Blizzard Beach vs. Typhoon Lagoon: The Ultimate Showdown

When it comes to beating the Florida heat and adding a splash of fun to your Walt Disney World vacation, Disney’s two water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, offer unforgettable, adventure-packed escapes. Each park boasts unique theming, exciting attractions, and family-friendly amenities, catering to different kinds of guests. Whether you’re chasing thrills, floating lazily through tropical scenery, or splashing with little ones, there’s a perfect fit for your water park day. And in 2025, Disney Resort guests can take advantage of free admission to a water park on their check-in day, making it easier than ever to dive into the magic. In this guide, we’ll compare the highlights of each park and share tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Pro Planning Tip: We recommend using Jessica Lieb with ET Family Travel to book your Disney vacation!

Attractions & Experience

Blizzard Beach

• Thrill-heavy: Blizzard Beach offers four high-energy slides vs. Typhoon’s two. Standouts include Summit Plummet (a 120 ft vertical plunge), Slush Gusher, Snow Stormers, Runoff Rapids, and Teamboat Springs. Teamboat Springs and Cross Country Creek are among its top-rated water park attractions.
• Kid‑friendly zones: Tike’s Peak earns high praise, and its Frozen‑themed splash area brings added delight.
• Theme & layout: A whimsical melting ski resort in Florida theme, complete with chairlifts.
• Stairs alert: Expect lots of steps. A chairlift helps, but lines can get rather long.

Typhoon Lagoon

• Wave‑pool mastery: Home to North America’s largest inland surf pool with 5–6‑ft waves every 90–110 seconds.
• Water coaster thrills: Crush ’n’ Gusher and Miss Adventure Falls are fan favorites.
• Lazy river vibe: Castaway Creek winds through shaded, tropical theming.
• Surf & chill: Laid‑back tropical sandbox aesthetic with shipwreck storytelling .
• Moderate exertion: Some slide access requires carrying tubes, while others use conveyor-belt to hoist the rafts.

Who’s It Best For?

• Young kids (pre‑K to grade school): Blizzard Beach
• Adults 65+: Typhoon Lagoon
• Teens & adults: Evenly Split. Choose based on atmosphere, logistics, and priorities for attractions.
• Thrill seekers: Blizzard Beach overall. Typhoon Lagoon for the wave pool and water coaster.

When to Go

• Both parks are open simultaneously May 21–Sept 7, 2025
• Arrive early as parks may reach capacity especially during the warm, summer months.
• Rain and lightning can close attractions, so stay alert and plan to enjoy indoor/covered areas until the weather clears.

Free Water Park Access for Disney Resort Guests

Throughout 2025, Disney Resort guests enjoy complimentary water park admission on their check-in day, redeemable at whichever park is open.

• Entry method: Use your MagicBand, Key to the World card, or MagicMobile.
• Early access tip: Arrive 30–45 minutes before opening to avoid transport crowds and snag prime beach chairs.
• Extras included: Free life jackets and towels; cabana rentals available for enhanced comfort (Polar Patios at Blizzard, Beachcomber Shacks at Typhoon Lagoon).

Pro Tips for Visiting a Disney Water Park

1. Arrive early—beat crowds, secure seating near your must‑hit attractions.
2. Pack smart—bring dry clothes for the return journey.
3. Use the app—My Disney Experience tracks opening hours and weather alerts.
4. Bring your own cooler—food and beverages are allowed (no glass containers!).
5. Rent lockers/cabanas—lockers are convenient; cabanas offer shade, service, and storage.
6. Watch the waves—Typhoon Lagoon’s Surf Pool is intense and for strong swimmers only.
7. Train for stairs—especially if you’re heading to Blizzard Beach slides.
8. Take advantage of check‑in day—come in swim‑ready; store luggage later.
9. Plan for storms—afternoon showers? Head to covered areas or simply wait it out.

Final Recommendations

By comparing ride styles, theming, demographics, and the special free admission on check-in day, you can craft a water park day tailored to your party’s needs. Let me know if you’d like help with sample itineraries, dining options, or how to combine a water park visit with a theme park day!