When the Florida sun is beating down and your little one is full of beans, Typhoon Lagoon presents the perfect escape. Here are five reasons that make this water park a best friend for any mother of a toddler.
Reason 1: Built For Toddlers
At Typhoon Lagoon, you can spend an entire hour in one place without feeling like you’re missing out on anything.
We toddler moms know that toddlers appear to thrive on the kind of unstructured play that happens when they’re allowed to just splash around in a pool.
Reason 2: Perfect for Local Moms
As a local, you can go for 3-4 hours in the morning and be home for an afternoon nap, avoiding meltdowns.
We prefer to visit after naptime. We take out mornings slowly, with coffee and playtime in pajamas, making sure we have a great day, and that lunch is what we need it to be. Then head to the park for a few hours of fun. We even pack dinner and take it with us. Then we come home in time for the bedtime routine and a snack. Not only does this strategy circumvent impending toddler meltdowns, but it also allows you to enjoy the park without it being so packed.
I use the term “nap time friendly” to describe the schedule for our visit. After our normal morning and afternoon schedule, we let our daughter tire herself out at the waterpark, then we head back home for bedtime!.
Reason 3: Ketchakiddee Creek is The Best
Ketchakiddee Creek is hands down the ultimate playground for toddler moms, and here’s why: it’s like a little refuge where your little ones can splash, climb, and explore without a care in the world.
Imagine a safe environment filled with water features that are both entertaining and refreshing, perfect for those hot summer days when you just need to cool off.
Plus, the soft play areas mean you can finally take a breather while your toddler burns off that endless energy, our daughter is nonstop. Ketchakiddee Creek isn’t just a place to play; it’s a sanctuary for parents who need a little fun mixed with a lot of sanity.
To be fair, my toddler is always on the go, so I am not sitting around much, more like following her around. But she is having a ton of fun and is safe. We cycle the toddler area with the lazy river where she is happy to sit calmly for a while. It’s a win/win for all of us.
Reason 4: Beating the Florida Heat
As a Disney local, mid-August heat is no joke, and it can make going outside for an activity difficult. When the outdoors becomes unbearable, I head to Typhoon Lagoon, to chill out and beat the sweltering weather. We will soak in the cool waters and lazily float along the lazy river that winds through this water park. At least in my experience, we often need to get out of the house, and a regular park just isn’t an option in the heat.
Reason 5: Cocktails
And finally, let’s discuss the drinks. While your little one is off making a splash, you can sip on a drink that’s a refreshing step up from the usual cocktail. Whether you opt for a rib-sticking frozen drink, a slushy half-daiquiri/half-margarita situation that’s somewhere on the spectrum of the deliciously dangerous, or a half-decent mojito, these poolside drinks are the perfect accompaniment to some much-deserved relaxation.
Visiting Typhoon Lagoon as a Two Mom Family
Our unique perspective comes from being a local two-mom family that frequently visits Typhoon Lagoon. For us, it’s not just about enjoying the attractions, but also about creating a loving and inclusive environment for our daughter. We take delight in watching her splash in the wave pool, knowing that she’s growing up in a world where love comes in many forms.
We are also grateful for the diversity that Disney celebrates, which matches our family. It’s awesome to see representation in a space that promotes acceptance and joy. Our trips to Typhoon Lagoon are more than just a good time, though; they’re a celebration of our love and unique family identity.
My Local Mom Pro-Tips for a Perfect Day
I’ve rounded up a few can-do items to help ensure that your day is not only enjoyable but also smooth and devoid of any stress you might anticipate. Here are my top recommendations.
Best time to arrive
As a local, after 3pm. But Typhoon Lagoon is large enough to accommodate all guests at any time.
Bring Snacks and Drinks
Always take along snacks and drinks! I suggest packing Lunchables, which are very suitable for kids and portable. Nonalcoholic beverages should also be a part of the meal plan, and sparkling water in a cooler will keep everyone refreshed and hydrated.
Reminders to Apply and Reapply Sunscreen
Protecting the skin of all family members is job number one. Set a reminder on your phone to smear more of the stuff on every couple of hours, more often than you think you’ll need to, especially if you’re all spending the day outside. This little pro-skin move can save you and yours from a very fried next-day appearance.
Preorder Lunch
If your destination is a Disney park, ensure you have the Disney app downloaded. It has a mobile order feature, which allows you to preorder your noontime meal. This can drastically reduce the amount of time you spend waiting in line.
I have waited in line for over an hour for a hotdog.
Carry a Waterproof Case for Your Phone
Accidents happen, especially around water rides or during hot days. A waterproof case for your phone will protect it from splashes and spills, ensuring you can capture all those precious moments without worry. If you’re planning on using your phone to take pictures, use Apple pay, or check the time, this tip is especially crucial.
Everyone Should Wear Water Shoes
The ground gets quite hot at Typhoon Lagoon and comfort is essential for walking around all day. Water shoes are not only comfortable but also fantastic for wet attractions. They dry quickly and offer ample support for long days on your feet.
Have you been to Typhoon Lagoon and if so what was your favorite part?