Looking for Recent Disney Water Park Reviews
Hi all! Planning a last-minute-ish getaway for next month and considering taking advantage of the Disney perk that allows free water park admission on arrival day. Haven't been to Blizzard Beach in 20 years, haven't been to Typhoon Lagoon ever.
Assuming both are open (which per the Disney website, they should be), anyone have any advice on which one to pick? It will be a Thursday, and we are planning to hit the waterpark straight from the airport in our rental car after landing (due to land at 8:45am so we will likely make it at or near opening time).
Looking to see if anyone has recent experience at either one and can comment on slides, food, general atmosphere, etc. Thanks!
Both Disney water parks—Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon—offer unique experiences, and your choice depends on the type of fun you and your group are looking for. Here’s a breakdown based on recent visitor experiences:
Blizzard Beach: This park is themed around a melting ski resort, giving it a quirky snow-meets-sun vibe. It has some of the tallest and fastest slides at Disney, so if you enjoy thrill rides, this is a strong choice. The park also tends to be slightly less crowded than Typhoon Lagoon on weekdays.
- Slides: Summit Plummet (very tall and fast), Slush Gusher, and Teamboat Springs (family raft ride).
- Relaxing options: Melt-Away Bay lazy river, Toboggan Racers for some light competitive fun.
- Food: Standard Disney water park fare: burgers, hot dogs, chicken tenders, and a few healthier options like salads. Quick service is generally good.
- Atmosphere: Fun, colorful, a little more “cartoonish,” and slightly quieter than Typhoon Lagoon.
Typhoon Lagoon: This park has a tropical, storm-ravaged island theme. It features a massive wave pool, a lazy river, and several family-friendly slides. It’s ideal if you want a more relaxed beachy vibe with water activities suitable for all ages.
- Slides: Crush ‘n’ Gusher (water coaster), Humunga Kowabunga, and Mayday Falls for both thrill and family-friendly options.
- Relaxing options: Castaway Creek lazy river (long and scenic), Shark Reef snorkeling area with tropical fish and stingrays (recently reopened).
- Food: Similar variety as Blizzard Beach, with some seafood-inspired offerings and casual dining options.
- Atmosphere: Lush landscaping, tropical feel, slightly more crowded on popular days but very photogenic.
Additional tips for visiting straight from the airport:
- Arrive early for parking and locker rental to maximize your time.
- Pack swimwear under your travel clothes if possible to save time changing.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and water-friendly footwear for comfort.
- Consider using Disney’s mobile app to check wait times for slides and dining options in real-time.
Overall, if you want thrill slides and a quieter experience, choose Blizzard Beach. If you prefer a tropical, relaxing atmosphere with diverse water attractions, go with Typhoon Lagoon. Either way, getting there at opening will help you enjoy the park before crowds build.
