Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park
4.6(11K)google
4.1(197)yelp
FamilyNatureSkiing
Overview
Built around the humorous concept of a melting Disney ski resort turned into a high-energy water park, Blizzard Beach is a spectacularly creative, snow-crested tropical playground in Lake Buena Vista. The park's center features Mount Gushmore, home to Summit Plummet, one of the world's tallest and fastest free-fall body slides that sends riders plunging downward at exhilarating speeds. Complete with a functioning chairlift, slushy snow-themed children's play areas, and relaxing white sand beaches, it offers a uniquely whimsical summer escape.
Practical Info
Suggested DurationAbout 5-8 hours
Best TimeBest visited in late spring or early autumn. This ski-resort themed park features Summit Plummet, one of the world's tallest and fastest free-fall body slides; tackle this thrill ride first thing in the morning to beat the lines.
Getting ThereAmple complimentary surface parking is provided for all guests driving to the park. Disney Resort guests can utilize the complimentary Disney Bus transportation, though some routes may require a quick transfer at Disney Springs.
Travel Tips
- Operates on a staggered seasonal schedule with Typhoon Lagoon for lengthy refurbishments. The park shuts down unexpectedly if local winter temperatures drop below 70°F (21°C). Summer weekends face strict capacity closures by 11:00 AM; arrive pre-9:00 AM to guarantee entry.
- The signature 120-foot near-vertical Summit Plummet slide enforces strict safety codes. Swimsuits with exposed metal buckles, rivets, or zippers are legally banned on the slide. Tight, athletic one-piece swimwear is highly recommended to prevent severe wardrobe malfunctions upon splashdown.
- Provides completely free standard self-parking in its surface lot. The onsite Chairlift is the only mechanical access to top-tier slides, but midday queues exceed 45 minutes; operations suspend instantly during localized lightning. Ride it immediately at park opening.
Reviews
Positive
- The melting ski resort alpine snow theme visual creativity is genius; the Summit Plummet speed slide delivers max thrill and visual impact.
- The unique alpine Chairlift transports riders directly to the mountaintop start; it is incredibly creative with rigorous safety protocols.
- Water is heated to a perfect constant temperature in cooler seasons; accessible facilities and multilingual maps maintain Disney's gold standard.
- The Tike's Peak kiddie zone features safe, adorable mini slides; cast members are exceptionally patient with children, and order management is flawless.
Heads up
- As one of Orlando's most popular water parks, it faces perennially packed crowds; noon lines for core rides can leave you utterly exhausted.
- Like Typhoon Lagoon, storm-induced temporary closures happen frequently; on-site dining and rash guard upcharges are noticeably high.
- The white faux-snow concrete surfaces reflect intense glaring sunlight; walking around without sunglasses easily causes severe eye strain.
- Though parking is free, sharing the lot with Winter Summerland Miniature Golf creates tight spaces, forcing long walks from distant rows at peak hours.