When the summer heat reaches its peak at Universal Orlando, there's no better way to beat the heat and stay cool than exploring the water play areas. We amphibians are naturally drawn to water, so we've made sure to try them all. In this guide, we'll take you on a froggerific journey through the Universal Orlando refreshing water play areas. We'll also share tips for managing wet clothes and drying off to ensure you make the most of your hot froggy summer. Let's splash in!
Where to Find the Water Play Areas at Universal Orlando
CityWalk Splash Pad
Located in the heart of Universal CityWalk, the splash pad (in front of The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar and the Universal Studio Store) is a welcome escape from the scorching Orlando heat. Cool down with the surprise water geysers that seem to leap out of nowhere. This splash pad is a favorite spot for tadpoles of all ages to splash, giggle and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the day.
DreamWorks Land
Opening June 14, 2024, DreamWorks Land will have two exciting new play areas complete with water features. First up, we have Shrek's Swamp for Little Ogres, featuring thrilling slides and a fun wet play zone. Then, get ready for Po's Kung Fu Training Camp—a sprawling play space with both wet and dry sections. Here, young kung fu enthusiasts can lend a hand to the pandas with their laundry duties, all while enjoying the splash-tastic action of dump buckets and water cannons.
Toon Lagoon
Toon Lagoon is a vibrant land located in Universal Islands of Adventure. This area of the park is inspired by the beloved comic strip characters from King Features Syndicate. You'll love it because of the nostalgia, and your kiddos will appreciate that the majority makes a watery escape from the heat. We like to think of Toon Lagoon as a mini water park. If your goal is to get completely drenched, it won't be hard to accomplish that here! You'll find a mini splash pad at the entrance and Me Ship, the Olive — a Popeye-themed water play area with ladders, slides and water cannons for the tadpoles. As for you thrill-seekers, there are two exhilarating water rides:
- Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges — height requirement 42"
- Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls — height requirement 44"
Popeye and Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges
This raft ride takes you on a daring river journey to help Popeye save Olive Oyl from Bluto. Hop aboard one of the round rafts and hold on tight as you navigate turbulent rapids, cascading waterfalls and unexpected twists and turns. Be ready to get soaked as the water splashes and sprays from all directions. Warning: you will get drenched!
Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls
Join Dudley Do-Right, the bumbling Canadian Mountie, as he tries to rescue his damsel in distress from the clutches of the dastardly Snidely Whiplash. This log flume ride is filled with unexpected turns and a 75-foot drop that will leave you laughing and completely waterlogged!
Camp Jurassic
Nestled within the prehistoric world of Universal Islands of Adventure, Camp Jurassic is a place for both kids and adults alike to explore and play. Here, you can embark on an expedition filled with water play areas and interactive elements. These elements include wandering through caves, climbing towering nets and traversing suspended bridges. The Dilophosaurus dinosaur heads that double as water blasters are where the water fun comes into play. Tadpoles can engage in playful battles, drenching their friends and family (lucky us!) with dino venom — er, I mean water jets.
Jurassic Park Splash Zone
To beat the heat and have a roaring good time, make your way to the Jurassic Park Splash Zone. Located just outside the Jurassic Park River Adventure, this splash area is a frogtastic spot to cool off and embrace your inner adventurer. If the attraction didn't get you wet enough, you can finish the job here. As the Jurassic River boats make their 85-foot escape, the plunge creates an enormous wave that will soak you to the core. Both Tad and Lily could spend hours here. We literally have to drag them away!
The Mystic Fountain
As you wander through Universal Island of Adventure, you might stumble upon a truly unique and interactive marvel in Sindbad's Bazaar — the Mystic Fountain. This water feature is no ordinary fountain — it possesses a personality all its own! With a mischievous twinkle in its eye and a playful spirit, the Mystic Fountain engages in conversations and unexpected interactions with guests. You'll be astonished as the fountain tells jokes, shares trivia and even responds to your questions and gestures. The Mystic Fountain is a sight to behold, but its playful blasts of water also make for a great way to cool off during the day.
Magic Umbrella Spell
Unleash your inner wizard and cast a spell with the umbrella wand spell. If you perform the spell correctly, watch as water sprays from the enchanted umbrella. This is one of our favorite spells in all of Diagon Alley. It's a magical experience that will make you feel like you've stepped right into the pages of the "Harry Potter" books. Plus, you'll cool off in the process!
Tips for Getting Wet and Staying Dry
Before you set out on your wet and wild adventures, here are some tips to make the most of your experience while keeping sane. We know that traveling the theme parks with soggy froggies ain't easy!
- Think about wearing light clothing that dries quickly after getting wet. Alternatively, pack a change of clothes to avoid walking around in soggy attire.
- Remember to wear sunscreen and reapply often. The sun is very strong in Orlando and a painful sunburn is not the type of souvenir you'll want to take home.
- Visit the water play areas or water attractions first. Or dedicate a specific time when you can do all the water rides at once before changing into dry clothes.
- Don't froget to bring a small towel. You likely don't need one for everyone, but having one or two will help you dry off quickly before changing into dry clothes.
- Wear Crocs or flip-flops to the park, but pack your sneakers to change into later. These water-friendly footwear options will keep your feet protected and you won't need to worry about squishing around in wet shoes all day.
- Stay hydrated! Even though you'll feel nice and cool while splashing about, you still need to hydrate. Drink plenty of water throughout your day to stay healthy.
- Before you go, be sure to check out our guide on the best times to visit Universal Orlando.
- If you don't want to worry about changing clothes, then utilize the walk-in dryers found in the park.
- Consider renting a locker. You can store your dry belongings safely while you make a splash.
Now you're ready for a frogtastic adventure through the water play areas of Universal Orlando. Pack your swimsuit, grab a towel and get ready for a splish-splashy day of adventure at Universal Orlando Resort! Don't froget to purchase your discounted tickets from your favorite frogs at Undercover Tourist!
Related: Our Favorite Ways to Stay Cool at Universal Orlando
Related: The Ultimate Insider's Guide to Universal's Volcano Bay
Hoppy planning!
