Summer is quickly approaching! What are some “cool” water parks I can make a splash at near my Orlando apartment?

Summer will be here before you know it… and so will the Florida heat! Taking a dip in the pool is refreshing, but when you're looking for a bit more of a thrill you may find the local water parks especially exhilarating. Spend the day with friends or family floating down a lazy river or catching a wave in the wave pool. Orlando is home to a variety of exciting water parks where you can beat the heat this summer, some of which even make the 10 Best Florida Water Parks list!

SeaWorld's Water Parks

A short trip away from your Orlando apartment is SeaWorld's very own Aquatica. This waterpark has something to offer everyone, whether you enjoy sunbathing or racing down a water slide. Aquatica is the first waterpark in the world to be designated a certified Autism Center and is rated the Nation's Best Outdoor Waterpark by USA Today. Check out Dolphin's Plunge, the most popular attraction at this waterpark. Be on the lookout for Commerson's dolphins as you speed down a corkscrew waterslide – a truly unique experience. Looking to get up close and personal with tropical fish, dolphin and exotic birds? If you're looking for an up close and personal experience with some of the ocean's most beautiful creatures, then Discovery Cove is a must-see! Included with your entrance fee you can feed exotic birds, come face-to-face with playful otters, snorkel with stingrays, and enjoy a float down the tropical lazy river. If booked in advance you can get up close and personal with dolphin, feed stingrays and even encounter some friendly sharks.

Volcano Bay

Just minutes from your Orlando apartment, you'll find Universal's newest addition, Volcano Bay, which features a 200 foot-tall Volcano named "Krakatau". Take a relaxing ride on Kopiko Wai Winding River while floating through Volcano Bay's tropical landscape. Check out Waturi Beach where you can take in the views of the water park and get an unforgettable view of Krakatau and its many waterfalls. If you're looking for something a little faster paced, hop in line for one of Volcano Bay's many water slides or raft rides! All that swimming can work up an appetite. Treat yourself to some tasty food from one of the waterpark's four delicious eateries. Guests can even rent private Cabanas for the day. Make sure you look into Florida resident discount rates before hitting the park.

Disney

You best believe that Disney has a few waterparks of their own and they are only a hop, skip and jump away from your Orlando apartment. The first of two Disney waterparks is Typhoon Lagoon. Jump on Gang Plank Falls, a 300-foot-long raft ride that will keep you at the edge of your seat, or try out one of the other raft rides, including Mayday Falls or Keelhaul Falls. Need a place for the little ones to play? Head on over to Ketchakiddee Creek! This 48-inch and under play area has mini slides, animal shaped fountains and water cannons. Be sure to check out Disney's Blizzard Beach, the only place you will find a ski resort in Florida during the summer. Blizzard Beach is home to one of the tallest and fastest free fall body slides in the world, including Summit Plummit. Race against other park guests on the Toboggan Racers or lounge in the Cross Country Creek.

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