Great Autumn Getaways!

With school starting back up and temperatures slowly receding from their summer highs, fall is a great time to sneak in a theme park vacation! As a general rule, trips in the fall offer shorter lines, greater availability of accommodations, and more comfortable weather; in addition, many spots have great seasonal features that enhance the park experience! Below are a few of our favorites:

Disney World:

image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici/FreeDigitalPhotos.net

It's no secret that Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida is a favorite family destination! From the rides and attractions to the magic of watching your child immersed in a wonderland of their favorite characters - it is a spot where magical memories are made! Not only is the weather still warm and pleasant in Florida in autumn, but with the start of school, the parks become far less crowded and far more friendly for those wishing to minimize long lines and wait times! In addition, every year from early October to mid-November, Walt Disney World plays host to a number of special events; including the Magic Kingdom's "Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party," Epcot's "International Food and Wine Festival," Hollywood Studios' "Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights," and Downtown Disney's "Festival of the Masters." With the exception of the "Halloween Party," all these events are either complimentary or included in the price of the park pass!

Sesame Place:

Located in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, Sesame Place offers families rides, shows, and beloved characters that will charm children of all ages! As summer draws to a close, attendance generally declines markedly, resulting in shorter lines and greater availability of characters; in addition, autumn in Pennsylvania offers some beautiful scenery as a backdrop to  your park experience! Each autumn, Sesame Place offers great seasonal promotions such as the Back to School Bash, the Labor Day BBQ, and Labor Day Fireworks, as well as the Count’s Spooktacular Halloween on weekends from the end of September until the end of October, and A Very Furry Christmas from late November through December.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg:

With over twenty rides, loads of shows and attractions, a variety of dining options and impeccably kept grounds, Busch Gardens Williamsburg is a veritable paradise for travelling families! Divided into multiple European-themed sections, Busch Gardens features a variety of attractions from cultural experiences and animal encounters, to seasonal shows and rides for children of all ages! Also, each year from late November through New Year's Eve, Busch Gardens transforms the park for its annual Christmas Town Celebration; featuring special holiday shows, attractions, and rides! Opening hours and offerings vary seasonally, so be sure to check the website for details!

Wishing you safe, happy, and healthy travels!

- Destination Mom