January sounds like the easiest month to do Disney World, which is exactly why it can sneak up on you.

Cooler weather, lower crowds, and a post-holiday calm make January feel like a no-brainer. And honestly, it can be a great time to visit. You just need to know a few things going in. Think of this as that friend who has already made these mistakes, so you do not have to. If you are heading to Disney World in January 2026, here are the most common slip-ups we see and how to avoid them without stressing yourself out.

Assuming All the Big Rides Will Be Open

This is probably the biggest January mistake, and it is an easy one to make.

January is Disney’s favorite time to handle bigger refurbishments, since crowds are usually lighter. In January 2026, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom will still be closed as part of a long-term refurbishment that started back in January 2025. This is a big project, and it overlaps with major Frontierland construction tied to the Rivers of America and early Cars-themed work. What that really means for you is that Frontierland is going to feel different, and one of the park’s classic attractions will not be on the table. That does not ruin a Magic Kingdom day, but it does mean your usual plan might need a tweak.

Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin will also be closed throughout January 2026 while it gets a major glow-up. We are talking about a new opening scene, a new character named Buddy, updated ride vehicles, handheld blasters, and interactive targets. It sounds awesome, and it probably will be when it reopens, but it will not be available during your January trip.

The friendly advice here is to check refurbishment lists early and build your plans around what is open. January rewards flexibility more than almost any other month.

Forgetting That Transportation Has Maintenance Too

Another thing people forget is that rides are not the only things that get refurbished in January.

The Disney Skyliner will be closed for routine maintenance from January 25th through January 31st, 2026. If you are staying at a Skyliner resort or planning to rely on it for quick trips between EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this is something you will want to know ahead of time.

Disney will absolutely have buses running, so you are not stranded. You just want to give yourself a little extra time in the mornings and avoid stacking tight plans back-to-back. Think buffer time, not panic.

Packing Like Florida Is Always Hot

January weather in Florida can be lovely, but it can also surprise you. Mornings and evenings can feel chilly, especially if you are used to Florida being warm all the time. The biggest mistake we see is people packing only for sunshine and then being uncomfortable once the sun goes down.

Layers are your best friend in January. A light jacket or sweatshirt can make a huge difference, and you will be glad you brought it when you are watching fireworks or heading back to your resort at night.

Thinking January Is Always Quiet

January does have some very calm weeks, but there are some busy times. One of the busiest stretches in January 2026 will be Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, which runs from January 7th through January 11th. This is the biggest runDisney event of the year, and it brings a lot of runners and their families to the resort.

Even if you are not running, you will feel it. Roads around EPCOT and Magic Kingdom often close in the early morning hours for races, which can slow things down if you are driving to the parks. Add in spectators and extra resort guests, and mornings can take longer than you expect.

The pro move during Marathon Weekend is to plan later park arrivals or lean on Disney transportation when you can. A little awareness goes a long way here.

Expecting January to Plan Itself

Here is the good news. January can still be an amazing time to visit Disney World. Just remember, the mistake is thinking it will be effortless. January works best when you go in informed and flexible. Cooler weather, lighter crowds on non-event days, and a more relaxed vibe are all huge wins. You just need to plan with refurbishments, transportation changes, and events in mind. Once you do that, January starts to feel like a secret sweet spot instead of a trap.

Until then, stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney updates.

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If you’ve done Disney World in January before, what is the one thing you wish someone had told you ahead of time? Let us know in the comments below.