Hi Mary Beth,
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! We're happy to help with your vacation planning questions at any time.
For many families, pool time at Walt Disney World is almost as important as theme park time. From the resorts to
Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, all pools are heated to a comfortable 82 degrees year-round. Occasionally inclement weather -- either storms or unusually low temperatures -- will cause closure of the pools to guests. But the majority of the time, you will have the option to swim, limited only by your own tolerance for the outside air temperature. (In January, when you are visiting, our average high tends to be in the low 70s with lows in the low 50s).
I've lived in Florida a long time, so I seldom want to hit the pool in the winter. However, I've seen guests splashing away joyfully at Walt Disney World resorts when I'm bundled in a heavy jacket.
You asked about the pool at Port Orleans French Quarter. I think
Doubloon Lagoon is one of the most fun, especially for children who like to slide down the sea serpent's tongue. Of course, few can rival the
Big Blue Pool at Art of Animation. I, too, have seen that it will be closed for renovation in the fall. No date has been announced for reopening.
Thanks again, Mary Beth, for your question. Enjoy!
Wilma