The Ultimate Guide to Walt Disney World Water Parks

April 10, 2025 by Frances McCullough

Did you know that all Walt Disney World Resort stays in 2025 come with a free water park day on your check-in day? Yep—actually free. No ticket add-ons, no extra steps. You don’t even have to stop at your hotel first—you can head straight to the water park and dive into vacation mode. Bonus: parking is also free for resort guests!

Now, if you’re thinking, “But I came for the theme parks…” hear me out: our water park day is hands-down my family’s favorite part of the whole trip!  There’s just something about kicking things off with a little sunshine, water slides, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes the whole vacation feel extra fun.  

Walt Disney World Resort might be known for its magic and excitement, but it also offers some cool (literally!) adventures at its two renowned water parks!  And here’s the big news - both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will be open this summer for Disney’s Cool Kid Summer! For the first time in years, all six Disney parks will be open from May 21 through September 7, 2025.  

Whether you're looking for thrilling water rides, relaxing waves, or floating down a lazy river, Disney’s water parks are packed with fun for guests of all ages. I’ll walk you through why Disney’s water parks are a must-do and share all the tips and details you need to make the most of your day in the sun.

Blizzard Beach Water Park: Blizzard Beach is Disney’s snow-capped water park, features a playful ski resort theme that’s perfect for all types of guests. Imagine “skiing” in the middle of the Florida heat?!

  • Highlights:
    • Summit Plummet: If you’re feeling brave, this towering 120-foot slide will leave you breathless.
    • Slush Gusher: Not quite ready for Summit Plummet? Slush Gusher is its gentler counterpart - still fast and fun, but a little less intense
    • Cross Country Creek: A lazy river to relax and float around…until you float under one of the surprise waterfalls (ask me how I know!)
    • Tike’s Peak: A kiddie area for little ones, featuring smaller slides and water play zones, including a raft ride, which my three-year-old adores.
    • Polar Patios: This is our water park splurge—and totally worth it.  These shaded patios come with an attendant to fetch food and drink, towels, chairs, water, refillable water park mugs (similar but even larger than those resort mugs), a safe to hold all those valuables and, most importantly, shade. Bonus: with free admission on check-in day for Disney Resort guests in 2025, it makes it easier to treat yourself! Just a heads-up—Polar Patios can be reserved 60 days in advance, just like dining, so don’t wait too long to grab one!

What Makes Blizzard Beach Unique?

This park’s theming is its standout feature. The whole park is styled like a ski resort hit by a heatwave—think chairlifts, slalom-style slides, and snow-covered mountains that melt into splash zones.  The theming is pure Disney magic!

Typhoon Lagoon Water Park: Typhoon Lagoon is Disney's tropical paradise with lush greenery, serene lagoons, and laid back vibes.  With adventures around every corner, it’s a must do for all guests!  

  • Highlights:
    • Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool: The park’s main attraction, featuring 6-foot-high waves, is a can’t miss experience.
    • Miss Adventure Falls: A family raft ride with fun storytelling!  This experience is full of twists, turns, and a few surprises—perfect for riding together and laughing the whole way down.
    • Castaway Creek: Another relaxing, lazy river where you can float and unwind.  This is perfect for a mid-day break.
    • Ketchakiddee Creek: Designed for little ones, this water area is packed with mini slides and splash zones.  It’s the perfect spot for little adventurers to play safely!
    • Crush “n” Gusher: Not one but three water coasters featuring drops and turns for all thrill seekers. Try one and then head back up the steps to hop on the other two.
    • Beachcomber Shakes: The best of the poolside cabanas you can get!  These shaded, private areas come with an attendant to bring food and drinks, towels, chairs, water park refillable mugs, and plenty of cold drinks. They’re an added cost, but absolutely worth it—especially if you’re spending the day at the park. Just like dining reservations, they can be booked 60 days before check-in!

What Makes Typhoon Lagoon Unique?

The theme of a typhoon coupled with Disney storytelling gives this park a laid-back, yet exciting atmosphere. The wave pool is the park’s crown jewel, and it’s a highlight for anyone visiting.

Tips for Visiting Disney’s Water Parks

1. Arrive Early: Make the most of your Free Water Park day by arriving early and enjoying all these water parks have to offer.  Disney’s Water Parks typically open at 10 a.m., and I always recommend getting there right at park opening!

2. Don’t Forget Sunscreen: It’s Florida, so it’s important to protect your skin from the sun. Both parks have plenty of shaded areas, but sunscreen is still a must.  Forgot your sunscreen?  No problem!  Many of the retailers at the water parks have sunscreen available to purchase!

3. Bring Water Shoes: The ground can get HOT, and water shoes make it way easier to move from ride to ride.  Trust me, your feet will thank you!

4. Pack a Waterproof Bag: Consider bringing a waterproof bag to store your phone, sunscreen, and other essentials while you’re floating or riding slides.  

5. Locker Rentals:  If you want a secure place to stash your belongings while you splash, locker rentals are a great option—and super easy to find.

At Blizzard Beach, you can rent a locker just past the main entrance at Beach Haus. Over at Typhoon Lagoon, locker rentals are available near Singapore Sal’s at the front of the park. Both locations make it quick and convenient to store your items and get straight to the fun!

6. Dining Options: Both water parks have various dining options, from quick snacks to full meals. Don’t forget to try the signature treats! At Typhoon Lagoon, head to Happy Landings Ice Cream for the famous Hot Fudge Brownie Sundae—a gooey, chocolatey dream piled high with ice cream and all the toppings. Over at Blizzard Beach, I.C. Expeditions serves up both the classic Hot Fudge Brownie Sundae and a rich Praline Sundae that’s perfect for those who love a sweet and nutty twist.  And if you’re using the Disney Dining Plan, it does work in the water parks, which is super convenient.

Whether you’re seeking heart-pumping water slides or a relaxing day floating along a lazy river, Disney’s water parks are the perfect way to add a splash of fun to your vacation. When you book your Walt Disney World vacation with a Be Our Guest Vacations travel professional, we’ll help you plan the perfect water park day—from timing to tips to where to find the best snacks. Let’s make this your coolest Disney vacation yet!