Blizzard Beach is the younger of Disney's water parks, a 66-acre "ski resort" in the midst of a tropical lagoon centering on the 90-foot, uh-oh, Mount Gushmore. There's a legend for this one as well. Apparently a freak snowstorm dumped tons of snow on Walt Disney World, leading to the creation of Florida's first -- and, so far, only -- mountain ski resort (complete with Ice Gator, the park's mascot). Naturally, when temperatures returned to their normal broiling range, the snow bunnies prepared to close up shop, when they realized -- this is Disney, happy endings are a must -- that what remained of their snow resort could be turned into a water park featuring the fastest and tallest waterlogged "ski" runs in the country. The base of Mount Gushmore has a sand beach with several other attractions, including a wave pool and a smaller version of the mount for younger children. The park is located off World Drive, just north of the All-Star Movie, Music, and Sports resorts.
Essentials
Hours -- It's open from at least 10am to 5pm, with extended hours during holiday periods and summer (tel. 407/560-3400; www.disneyworld.com).
Entrance Fees -- A 1-day ticket to Blizzard Beach is $39 (without 6.5% tax) for adults, $33 for children 3 to 9.
Helpful Hints -- Arrive at or before opening to avoid long lines and to be sure you get in. Beach towels ($2.50 per towel) and lockers ($5 and $7) are available, and you can buy the beachwear you forgot to bring at the Beach Haus. You can grab something to eat at Avalunch and The Warming Hut, and Lattawatta Lodge (burgers, hot dogs, nachos, pizza, and sandwiches).
