This summer is shaping up to be one for the storybooks at Walt Disney World Resort—with a few key changes helping set the stage for even more magic.
On May 1, Disney’s Blizzard Beach will close temporarily for its seasonal refresh. While it’s always a little bittersweet to say goodbye for now, this brief closure is making way for something extra special: the return of both Disney water parks operating at the same time. Beginning May 21, guests will be able to splash, float, and play across both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach—the first time that’s happened since 2019.
That same day will also mark a major milestone: for the first time in years, all six Disney parks—four theme parks and two water parks—will be open together. “For the first time since 2019, Disney World will have all six of our parks open at the same time,” Disney Parks Blog celebrated in early April. It’s the start of a summer season that promises even more flexibility and fun for every kind of guest.
To celebrate the season, operating hours at the water parks will extend starting June 1, with gates staying open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.—an extra hour to enjoy the water slides, wave pools, and sunshine. And if you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, there’s even more to smile about: you’ll continue to receive complimentary water park admission on your check-in day.
There’s still a little time left to experience the final days of Blizzard Beach’s 30th anniversary celebration, which began on April 1. “Just imagine a high-energy DJ spinning some toe-tapping tunes on the deck near the Polar Pub,” Disney Parks Blog shared in their recent update. While you’re there, keep an eye out for Mickey and Minnie in their cozy winter outfits, join in on snowman bowling, and float down Cross Country Creek in special character-themed tubes.
Over at Typhoon Lagoon, the fun continues with the return of Disney H2O Glow After Hours—a separately ticketed nighttime event that runs May 23 through September 13. As recently confirmed by Disney Water Parks’ official Instagram, this glowing evening experience features shorter waits for popular attractions like Crush ‘n’ Gusher and Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool, plus included snacks (hello, popcorn and ice cream!), rare character sightings, and a high-energy DJ dance party.
This dual water park reopening marks a shift from recent years, when Disney operated only one water park at a time as part of a rolling schedule introduced during the pandemic. With both parks now available, guests will have even more ways to cool off during the summer heat—and Disney seemingly hopes this flexibility will help spread out attendance across the resort.
Of course, it’s still smart to keep an eye on the forecast. Florida weather can be unpredictable, and Blizzard Beach saw its share of chilly-weather closures earlier this year. With hurricane season approaching, having a backup plan (like heading into one of the four main theme parks) is always a good idea.
And Disney’s timing couldn’t be more strategic. Just one day after Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon unite again, Universal Orlando Resort will open Epic Universe on May 22. The addition is expected to bring major changes to the Central Florida theme park scene—leaving Disney fans to wonder if it might finally be time for the Mouse to announce a long-awaited fifth park.
With change in the air and summer on the horizon, the temporary pause at Blizzard Beach feels more like the calm before a very exciting splash. Whether you’re heading for a lazy river, a glow-filled dance party, or a full day hopping between Disney’s parks, this summer is ready to make a wave.
How do you feel about Disney losing Blizzard Beach next week? Let us know in the comments down below!
