We Test Orlando’s Most Popular Waterparks

So, where to start? Well, fortunately this popular holiday destination’s waterparks are conveniently close together. You’ll find two at Disney World and four more on International Drive.

Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park - Disney World

Themed as a melted ski resort, Blizzard Beach offers plenty of family fun in the beautiful Florida climate. Enjoy a chairlift ride to the top of Mount Gushmore and tackle the Summit Plummet waterslide, the gentler Slusher Gusher waterslide and the family-style whitewater raft ride, Teamboat Springs. Don’t miss the Downhill Double Dipper, Runoff Rapids, Toboggan Racers and Tike’s Peak. Take it easy on the white sandy beach at Melt Away Bay or enjoy its gentle wave pool. There’s also a dedicated water play area for tots with appropriately sized water slides.

 

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park - Disney World

Disney’s other waterpark offers more thrilling water rides and tamer antics for the whole family. Don’t miss the exhilarating Humunga Kowabunga, Keelhaul Falls, Crush ‘n’ Gusher and Mayday Falls. Enjoy water rides with animal encounters at Shark Reef, a gentle ride down the lazy river and ride 6-foot wave swells at Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool.

 

Wet ‘n Wild - International Drive

Wet ‘n Wild is all about thrilling water rides for families, groups and those flying solo. The waterpark’s thrills include swirling body coaster The Storm, six-story drop ride Bom Bay, the Mach V flume ride and six-story speed ride Der Stuka. Don’t miss The Blast, The Black Hole, Brain Wash, The Surge, The Flyer and Disco H20. You’ll find more rides and pools at Blastaway Beach, four-foot high waves at Surf Lagoon and can enjoy calm, leisurely rides down the Lazy River.

 

SeaWorld and Aquatica - International Drive

For those who love thrilling rides with a large helping of water-loving animals, SeaWorld and Aquatic both meet the brief. SeaWorld is home to super-fast rides, Kraken and Manta and Aquatica sees new ride, Ihus Breakaway Falls, opening this May. Both parks offer adrenalin-fuelled thrills, as well as exhibits, shows and behind the scenes tours, featuring penguins, dolphins, sea lions and more. Don’t miss killer whale Shamu at SeaWorld.

 

Discovery Cove - International Drive

Discovery Cove is all about getting up close and personal with the water’s inhabitants. From swimming with dolphins and playing with otters in the Freshwater Oasis, to snorkelling with tropical fish in The Grand Reef. A beautiful beach and the winding Float Away River offer relaxation in abundance and kids will love hand-feeding the exotic birds in the Free-flight Aviary.