Waterparks in Orlando, Florida

Orlando, Florida is the world's number one family vacation destination. And it's no wonder, with theme parks like Walt Disney World, Sea World, Universal Studios and natural attractions such as the nearby beaches and the seemingly never ending sunshine, Orlando is the perfect spot for fun in the sun.

While Orlando is a lot of fun, it can get hot in the summer (and other times of the year, too). And what better way to cool of from the Florida heat than an afternoon at one of the area's waterparks? There are four major waterparks in the Orlando area. Two of them, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon and Disney's Blizzard Beach, are located at Walt Disney World. The newest water park, Aquatica, is located next to Sea World and the oldest water park, Wen 'n Wild, is located within the popular tourist corridor, International Drive.

Wet 'n Wild

Considered the first major water park in the United States, Wet 'n Wild opened in 1977 as is part of the water park chain of the same name. Set on about 60 acres along International Drive, Wet 'n Wild. Since opening Wet 'n Wild has grown over the years and how has the reputation as being Orlando water park with the best thrill rides. In fact, the Travel Channel featured Wet 'n Wild on its Extreme Waterparks special.

Aquatica

Aquatica is Orlando's newest waterpark. Opened in 2008, Auqatica is located next to Sea Wolrd. Owned by Sea World, Auqatica features traditional waterpark slides set amid a lush tropical oasis including white sand beaches. One thing that makes Aquatica unique from other Orlando waterparks is that Aquatica integrates animals into the waterpark expericance. For example, on the Dolphin Plunge slide, riders slide in and enclosed tube past Commerson's dolphins.

Disney's Typoon Logoon

The "legend" behind this highly themed waterpark is that a giant typhoon wreaked havoc on a one tranquil place. The result of the typhoon is a waterpark with slides and pool. In fact, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon features the world's largest wave pool. You can ever take surfing lessons in the wave pool. The park also features a lazy river that circles the park and travels through caves. And if you're really adventurous, there's a salt water pool filled with fish and even a shark or two in which you can snorkel.

Disney's Blizzard Beach

In keeping with tradition of have a back story, the back story to Disney's Blizzard Beach is that snowstorm hit Central Florida and left Florida's only ski resort. Caused by melting ice, pools of water were formed and slides were created and the fun began. Blizzard Beach features many attractions similar to Disney's Typoon Largoon such as a lazy river, slides, and a children's area.