Disney's Typhoon Lagoon - Lake Buena Vista, Florida - Large Family Water Park

Typhoon Lagoon is one of two different water parks that are part of Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista Park, Florida. As is the case with all Disney parks, Typhoon Lagoon prides itself on offering a magical, family-friendly experience to visitors of all ages. Attractions are numerous and varied, ranging from thrilling water slides to play areas designed for young children.

Many Disney parks have a fanciful legend behind them that explains the d,cor and the overall theme of the individual park to visitors. Typhoon Lagoon is no exception. According to the Disney legend, Typhoon Lagoon was created in the wake of a massive sea storm during which surfboards were thrown into palm trees, boats were propelled onto thatched roofs, and so forth. A shrimp boat known as the Miss Tilly was hurled onto the peak of Mount Mayday, Typhoon Lagoon's resident volcano, and can still be seen there by park goers. Every half hour, Miss Tilly's whistle blows while Mount Mayday attempts to dislodge the boat via an enormous geyser of water.

The most popular attractions at Typhoon Lagoon are definitely the park's water slides, of which there are 9. Some of the favorites include, but are not limited to the following. The Crush `n' Gusher consists of 3 different roller coaster-like waterslides that can be ridden alone or with others and are designed to appeal to adults and bigger kids. Gang Plank Falls is a 300-foot long family water slide that allows up to four guests to ride at once. Humunga Kowabunga consists of three enclosed, side-by-side body slides that treat adults and bigger kids to a lightning-speed, 5-story long descent.

Typhoon Lagoon also features a number of other unique attractions as well to serve as alternatives to the slides. The Shark Reef is a popular interactive experience that lets guests go snorkeling with two types of sharks, many tropical fish, and even stingrays. The Surf Pool is Typhoon Lagoon's family wave pool where guests can experience range ranging from small and gentle to 6 feet tall. The Sandy White Beach is an off-the-beaten path area where visitors can take a load off and lounge in chairs, hammocks, and under umbrellas while they enjoy the beautiful view. Surf lessons are even offered as part of the mix during the hours before the park opens. (Private lessons are also available for surfers who are more experienced.)

Dining options at Typhoon Lagoon include a number of affordable, family-friendly options. Guests can order and eat at a quick-service restaurant, unwind at one of two picnic areas, or grab a quick snack and enjoy it on the run while they explore the rest of the grounds. There is also a bar area by the outdoor pool where food and refreshments can be obtained.

When it comes to transportation, guests can travel easily to and from Typhoon Lagoon and throughout Disney World Resort via bus. Bus service is offered completely free of charge for those who are also staying at Walt Disney Resort itself. Complimentary parking is also available for guests who wish to drive their own cars to the park.