Best Time to Visit Orlando in December | Family Attractions, Places to Stay, Cost Guide
Best Time to Visit Orlando in December: Top Family Attractions, Places to Stay, and Trip Cost Guide
December brings a different feel to Orlando. Warm afternoons, cool evenings, and a holiday atmosphere that stretches from the theme parks to the neighborhoods. If this is your first time planning a family trip, December is one of the easiest and most enjoyable months to work with. The weather stays gentle, the parks look incredible, and the festive events add something extra to every day.
Why December Works Well for Families
December removes most of the discomforts that Orlando is known for. No heavy humidity, no summer heat, and far more pleasant walking conditions for long days in theme parks. You also get the full holiday programming at Disney, Universal, SeaWorld, and the city’s local attractions.
The first two weeks of December offer the best balance of manageable crowds and good hotel rates. Once Christmas week hits, everything becomes busier and more expensive.
Weather and What to Pack
- Daytime temperatures: 20–24°C (68–75°F)
- Evenings: 10–14°C (50–58°F)
- Humidity: Very low
- Rain: Occasional, mostly light
Pack layers. Light clothing for the day, a hoodie or jacket for the evening. Comfortable walking shoes are essential; you’ll cover more ground than you expect.
Top Family Attractions to Visit in December
Magic Kingdom – Holiday Atmosphere at Its Best
Magic Kingdom feels different in December. Decorations fill Main Street, the castle glows at night, and the holiday parade might be one of the best family moments of the entire trip.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
- Exclusive fireworks
- Holiday parade
- Shorter ride times
- Free holiday treats
EPCOT – Festival of the Holidays
A mix of cultural performances, seasonal food booths, and the well-loved Candlelight Processional. Families enjoy the atmosphere because it feels meaningful, not just festive.
Universal Orlando – Grinchmas and the Holiday Parade
Older kids and teens tend to lean toward Universal. December adds shows, seasonal displays, and a huge parade inspired by the Macy’s event in New York.
SeaWorld Christmas Celebration
Lower cost, great lighting displays, and family-friendly shows. A solid choice if you want a holiday event without premium theme park pricing.
International Drive & ICON Park
A good non-park day with family-friendly attractions, dining, and the famous Wheel at ICON Park offering beautiful nighttime city views.
Lake Eola Park – Downtown Orlando
If you want a calm, simple break from the parks, Lake Eola offers a Christmas tree display, local markets, and a peaceful walking loop.
Best Areas to Stay in December
Disney Resorts
Simple transportation, early park access, and the best holiday decorations. This is the easiest choice for families focusing on Disney parks.
Universal Hotels
Great pricing, early Universal entry, and water taxi transportation to the parks.
International Drive
Balanced pricing, good restaurants, and fast access to Universal and SeaWorld.
Lake Buena Vista
A strong option if you want to be close to Disney without the higher cost of Disney-owned hotels.
Kissimmee & Celebration
The best area for apartment-style suites, kitchens, and more space for bigger families.
Full Cost Breakdown for a December Family Trip
Flights
- Europe to Orlando: $600–$1,200 per person
- US domestic flights: $150–$350 per person
Hotels (per night)
- Disney Deluxe: $450–$850
- Disney Moderate: $250–$400
- Universal Hotels: $150–$350
- International Drive: $90–$180
- Kissimmee Suites: $70–$150
Theme Park Ticket Costs
- Disney: $150–$190 per person, per day
- Universal: $120–$160 per person, per day
- SeaWorld: $60–$100 p/day depending on offers
Food Costs
- Theme parks: $60–$90 per person per day
- Outside restaurants: $30–$50 per person per day
Transportation Costs
- Rental car for a week: $250–$450
- Uber/Lyft trips: $10–$25 per ride
- Theme park parking: $30–$40 per day
Estimated Cost for a 7-Day Family Trip (Family of 4)
- Budget trip: $2,800–$3,800
- Mid-range trip: $4,200–$6,000
- Luxury: $7,000–$10,000+
Extra December Experiences
- Disney Springs Christmas Tree Stroll
- ICE! at Gaylord Palms
- Winter Park boat tours
- Local neighborhood light shows in Lake Nona and Winter Garden
Tips for First-Time December Travelers
- Book hotels, dining, and park events early
- Go early in the day to avoid long queues
- Use mobile food ordering inside theme parks
- Plan at least one rest day
- Stay hydrated even in cooler weather
Book Your Orlando Car Service Online
Need Reliable Car Service in Orlando?
You can book your airport transfers, hotel pick-ups, theme park rides, and family travel services online. It’s fast to book, easy to manage, and ideal for new travelers wanting stress-free transportation.
Book your Orlando car service here:
Final Thoughts
December is one of the most enjoyable times to visit Orlando. The weather is comfortable, the parks are fully decorated, and the atmosphere feels festive from morning to night. Plan early, mix theme parks with slower days, and book your transport ahead of time to keep things easy for your family.
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