On our last trip to Walt Disney World we enjoyed a day at Disney's Blizzard Beach, one of Disney's two water parks. If you don't already know this about Disney, they pride themselves on storytelling and there is a backstory to this water park. According to Disney "legend" (and wikipedia), a freak snowstorm in the area led to the development of Florida's first ski resort. Naturally, the snow did not last long. This left behind a collection of waterlogged but snow-less ski jumps and chair lifts. The operators were preparing to cut their losses and walk away. However, they were interrupted by an echoing "YAHHOOO!!!" coming from the mountain of melting snow. They looked up to see a blue alligator, wearing a red scarf and gold inner tube, careening down the mountain at top speed. Ice Gator, the mascot, then landed in a pool of melted snow at the base of the mountain with a thunderous splash. The ski resort operators suddenly saw the park's potential, and the mountain of snow became Blizzard Beach, "the most slushy, slippery, exhilarating water park anywhere!"
Our family has fallen in love with taking a day at the water parks during our Disney stays. Our little ones are water bugs and will swim in any old pool, but a day at the water parks has become a big treat! And since it's only $62/person (or less with a Disney Vacation Club or Annual Pass discount) it's a bargain day compared to the theme parks! There is something for all of us, including a lazy river, a wave pool, and lots of slides and attractions.
There are plenty of shelters throughout Blizzard Beach with shaded seating and chairs so, if you are like me, you won't burn to death while having fun! There are also lockers and changing rooms/showers near the front of the park for anyone needing a secure location for their valuables.
At the time of this writing, Disney was also providing the park rental towels free of charge for resort guests (they are also part of a polar patio reservation). Otherwise, you can either rent them for the day, or bring your own. Life vests are provided throughout the park for little ones free of charge.
And as evidenced by the photos above, PhotoPass photographers were all around the water park taking pictures and handing out PhotoPass card on a rubber band so we wouldn't lose them and could have some great pictures from our day! It was a really fun touch this year that wasn't available last year.
There are also plenty of places to get food and beverages (even the adult variety) so if you don't want to tote your own food, you have plenty of choices. There is even a refillable mug so that you can have unlimited fountain drinks while there. We didn't think that would be very appealing and yet we quickly realized it was exactly what our family needed. Also, don't try and take your resort dining plan mug; it won't work!
Another tip if you are staying at a Disney Resort, put your MagicBand in a secure location while in the water. They DO NOT float. We saw more than one person combing the lazy river and wave pool looking for their MagicBand.
We had a blast at Disney's Blizzard Beach this summer. The kids all gave it a 4 out of 5 stars. (Typhoon Lagoon has our heart for atmosphere - Blizzard Beach for activities.) And incase you are wondering, here is my list of essentials for your Blizzard Beach Bag:
- goggles or snorkel mask
- waterproof case for your phone (I like this one)
- sunscreen!
- water socks
- a small waterproof toy for the kiddie area
- cover ups or dry clothes for the ride "home" (the busses are freezing!)
If you go to the water parks in Disney I would love to hear your feedback! And until next time, may all your days be filled with fairy dust!
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