The theme park capital of the world, Orlando is a haven for those looking for some fun! With plenty of thrilling rides and exciting adventures, Orlando’s theme parks are some of the best around; however, the region is also full of exciting water parks!

Orlando’s water parks come in all shapes and sizes – from the thrill-seeker’s paradise of Aquatica to the sandy beaches of Universal’s Volcano Bay. With so many exciting locations to visit, we’ve answered the most common questions about Orlando’s water parks, to help you make the most of your stay.

What Kind of Rides Can I Find at Orlando’s Water Parks?

The huge variety of water parks available in Orlando means that there is a fantastic range of experiences to be had! If you’re looking for family fun, then many places offer raft rides, such as Gangplank Falls at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, which allows families to share the ride experience.

If you have very small children, then there are also suitable splash pools and slides at many of these parks. LEGOLAND’s water park is particularly good for young children and includes the Joker Soaker - a water-themed play area with slides and small splash pools. Meanwhile, Tike’s Peak at Disney’s Blizzard Beach is a miniature version of the park’s full-scale rides. Similar attractions are found at Typhoon Lagoon (Bay Slides) and Universal’s Volcano Bay (Runamukka Reef).

If you are looking for thrills similar to those found at the theme parks, then why not pay a visit to Aquatica? The park has a range of high-speed slides, including free-falls and the new KareKare Curl, a weightless experience which sees you slip and slide along a curved wall. Meanwhile, buying a combined ticket with the nearby SeaWorld means that the more traditional theme park experience is never too far away.

Over at Disney’s Blizzard Beach try out Summit Plummet, the world’s tallest free-fall slide at over 120ft. Meanwhile, Volcano Bay’s central attraction is the Krakatau Aqua Coaster, which sees flume riders twist and turn through the iconic volcano before plunging through a waterfall.

If you would like a more laid-back experience, there is plenty to keep you entertained, especially at many of the larger water parks. Places such as Universal’s Volcano Bay and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon offer sandy beaches and areas to relax away from the crowds and popular rides. At Aquatica, you can ride Loggerhead Lane, a lazy river where you float on an inflatable ring past an underwater world of tropical fish. Most guests find that a day at Discovery Cove is also quite relaxing and although it features sandy beaches and a lazy river, it is actually more of an animal park than a water park.

Don’t miss a visit to Orlando’s newest water park too! Island H2O Live at Margaritaville has lots of thrilling water slides and attractions, but also includes a fully interactive experience for guests linking them to the world of social media.

What Time Do Water Parks Open and Close?

This can vary by park, and it’s always best to check in advance of your visit. However, as a general rule, many of the water parks operate similar hours to the theme parks. It is also worth noting that opening hours are often considerably shorter out of the summer season.

At Disney World, while many of the theme parks are open from 9am to 9pm, their two water parks open at 10am and close at 8pm. Aquatica water park operates during the summer from 9am to 7pm, but during the winter this shortens to 10am to 5pm.

Do Water Parks Open in Bad Weather?

When it comes to the weather, water parks tend to operate a similar policy to the theme parks. Rainy periods can be fairly common during Orlando’s summer, and so long as it is only rain, the majority of water parks will remain open and fully operational.

However, if there is a risk of lightning in the area, most water parks will close certain parts. What closes can vary, but usually, all rides and attractions will stop operation, while guests may be asked to seek shelter.

When is the Best Time to Arrive at the Water Parks?

Similar to the theme parks, earlier is always best. Getting there when it opens will allow you to enjoy the rides with fewer queues, especially as the site will become busier throughout the day.

Can I Pay for Entry on the Day at Water Parks in Orlando?

Yes, you can, although it isn’t advised. There are some smaller water parks, such as the aqua park at Nona Adventure Park, where unlimited tickets are available only at the park, not online. However, if you’re visiting one of the primary locations in Orlando, you will have to pay considerably more than you would if you purchase tickets in advance.

Debbie’s Villas offers a range of attraction ticket options to ensure you get the most value for your money on your next trip to Orlando. Many of our ticketing bundles come with water parks included so be sure to explore what’s available and where you want to go. Check out our Orlando attraction tickets or feel free to get in contact with us and we can help pick the perfect option for your trip.

When do Orlando Water Parks have Refurbishments?

All of Orlando’s water parks will occasionally go through a maintenance and refurbishment process, which will involve the park being either partially or entirely closed, usually for around one month. These refurbishments could happen for a myriad of reasons, from aesthetic changes or repairs to the creation of new areas and rides. Such maintenance is always announced well in advance, which allows you to plan your trip accordingly.

The Disney water parks tend to have a seasonal closure each year for maintenance and refurbishment, usually in the winter months when they are at their quietest. Only one will be closed at any time, though, so you’ll always have the chance to visit at least one of the Disney water parks.

Must I Be Able to Swim to Enjoy a Water Park in Orlando?

Generally, no. Of course, to enjoy certain parks to their full potential, it’s best not to be afraid of the water. Many of the major water parks offer a wide range of activities, and while they involve water, you don’t necessarily need strong swimming abilities.

Many of the rides at Disney World’s water parks and Aquatica involve rings and other inflatables, so unconfident swimmers can still enjoy the thrills. Life vests are available at most water parks too for children who are still learning or are unable to swim.

What Clothes Can I Wear at Water Parks?

Often when visiting a water park in Orlando, you will only need to wear swimwear and, if you wish, water shoes. There will be changing facilities on-site, so you don’t have to wear your swimming clothes in or out of the park. Inside, almost everyone will be walking around in their swimwear, so there’s no chance of you feeling out of place!

However, many of Orlando’s water parks do operate some form of dress code. As many of them are family locations, you are expected not to wear anything too revealing. Also, there are often rules on jewellery, so it’s best to check their website for details before you go.

Many water parks won’t allow you on rides if your swimwear has sharp or metal features on it, such as buckles or rivets. Therefore, it’s often best to wear simple swimming clothes that you will be comfortable in for the day.

What Should I Wear on My Feet at Water Parks?

For water parks, it's often a good idea to bring a pair of water socks/shoes or sandals that you can wear in the water. All the local supermarkets sell them cheaply if you wish to purchase them in Orlando. Shoe racks are available at some of the parks for you to place flip flops/sandals in while you ride.

That being said, you will also be fine walking around the water parks barefoot. Many are designed with this in mind, so paths are softer, easy to walk and are watered to keep them cool, which is important during the summer.

We would always recommend water shoes as the best option, as this can provide a bit of grip and extra protection.

Are Water Parks Suitable for Toddlers?

There are many water parks in Orlando that provide great experiences for little children. Both of Disney World’s water parks have play areas explicitly created for preschoolers, as does Universal’s Volcano Bay. Meanwhile, many slow rides will allow toddlers on with their guardian. If they are still in nappies, all parks will expect you to use plastic waterproof protectors or swimming nappies.

A particularly popular water park for toddlers is the one at LEGOLAND Florida. Designed entirely with kids in mind, it features an extensive range of rides and attractions for young children. From Build-a-Raft River where they can create their own vessel, to the wave pool designed for all ages, there is plenty of fun to be had for little ones!

Are Water Parks in Orlando Suitable for Those with Disabilities?

All major water parks in Orlando will have some form of accessibility policy which outlines what is offered to guests with a disability. Due to the vast range of scenarios that can fall under this bracket, it’s hard to advise in a general sense. However, many people with disabilities enjoy the water parks, so you definitely shouldn’t rule it out!

If you know where you would like to visit, contact them directly. The major parks will have disability staff available who will help advise what is accessible to you, taking into consideration your specific conditions.

Will I Need to Sign Any Waivers Before Using a Water Park?

Generally, no. Similar to theme parks, any liabilities regarding loss, theft, injury etc. are laid out in terms that are agreed to upon purchase of a ticket.

Can I Bring My Own Food To a Water Park?

Yes, you can, but only within reason. As with the theme parks, many places are happy for you to bring a selection of snacks and bottled water in with you. However, that’s often as far as it goes.

At Disney World, the rules for their water parks are the same as their theme parks. You may bring in snacks and baby food, but nothing that needs to be heated. Aquatica allows you to bring in a small cooler, but it can only be filled with personal-sized snacks – you cannot take family packets of crisps, for example. The upshot is that if you’re planning to visit these water parks for a full day, it is highly likely you’ll have to purchase meals from one of the many kiosks.

Some theme parks, such as Aquatica, make exceptions for those with strict dietary requirements. However, if it is something that they believe they can accommodate through their on-site kiosks, you may still be expected to follow the standard rules.

Where Can I Store My Belongings at Orlando Water Parks?

Every major water park in Orlando offers a locker system for you to put your belongings in during your visit, though these will often cost a sizeable rental fee that varies from park to park. For example, a small locker rental at Aquatica costs $15, while a family locker at Universal’s Volcano Bay costs a similar figure.

If you wish, most water parks allow you to use personal photography equipment, such as a mobile phone, in most parts of the park. These will not be permitted on rides though and can obviously be susceptible to water damage, so purchasing a locker is often advised.

Do Orlando Water Parks Provide Towels?

Most of the water parks in Orlando do provide towels but at a cost, usually a couple of dollars per towel for the day. For example, renting a towel at Disney’s Blizzard Beach costs $2. If people are visiting in large groups, it is often best to bring your own towels.

Hopefully, these answers will help you understand what to expect when visiting Orlando’s water parks! Of course, each theme park offers a slightly different experience, so if you’re interested in a particular location, feel free to get in contact with us! With 20 years experience in Orlando holidays we also offer a selection of beautiful Orlando holiday villas to rent, so if you’re planning your next break, why not do it with us? We would love to help you make your next holiday the best one yet!