Brayden playing in fountain disneyBy Magic Maker® Courtney Harris

Millions of people visit Walt Disney World® Resort each summer, but the Florida heat and humidity can be brutal on those not use to it.  The key to not letting it ruin your vacation is being prepared. A little planning can go a long way in keeping you and your family happy, despite the heat.

  1. Stay hydrated. Dehydration is the number one cause of daytime fatigue, yet most people don’t even realize they are dehydrated. You should constantly be drinking. If you wait until you are thirsty, you are already on the road to dehydration. Water is your best option, and the most cost-effective. Bring a water bottle with you, and refill it at water fountains. You can also request a complimentary cup of ice water at most quick service locations.
  2. Get inside! Rotate outdoor rides and attractions with rides that have indoor queues or shows that allow you to take a break inside the air-conditioning. Sit-down meals are also a great way to cool down while you refuel. Be sure to ask your Magic Maker® for help in booking all of your dining reservations in advance so you don’t find yourself standing outside in the heat waiting on a table. They can also create touring plans for you that rotate indoor and outdoor attractions.
  3. Remember the sunscreen. Before you ever even enter the park, liberally apply sunscreen with a SPF of at least 30. Remember to cover often over-looked spots such as behind the ears and the back of your neck. Be sure to reapply continuously throughout the day, especially after excessive sweating or water rides.
  4. Take an afternoon break from the park. Hit the parks first thing in the morning at rope drop, and then head back to your resort in the afternoon during the hottest part of the day. While beating the heat, you will also beat the crowds! Afternoon breaks are a great opportunity for little ones to get in a nap or just for your family to enjoy the pool at your resort. After everyone is rested and re-energized, you can head back out the parks for dinner and night-time festivities. If you purchase  Magic Your Way® tickets with Park Hopper® Option, you can even visit a different park from the one you toured that morning!
  5. Play in the water! Water features such as pop jets and misters can be found in several locations throughout the parks. Most locations have benches or places for adults to sit while the kids run shrieking through the water. This is a great way to take a break and cool off at the same time. Check your park map or ask your Magic Maker® for locations.
  6. Enjoy a cool treat. Beating the heat is a great excuse for enjoying that dole whip or Mickey ice cream bar. As if you needed an excuse! Ice cream and other cool treats can be found at most counter service locations and even many beverage carts around the parks. And if you are using a dining plan, most treats are only one snack credit!
  7. Visit a waterpark. Walt Disney World® Resort boasts two of the country’s best water parks- Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon.   Be sure to ask your Magic Maker® about adding the Water Park Fun & More option to your Magic Your Way® tickets.

Don’t let the heat scare you away this summer. By planning ahead and working together with your Magic Maker®, you can beat the heat at Walt Disney World® Resort!