On today’s date, April 1st, back in 1995, Disney’s Blizzard Beach water park makes it’s debut at WDW in Florida. The “melted ski resort” is the third water park on Disney property, following River Country and Typhoon Lagoon.
The theme of the park is the “Disney legend” of a freak snowstorm in the area, leading to the construction of Florida’s first ski resort. Because it’s Florida, the snow didn’t last long, leaving behind waterlogged but snow-less ski jumps and chair lifts. The failed resort was in the process of closing for good when an alligator was seen sliding down a flume and splashing into a pool of water, screaming “Yahoo!” Thus the “ski resort” was reborn as a water park, with the alligator (named “Ice Gator”) as mascot. You know with Disney, there’s a story or legend behind everything!
Most of the attractions come off of their main ski hill, Mount Gushmore, including Summit Plummet. Summit Plummet always looked intimidating to me, because of the illusion that the slide turns upwards, making it seem like you will be flung into the air. Well, obviously that’s not the case, can you imagine the lawsuits? Instead, it’s a straight shot downward on the slide. The slide is 120 feet tall, and speeds 60 miles per hour. It’s the second tallest and fastest free fall slide in the world. There is a minimum height requirement of 48 inches. It goes really fast. If you want a good laugh, sit in the stands at the bottom of the slide, and watch people come flying down. The vast majority of whom, will be pulling their swim suits out of their behinds, due to the speed and water, it’s kind of funny!
Mount Gushmore is split into three colored slopes to aid guests navigating around the park: Green, Red and Purple. Each area has a different variety of water slides, from individual, to family style raft rides. There’s something do to for everyone, no matter the age. There are also ground level attractions, including a kids area, lazy river and a giant wave pool, for those who don’t want to try the slides. Blizzard Beach also has places to eat, whether it be a full lunch or just a snack. You can also visit their store to buy souvenirs. As with Typhoon Lagoon, the water parks close usually around 5:00, and are closed 3 months of the year for maintenance.
I’ve been to Blizzard Beach, it’s fun. I’ve also been to Typhoon Lagoon, which I like a little better. The only reason for this, is because I live in the Northern U.S. and we get snow all the time. I would rather go to a tropical themed water park while on vacation, then to see more snow, even if it’s fake. Both water parks on Disney Property are very nice, and it makes for an enjoyable day for the whole family. So, Happy Birthday Blizzard Beach, here’s to many more years of fun!
Michele also contributes theme park news for Fox 35 Orlando 11pm news and on the radio on WDBO.
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