Walt Disney World guests have had an unusually good run this summer: for the second year in a row, both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach have been open at the same time. That changes on September 9, when Typhoon Lagoon begins its annual refurbishment. The final day to visit is September 8, 2026.
The closure also marks the end of the Cool Kids Summer water park benefit. Guests staying at eligible Disney Resorts Collection hotels with check-in dates between May 26 and September 8 have been receiving complimentary water park admission on their arrival day — a perk that has turned many a travel-weary check-in afternoon into a relaxed wave pool visit. That benefit expires with Typhoon Lagoon's last operating day.
The two parks are meaningfully different experiences. Typhoon Lagoon centers on a large surf wave pool wrapped in a tropical, storm-damaged-port theme — a strong draw for guests who want a beach-style atmosphere. Blizzard Beach runs on a sillier premise (a melted Florida ski resort) and is home to Summit Plummet, one of the fastest free-fall slides in the world. Knowing which suits your group before you go makes a real difference.
From September 9 through the end of 2026, Blizzard Beach will be the only Disney World water park in operation. Typhoon Lagoon's refurbishment is expected to last several months, with no official reopening date announced. Disney has confirmed that both parks will open simultaneously again in summer 2027, along with the return of the free water park hotel perk.
This reporting is based on coverage from Disney Fanatic.
