Disney World is switching up its water park lineup this week, and families planning warm-weather vacations just got some welcome news about when both parks will reopen. Typhoon Lagoon closes February 15 for its annual refurbishment, with Blizzard Beach taking over the next day. The good news? Typhoon Lagoon returns May 12, giving guests access to both water parks before the heaviest summer crowds arrive.
The May 12 date is actually earlier than many expected. Disney previously confirmed both parks would operate together during Cool Kids’ Summer, running May 26 through September 8. But the mid-May reopening means visitors get two weeks of dual water park access before the promotional period even starts.
How Disney’s Water Park Rotation Works
Disney rarely keeps both water parks open simultaneously outside peak summer months. The rotation lets one park undergo necessary maintenance while the other stays operational, ensuring guests always have water park access year-round.
Blizzard Beach returns February 15 after shutting down last September for annual maintenance. The ski resort-themed park features over 17 slides, including Summit Plummet, which drops riders 120 feet at speeds hitting 60 mph. It’s one of the tallest and fastest free-fall body slides anywhere.
Typhoon Lagoon goes dark the same day Blizzard Beach reopens. The tropical-themed park, Disney’s oldest water facility, centers around a massive wave pool and the iconic Mount Mayday shipwreck that spews water every half hour. The park needs the same intensive maintenance Blizzard Beach just completed.
Water parks face different challenges than traditional theme parks. Constant water exposure, chemical treatments, filtration systems, and slide structures need regular attention that’s tough to handle while serving thousands of daily guests. Seasonal closures let Disney tackle mechanical inspections, service equipment, and refresh theming damaged by sun and chlorine.
What This Means for Spring Travelers
Anyone visiting between February 15 and May 11 only gets Blizzard Beach. If you’re set on experiencing Typhoon Lagoon’s tropical vibe or specific attractions, you’ll need to visit after May 12 or adjust your travel dates entirely.
The two parks offer completely different experiences beyond just being water parks. Blizzard Beach feels like a ski lodge dropped in Florida heat with winter theming throughout. Typhoon Lagoon delivers tropical paradise aesthetics with lush landscaping and storm-aftermath storytelling. Some families strongly prefer one over the other.
Blizzard Beach sits near Animal Kingdom and the All-Star Resorts. Typhoon Lagoon is closer to Disney Springs and the Epcot resort area. Depending on your hotel, one park might save significant travel time.
Summer Access and Perks
Starting May 12, both parks will be open until at least September 8 to accommodate peak summer demand. Resort guests from May 26 to September 8 receive complimentary water park admission on check-in day as part of Cool Kids’ Summer, and families staying at multiple Disney hotels can enjoy this benefit with each check-in.
H2O Glow Nights at Typhoon Lagoon, featuring character meets and dance parties, typically runs from late May to September and is Disney’s most affordable after-hours event. The reopening on May 12 ensures the park is ready for these events.
Seasonal Pass Still Available for Disney Water Parks
The Disney Water Park Seasonal Pass works at Blizzard Beach through May 9, with blockout dates March 28 to April 5. It costs $89 for adults and $83 for kids ages 3 to 9. The pass includes water park entry, one mini golf session before 4 p.m., and 20% off same-day rentals of premium seating areas.
For anyone planning multiple water park visits before early May, the seasonal pass could beat individual ticket prices. After Typhoon Lagoon reopens May 12, regular tickets or the Water Park and Sports add-on become the standard options.
Why May 12 Matters at Disney
Typhoon Lagoon is set to reopen before Memorial Day weekend, just in time for the summer travel season. Mid-May visitors can enjoy both water parks while avoiding the larger crowds that come when schools let out. The park recently closed due to unseasonably cold weather, but temperatures by mid-May are ideal for water activities.
Facility Asset Management is handling the refurbishment, focusing on maintenance and infrastructure rather than creative changes, while Bo-Mar Scenic & Design is contracted for general construction, suggesting both cosmetic updates and mechanical work. The reopening will offer a refreshed facility ready for summer operations.
Planning Around the Switch
Knowing about this rotation now beats arriving at Disney World expecting both parks to be available. Check your travel dates against the schedule and adjust expectations. If this schedule affects your plans, contact Disney directly or shift your booking dates. The May 12 reopening gives families solid flexibility for planning water park visits during the spring-to-summer transition at Walt Disney World.
