I don’t like crowds.
I actually never have. They’ve made me nervous since I was a kid and once I was a mom, I really became a “crowd avoider”.
So, then, it’s really odd that I love Disney World so much and, specifically, Run Disney events since we all know they are known for ridiculous crowds, right?
Well . . .sorta. Although some of the crowds are absolutely unavoidable (for example, the few minutes before the gun goes off in the corrals and the very beginning of the race, crowded spots running through the parks).
But there are other times where avoiding crowds is quite easy. Here’s my strategy:
Don’t go to the Expo on the first day, and if possible, go in the late afternoon or early evening.
If you really don’t like crowds, go on the last day in the late afternoon. Yes, you’ll miss out on some merch, but at this point I have all the Run Disney stuff I could ever need (or want!) so really I just need to get my bib and get out. I dream of a day where you can sign up for a service and have your bib waiting for you in your hotel room. Would be so lovely. . . . but I do like the energy of the Expos and sometimes I’ll sit in on a talk or two. BTW, the presenters in the later part of the day appreciate your attendance:).
Get there early on race morning.
I find that if I arrive on the first or second bus and stake out a spot with my friends it doesn’t feel crowded at all why we wait.
Also, start walking to the corrals early.
In races where we have the LONG walk to the corrals (marathon weekend, Princess) it’s a good idea to go when they first ask you to. You’ll find the walk far less crowded and you can find a spot in the corral to park your booty while you wait.
Hang out towards the back of the corral.
I like this for two reasons – it’s less crowded while you’re waiting AND you can hang back from the pack a bit and find your own space to run. I’ve used this strategy many times and never felt crowded running even when I’ve started in the very back. And for Star Wars the Dark Side, I registered too late to submit proof of time so I am REALLY in the very back!
Make dining reservations or eat at off peak times
Eating at counter service at peak meal times makes me loose my appetite. Some great options are to either make reservations far in advance at a sit down establisment (right this way to your table, Ms. Lefforge, is always lovely to hear;), or eat off the beaten path either timing wise (lunch at 11?) or geographically (your resort food court in the middle of the day, for example, or better yet, order lunch poolside while enjoying a margarita. Because of resting your legs and carb loading, Silly.)
Allow plenty of time for everything.
If I’m not stressed from a time perspective, I find myself far less bothered by crowds. I’ve also found little spots throughout Walt Disney World where I can tuck away and enjoy people watching among really pretty landscaping with gorgeous flowers and music playing. But that’s a post for another day.
Happy Running! Disney or otherwise! And if you’ll be at Star Wars Dark Side, let me know! I’d love to see you!