As Florida’s sun blazes overhead and families rush through the gates of Walt Disney World, something rare is happening—and it’s catching even the most seasoned Disney fans off guard.
“Wait… both water parks are open?”
That’s right. For the first time since 2019, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach are operating simultaneously—and it’s not just a fluke in scheduling. Alongside the double opening comes a pair of brand-new perks that have guests rethinking how they start their vacations.
So what’s behind this unexpected return to form—and why is Disney giving away more than just water park fun?
Walt Disney World: Cool Kid Summer Just Got Cooler
Dubbed “Cool Kid Summer,” Disney’s latest seasonal campaign is bringing serious heat in the form of water park access—and not just for regular ticket holders.
The campaign conveniently aligns with Blizzard Beach’s 30th anniversary, a nostalgic milestone for Disney fans who remember the early days of the ski-resort-themed park. Blizzard Beach has long stood out for its creative storytelling and frosty atmosphere in the middle of Central Florida. Now, it shares the spotlight with Typhoon Lagoon, a tropical oasis that delivers epic waves, sandy beaches, and laid-back vibes.
But while the return of both water parks is a big deal, Disney didn’t stop there. Instead, they quietly rolled out something even more surprising.
A Splashy Check-In Day Perk
Imagine arriving at your Disney resort, checking in—and instead of waiting for your room, you grab your swimsuit and head straight to the water park. Sound too good to be true?
It’s not. Starting this summer, resort guests receive complimentary admission to a Disney water park on their check-in day.
This little-known perk hasn’t made major headlines yet, but it’s already creating waves online as guests take advantage of the opportunity to dive right into their vacation—literally. For families arriving early, it’s a game-changer: no more wasting the first day waiting around. Now, you can start the magic with a splash.
Free Towels? Yes, Please.
Another quiet change that’s making life easier: free towel service.
In the past, guests needed to bring their own beach towels or rent one onsite for an added fee. But not anymore. Both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach now offer complimentary towels for all guests, and signs at the entrance proudly advertise the perk.
Disney Water Park Guests Now Get Complimentary Towels!
Disney Water Park Guests Now Get Complimentary Towels! https://t.co/lkCXJPDo0L #BlizzardBeach #TypoonLagoon #WaltDisneyWorld #WaterParks
— MickeyBlog.com (@MickeyBlog_) May 28, 2025
It’s a small shift, but an impactful one—especially for families trying to travel light or those who decide last minute to pop into the park. And for resort guests hitting the water park on check-in day, it’s one less thing to pack.
Why This Move Matters
Let’s be honest—Disney doesn’t make big operational changes without a reason. The decision to reopen both water parks at once, while layering in free admission and towel perks, points to a larger strategy.
First, it’s a clear competitive move against Universal’s Volcano Bay, which has enjoyed full operations and consistent attendance while Disney cycled between its two parks.
Second, these added perks help boost the value proposition of staying at a Disney resort. With hotel prices climbing and budget-conscious travelers looking for ways to get the most out of their stay, check-in day access and amenities like free towels sweeten the deal without additional cost to the guest.
Finally, it’s a clever way to celebrate Blizzard Beach’s 30th without launching a new attraction—offering nostalgia, increased access, and a little extra pixie dust.
Don’t Wait—This Opportunity Won’t Last Forever at Walt Disney World
If you’re heading to Walt Disney World soon, now is the time to take advantage of this rare window. Having both water parks open is a seasonal treat that hasn’t happened in five years—and there’s no guarantee how long it will last.
With summer crowds rising, perks like check-in day access and free towel service might just be the edge that makes your Disney vacation smoother, more affordable, and way more fun.
So pack your swimsuit, skip the beach towel, and prepare to dive into a Disney experience that’s making waves—for all the right reasons.
