Disney water parks are yet another great thing that the Walt Disney World resort offers that you can’t find at other resorts. While the pool is a great way to cool off in the summer heat, the Water Parks have an extra sort of magic to them – attention to detail, fun water rides, and a little something for everyone!
The only downside of the water parks is that they cost additional money to add them to your Disney tickets. So is it worth it? Or should you just stick to the pool at your hotel? Here are some pros and cons of both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach so you can decide for yourself!
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Blizzard Beach
The concept behind Blizzard Beach might be one of the goofiest backstories Disney has ever come up with! The story goes that a freak snow storm hits Florida – wanting to capitalize on this, an alligator opens a ski lodge. Then, the snow melts, but the lodge stays up and is now a water park. No, I’m not joking – that’s the actual theme of the park! Blizzard Beach not only includes the water park – there’s a mini golf course based on this cute little backstory as well.
PROS
Blizzard Beach is where you go to find all the water slides your heart desires. From tube slides to the monstrous Summit Plummet, there’s a water slide for everyone. For those who are a little less adventurous, the Cross Country Creek lazy river is a nice alternative to the wild thrills of the big water slides. The options for young kiddos who LOVE to run in the water are endless, and there’s many food options as well so you can snack before hopping back in the pool!
CONS
If you’re not big on water slides (like me) this park can get old real fast. The slides they DO have might be a bit more intense than some people might like. I tried the Slush Gusher and absolutely HATED it – so Summit Plummet was not even ON my radar. If you’re looking for a place to relax, Blizzard Beach is not for you – unless you spend all day on the lazy river, of course!
Typhoon Lagoon
Typhoon Lagoon features a HUGE wave pool and follows the story of a storm tearing through a seaside town. This park is more geared towards family friendly fun and unique experiences. Not only can you learn to surf at this park before it opens, but it also features a water COASTER to keep those thrill junkies entertained! Just like Blizzard Beach, you can find dining options here as well to break up your day – you might even run in to Lilo or Stitch!
PROS
The wave pool is so large, you can always find a spot in it. It’s shallow enough that if you just want to wade into the pool, you can, and won’t be knocked over if you stay near the edge – if you’re looking for a more intense experience, swim up closer to the buoys! There’s also something for everyone – the wave pool and lazy river are nice places to chill out (at least when no waves are present!) and there are several water slides for kids to chose from. They also have two separate family raft slides!
CONS
More adventurous kids might find the offerings at Typhoon Lagoon boring as they’re generally more mild than the Blizzard Beach counterparts. If you’re not careful, the wave pool can be a bit overwhelming – I’ve ripped up my knee before on the rough floor of the pool by getting knocked over and not expecting it! Head into the pool with caution!
Park Hopper Plus Option
If you’re interested in heading to the water parks, you can add the Park Hopper Plus option to your ticket. In addition to giving you the valuable Park Hopper option (the ability to visit multiple parks in a day) you also get 5 visits to the water parks over your stay! Additionally, you can buy single admission tickets at the hotel concierge or the front gate at the parks. Either way, be sure to grab one of these waterproof cases for your phone and cards so you can keep all your important belongs on you even in the pool!
So what’s the final consensus? It really depends on YOU and your party! If you have thrill seekers, you should definitely check out the water parks – but if you’re looking for something more relaxing, you’ll probably be better off saving your money and just staying at your hotel pool. I’m one of those people who prefers to just soak up the sun rather than ride the slide – but when I was younger, I was the opposite and so was my sister. Discuss what you want to do before you head down and figure out if your group wants to make time for the water parks – if you think you’ll enjoy what they have to offer, you’ll have a great time!
What do you think of the Disney water parks? Let me know in the comments below! And for more Disney content, be sure to subscribe to my newsletter! You’ll receive newsletters and post updates, as well as my FREE Walt Disney World Planning Checklist as a thank you when you subscribe!
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