Hi! Our last trip was in September and we too have been discussing our next. Ours most likely won't be til 2020, but we have been talking about the time of year, like you mentioned above. For us, the top 3 factors to consider are weather, price and days missed from school- in that order.
Our September trip was far too hot for our comfort level. Our 5 year old was grumpy, cranky and lethargic the whole trip. We were uncomfortable as well, pushing a double stroller, carrying children and/or bags, for 8+ hours a day in 90+ degree weather. So for us, we will never again travel in that heat & humidity.
Price and potential discounts are huge for us too. The cost of the same hotel room can greatly vary throughout the year. And because we are a family of four, any potential discount on food is huge for us.
And finally, while it would be nice to lessen the amount of school our daughter misses, it is a consideration but not a top priority.
For us, we are looking into either Jan/Feb, April vacation week, or Nov/Dec.
Like you said, lower crowds in Jan/Feb are a huge draw. Prices are at their lowest then too and currently, there are usually play/stay/dine type discounts.
The big draw for April for us is our daughters school vacation.
Nov/Dec is great weather, lower prices, holiday decorations (huge bonus!) and potential half days in our school district for parent/teacher conferences.
To specifically address your chosen times above, yes, January would be nice with lower crowds, and the Flower & Garden Festival does look amazing and is high on my list as well. We will never again go in the fall, too hot and crowds are not as low as they used to be.
We have also been the first week in December and it was amazing- comfortable temps, low-moderate crowds and the most gorgeous holiday decorations
I would suggest making a list of pros & cons based on what is important to you. Good luck!
