January doesn’t seem like it would be a super popular time to visit Disney World, and usually, it’s not. Kids are back in school, the holidays have just ended, and most families choose to book their vacations closer to spring break.

EPCOT crowds

However, the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is happening this weekend, from January 7th-11th, and those usually bring BIG crowds to the parks. But, how big is it really? Is it really something to be worried about? We stopped by EPCOT this morning, right before rope drop, to see how things are, and as it turns out? Yeah, these crowds are pretty intense!

This morning, EPCOT opened at 10 AM (9:30 AM for those with Early Entry), and we were in line to get into the park a few minutes before 10. The crowds at the front gates were pretty packed all around, no matter what entry point you went to (though we suggest going to the left when you can — most people are right-handed, so they go to the right).

Crowds all around!

Our reporter arrived via a rideshare and was rerouted a different way due to the runDisney racers. They were rerouted to the Cast Member entrance instead of the regular rideshare drop-off. Others were being rerouted to the bus depot instead. It’s important to remember that if you’re in Disney World during a runDisney race, there may be road closures and alternate routes you may need to take. This could mean that getting to your destination takes longer, so allow extra time for travel!

Rideshare sign in Disney World

When we got into the park itself, Spaceship Earth was only at a 5-minute wait, despite the crowds at the front, but we could see that being because Early Entry guests decided to head to more popular attractions such as Cosmic Rewind or Test Track.

Spaceship Earth

If you’re in the park during a runDisney race (or other crowded time of year) and find yourself getting a little overwhelmed by crowds, here are a few of our favorite places in EPCOT to take a breather!

• Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival
• Spaceship Earth (a great spot for a nap!)
• The back of the Morocco Pavilion
• SeaBase Aquarium
• The American Adventure
• The back of the Canada Pavilion

Morocco pavilion in EPCOT

Need some spots in the other parks? Not to worry, we’ve got you covered!

Magic Kingdom

• Carousel of Progress
• The back of Storybook Circus
• Liberty Square Ticket Office
• Center Street on Main Street, U.S.A.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Walt Disney Presents
• The back of Pixar Place

Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• Pathways under the Tree of Life
• Rafiki’s Planet Watch
• Former Kite Tails Amphitheater

Animal Kingdom

Looking for more recent runDisney news? Check out our posts below!

We’re here to make sure you feel fully prepared for your upcoming trip, so stay tuned to DFB!

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Have you ever run into runDisney crowds? Tell us in the comments!