🌴 Disney Water Parks in Florida: The Ultimate Guide for Splash-Tastic Fun!
- LIsa & Alan
- Jul 15
- 5 min read
When most people think of Disney World in Florida, they picture Cinderella Castle, fireworks, and maybe Mickey Mouse-shaped pretzels. But there’s another world of magic waiting just around the corner — and it’s full of wave pools, lazy rivers, and thrilling slides! Yes, we're talking about the Disney Water Parks in Florida. If you're planning your trip and wondering which park to pick, how tickets work, or which one’s best for little ones, you’re in the right place.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Disney’s water parks in Florida.
💦 Which Water Park is Best at Disney?
Choosing between the two Disney water parks — Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach — depends on your vibe. Want tropical paradise with crashing waves and island tunes? Typhoon Lagoon is your spot. Prefer snow-capped ski-resort theming with some seriously cool slides? Head to Blizzard Beach.
Factors to Consider:
Age of your group (small kids vs teens vs adults)
Thrill level preferences
Interest in lounging vs sliding
Visitor Ratings:
Typhoon Lagoon: ⭐ 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor (over 9,000 reviews)
Blizzard Beach: ⭐ 4.5/5 on TripAdvisor (over 6,000 reviews)
Both offer unforgettable fun — but they do have some key differences.
🆚 What’s the Difference Between Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach?
Theme & Atmosphere:
Typhoon Lagoon feels like a tropical island hit by a storm, with a shipwreck centrepiece and lush greenery.
Blizzard Beach is themed like a melting ski resort, where snow meets sunshine in the quirkiest way.
Slide Types & Attractions:
Typhoon Lagoon boasts the largest wave pool in North America, plus the Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster.
Blizzard Beach is home to Summit Plummet, one of the tallest and fastest free-fall slides in the world (120 ft drop!).
🤔 Is Typhoon Lagoon Better Than Blizzard Beach?
It depends on your preferences:
Pros of Typhoon Lagoon:
Bigger wave pool (seriously, it generates 6-foot waves!)
Chill island vibes
Great for both thrill-seekers and families
Pros of Blizzard Beach:
More thrill slides
Better for older kids and teens
Unique snow-themed setting
🏆 Winner for families: Typhoon Lagoon🏆 Winner for thrill rides: Blizzard Beach
🎢 Which Disney Water Park Has the Most Thrilling Slides?
If you’re here for the adrenaline, Blizzard Beach takes the crown. Summit Plummet reaches speeds of 60 mph — not for the faint of heart!
Other thrill rides include:
Slush Gusher (Blizzard Beach): A high-speed body slide with airtime!
Humunga Kowabunga (Typhoon Lagoon): Enclosed drop slide, super fast.
Crush 'n' Gusher (Typhoon Lagoon): Water coaster fun for duos.
😌 Which Disney Water Park Is Better for Relaxing?
If you want to chill, float, and soak up the Florida sun:
Top Picks:
Castaway Creek (Typhoon Lagoon): A super long, super chill lazy river.
Cross Country Creek (Blizzard Beach): Meanders through “snowy” scenery.
Cabanas & loungers: Available at both parks for private relaxation.
🔄 Pros and Cons of Each Disney Water Park
Feature | Typhoon Lagoon 🏝 | Blizzard Beach ❄️ |
Theming | Tropical paradise | Melting ski resort |
Best for | Families & chill | Thrill-seekers |
Wave Pool | Giant surf pool | Standard size |
Water Coaster | Crush ‘n’ Gusher | N/A |
Iconic Slide | Humunga Kowabunga | Summit Plummet |
📍 How Many Disney Water Parks Are in Florida?
There are currently two operating Disney water parks in Florida:
Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park
👉 Note: The parks alternate seasonal closures for maintenance, so always check which one is open during your visit.
🗺 Are Both Disney Water Parks in Orlando?
Yes! Both parks are located in the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, just outside Orlando. They’re easily accessible via Disney’s internal transportation or by car.
🕰 Have Any Disney Water Parks Closed?
Yes. River Country, Disney’s original water park, opened in 1976 and closed permanently in 2001. In its place, Disney is developing the Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge project.
🏗 Is Disney Planning More Water Parks?
There’s no confirmed news of new water parks, but Disney constantly updates and upgrades existing experiences. Keep your mouse ears tuned to official announcements.
🌍 Are There Disney Water Parks Outside Florida?
No other Disney park outside Florida currently has a dedicated water park. However:
Shanghai Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea have water-themed attractions.
Disneyland Paris had a water park (Disney’s Davy Crockett Ranch) which is now closed.
🎟 Are Disney Water Parks Included in Theme Park Tickets?
Not by default. Standard Disney World tickets do not include water park entry.
UK Residents are very lucky that if they buy the 14 day Magic Ticket, both water parks are included, we can always get you a discount and buy them 12 month sin advance
💸 Is the Park Hopper Plus Worth It?
If you’re staying more than 4–5 days, absolutely. It gives you flexibility and access to water parks, mini-golf, and more — making it a solid value for splash-lovers.
🧾 Can I Buy a Water Park-Only Ticket?
Yes, and it’s often a cost-effective option if you're skipping the main parks that day. Tickets can be bought:
Online through Disney
At the park entrance
Via authorized Disney vacation planners
🏝 Are There Vacation Packages That Include Water Parks?
Yes! Many Disney packages include water park access when you choose a Park Hopper Plus. Some third-party travel agents may also offer deals that bundle hotels and water park passes.
📅 What’s the Best Day to Go to Disney World Water Parks?
Best Days:
Weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday
Non-holiday weeks
When one park is closed, the open park can be more crowded — plan accordingly!
🕓 When Is the Least Crowded Time to Visit?
Late April to early May
Late August to mid-September
Mid-week mornings (arrive at rope drop!)
🚫 Are Weekends Busy?
Yes — especially Saturdays. Locals with annual passes and tourists both hit the water to cool off.
⏰ Best Time of Day to Arrive?
Get there at opening time (usually 10:00 AM). You’ll enjoy:
Shorter wait times
First pick of loungers
Cooler temps before Florida’s midday heat kicks in
📆 Should You Do Water Parks Before or After Theme Parks?
Before: Great way to ease into your trip.
After: Perfect recovery day after the hustle of Magic Kingdom or EPCOT.
🌦 Does Weather Affect Crowds?
Yes. Florida thunderstorms in the afternoon can shut down slides temporarily. Go early and check the forecast!
🧒 Which Disney Water Park Is Best for Small Kids?
Top Pick: Typhoon Lagoon
Why? The Ketchakiddee Creek area is full of mini slides, splash zones, and shaded spots — all built just for younger guests.
👶 Best Toddler Areas:
Ketchakiddee Creek (Typhoon Lagoon): For kids under 48 inches.
Tike’s Peak (Blizzard Beach): Similar offerings with snowy theming.
📏 Are There Height Restrictions?
Yes, especially on thrill slides. Most rides require kids to be at least 48 inches tall. But there are plenty of options for smaller swimmers, too.
🛟 Are Floaties or Life Jackets Provided?
Yes! Disney provides complimentary life jackets for all kids and adults who need them — just grab one near the entrance or lazy river.
☂️ Is There Shade and Stroller Parking?
Absolutely. You’ll find:
Shaded lounge areas
Covered seating
Designated stroller parking zones for families
👨👩👧 Which Disney Water Park Has More Family-Friendly Attractions?
Both parks cater to families, but Typhoon Lagoon has a slight edge thanks to its massive wave pool and laid-back vibe.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Make a Splash at Disney’s Water Parks!
Whether you want to race down a 120-foot slide, float your way through the day, or watch your toddler splash in safety, Disney’s water parks offer something for everyone. Don’t skip them — they’re often the hidden gem of a Disney trip!
✨ Pro Tip: Book early, arrive early, and pack sunscreen, water shoes, and waterproof phone pouches to make the most of your splash-filled adventure.
Want help planning your Disney trip with water parks included?
I can help you craft the perfect itinerary — just ask!
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