
Visiting Walt Disney World is an incredible experience, but Florida’s heat can be intense, especially in the summer.
Luckily, Disney offers plenty of ways to help guests stay cool. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned Disney traveler, these ten tips will help you beat the heat and enjoy your trip while making the most of your magical adventure. Planning ahead can make all the difference, and knowing where to find the best cool-down spots is essential for a comfortable experience.
1. Cool Off at Disney’s Water Parks
Walt Disney World has two fantastic water parks: Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Both parks offer exciting water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers where you can relax and escape the heat. If you’re visiting during warm months, setting aside time for a water park day is a great idea.
At Blizzard Beach, thrill-seekers can zoom down Summit Plummet, one of the tallest and fastest free-fall slides in the world, while those looking for a more relaxed experience can float along Cross Country Creek. Typhoon Lagoon features the massive Surf Pool, where waves reach up to six feet high, and the family-friendly Miss Adventure Falls, a fun-filled raft ride with plenty of splashes along the way.
2. Find Water Play Areas
If you can’t make it to a water park, Disney still offers splash zones to help you cool down. These water play areas are scattered throughout the parks and provide a fun way to beat the heat. Whether you’re a kid or just young at heart, these play areas can be a refreshing break during a hot afternoon.
- Magic Kingdom: Near Dumbo the Flying Elephant in Fantasyland
- EPCOT: On the bridge from World Celebration into the World Showcase
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Boneyard Playground water features
- Disney Springs: Near Once Upon a Toy and the Days of Christmas store
Many of these splash zones are designed with interactive elements, such as water cannons, misters, and fountains, making them a great spot to pause and cool off without committing to a full water ride or water park visit.
3. Enjoy Cold Treats
Nothing beats the heat like a frozen Disney treat. Some of the most popular cool-down snacks include:
- Mickey Ice Cream Bars – A classic and delicious Disney treat
- Dole Whip Floats – A refreshing pineapple treat
- Kitchen Sink Sundae at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop – A giant, shareable ice cream dish
There are plenty of ice cream spots and snack stands throughout the parks, so you’ll never be far from a frozen treat. Other refreshing options include shaved ice from Kakamora Float in Adventureland, frozen blue milk in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and slushes from the Cheshire Café in Magic Kingdom.
4. Get Free Ice Water
Hydration is key, and Disney makes it easy. You can get free cups of ice water at any quick-service restaurant—just ask a Cast Member.
For something different, check out Club Cool at EPCOT, where you can sample free soda flavors from around the world. The melon-flavored soda from Japan is especially refreshing! Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to prevent overheating, so be sure to take advantage of these hydration stations whenever possible.
5. Watch Indoor Shows
Disney’s live entertainment is top-notch, and many of the best shows happen indoors. Spending time in air-conditioned theaters is a great way to escape the heat while enjoying world-class performances. Some top choices include:
Magic Kingdom:
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic
- Hall of Presidents
- Enchanted Tiki Room
- Carousel of Progress
EPCOT:
- The American Adventure
- Reflections of China
- Impressions de France
Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
- Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!
Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
- For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
- Muppet*Vision 3D
Each of these shows lasts around 15–30 minutes, making them the perfect opportunity to take a break from the heat while being entertained.
6. Choose Rides with Indoor Queues
Standing outside in the sun isn’t fun, so prioritize rides with indoor, air-conditioned queues.
Magic Kingdom:
- Pirates of the Caribbean
- Space Mountain
- Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
- The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
EPCOT:
- Soarin’ Around the World
- Frozen Ever After
- Mission: Space
- The Seas with Nemo & Friends
Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
- Na’vi River Journey
- Flight of Passage
- Dinosaur
Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
- Toy Story Midway Mania
- Star Tours
- Tower of Terror
Indoor queues offer shade and air conditioning, making the wait times much more manageable on hot days.
7. Visit Indoor Play Areas
Traveling with kids? Take a break in one of Disney’s indoor play areas where little ones can burn off energy while parents enjoy the air conditioning.
- Magic Kingdom: Circus-themed playground inside Dumbo the Flying Elephant’s queue
- EPCOT: Indoor playground at the exit of Mission: Space
These play areas are great places for kids to explore, cool off, and have fun while parents get a well-earned rest.
8. Try Water Rides
If you don’t mind getting wet, Disney’s water rides are a great way to cool off while having fun.
- Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom – An exciting, water-filled adventure
- Kali River Rapids at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Expect to get soaked!
Sitting in the front row or wearing a poncho can help manage just how wet you get, but either way, these rides are great for cooling down.
9. Take a Resort Pool Break
If you’re staying at a Disney Resort, plan time to relax at your hotel’s pool. All Disney hotels have themed pools, some with water slides, splash zones, and lounge areas. A midday swim can be a great way to refresh before heading back to the parks. Many resorts also offer poolside entertainment, games, and refreshments, making it a relaxing part of your Disney vacation.
10. Visit the Parks at Night
One of the best ways to avoid the heat is to explore Disney after sunset. The cooler evening air, combined with Disney’s incredible nighttime entertainment, makes for a magical experience.
Fireworks shows like Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom are a must-see, and many rides have shorter wait times at night. The ambiance of the parks changes in the evening, with stunning lighting, cooler temperatures, and an entirely new atmosphere to enjoy.
Final Tips for Staying Cool at Disney World
- Wear light, breathable clothing to stay comfortable.
- Bring a portable fan or cooling towel for extra relief.
- Use Lightning Lane to avoid standing in long, outdoor lines.
- Seek out shade and take breaks indoors whenever possible.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
With these cool-down strategies, you can beat the heat and enjoy every magical moment at Walt Disney World. Have a magical trip!