There are four water parks in Orlando, Florida. Disney has two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, both of which are wonderfully themed. Seaworld’s new water park is called Aquatica, and although smaller than either of the Disney parks it is beautifully landscaped. Of course, there is that old favourite, Wet and Wild, but this is more of a concrete jungle, with plenty to do but no real themeing.
Here are some tips to make your day at the parks even better:
1. Check the park opening times. Get there before they open if you can. They will let you in as far as the lockers so you can stow all your excess gear.
2. Get there early. The earlier you get there the more chance you have of securing a shady spot for the day, with a sun-lounger to relax on. Don’t forget that the sun can get very intense at midday, and if you have children it is wise to get them some shelter. Shade is at a premium, so go straight to your chosen spot. If you can, look at a map of the water park prior to your visit to decide where you would like to base yourself. Make getting your sun-lounger in the right place a priority.
3. Don’t forget to take your sun screen. Even when it is cloudy you risk getting burnt, so apply it liberally and frequently, especially if you have been in and out of the water. Try to buy a waterproof sunscreen if you can, but don’t rely on it not to need re-applying. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
4. Take a pair of flip flops or sandals as the sand and the paths get extremely hot during the day, and you will burn the soles of your feet if you try to walk far.
5. Parking is free at both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach but is extra at Aquatica and Wet n’Wild.
6. Some of the water parks will not allow you to take in any food or drink – Aquatica is particularly strict. They will not allow coolers, so put any water bottles in your bags. They may allow small amounts of fruit and snacks.
7. In the summer months there is always the possibility of thunderstorms in the late afternoon, so getting there early in the morning is even more necessary, as they shut the parks down if there is a storm brewing – and that usually means that you have to leave.
8. Buy one of the large drinks mugs and fill it up regularly. It is worth its weight in gold on a hot summer’s day, and will keep you hydrated. If you can, put bottles of water in the freezer overnight, making sure to empty a little out before freezing to allow for expansion. Top up with water before you leave the house and they will slowly thaw during the day, keeping you supplied with cool water.
9. The wave machines are absolutely brilliant, but if you have small children do be aware that they are very strong, and have an undertow which can knock you off your feet. Keep your eyes on little ones.
With so many parks to choose from, your biggest problem may well be which one to do first, but whatever you decide you will have a great time!
Here are some tips to make your day at the parks even better:
1. Check the park opening times. Get there before they open if you can. They will let you in as far as the lockers so you can stow all your excess gear.
2. Get there early. The earlier you get there the more chance you have of securing a shady spot for the day, with a sun-lounger to relax on. Don’t forget that the sun can get very intense at midday, and if you have children it is wise to get them some shelter. Shade is at a premium, so go straight to your chosen spot. If you can, look at a map of the water park prior to your visit to decide where you would like to base yourself. Make getting your sun-lounger in the right place a priority.
3. Don’t forget to take your sun screen. Even when it is cloudy you risk getting burnt, so apply it liberally and frequently, especially if you have been in and out of the water. Try to buy a waterproof sunscreen if you can, but don’t rely on it not to need re-applying. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
4. Take a pair of flip flops or sandals as the sand and the paths get extremely hot during the day, and you will burn the soles of your feet if you try to walk far.
5. Parking is free at both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach but is extra at Aquatica and Wet n’Wild.
6. Some of the water parks will not allow you to take in any food or drink – Aquatica is particularly strict. They will not allow coolers, so put any water bottles in your bags. They may allow small amounts of fruit and snacks.
7. In the summer months there is always the possibility of thunderstorms in the late afternoon, so getting there early in the morning is even more necessary, as they shut the parks down if there is a storm brewing – and that usually means that you have to leave.
8. Buy one of the large drinks mugs and fill it up regularly. It is worth its weight in gold on a hot summer’s day, and will keep you hydrated. If you can, put bottles of water in the freezer overnight, making sure to empty a little out before freezing to allow for expansion. Top up with water before you leave the house and they will slowly thaw during the day, keeping you supplied with cool water.
9. The wave machines are absolutely brilliant, but if you have small children do be aware that they are very strong, and have an undertow which can knock you off your feet. Keep your eyes on little ones.
With so many parks to choose from, your biggest problem may well be which one to do first, but whatever you decide you will have a great time!