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6. Water rides

splash mountain
Splash Mountain in Magic Kingdom, Disney

I know what you're thinking...go on a water ride during a busy 95 degree day, during summer vacation, are you CRAZY?! Maybe yes, maybe no. Yet, there are some great water rides throughout Disney, like Splash Mountain in Magic Kingdom and Khali River Rapids in Disney's Animal Kingdom, as well as some splash pad areas and rides like Dumbo and Pirates of the Caribbean that have splashes of water throughout the ride, where you are bound to get at least a little wet on.

Also, if you can plan it just right, Genie+ could be your best friend in this so you don't wait in a long line. Plus, you will definitely cool off, even if it's only for a short amount of time. 

PRO TIP: Right after riding a wet ride, consider going shopping in a store, seeing an indoor show or eating at a sit down restaurant somewhere so the air conditioner hits you while your still a little wet, to get an extra cool blast that lasts.

7. Cool treats and drinks

Another great way to cool off is obviously getting something cold to eat or drink to help bring your body temperature down. There are some really great options throughout all four 4 Walt Disney World parks, but I do have a few favorites that I will mention here. 

All parks have a Starbucks location, however my favorite is definitely the one in Hollywood Studios. You can grab yourself an iced coffee or frappuccino and just enjoy Hollywood and Sunset Boulevard shopping and looking around. Another favorite of mine at Disney's Hollywood Studios is good 'ol gertie. She has an ice cream snack stand right inside of her stomach and you can grab some simple but delicious soft serve ice cream here while enjoying the views of Echo Lake. 

A great one at Animal Kingdom right now is the Anundapur Ice Cream truck, where you can get the Yeti Sundae. It is super fun and delicious. They also serve up a great Ice Cream float here as well. However, if you're looking for something more for the adults, head on over to Pongu Pongu over in Pandora and get yourself a Rum Blossom. This adult beverage is both fruity and refreshing and is sure to quench your thirst. 

Epcot is a tough one, as there is alway something to eat or drink, especially during one of their four, ever changing festivals. However, for the purpose of this article, we will just stick to the basics, and for this one I am going to have to go with these two top picks, both located within World Showcase: 

First is over at Kabuki Cafe in Japan where you can get a snack called the Kakigori. This refreshing fruity treat is Japan's take on a snow cone and you get your choice of 5 different flavors, or even mix them up with their popular rainbow version. Bonus; there is an adult version of this served with Saki called the Saki Mist, and you get your choice of three flavors. 

kakigori Epcot
Rainbow Kakigori in Epcot World Showcase

Second would have to be the Pressed Brioche Ice Cream sandwich over in France at L'Artisan des Glaces. This thing is so delicious, and the best part is you get to build your own.There tends to be a line most days on this one, but it is so worth it. Plus it is indoors, so you get some air conditioner as a bonus too. 

Lastly, Magic Kingdom probably has my heart with the most and best cool treats. Over on Main Street USA you can get the glacier freeze drink over at the confectionary, which is basically like an ICEE but here you have way more flavor options and you can build your own, so it allows you to get creative. Also on Main Street is where you can find the famous Casey's and the well known Mint Julep drink. This minty lemony goodness can be made regular, however I recommend the frozen version to really get yourself cooled down. Plus it is super light and refreshing.

Another favorite stop of mine for a cool snack is definitely over in Adventureland at Aloha Isle where you can find the famous go to, DOLE WHIP. Of course they have my favorite, the traditional Pineapple dole whip. However they have other flavors to choose from as well, including raspberry and ones with pog juice in them! 

dole whip flight dis springs
Dole Whip flight, Swirls on the Water in Epcot

Yet, even with all of these great options, I think my top pick would have to be over at Gaston's Tavern in Fantasyland. Now I know what your thinking, the gigantic Cinnamon Roll isn't a cool treat Jess, BUT, also located here is Lefou's Brew and although very odd and different at first sip, if you have an adventurous and open palette, I would check this one out. It is a frozen drink made with apple sauce, mango and marshmallow and is to die for! Bonus, this quick service location is located indoors, so you can sit in the air conditioning as well while you enjoy this sweet sip. No seats available inside? No problem. Right outside the restaurant is some tables covered with umbrellas for some nice shade and people watching. Oh, and don't forget your cinnamon roll with extra icing!

You can also find tons of options over at Disney Springs. Some favorites that come to mind are Salt + Straw Ice Cream Parlor with their uniquely homemade hard ice cream, Swirls on the Water where you can find the new Dole Whip Flight, and Gideon's for some deliciously flavored cold brew coffee!

8. Headache/ Pain relief medication

Epcot
Image: Kimberly Crawford

My last piece of advice; make sure you or someone in your party is carrying some simple over the counter medicine to combat headaches & heat exhaustion caused by the humidity.

Sometimes, it doesn't matter how hydrated or well fed or balanced you are throughout your day, you just can't win them all. It's the last thing anyone wants to think about or plan for on a Disney vacation, but trust me, it has happened to me and it helps tremendously in a pinch. I recommend Excedrin or Aleve as my top go to's, but use what works best for your body. You can never go wrong with Tylenol, either. However I am not doctor or nurse, so please consult your physician if you are unsure. 

If that still isn't enough and you are unsure if you will make it back to your hotel or just don't want to wait, you can always go to your nearest first aid location and ask for some fresh ice water and an icepack. 

So, that's it! Some awesome tips and take aways to combat the Florida heat while enjoying a fun Walt Disney World vacation. Whether you are flying solo, or trekking a family of six around the parks like me, these should be sure to help you out and hopefully convince you that Disney in the summertime, although hot, is manageable for everyone.

Have fun on your next Disney vacation, and don't forget the sunscreen. Stay cool out there everyone!

 
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