Splash Zones—The New Norm at Walt Disney World Resorts
Liliane Opsomer, coauthor of The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World, shares her favorite splash zones. Walt Disney World resorts offer some of the most imaginative swimming facilities that you are likely to encounter anywhere. Exotically themed, beautifully landscaped, and equipped with slides, fountains, and smaller pools for toddlers, Disney resort swimming complexes are a quantum leap removed from the typical rectangular hotel pool. Some resorts, such as the Grand Floridian and the Polynesian, even offer a sand beach on Seven Seas Lagoon in addition to swimming pools. Others, such as the Caribbean Beach and Port Orleans Resorts, have elaborately themed playgrounds near their swimming areas.
But the latest craze are the elaborate splash zones for little tykes. These water attractions geared toward little children are perfect for non-swimmers, as the water drains right away into the ground. In addition, the splash pads, most of the time, are soft and cushioned to avoid injuries. I love the splash zones and really think they provide lots of fun for the kids while giving parents a greater peace of mind.
Check Out the Best Splash Zones at Walt Disney World
This splash zone is found at Animal Kingdom Lodge—Kidani Village.
At the Alice in Wonderland-themed splash area at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, teapots, teacups, and the Mad Hatter’s famous hat dump water on little guests.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort has a lovely pirate-themed splash zone
Aquatic creatures are in the splash area at the new Big Blue Pool at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
The Polynesian Resort has a Polynesian-themed splash zone, of course.
My favorite is the brand-new splash pool at Port Orleans French Quarter.
Kiddos can cool off at several splash pads at Epcot and two at Disney Springs. The most elaborate one is found at the Casey Jr. Splash ’N’ Soak Station in the Storybook Circus section of Fantasyland.
The splash pads in the parks and at Disney Springs are great places for kids to let off steam. Make sure you plan ahead, though: Bring towels and a change of clothes. Most importantly, make sure that the shoes stay dry. It’s no fun to walk in wet sneakers through the theme parks, and there is no better recipe for blisters.
For more tips on visiting Walt Disney World with kids, check out The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World with Kids by Bob Sehlinger and Liliane Opsomer, with Len Testa.
