Did you know that Walt Disney World also has water parks? It’s true! From the tropical oasis of Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, with its towering surf waves and serene lazy rivers, to the frosty fun of Disney’s Blizzard Beach, where snow-capped peaks create a winter wonderland in the sun, there’s something to keep everyone in your family busy (and cool!). Whether this will be your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned water park pro, we’ve got everything you need to know, from must-try rides and dining options to tips for making the most of your day. So grab your sunscreen, and let’s dive into what’s going on at the Disney Water Parks!
Disney Water Parks Overview
If you’re looking for a fun and refreshing way to beat the heat in Florida, look no further than Disney’s Water Parks. With two unique parks to choose from, you’re sure to find something that fits your style. Here’s a breakdown of each!
Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park
Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park is a winter wonderland-themed park with attractions for all ages. From the thrilling Summit Plummet slide to the more relaxed Cross Country Creek lazy river, this water park is packed with things to do. In general, you’ll find more water rides and attractions at this water park compared to Typhoon Lagoon.
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park has a tropical island theme, complete with palm trees, sandy beaches, and a massive wave pool with 6-foot waves. The park features a variety of attractions, including the Crush ‘n’ Gusher (a coaster-like raft ride), the Surf Pool, and the Ketchakiddee Creek play area for young children. If you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, you can float down the Castaway Creek lazy river or take a break in one of the park’s many lounging areas.
Disney Water Park Tickets and Pricing
Just like the Disney Parks, park tickets are required to visit both of the Disney water parks. There are several different ticket options to choose from depending on how often you plan to visit the water park during your trip.
It’s also important to note that, starting in 2025, Disney World Resort hotel guests won’t even need a ticket to visit on select dates! Disney is introducing a new hotel guest perk that gives anyone staying at a Disney World Resort FREE admission to both water parks on your check-in day. However, if you plan to go to a water park later in your trip, or if you’re not staying at a Disney hotel, here are your ticket options and how much they cost:
Single Day Tickets
For those who only plan on visiting a water park for one day, single-day tickets are available for purchase. As of 2024, a single-day ticket without blockout dates costs $74 for guests aged 10 and above, and $68 for guests aged 3-9. If you don’t mind having a few days of the year blocked out, tickets are a bit cheaper costing $64 per adult and $58 per child. These tickets provide access to all of the water park attractions and amenities for the entire day and must be used in the same calendar year.
Note that Annual Passholder and Disney Vacation Club discounts may be available.
Water Park and Sports Add On To Theme Park Tickets or Annual Pass
If you already purchased Disney theme park tickets or are a Disney World Annual Passholder, you can add on access to the water parks for an additional fee. As of 2024, the cost to add on water park access to a theme park ticket is about $70 per person on top of the cost of your park ticket or $99 on top of an annual pass. This add-on provides access to both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach for the entire duration of the theme park ticket or annual pass.
Water Park Seasonal Pass
If you plan on visiting the Disney water parks multiple times throughout the year, a water park seasonal pass may be a good option. As of 2024, a seasonal pass to the water parks costs $79 per person through May 24th, 2024. This pass is usually offered on an annual basis and provides unlimited access to both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach.
Park Hopper Plus
The final option for guests who plan on visiting multiple parks (including theme parks and water parks) during their stay is the Park Hopper Plus ticket. This ticket provides access to all four Disney theme parks, as well as both water parks and other select attractions. As of 2024, the cost for a Park Hopper Plus ticket starts at $207 per person, per day.
How To Get To Disney Water Parks
Getting to the Disney Water Parks is easy and convenient. There are a few different transportation options available, depending on where you are staying and your personal preferences.
Complimentary Disney Transportation
If you are staying at a Disney World Resort hotel, you can take advantage of the complimentary Disney transportation to get to the water parks. Buses run regularly from each resort to both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. Usually, bus transportation to the water parks is combined with service to another location like Disney Springs, so be sure to check the signage or as a Cast Member. You can also check the bus schedule at your resort’s front desk or using the My Disney Experience app.
Driving
If you prefer to drive yourself, both water parks have parking lots available for guests. Parking is free for all guests.
Ride Share Services
If you are using a ride-share service like Uber or Lyft, you can be dropped off and picked up at the designated drop-off/pick-up points near the entrance of each water park. Disney’s Minnie Van service is also available to get between any location on Disney World property and the Disney water parks.
Locker and Towel Rentals
When visiting Disney Water Parks, you may want to store your personal items in a locker to keep them safe and secure. Fortunately, locker rentals are available at both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach Water Parks.
There are two locker options to choose from at each water park including standard and large. The standard locker measures 12.5″ x 10″ x 17″ while the large locker measures 15.5″ x 13″ x 17″. You can rent a locker by paying with cash or a major credit card at the self-service kiosks by the lockers. Lockers cost $10 per day for the standard size and $15 per day for the large size, though prices are subject to change.
While complimentary towels are provided to Walt Disney World Resort guests at the Disney water parks, anyone staying off-site (and day guests) can rent towels for $2.00 per towel rental. You can also choose to bring your own towels if you’d like to avoid the rental fee.
Top Attractions at Disney Water Parks
One of the best parts of the Disney water parks is how much there is to do! From massive water rides that are more like thrill rides, to classic water slides, to lazy rivers, and water play areas for kids, you’ll certainly have a busy day when you visit the water parks. Here are some of the top attractions to check out when you visit Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach.
Thrill Rides
Looking to take on the most daring water rides? Summit Plummet at Blizzard Beach is one of the most thrilling body slides in the world, with a 120-foot drop where you’ll reach speeds up to 60mph. And, over at Typhoon Lagoon, Crush ‘n’ Gusher is another popular thrill ride, featuring a water coaster that takes riders through twists and turns and a steep drop.
Family-Friendly Attractions
If you’re traveling with family, there are plenty of attractions that everyone can enjoy together. At Typhoon Lagoon, Miss Adventure Falls is a family raft ride that seats two to four people per raft. The ride isn’t too intense, but the theming is fun and you’re sure to get wet!
At Blizzard Beach, Teamboat Springs features 1,200 feet of twists and turns and is made for families of up to six riders. It is known as one of the world’s longest whitewater raft rides so hold on tight for a thrilling adventure!
Kid & Toddler Activities
For younger children, there are plenty of activities and attractions that are perfect for them at both water parks. At Typhoon Lagoon, the Bay Slides are a great option for toddlers, with small slides and a shallow pool. And, at Blizzard Beach, Tike’s Peak is a refurbished play area with small slides and a new Disney’s Frozen theme. Both parks also offer family raft rides that are suitable for children of all ages.
Where To Relax
If you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind, both parks offer plenty of options. At Typhoon Lagoon, the Castaway Creek lazy river is a great way to relax and take in the scenery. And, at Blizzard Beach, the Melt-Away Bay wave pool or the Cross Country Creek lazy river are two peaceful spots to soak up some sun. Both parks also offer plenty of lounge chairs and shaded areas for guests to relax and take a break from the sun as well.
Dining at Disney Water Parks
When it comes to dining at Disney Water Parks, you’ll find a variety of options available to satisfy your hunger and thirst. From quick service restaurants to snack stands to bars and lounges, you can find everything from hot dogs to ice cream to cocktails and more. Here’s a guide to where to eat at Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach:
Quick Service Restaurants
Disney’s Blizzard Beach
- Lottawatta Lodge – serves up flatbread, specialty burgers, Florida Salad, and more along with frosty beverages like the Piña CoLAVA
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
- Leaning Palms – features the largest menu with sandwiches, salads, burgers, pizzas, and more
- Happy Landings Ice Cream – offers a variety of ice cream flavors, as well as other sweet treats like churros and funnel cakes
- Typhoon Tilly’s – offers a more unique menu with things like shrimp and pulled pork. Note that this restaurant is often only open seasonally, so be sure to check the operating hours when you visit.
Table Service Restaurants
Table service restaurants are not available at either of the Disney water parks.
Snack Locations
Disney’s Blizzard Beach
- Arctic Expeditions – offers craft beer, specialty churros, roasted almonds, roasted pecans and more
- Avalunch – offers specialty hot dogs, draft beer and soft drinks
- Cooling Hut – features classic snacks like Mickey’s Ice Cream Bar and popcorn. Beverages both hot and cold are also available.
- I.C. Expeditions – ice cream stand that offers sundaes, floats, bars, waffle cones and other frosty desserts
- Mini Donuts by Joffrey’s Coffee – offers mini donuts served by the dozen or half dozen with raspberry, chocolate, or white chocolate sauce. Soft drinks, frozen lemonade, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate are also available
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
- Lowtide Lou’s – offers a limited menu and features cold sandwiches. Note that this snack stand is often only open seasonally, so be sure to check the operating hours when you visit.
- Snack Shack – offers a variety of snacks including the Sand Pail ice cream sundae and chicken and waffles. Note that this snack stand is often only open seasonally, so be sure to check the operating hours when you visit.
- Surf Doggies – offers hot dogs and other quick snacks
- Tropical Amity Outpost – offers items like empanadas, hot dogs, pretzels, churros, and even beer.
Bars and Lounges
Disney’s Blizzard Beach
- Frostbite Freddy’s Frozen Freshments – offers a full cocktail menu including an icy Piña CoLAVA, bottled brews, and more
- Polar Pub – offers a full cocktail menu including frozen drinks, bottled and draft beer, and more
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
- Let’s Go Slurpin’ – features a menu of frozen drinks, cocktails, smoothies, or beer. They also offer a selection of snacks if you need a quick bite to go with your cocktail.
- Hammer Head Fred’s Drive – offers a menu of cocktails, beer, and wine. Note that this location is often only open seasonally, so be sure to check the operating hours when you visit.
- High ‘N Dry – offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Plus, you can even pick up some water park gear here too!
Shopping and Merchandise
Disney Water Parks offer a variety of shopping options for you to indulge in. From souvenirs to swimwear, you’ll find everything you need to remember your visit or pick up the essentials you may have forgotten.
At Typhoon Lagoon, Singapore Sal’s is the largest (and only) merchandise location. It offers a wide selection of beachwear, towels, and other essentials. You can also find a variety of souvenirs and gifts, including t-shirts, hats, and plush toys featuring your favorite Disney characters. There are also lockers, changing rooms, and an ATM here.
At Blizzard Beach, you can visit the Beach Haus for swimwear, towels, and souvenirs. Sand Breakers is also available and is a small merchandise kiosk that sells various souvenirs and essentials.
Disney Water Park Upgrades and Add Ons
When planning your trip to Walt Disney World, you might want to consider adding some upgrades and add-ons to your Disney Water Park experience. These options can enhance your visit and make it even more enjoyable.
Cabana Rentals
Private cabanas are available at both Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon and can be rented for the day. Each cabana comes with a variety of amenities, including towels, cushioned seating, a locker, refillable drink mugs, and a cooler filled with ice and water. They can accommodate up to six guests, making them a great option for families or groups of friends. These cost between $225–$375 per rental.
Umbrella Rentals
If you want to guarantee yourself some shade and seating, you can consider making a reservation for the Getaway Glen Umbrellas at Typhoon Lagoon or the Lodge Picnic Umbrellas at Blizzard Beach. These reserved seating areas cost between $49 to $99 plus tax and include a beach umbrella, two reserved loungers, two beach chairs, a drink table, and towels. Same-day reservations can be made on a first-come, first-served basis, or you can call (407) WDW-PLAY to make a reservation in advance.
Open Surf at Typhoon Lagoon
If you already know how to surf, you can spend the morning or evening riding the waves in the Surf Pool with other guests at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon! Open surf is offered 3 hours before the park opens or 3 hours after the park closes and costs between $245 to $310 depending on the date and time your surfing.
Private Surf Lessons at Typhoon Lagoon
For those who want a more personalized experience, private surf lessons are available at Typhoon Lagoon. These lessons are tailored to your individual skill level and can be a great way to improve your surfing skills or learn new techniques. Private surf lessons are designed for groups of up to 25 people and pricing starts at $1,300.
Seasonal Events and Offerings
H2O Glow Nights at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park is a popular seasonal event offered at Disney World. During select evenings in the summer, the water park transforms into a neon-lit playground with live music, special food and beverage offerings, and exclusive character meet and greets. You can also enjoy all of the park’s attractions under the stars. Tickets are limited and are an additional cost on top of your park ticket. Visit Disney’s website for event dates and details.
In 2024, runDisney also introduced the runDisney Springtime Surprise Splash at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. This post-race, after-hours event was available to anyone who ran the 10-mile event (which is part of the Springtime Surprise race weekend) and included commemorative items, exclusive food and drink offerings, special character meet-and-greets, a live DJ, and extra time in the park at night. Disney has not shared whether this event will return in 2025, so stay tuned for updates!
Tips and Planning for Your Visit
What To Pack
When packing for your visit to the Disney Water Parks, it is important to bring the essentials. You will want to bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. You should also bring a swimsuit, towel (unless you plan to use the ones provided at the park), and water shoes or sandals. We also recommend bringing a change of clothes and a plastic bag to store your wet clothes for when you’re ready to head back to your hotel.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit the Disney Water Parks is during the off-season. This is typically during the fall and winter months when the crowds are smaller and the weather is cooler. However, nothing beats cooling off from a hot summer day at the water parks! Just expect higher crowd levels and longer wait times for water rides in the afternoons.
How To Find Disney Water Park Discounts and Deals
There are several ways to get Disney water park tickets at a discounted rate – you just have to know where (and when) to look! For example, the Seasonal Pass can be a great deal for anyone planning to visit the water parks multiple times over the summer.
And, Disney also often offers water park tickets up to 50% off to anyone who participates in a runDisney race weekend. Plus, if you’re a Disney World Annual Passholder, Florida Resident, Disney Vacation Club Member, or Disney VISA Cardholder, you may be able to find additional deals on Disney’s website.
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Have you visited Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach? Which of the Disney World water parks is your favorite and why? Let us know in the comments!
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