding-style princess dresses as good options rather than real princess dresses. They are usually far more comfortable in the heat.

My daughters’ dresses are far more comfortable than regular princess polyester. I’m not sure why they’re doing this pose.

Also make sure to pack lots of waterproof/sweatproof sunscreen, chafing cream, aloe, hats, and sunglasses. Also, the heat wears you (and especially your kids) out. Even if your kids haven’t been in a stroller for years, I recommend bringing one. Here’s a link to the best strollers for Disney.

What to Pack for Disney Any Time of Year

There are certain things that you are going to want for a Disney trip any time of year. Pack all your Disney spirit gear - hats, ears, shirts, and princess dresses. Don't forget the fun stuff - bubble wands, three-fingered gloves, and shoulder pets. (Bonus tip: check out my Amazon list for inspiration!)

Again, rainy days happen, especially in July, so pack ponchos or raincoats. Skip the overpriced park ponchos and grab a cheap multi-pack online or at Walmart.

As I mentioned above, if you’re bringing a stroller or scooter to the Disney Parks, bring a waterproof cover to keep the seats and souvenirs dry (most people opt for a poncho or shower curtain with clips, rather than a custom one). It’s been known to rain during a ride even though it was sunny when you went into the line.

Our princesses are ready for the rain.

Comfortable shoes are crucial. Ditch the flip flops and fancy heels. Pack comfy socks and good walking/running shoes. Disney days are long, and you'll be doing some serious mileage, like over 10 miles a day. That's a lot of walking. Blisters and Disney rash (it’s a thing, Google it) are real.

Here’s my article on the best shoes for Disney.

Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses - always, no matter the season. Florida sun is sneaky strong even when in the winter months. Don't accidentally cosplay as Sebastian by day two.

Make sure to hydrate like crazy. Bring a reusable, filtered water bottle, or get a large pack of water bottles delivered to your resort. Water fountains and free ice water are plentiful, but the taste can be...unique. Central Florida tap water in general has a sulfuric after taste, like eggs.

Lastly, the best option is to pack for comfort! You'll be walking, riding, and having a blast. Save the fancy outfits for another time. Your feet and exhaustion level will thank you.

Our little guy is unimpressed by the heat or the parade. (Just kidding. He had a blast)

Festivals and Holidays at Disney in July

There’s not a lot going on at Disney World in July compared to other months. There’s the Boys Basketball World Championship July 4-11, and there’s July 4th itself. The Fourth of July is usually a packed weekend at Magic Kingdom because of epic fireworks. However, crowds were noticeably lower in 2023. There are no EPCOT festivals scheduled for July this year (2024) either.

Fireworks are awesome any time at Disney World, but especially in July.

While July used to be busy because of summer break, it has seen lower crowds and has been a great time to go for families trying to avoid long lines in the queues (and avoid pulling their kids out of school). That’s why we go in July.

What Not to Pack for Disney World

Here’s a few things you won’t need at Disney World—in July or ever. For starters, people over 14 years old can’t wear costumes (unless it’s a Halloween Party). This is to prevent people impersonating cast members, hurting the brand or worse, tricking kids for nefarious reasons. They are also really uncomfortable in the summer heat. God bless the cast members that stand out in the July sun.

Next, you won’t need a parka or winter coat or really even a hoody in July. It will never get that cold unless you’re crazy with the hotel thermostat, and it will take up so much room in your luggage.

Third, I want to reiterate. Do not wear flip-flops or heels. You will regret it. Comfortable walking shoes are the best way to enjoy all those steps.

Finally, this is a family place and has dress codes. Don’t bring obscene or graphic clothing to Disney World. Even if it’s Disney themed…especially if it’s Disney themed. Next, don’t push the envelope on risqué. Everyone has different opinions on what modesty looks like, but Cast Members have been known to turn people away for inappropriate attire. That will ruin your rope dropping ability.

Are the Disney Water Parks Open in July?

Since Covid, Disney has been alternating which water park is open, but at least one water park—Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach—will be open during your stay in July. The water parks are obviously a great way to have fun while dealing with the heat. If you add water park options, you can build in rest days to your vacation for much cheaper than the cost of the water park by itself.

Conclusion and Further Reading

July is hot at a Disney World theme park, but it’s also fun. Don't let the high temperatures scare you. The crowds have been low recently, so you may find out it's the best time to go for you. If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World in July, hopefully this article prepared you for dealing with the heat and enjoying the experience. We frequently go on a Disney World vacation in July as a last hurrah before school starts, and we have wonderful memories in the midst of the heat.

If all else fails, eat a Mickey bar. Still with the Pixie dust on my eye.

The best thing you can do is be prepared, so here’s portable fans, portable chargers, and my thorough guide for staying cool at Disney World. The last thing I want you to know is that Disney World is amazing, even if you're hiding in the a/c or the pool the whole time. I also want to reiterate how magical special events like After Hours events are. Typhoon Lagoon Glow Party is especially amazing!

Have you been to Disney in July? What was your experience? What are your tips for handling the Florida heat? Let us know in the comments.