Thank you to Walt Disney World for inviting us to visit Blizzard Beach for the day!
Blizzard Beach is the perfect way to cool off while visiting Walt Disney World Resort. While each park has something special to offer, Blizzard Beach is one of the best Disney Park for toddlers. Disney Water Parks are a must do when traveling to Florida during the warm summer months. Here are my tips for Blizzard Beach for toddlers.
Check out my tips for visiting Disney World with young kids >>
Ski Vacation Meets Beach Getaway
We loved the immersive ski lodge experience at Disney’s Blizzard Beach. When we arrived and saw all of the snow, my daughter said “oh this is Elsa’s water park!” She couldn’t be more right. Everywhere you look there is snow. From snowflakes on the inflatable tubes to the Christmas music (with an Island flair) playing throughout the park, you will really feel like you’re on a tropical ski trip paradise.
Fun for the Whole Family
Blizzard Beach only has three attractions that have a height requirement. Everything else can be enjoyed by guests of all ages. We loved Tike’s Peak, which is the perfect play area for toddlers and preschoolers. There are six slides for little kids, plus a shallow wading pool. We also loved playing in the wave pool. The lazy river is the longest in the US, at nearly one mile long with about a 25 minute float time. I loved that most of the river is shaded.
Delicious Food
One of the most surprising things about Blizzard Beach was all the delicious food options. Who knew a water park had such incredible food? I had the pleasure of speaking to Chef Hal who shared about the fresh food prepared and served at Blizzard Beach. There are lots of vegan and vegetarian options too. According to my brother, they also have the best chicken tenders. They even have a WHOLE BUCKET of ice cream which makes for the perfect dessert.
Rapid Refills for Endless Hydration
If you’re planning a trip to Blizzard Beach, I highly recommend buying a Rapid Fill Souvenir Cup. The cups are $11.99 and include endless refills during your visit. The hydration stations are clearly marked with misters. The coolest part about these cups are the magic chime sound the machine makes as it fills up your cup.
Tips for Visiting Blizzard Beach with Toddlers
Arrive Early
During the Summer months, afternoon thunderstorms are pretty regular and will cause all attractions to temporarily close. Arrive at park open and try to accomplish as much as possible before lunch. As you arrive, Cast Members line the entrance tossing beach balls, giving out high fives and dancing to upbeat music. Definitely a warm welcome! Don’t forget to grab a photo with the Blizzard Beach frame and meet Goofy on the way in. They won’t be there on the way out at park close, or if there is inclement weather.
Bring the Stroller
I have never brought a stroller to a water park before, but it certainly was helpful! Having a place to contain the kids, and store all the ‘stuff’ made it very convenient. There are plenty of shaded and covered lounge areas for parking a stroller. Generally, no one will rummage through the stroller, though I would leave all valuables in the car, or at home. A stroller is essential when planning a trip to Blizzard Beach for toddlers, and is a great place for naps.
Find a Good Spot
With young kids, having an area to relax for nap time and retreat to if (and when) it storms is a must. There are lots of shaded pavilions in Tike’s Peak (the toddler play area). I recommend finding a few lounge chairs and a place to park the stroller under cover upon arrival. Keep coming back to the place throughout the day for naps, snack time or sunscreen reapplication. They also have sand pits here that the kids will love playing in. All kids meals also come with a bucket and shovel which come in handy later in the day. My three year old played in the sand for almost two hours while her sister napped.
Bring the Necessities
When visiting a water park with little kids, it’s important to come prepared. Children who are not potty trained will need Swim Diapers to enter the water. Be sure to bring extras too! You can also bring in food and waters. I saw several families with small coolers. Bringing water to keep you hydrated, fresh fruit or juice boxes are great for little ones. Lastly, don’t forget the sunscreen. Florida sun is unrelenting and skin protection is essential.