As you know, my family loves to visit Walt Disney World’s four main theme parks but one thing that really gets these Florida resident’s hearts puttering is sinking our toes into the cool waters at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. Wanna know a secret, though? My kids had never experienced the icy blast fun of Blizzard Beach… until now! Walt Disney World Resorts invited my family out for a day of fun at the waterparks. No monetary compensation was received but we did receive guest tickets to the park.
First Time Guide To Disney’s Blizzard Beach Waterpark
Blizzard Beach is filled with so many water slides, body slides, activities, delicious meals, and the list goes on! It can be intimidating to plan your attack but don’t fret, Blizzard Beach is easy to navigate and fun to explore. My tips can help you plan your day and make the trip a little easier on you and your family, while also saving you a few bucks along the way.
Pro Tip #1 – Travel Light.
Wear your swimsuit into the park and pack only what’s necessary for each member of your family. Blizzard Beach has towels and lifejackets available to rent (you can also bring these items in) and I highly recommend it. Renting items made it easier to get in and out of the park and less for us to haul around especially since my husband couldn’t skip work for this trip, so this mama was solo with 3 kiddos.
Pro Tip #2 – Arrive Early.
Parking at both Disney waterparks is FREE but parking lots are on the small side so they can fill up quickly on busy days. If you’re driving or you’re a large family requiring multiple lounge chairs this is a must. Disney does provide transportation from resorts and even from Disney Springs if you are told to turn around and park there.
If you know you can’t make it to the park early, my advice is to call the Disney hotline (407) 939-7529 and book one of the Polar Patios. Each reserved patio area accommodates up to six guests with tons of luxuries included. You’ll be comfortable as can be with cushioned seating, towels, refillable drink mugs, and a cooler filled with ice and bottled water. These spaces also include a locker to keep your valuables safe and close by. Prices range from $200 to $400 for a full day, depending on the season.
A more budget-friendly shade-loving option is the Lodge Umbrellas. These spaces accommodating up to four guests, two reserved loungers, two beach chairs, a table, beach umbrellas, and towels for a day just screaming “relaxation”. Lodge Umbrellas range from $40 to $60 depending on the season.
Pro Tip #3 – Cheap Sunglasses.
Don’t rock the Channel or Oakley Sunglasses at the waterparks! Swing into the local drugstore and grab some $5 sunglasses (you’ll look just as fabulous, okay) because Runoff Rapids can get a bit crazy especially.
Pro Tip #4 – Water Shoes.
I know, I know… they can look super dorky but they’re worth it. Just suck it up because no one cares what’s on your feet but you will care at the end of the day if you went barefoot all day. While you’re getting your cheapie sunglasses, make sure everyone has some water shoes too.
Pro Tip #5 – Stay Hydrated.
This is our most serious piece of advice. The Florida sun is a killer, even on cloudy days! Nothing can ruin your day faster than being drained from the sun. Drinking lots of water will keep your energized to enjoy the fun all day. Stock up everyone with a reusable water bottle filled with ice then once in the park fill it up at the soda stations with water, lots and lots of water.
Pro Tip #6 – Bring Snacks.
Blizzard Beach has some absolutely delicious places to eat and I highly recommend you have at least one meal from one of the 9+ quick service restaurants like Lottawatta Lodge. But to save you some money between meals when the kids just have to eat right then & there it’s nice to have their favorite snacks on hand. I like to bring Uncrustables PJ sandwiches, squeeze yogurt, cheddar goldfish, and fruit gummies. I guess I should say my snack choices are normally “healthy and organic” but let’s be real, we’re all trying to make it through the day with all the kiddos happy and coming home safely. So with that being said, bring your kid’s favorite snacks and keep those kids happy!
But let’s talk about Lottawatta Lodge and my personal favorite, Mini Donuts! Lottawatta Lodge is great for the entire family and even has vegan and vegetarian choices. You’ll find delicious rice bowls as well as a menu of choices like burgers, wraps, salads, and chicken strips.
Mini Donuts is exactly what it sounds like and it’s a must-have poolside snack. These glorious little bites come in regular or cinnamon sugar (the only way, if you ask me) with a variety of dipping sauces to choose from. Completely drool-worthy. Thank me later.
Last but not least, enjoy yourself! Blizzard Beach has something for everyone of all ages and it’s a day at Disney so what more could you ask for?
