Why One Nice Disney World Perk Might Entice Me Back This Summer

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It’s been a while since I’ve really explored everything new at Walt Disney World. Last spring, my husband and I quickly visited Epcot to ride the Guardians of the Galaxy coaster during a longer trip to Universal Studios, but I haven’t stayed at a Disney resort with enough time to enjoy things like Disney Springs, mini golf, or the water parks in a good while. However, a new perk coming to the Orlando theme park might just be enough to get me to visit again, even during the hot, humid summer.

Walt Disney World is offering a great new perk this summer: free access to its water parks on the day you check in! This is especially exciting considering Disney has started charging for many things that used to be free. And the good news keeps coming – in the summer of 2026, both water parks will be open, giving you a choice between a tropical escape, even if it’s during a stormy day, or enjoying the fun in cooler conditions – each option has its own appeal!

How To Get The Big Water Park Benefit At Walt Disney World In Summer 2026

There’s just one catch: to get this complimentary benefit – or, more accurately, the benefit included with your stay – you need to be a guest at a Disney World resort. This applies to all resorts, from the luxurious Polynesian to the more affordable All-Star Resorts, but doesn’t include the nearby Swan and Dolphin hotels. Disney recently announced this offer, which will be available from May 26th to September 8th.

It’s smart to run this promotion while most U.S. kids are on summer break. We’ve noticed the parks get busier than normal during this time, even with Florida’s intense heat. Offering the promotion across multiple parks probably helps control the crowds.

As someone who often visits theme parks, there’s a unique joy in escaping the Florida summer heat at a water park. It’s especially exciting that both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will be open this summer. They offer very different experiences, beyond just their themes. In fact, it’s been a long time since Disney has operated both water parks at the same time during the summer – our own Dirk Libbey initially thought the announcement was an April Fool’s joke! Being able to choose between the two parks on the day of your visit is a fantastic bonus.

If you were looking for a reason to check out or return to the parks, this could be it.

I usually steer clear of the summer rush, and my partner and I weren’t even thinking about going to Orlando until later this year. But I’ve been considering a theme park trip for days, and the idea of visiting Disney World, especially with a stop at a water park, is really making me reconsider our plans – especially with all the new attractions planned for 2026.

I still have a few things to figure out: Should we go to Coronado Springs next year, or splurge on a resort along the monorail? Also, would May or September be a better time for a sunny vacation? And I need to decide what to pack!

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2026-01-10 23:38