Blizzard Beach, one of Walt Disney World’s two water parks, has closed its gates from Monday, December 2, through Wednesday, December 4, 2024, due to unseasonably chilly weather. As a cold front grips Central Florida, temperatures have fallen well below the typical range for water park operations.
Daytime highs are only forecast to reach 65°F on Monday, with overnight lows plummeting to 43°F. Similar conditions are expected Tuesday (63°F/41°F) and Wednesday (68°F/46°F), with slightly warmer weather projected later in the week. Disney has made the call to close the park to ensure guest comfort and safety, a common practice during the winter months when temperatures fluctuate.
A Look at Blizzard Beach’s Unique Offerings
Blizzard Beach is celebrated for its whimsical theme: a “melting” ski resort where snow and water mix to create frosty fun under the Florida sun. The park features a wide range of attractions, from heart-racing slides like Summit Plummet—a nearly vertical drop from the top of Mount Gushmore—to more relaxing options such as Cross Country Creek, a winding lazy river.
For families, there’s Teamboat Springs, a multi-person raft ride that delivers thrills without being too intense. Younger guests can enjoy their own pint-sized adventures at Tike’s Peak, complete with mini slides and splash zones. The park’s centerpiece, Melt-Away Bay, is a wave pool perfect for floating or lounging.
Unfortunately, all these experiences will be unavailable until Blizzard Beach reopens, currently planned for Thursday, December 5, weather permitting.
Options for Guests Affected by the Closure
Visitors who had planned to enjoy Blizzard Beach during its closure won’t be left without options.
Disney is offering the following solutions:
Use Tickets on Another Day: Water park tickets remain valid and can be used when the park reopens later this week.
Request a Refund: Guests unable to return on another day can contact Disney Guest Services for assistance in securing a refund.
Disney aims to make the process as smooth as possible, ensuring that guests impacted by the closure can still plan an enjoyable vacation.
Central Florida’s Water Parks Feel the Chill
Blizzard Beach isn’t the only water park affected by this week’s cold snap. Typhoon Lagoon, Disney’s other water park, is already closed for its annual refurbishment, leaving Walt Disney World without any water parks open at the moment.
Over at Universal Orlando Resort, Volcano Bay has also announced a temporary closure due to the weather. The park, known for its lush tropical vibe and advanced virtual queue system, will remain closed through Thursday, December 5. While both parks are equipped with heated water systems, the cool air and lower guest comfort levels have prompted the closures.
A Seasonal Reality for Florida Parks
Although Florida is famous for its sunshine, the winter months often bring cooler weather that can impact operations at outdoor attractions, particularly water parks. For Blizzard Beach, this is the fourth weather-related closure of the season—a reality that many guests may not expect from a vacation destination known for its warm climate.
Blizzard Beach is expected to reopen on Thursday, December 5, operating from 10 AM to 5 PM. As the weather gradually warms up, visitors can look forward to sliding down Slush Gusher, floating along the lazy river, or grabbing a treat at the park’s themed dining spots like Lottawatta Lodge.
For more information about the closure, ticket options, or updates on reopening, guests can contact Disney’s support team or visit the official Walt Disney World website. While the winter chill may have paused the fun, there’s no doubt that Blizzard Beach will be ready to welcome guests back for snowy, splashy adventures later this week.
Do you think Disney made the right move in closing Blizzard Beach?
