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5 Facts And Secrets About Walt Disney World’s Waterparks

A young boy wearing a blue hat and white shirt smiles while sitting in a white inflatable tube floating in a clear, blue swimming pool, reminiscent of fun moments at Disney Water Parks.
Credit: Disney

Looking to add some splashy fun to your next Walt Disney World vacation? While the iconic theme parks often steal the spotlight, Disney’s two waterparks—Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon—are packed with thrilling rides, hidden secrets, and record-breaking attractions you won’t find anywhere else.

From a forgotten waterpark lost to the wild to heart-pounding slides that make you scream with delight, these 10 fascinating facts and secrets will make you see Disney’s waterparks in a whole new light. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!

1. The Forgotten Waterpark: Disney’s Abandoned River Country

Did you know Walt Disney World once had a waterpark that’s now completely overgrown and abandoned? River Country opened back in 1976, boasting a rustic, outdoorsy charm inspired by Fort Wilderness and Wilderness Lodge nearby.

Disney permanently closed River Country in 2001, choosing to leave the site to nature rather than demolishing it. Today, the remnants of slides and buildings peek through thick trees and wildlife, making it a hidden piece of Disney history.

Here’s the exciting part: Disney is transforming this historic site into the new Disney Lakeshore Lodge, a Disney Vacation Club Resort expected to open in 2027. This new chapter will bring fresh magic where River Country once thrilled guests.

River Country

Credit: D23

2. Blizzard Beach: The Largest Waterpark at Walt Disney World

If you’re wondering which Disney waterpark is the biggest, Blizzard Beach takes the crown with 66 sprawling acres—about 10 acres larger than Typhoon Lagoon.

That extra space means more rides, longer lazy rivers, and plenty of room to explore. Whether you’re seeking thrilling slides or peaceful pools, Blizzard Beach offers a vast playground for all ages.

3. Crush ‘n’ Gusher: The Wild Water Coaster

At Typhoon Lagoon, the Crush ‘n’ Gusher water coaster offers three unique slides:

  • Pineapple Plunger

  • Coconut Crusher

  • Banana Blaster

Powered by powerful water jets, these rides propel you up hills and through tunnels for a wild ride.

Fun fact: each ride uses enough water to fill an average home swimming pool! It’s a fast-paced, wet-and-wild adventure you won’t want to miss.

Three people are laughing and getting splashed with water while riding an orange raft at a Disney water park, surrounded by palm trees and greenery under a sunny sky—one of many fun Disney Water Parks facts to discover.

Credit: Disney

4. Catch a Wave: Surfing Lessons and Private Parties

Ever dreamed of surfing but never had the chance? Typhoon Lagoon’s wave pool produces perfect waves roughly every 90 seconds, ideal for beginners and pros alike.

Disney offers lessons on select mornings before the park opens, teaching you how to ride the waves safely. Already a pro? You can book a private surfing session to enjoy exclusive wave time without the crowds.

5. Over 2 Million Guests Dive Into Disney Waterparks Each Year

Though smaller than Disney’s theme parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon attract over 2 million guests annually each, averaging around 5,500 visitors daily.

During summer months, the parks can get busier, but with their vast layouts and variety of attractions, there’s plenty of space for everyone to enjoy a magical day in the water.

A view from the top of a steep, blue water slide with snow-like decorations on its edges. Green railings frame the slide, which leads down to a vibrant water park at Walt Disney World featuring various slides, pools, and colorful umbrellas. Trees and greenery surround this enchanting Disney attraction.

Credit: Disney

Typhoon Lagoon Fast Facts

  • Opened in 1989

  • Castaway Creek lazy river stretches 2,100 feet

  • Wave pool size is twice a football field with waves up to 6.5 feet tall

  • Home to the only water coaster of its kind in the U.S.—Crush ‘n’ Gusher

Blizzard Beach Fast Facts

  • Opened in 1995

  • Cross Country Creek lazy river is 3,000 feet long

  • Wave pool is the size of one football field

  • Features Teamboat Springs, the longest family whitewater raft ride in the world at 1,400 feet

Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon? Which Waterpark Wins Your Heart?

Both parks offer unique thrills and tropical fun, but which one is your favorite? Have you conquered Summit Plummet’s dizzying heights or caught the perfect wave at Typhoon Lagoon?

Share your favorite Disney waterpark memories or bucket list rides in the comments below! And don’t forget to tag your Disney-loving friends who need to see these secrets.

About Claudia Ochoa

Gigi is a passionate storyteller and Disney enthusiast who loves sharing random fun facts while exploring the parks. Originally from Mexico, she firmly believes that starting in her home country is the best way to experience EPCOT’s World Showcase.

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