There’s a new perk splashing into Walt Disney World’s water parks, and this time, it won’t cost you a dime. For the first time in years, complimentary towel service is now available to all guests at both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach—no resort stay required. It might sound like a small change, but for budget-conscious families navigating a Disney trip that seems to get pricier by the day, it’s a welcome one.
Towels for All—No Strings Attached
Until recently, only guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel could enjoy free towel rentals at the water parks. Everyone else had to bring their own or pay a rental fee—something that, while minor, added to the growing list of expenses associated with a Walt Disney World vacation.
But now, as confirmed by Cast Members at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, that policy has been lifted. All visitors—day guests and locals alike—can grab a towel at no charge. Signage across both water parks now directs guests to pickup locations where towels are available, no questions asked.
The change reportedly stems from guest feedback and complaints, especially in light of the fact that towel rentals elsewhere (like resort pools) were already complimentary for hotel guests.
A Convenient Touch That Pairs With a Bigger Perk
This towel news also ties into another major convenience Disney quietly introduced: free water park admission on your check-in day when staying at a Disney Resort hotel. That means if you arrive early and your theme park tickets don’t start until tomorrow, you can still enjoy a full day at Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon—and now, you don’t even need to bring a towel to do it.
While small, this is a perfect example of a low-effort perk that can make your day feel a little more “all-inclusive” without shelling out for extras.
Cost Cuts Where They Matter
Let’s be honest—Disney is expensive. From base tickets to skip-the-line services like Lightning Lane Multi Pass, meal costs, and hotel stays, it’s easy to spend thousands before you even step through the gates. That very issue has been the topic of growing concern inside Disney, as covered in a recent Wall Street Journal exposé that revealed even executives worry that prices have become untenable for middle-class families.
The report cited former and current Disney employees who say the company may be “addicted to price hikes” and that families are hitting their financial limit. Long-gone freebies like Disney’s Magical Express and FastPass have been replaced by upcharges, and although some perks have returned—like free overnight resort parking and seasonal ticket deals—guests are still hunting for more ways to save.
Could More Perks Return?
Chairman of Disney Experiences Josh D’Amaro recently addressed the issue, citing examples like the kids’ $50 ticket promotion at Disneyland and new Disney World ticket bundles and hotel discounts. But most of these are seasonal or targeted to specific groups.
The inclusion of free towel rentals might seem like a drop in the bucket compared to a $2,000 trip, but it sends a message: Disney is listening—at least a little.
What This Means for the Guest Experience
If you’re someone who likes to pack light or head to the water park last-minute, not having to worry about bringing or renting towels is a big win. For families already juggling strollers, sunscreen, snacks, swimwear, and mobile orders, every little convenience helps.
It’s also a smart way for Disney to improve the guest experience without a major financial loss—especially since most major waterparks outside of Disney already offer complimentary towels as part of admission.
It’s no secret that Disney vacations are more expensive than ever. But in a sea of rising prices and fading freebies, small, guest-friendly wins like free towel rentals offer a glimmer of hope—and maybe a nudge that more budget-minded perks could return soon.
After all, sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest splash.
