After Six Long Years, Walt Disney World Quietly Reaches a Historic Milestone
Blizzard Beach Completes All Parks Fully Open
It didn’t come with a parade, fireworks, or even a press release—but it happened. A subtle update to Disney’s website, a reopening notice on the calendar, and just like that, Walt Disney World Resort reached a milestone we haven’t seen in more than half a decade.
Guests visiting the Most Magical Place on Earth this summer might not realize it, but as of today, May 21, something rare is happening: all six Disney parks in Florida are fully open together for the first time since 2019. That includes both of Disney’s water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, operating at the same time.
What caused this major shift? And why has it taken this long to return to pre-pandemic operations?
Disney World Water Park Tag-Team Comes to an End
Blizzard Beach quietly reopened its frosty gates today after a brief refurbishment that began on May 1. On that same day, Typhoon Lagoon resumed operations for the summer season. Historically, that would mean one park opens as the other closes—something that’s been the norm for years now.
But this time, something different happened. Instead of closing one to open the other, both parks are now welcoming guests simultaneously—a return to the operational standard last seen in 2019.
Since the pandemic disrupted operations in 2020, Disney has taken a staggered approach to its water parks. Typically, one park remained open while the other underwent seasonal maintenance or longer refurbishments. This pattern, though efficient, limited guest options and reflected the ongoing recovery from pandemic-era staffing and budget constraints.
What This Means for Disney Resort Guests
For guests staying at Walt Disney World Resort hotels, the reopening means more flexibility and better value—especially on check-in day.
Disney offers complimentary water park admission on arrival day for many Resort guests, but until now, that perk came with a catch: you could only visit whichever water park happened to be open. Now, for the first time in years, guests have a choice between the tropical storm-themed Typhoon Lagoon or the snow-covered ski resort-inspired Blizzard Beach.
This expanded access also provides relief on high-crowd days and creates opportunities for more balanced attendance between the two parks—benefiting both guests and Cast Members.
Why This Quiet Milestone Matters
Beyond the operational logistics, this marks a symbolic milestone for the resort.
The full reopening of all four theme parks and both water parks signals that Walt Disney World has finally returned to full force, shedding the last major operational limitation lingering since the pandemic began.
While new rides and lands have continued to debut—like TRON Lightcycle / Run and the upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure—this full reopening shows that Disney leadership is confident in the resort’s infrastructure, staffing, and guest demand.
It’s also a subtle but powerful message in the face of growing competition from Universal Orlando, whose Epic Universe is slated to open in 2025. With that park promising new immersive experiences and major IPs, Disney’s decision to operate all parks at once again signals it’s not backing down—it’s ramping up.
Will This Last for Disney World?
The big question: Is this permanent, or just a summer experiment?
Disney has yet to formally announce that dual water park operations will continue beyond the summer season. Historically, both parks would remain open during peak months, with brief winter refurbishments rotating in. But post-2020, Disney adopted a “one open at a time” model to better manage resources.
If demand remains strong and guest satisfaction increases, it’s possible this move signals a return to year-round dual water park access—a major win for vacationers and Annual Passholders alike. While there may not have been a big announcement or viral video marking the occasion, the May 21 reopening of Blizzard Beach alongside Typhoon Lagoon brings a sense of closure to the years-long recovery period. It’s a full-circle moment—quiet, but powerful.
After shutdowns, slow reopenings, capacity limits, park pass systems, and shifting operations, Disney’s return to full capacity represents more than just logistics. It’s about regaining momentum, restoring tradition, and once again offering guests the full Disney experience. So, if you’re heading to Walt Disney World this summer, take a moment to appreciate what’s been quietly restored. The magic is whole again—and ready to make a splash.
