A Few Questions - Water Park in Sept. - Crowd Level, etc.

[ILuvWDWorld]

We're considering doing a water park (probably Blizzard Beach) during our upcoming trip in mid-September. How are the crowds during this time? Also, is there an additional fee for the tubes for the lazy river?

Our family is DH, me, DS(9), DS(7), and DD(2). We thought one of us could go with the boys for part of the time and one of us with our daughter. Then we could meet for the wave pool and family rides. Both of our boys are over 48", so they can do anything there I think, but they're only average swimmers. What do you think? Is there enough for my daughter to do without getting bored? Also, what are the wait times like?

I know this is a lot of questions. Thanks for any help.

 

[sameyeyam]

My family LOVES the waterparks, better than the theme parks! You will absolutely not get bored. We go during Spring Break, so not sure of crowds in September. My family has requested that we do only 1 day at the theme parks next year and all the rest at the water parks! They are so cool and refreshing, better than pounding the hot asphalt all day.

I recommend getting there first thing when they open. The lines & crowds are almost non-existent the first 2-3 hours. The water is warm feeling in the morning as well. Have the big kids ride all the slides before the lines start forming in the afternoon. Then in the afternoon go in the lazy river & wave pool. Innertubes are included in the price, however, sometimes you might have to wait a few minutes to get a tube, especially in the afternoon. Most of the time the lines stay pretty short (5-10 min.), but I notice by 2pm or so the lines to the big slides can get 30 minutes or so. We usually arrive at opening and then leave by 2-3pm when it gets crowded.

If staying onsite take the pool towels with you, to avoid having to pay $1 to rent them at BB. We usually pick them up at the hotel pool the evening before and then leave them in the dirty towel bins at the waterparks when we leave.

If your DD(2) likes the water and/or swimming then she will love it. Both BB & TL have excellent areas for little kids. Nice little slides, fountains, etc... They are set up much like the theme parks, there is something for every age.


My DS(8) loves to take his little goggles and dive for money in the lazy river. Lots of it near the bridges where people toss money in to make a wish. He makes $5-$15 a day going around the Lazy Rivers diving for money! Most money to be found first thing in the morning.

Also, remember when picking a spot to sit, what is sunny in the morning, will probably be shaded in afternoon. Look at the sun in morning when picking your spot, although there are some spots that are shaded all day. Go early to get the best shaded spots.

Have Fun!

 

[deany]

Our kids also love the water parks. It is a nice break from the parks. We tend tour commando for about 3 days then sleep in a bit, go to a water park and then get to bed early. You will love it!! We always hit both parks.