There's SNOW place like Blizzard Beach Waterpark
Now that cold weather has finally left Chicago (for a while anyway), I feel a huge sense of relief. So you can imagine my shock when last week my children asked me where we were going to ski next winter. Ski? We are finally free of the frigid temps and they are talking about skiing?! Luckily, the Walt Disney World Resort offers the perfect compromise! Count on Disney to create an amazing winter wonderland in the middle of central Florida, combining the beauty of the ski slopes with that fabulous Florida sunshine: Disney’s Blizzard Beach Waterpark.
Disney's Blizzard Beach Waterpark Theming
Now we all know that Disney’s theming is second to none, but they really outdid themselves with Blizzard Beach, even creating a backstory to explain the snowy mountains, astonishing ski lift and chalet smack in the middle of the Walt Disney World Resort. As Disney legend goes, after a crazy, unexpected snowstorm in the middle of central Florida, wealthy entrepreneurs seized the opportunity and built a ski resort, complete with an alpine ski lift and several challenging ski runs. When the snow melted, however, they saw their dreams melting as well, until a blue alligator was spotted sliding down the mountain into the melted pool. Thus, Ice Gator, the mascot of Disney’s Blizzard Beach, became a legend himself and the water park was born from the melted snow and ice!
My family and I arrived before the park opened, hoping to maximize our time and our strategy was to hit the big slides first. As we rushed into the park, we were transported into a German village. My husband’s parents were both born in Germany and the song playing overhead was one we all knew. It was like we were home! Guten tag, Blizzard Beach! My kids wanted to stop for photo ops; the novelty of being in a bathing suit and taking a picture with a snowman was not lost on them. We claimed a couple of chairs in a shady spot near Melt Away Bay, the central wave pool, and set off to explore the mountain.
Blizzard Beach Waterpark is for all ages!
Blizzard Beach, like all Disney Parks, has entertainment for all ages. Little ones can climb Tike’s Peak, a Frozen themed play area created especially for the 48 inches and under crowd featuring snow-clad slides and wading pools. On the other end of the spectrum, the most adventurous “skiers” can jump aboard the Alpine-style ski lift without boots or poles and set out to conquer Summit Plummit, the “double black diamond” of Blizzard Beach.
At 120 feet high, those brave enough to face Summit Plummit can reach speeds up to 60 miles per hour as they barrel down! My daredevil waited only about 15 minutes before his aquatic freefall, but the lines were building steadily by the time he was taking his victory lap! After riding Slush Gusher, a 90 foot long double slide reminiscent of moguls, we learned that “catching some air” on a waterslide feels completely different than while on skis. It was kind of like the “wildest ride in the wilderness,” except in a bathing suit! Different mountain, but you get the point!
Blizzard Beach even caters to those who just need a little relaxation with Cross Country Creek, Disney’s expansive lazy river. Blizzard Beach pools are heated to 80 degrees, so even on a cloudy day Guests can comfortably enjoy the park. With over 17 slides including a pre-teen area called Ski Patrol Training Camp, Blizzard Beach caters to all “skiers,” from beginner to expert. Everyone knows nobody brings families together like Disney, and Teamboat Springs, a family raft ride, does exactly that, accommodating 4-6 adventurers in the same huge raft. It is a bit tamer than other slides, but family time is definitely worth the thrill sacrifice.
Blizzard Beach Amenities
As usual, Disney has thought of everything to help Guests maximize their fun. Lockers and towels are available to rent in the Beach Haus section of the park and near Snowless Joe’s.
Parking is complimentary for all visitors and Mobile Food and Beverage ordering makes meals and snacks quick and easy. Even though several restaurants are seasonal, Blizzard Beach offers a decent mix of offerings: turkey legs, nachos, hotdogs, salads, sandwiches, ice cream and more. See all of the current Blizzard Beach dining options here.
While Blizzard Beach is host to several quick service restaurants and even venues serving “adult” beverages, coolers are allowed in the parks (glass, loose or dry ice and alcohol is prohibited) for snacks and drinks.
Complimentary life jacket rentals are available at Frostbite Freddy’s Frozen Freshments.
Blizzard Beach Mom Approved Tips
A few Mom Approved Tips to maximize your time at Blizzard Beach:
- The ground can heat up quickly in the sun. Water shoes can help prevent burnt tootsies!
- Private “Polar Patios” can be reserved for up to 10 guests for a cost of $225-$375 depending on the day/time of year. This rental includes seating for up to 6 Guests, locker, towels and souvenir refillable mugs as well as personalized service all day long. Advanced reservations are highly recommended. The “Premium Plus” option includes a refrigerator, fan and prices can go as high as $500 for the day.
- Chairs and umbrellas can also be rented. This is not a bad idea if you arrive after the park opens and are coming during a busy time of year. Cost ranges from $49-$99 for one beach umbrella, two lounge chairs, two sand chairs and 4 towels in a reserved area.
- Blizzard Beach typically closes for refurbishment from early January to mid-March. During that time, Typhoon Lagoon water park is available.
- To visit Blizzard Beach you’ll need to either purchase a one day ticket, upgrade your Park Hopper ticket to the Park Hopper Plus option or add the Waterpark and Sports option. Don’t forget to check out timely Disney Parks promotions that include admission to a Disney water park on arrival day.
- Need a band aid? Alpine Village is the home of Guest Services, as well as First Aid.
Mom Approved Travel KNOWS Disney Waterparks
If you are ready to book your Walt Disney World vacation and add on a day in the snowiest place in Florida, our MAT expert Travel Agents can help.
Simply CLICK HERE to get started. We can’t wait to help you plan your next family adventure!
