Walt Disney World® has announced exciting new details for summer 2026 travel, including the return of FREE water park entry on check-in day for Disney Resort hotel guests—and the rare opportunity to enjoy both Disney water parks open at the same time.
For arrivals between May 26 and September 8, 2026, guests staying at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel will receive complimentary admission to a Walt Disney World water park on their check-in day, included with their stay.
“This is shaping up to be one of the best summers we’ve seen at Walt Disney World in years,” said Natali Bohm, Owner of Axis Travel Group. “Between free water park access, both water parks operating simultaneously, and new summer entertainment, there’s a lot of added value for families.”
Both Disney Water Parks Open Together for Summer 2026
Disney has confirmed that Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Disney’s Blizzard Beach will be open at the same time during peak summer travel—something that has become increasingly rare.
Blizzard Beach will reopen in February 2026 following seasonal closure
Typhoon Lagoon will temporarily close for refurbishment
Both water parks will be open simultaneously from May 26 through September 8, 2026
Since 2019, Disney’s water parks have mostly alternated operating schedules. Last summer marked the first time in five years that both parks were open together—a move Disney is repeating for summer 2026.
“For guests, this means more choice, more flexibility, and better crowd distribution,” Bohm explained. “It’s a huge win—especially for families staying on property.”
Free Water Park Entry on Disney Resort Check-In Day
Guests staying at Disney Resorts Collection hotels during the eligible dates can enjoy free admission to a Disney water park on their arrival day, even if their room is not yet ready.
Eligible arrival dates:
May 26 through September 8, 2026
Disney Resorts Collection hotel guests
Valid on check-in day only
Guests can enter the water park using:
MagicBand or MagicBand+
Disney MagicMobile pass
Key to the World Card
“This perk alone can save families hundreds of dollars,” said Bohm. “It turns travel day into a full vacation day—and that’s something off-site hotels simply can’t offer.”
Cool Kids’ Summer & New Entertainment at Walt Disney World
The water park perk also aligns with Cool Kids’ Summer, Disney’s seasonal celebration featuring special entertainment across Walt Disney World Resort.
Highlights include:
A brand-new Diamond Horseshoe show, debuting for the first time in 20 years
Additional kid-focused entertainment and activities throughout the parks
Summer-themed offerings designed especially for families traveling during peak season
“Disney is clearly investing in making summer 2026 extra special,” Bohm said. “When we help clients plan their trip, we factor in entertainment, perks, and timing to maximize their experience.”
Luggage Storage & Transportation Made Easy
While luggage is not permitted inside water parks or on Disney buses, Disney provides convenient options:
Resort Luggage Storage
Guests can leave luggage with Bell Services at their Disney Resort hotel and have bags delivered to their room later.
Water Park Lockers
Small personal items can be stored in keyless lockers, available for a one-time daily fee.
Getting There
Complimentary Disney bus transportation
Minnie Van Service via Lyft (fees apply)
Complimentary water park parking (first-come, first-served)
Why Book Your Disney Vacation with Axis Travel Group?
Axis Travel Group specializes in Disney destinations and is proud to be a Disney EarMarked Gold Agency, a recognition awarded to agencies that demonstrate exceptional Disney knowledge and guest service.
“Disney perks change constantly, and many guests miss out simply because they don’t know what they qualify for,” Bohm said. “We make sure our clients don’t leave value on the table.”
When you book with Axis Travel Group, you receive:
Expert Disney vacation planning at no additional cost
Guidance on Disney Resort perks, promotions, and entertainment
Strategic arrival-day and departure-day planning
Ongoing support before, during, and after travel
Plan Your Summer 2026 Disney Vacation Today
With free water park entry on check-in day, both Disney water parks open, and special Cool Kids’ Summer entertainment, summer 2026 is one of the best times in years to visit Walt Disney World.
Don’t Wait—Book Your Disney Vacation Today!