Let's talk water parks. I know we haven't had these up for rating and review on Theme Park Insider... yet. (We'll be adding the Orlando-area parks on the site when SeaWorld's Aquatica opens next year.) But I'd love to hear you defend your favorite (use the comments).
BTW, I'm limiting this to the big Central Florida parks this week to avoid regional battles. Other parks will be in future votes.
That seems to be one thing that went right in FL, all the water parks are great in their own way. I am actually suprised there isn't more of a tie between TL and BB
And while both BB and TL are outstanding attractions, there is no doubt in my mind that Typhoon Lagoon is the better park.
1. Wave Pools. No competition. TL's wave pool is huge. Further the waves come in sets that are perfect for body surfing. the BB pool is nothing but swells. And what's really nice about a wave pool is that when the crowds build you don't have to wait in line to use it. Indeed, one of the most amusing theme park experiences happens when you are standing in the TL wave pool on a busy day. Everytime you hear the "whoosh" indicating another wave is on its way the air is filled with screams of delight from kids (and probably a handful of adults).
2. Crush 'n' Gusher. Orlando's first "water coaster." While I think the enclosed slide at BB's Runoff Rapids is a great ride, C&G noses it out.
3. Atmosphere. The tropical landscaping is beautiful especially along the lazy river. Further TL doesn't seem to have as many steps as BB (see, Summit Plummet and Runoff Rapids). Plus the air does not reek with the smell of chlorine.
BB does have a great family raft ride and Summit Plummet is a great thrill ride. But TL's slides certainly keep pace and the wave pool is so much better.
Water parks just don't draw nearly as many visitors as theme parks. But since the Orlando-area parks are such an important part of many area visitors' vacations (the Big Three each draw more than one million visitors a year), I'm planning on adding them, plus Aquatica, to the site.
Now, I am not a water park connoisseur, so I'm not able to provide much positive direction in discussing water parks now. So I'm trying to get up to speed before I put them up on the site. (Translation: I'm using this an excuse for my first-ever trip to a water park. But I just haven't found time to get this trip on the calendar yet.)
Thanks for your patience!
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