Walt Disney World continues to enhance the guest experience by offering unique perks to those staying at its resort hotels. For summer 2026, Disney Resort hotel guests can once again enjoy free admission to one of the resort’s water parks on their check-in day. This popular benefit serves as an excellent way for guests to extend their vacation fun while exploring two of Disney’s immersive water park destinations.
Free Water Park Admission Details
What Guests Can Expect in 2026
For the summer months of 2026, registered guests staying at Disney Resort hotels will have the opportunity to visit one of Walt Disney World’s water parks at no additional cost on the day they check in. This perk was initially introduced in 2025 and has proven to be well-received by visitors looking for extra ways to make their trip more enjoyable.
Participating Water Parks
Guests can visit either Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach, depending on which park is in operation during their stay. Starting May 21st, 2025, both water parks have begun operating simultaneously, a scheduling update that is expected to continue through 2026. This dual operation allows for greater accessibility and reduces capacity challenges during peak seasons.
A Historical Look at the Offer
Following the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Disney’s water parks alternated operations, with one park remaining closed at all times. The return to simultaneous operation is a significant milestone, enabling Disney to accommodate more guests and provide this complimentary access consistently during the summer season.
Which Resorts Qualify?
All guests staying at Walt Disney World-owned and DVC resorts are eligible for the free waterpark admission. It applies to reservations made directly through Disney as well as those booked through resale points or rented from DVC owners. Below is a list of eligible Disney Vacation Club properties included in this promotion:
- Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Boulder Ridge Villas
- Copper Creek Villas & Cabins
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas
- Disney’s Beach Club Villas
- Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
- Disney’s Old Key West Resort
- Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Cabins
- Disney’s Riviera Resort
- Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
- The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
- The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Split stays—when guests book separate reservations at multiple Disney resorts—are also eligible for this perk. Guests can utilize the free admission on the check-in day for each leg of their itinerary, making it a flexible option for those changing resorts mid-trip.
Planning Your Summer 2026 Visit
Bookings for Walt Disney World vacations through October 2026 have already opened, while those for November and December 2026 will be available at a later date. It’s advisable to plan early as this offer, along with other perks like early theme park entry, makes Disney Resort hotels a popular choice during peak travel seasons.
How to Make the Most of This Perk
To maximize this benefit, consider arriving early at the water park to secure an optimal location for your group. Whether you prefer the thrill of water slides or the relaxation of a lazy river, Disney’s water parks offer a variety of experiences for all ages. Don’t forget to pack essentials like swimsuits, sunscreen, and towels for a seamless day of fun.
Conclusion
The return of complimentary water park admission for Disney Resort hotel guests in summer 2026 is a testament to Walt Disney World’s commitment to enhancing its guests’ vacation experiences. With its scenic water parks and exciting attractions, this perk offers an excellent way to start your Disney getaway. Whether it’s your first stay or you’re a long-time Disney Vacation Club member, summer 2026 promises to deliver memorable aquatic adventures for all.
For more updates on the latest developments at Walt Disney World, stay tuned to the DVC Shop blog and subscribe to our newsletter to get our latest articles delivered to your inbox.
Stay At Deluxe Resorts For Less
If you’d like to view confirmed reservations for rent at Disney’s Deluxe resorts, you can experience Disney’s most luxurious resorts for less, even without being a DVC member! If you’re interested in becoming a member, and joining the DVC family, you can save thousands by shopping from our current DVC resale listings.
DVC Deluxe Resorts
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
