Water park "fun" for non-rider?

[SA mom]

We planned our July vacation specifically for water parks. We had old non-expiring tickets that still had 10 admissions to water parks, etc. I had surgery a few weeks ago on my ACL so I will be in a knee brace at the parks. No way around that. I can't wear the knee brace on any of the attractions.

What is there to do? Shop? Drink? Sleep? Read? Are there any hidden gems (or mickeys) I should look for. I can walk around. I can climb steps. I just have to have the brace on and, there for, would not be able to ride.

 

[JennyDrake]

In all honesty, there won't be a whole lot for you to DO. People watching is always good! There are a few shops. And adult beverages and you can always bring a book!

 

[trina830]

If I couldn't ride, I would definitely want to stake out in an area with some shade so I could read without baking. I found these two blogs that talk about different "spots" to set up in the water parks:

http://blog.touringplans.com/2009/06/15/best-spots-in-blizzard-beach/
http://blog.touringplans.com/2009/05/18/spots-typhoon-lagoon/

Shark Reef at Typhoon Lagoon has viewing areas. There is a cave for underwater viewing.

At Blizzard beach, you could ride the chair lift as a fun diversion, but I'm not sure how easy it will be to get back down. I'm guessing that they don't allow riders on the way down but I never thought about it before. Going down the stairs will have you "swimming against the tide".

I think it would be fun to people watch at either water park.

Have fun!

 

[mcconnellfam96]

I would definitely download some good books to Kindle and bring some magazines! I would also considering renting umbrella and chairs that way to be assured you have a nice seat to sit in and relax.

 

[HM]

Make sure you try the mini-donuts from the cart at BB. Yum.
They used to have a Pick-a-Pearl place at TL. Still do?

 

[SA mom]

Thanks all. I know I'll be taking plenty of photos. Are there any character meet and greets? I think I'll guilt the husband into renting an umbrella.

 

[Gina-Gina-Bo-Bina]

Thanks all. I know I'll be taking plenty of photos. Are there any character meet and greets? I think I'll guilt the husband into renting an umbrella.

Lilo and Stitch were at TL for short intervals during our trip last summer.

The umbrella rentals are really quite affordable. We paid about $50 a day at both TL and BB last August, and thought it was well worth the $ at each.

 

[SA mom]

Can you make umbrella rentals prior to arrival or the day of?