Tour Guide Tuesday: Enjoy Free Ice Water At The Disney Parks!

in Park Secrets, Theme Parks

Disney Parks

Aloha Isle Refreshments

Ice Water vs. Bottled Water
Ice Water vs. Bottled Water

It is essential to stay hydrated while touring the parks. The Florida heat can be brutal, and drinking plenty of water is a necessity. However, there are several different ways to get this water when visiting Walt Disney World. I am going to discuss the different options and make some recommendations today.

Snack Stand at Hollywood Studios
Snack Stand at Hollywood Studios

First off, it is effortless to find bottled water for sale at all of the parks. It can be purchased at just about every quick-service restaurant, snack stands, and even portable drink kiosks. The only issue is that this water can be costly. A “regular” bottle of Dasani water is sold for $2.75, while smart water goes for $4.25. I’d have to question how “smart” someone is for spending that kind of money on the water! You can see that even one water stop can cost a family between $15 and $25. Personally, I’d rather save that money on food and souvenirs. So, let’s talk about other options for obtaining agua.

Bottled Water Prices
Bottled Water Prices

The quick and obvious choice is to head to a water fountain, typically located near the restrooms. However, you will agree that it is rarely cold and refreshing for those who have done this. Also, the Florida tap water sometimes has a funky taste when it is lukewarm. So, the best option would be grabbing a free cup of ice water at a snack stand or quick-service spot. This is an often-overlooked perk that Disney provides, but it can make a big difference in your hydration as well as your pocketbook.

Storybook Treats - Good Spot for Ice Water
Storybook Treats – Good Spot for Ice Water

Now, let me give you some tips on finding ice water. First and foremost, you need to head to a location that sells “fountain” drinks. Many spots may surprise you when you find out they don’t offer this. One that comes to mind is the new Aloha Isle location in Adventureland. They have Dole Whips, specialty drinks, and bottled water but no fountain drinks. You certainly don’t want to get into a long line when you are hot and thirsty, only to find out that they don’t serve ice water!

Aloha Isle Refreshments
Aloha Isle Refreshments – No Ice Water!

Another thing to think about when looking for ice water is the time of day. Many of the snack stands and quick service spots don’t open until 11:00 much of the time. So, you’ll want to know where to head early in the day. One good example of this can be found in Fantasyland at the Magic Kingdom. There really isn’t much open in the way of snack stands in the morning. However, you can make your way over to Gaston’s Tavern, where the ice water flows early. It is also the spot to get a delicious warm cinnamon roll!

Gaston's Tavern - Ice Water Available Early
Gaston’s Tavern – Ice Water Available Early

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The next time you are at one of the Disney Parks, consider enjoying some free ice water. It is certainly a good alternative to spending a small fortune on the bottled water, and it even stays cold longer!

I hope you enjoy “Tour Guide Tuesday.” If you want additional tips while you’re in the parks, WDW Guided Tours is happy to help!

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