Hiya Amy,
Welcome to planDisney! I am so excited that you are planning a visit to the Most Magical Place on Earth in late January. Late winter is actually my favorite time because the
EPCOT International Festival of the Arts tends to run then, and I love attending every year. Also, because the weather is still pleasant, it is not as popular as the holiday season.
Speaking of weather, the winter weather in Orlando always lends itself well to a day at
Blizzard Beach Water Park, so I completely understand your question. The
water park benefit available to Guests staying in Walt Disney World resort hotels on check-in day was such a great perk. I’m thrilled it is returning in summer 2026 (the specific details still to come), but at this time, the benefit will only be available during the summer. So even if you are staying at one of Walt Disney World’s resort hotels, you would not be able to visit the water park on arrival day as part of your resort reservation in January.
I wish I had better news to share with you, Amy. I was really hoping the water park benefit would extend for all of 2026 as well, but at least it will return in the summer. Before I let you go, even though the water park benefit will not be available during your visit, don’t forget to take advantage of the
extra time you will get in the theme parks. Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours are still set to return in 2026, so be sure to check the
calendar about 60 days before your visit to see which days you can expect to take advantage of extended evening hours (and which theme parks) and other park hours. Please also come back and visit us if you need anything else.
Happy Planning,
Ashley F.