Disney World Set To Shut Gates To Entire Park From May, Update Given

Walt Disney World Resort is once again shutting down one of its parks, continuing its now-familiar (but no less frustrating) cycle of alternating water park operations. While Disney’s four theme parks remain the crown jewel of the resort, its two water parks—Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon—have been on a rotating schedule ever since the resort reopened post-COVID.

Now, Disney has confirmed the next major shift: Typhoon Lagoon will reopen on May 1, meaning Blizzard Beach will close after April 30.

Credit: Disney

Disney’s Water Park Shuffle

Once upon a time, both Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon operated simultaneously, offering guests two distinct aquatic experiences. Blizzard Beach, with its snow-capped ski resort theming, delivered high-speed thrills like Summit Plummet, while Typhoon Lagoon offered a more laid-back, tropical vibe, complete with one of the largest wave pools in North America.

Since the parks reopened post-pandemic, however, Disney has never had both water parks open at the same time for an extended period. Instead, the company has opted for a rotating schedule, closing one while the other remains open.

Credit: Disney

While this strategy helps with maintenance, staffing, and operational costs, it’s also frustrating for guests who want to visit both water parks on the same trip—especially during peak summer months when demand is high.

Blizzard Beach’s Final Splash (For Now)

With Blizzard Beach set to close at the end of its operating day on April 30, Disney is making the most of its remaining months of operation by celebrating the park’s 30th anniversary. Through April, guests can enjoy a DJ dance party near Polar Pub, character appearances from Mickey and Minnie in their winter outfits, snowman bowling, and themed tubes at Cross Country Creek.

If the past few years are any indication, Blizzard Beach will likely reopen in November, following the same schedule that has been in place since 2022. However, its extended spring season this year could impact that reopening timeline—something Disney has yet to confirm.

Credit: Disney

Why the Extended Blizzard Beach Season?

In 2024, Blizzard Beach closed in March, but this year, Disney is keeping it open for over a month longer. The extended season could be a response to its 30th-anniversary celebrations or a way to make up for the unusually high number of weather-related closures this winter.

Florida’s unexpected cold snaps earlier this year led to multiple shutdowns at Blizzard Beach. The extended timeline now gives guests a better chance to visit before it closes for the summer.

The Future of Disney’s Water Parks

With Blizzard Beach set to close, the big question remains: Will Disney ever return to keeping both water parks open year-round?

Credit: Becky Burkett

So far, there’s no sign that Disney World will reverse its rotating schedule anytime soon. The one-park-at-a-time approach has become the new normal, despite guest complaints about the lack of options.

For now, though, there are still two months of snowy fun left in Central Florida.

Do you prefer Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon?