Early February: too cold for water parks?

Question

Hi, we've been to Orlando in October and April. Both periods were warm and sunny; parks were not too crowded either (compared to summer months) when we last visited in October.

However, next year we're planning on going to Orlando the second week of February. I already looked into the average temperature for February, and it kind of sounds like it will be a bit chilly!

However, my questions are:

- Water parks like Volcano Bay are open, but won't it be too cold to visit and swim?

- What about crowds at parks (particularly Universal Studios) in February: is it comparable to October? Or can we expect fewer people?

Answer

Visiting Orlando in early February offers a very different experience compared to October or April. Here’s what you can generally expect regarding water parks and crowds:

Water Parks in February:

Water parks like Universal’s Volcano Bay are usually open year-round, but February is one of the coolest months in Orlando, with average daytime highs around 70–75°F (21–24°C) and cooler mornings and evenings.
Even if the water park is heated in some areas, the outdoor temperatures can make swimming and lounging less comfortable, especially for younger kids or those sensitive to cold water.
If you’re set on visiting a water park, consider shorter visits, bring a wetsuit or cover-up, and plan to enjoy heated pools or lazy rivers rather than slides and outdoor wave pools for long periods.
Some resorts or hotels also have heated pools that can be an alternative if the weather is too chilly for outdoor water parks.

Crowds at Theme Parks in February:

February generally sees lower crowds compared to peak periods like spring break, summer, and holidays, though Martin Luther King Jr. weekend (early February) can increase attendance slightly.
Compared to October, February weekdays typically have similar or even lighter crowds, as October includes some fall breaks and Halloween events that can draw local visitors.
Universal Studios in February should be relatively comfortable in terms of wait times, making it a good period to experience most attractions with minimal lines.
Keep in mind weekends may be busier, especially if there are events or conventions in town, but overall February is a slower season than October or April.

Additional Tips:

Check the weather forecast close to your visit; Orlando can occasionally have cold snaps or rainy days in February.
Layered clothing is recommended—shorts and t-shirts for daytime when sunny, with light jackets for mornings, evenings, and water park visits.
If your main goal is to enjoy water parks fully, late March through October is more ideal; February is better for dry theme park days with comfortable crowds.

In summary, early February in Orlando is fine for theme park visits with generally lower crowds, but water parks may feel chilly. Prepare with layers, plan for shorter water activities, and focus on heated pools or indoor attractions if the weather is cooler.

Early February: too cold for water parks?

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