Why does Disneyland require reservations now?


Why does Disneyland require reservations now? UPDATED OCTOBER 2023. The Disneyland Resort continues to use a reservation system in 2023 to provide a better overall guest experience. Since this reservation system will continue to be in use in 2024, we want to make sure all of our guests are equipped with the most up-to-date information on how to use it.


How do I get my Disneyland reservations when sold out?

How to get Disneyland reservations when sold out
  1. Choose an alternate reservation date. The simplest, but probably not the most ideal, option is choosing another date that's available for your visit. ...
  2. Regularly check for updated availability. ...
  3. Get a park hopper ticket.


Can you just go to Disneyland without a reservation?

You'll need park reservations to visit and can make them by using our theme park reservation system. To enter a park, both a theme park reservation and valid park admission, for the same park on the same date, are required for Guests ages 3 and up.


How do you avoid walking in Disneyland?

If you feel uneasy about walking, there is also the option to take the Disneyland ART shuttle bus. The Anaheim Resort Transit is a system of buses that take guests to and from Disneyland and their local hotel.


Why is Disneyland so complicated now?

But some of the changes making things more complicated at Disneyland are coming from an increased reliance on new technology and systems. The park is now reliant on guests using technology for everything from tickets to reservations to wait times to food ordering to making purchases.


Can I bring a water bottle into Disneyland?

Non-alcoholic drinks and waters are totally something you can bring into Disney, it's even encouraged! It is so nice to have a drink on hand whenever you need to quench your thirst. You can bring refillable water bottles and refill them at water stations throughout the parks.


Is Disneyland still free on your birthday?

The Disneyland Resort did give a free park admission ticket to Guests on their birthday as part of a limited-time promotion several years ago, but this is not currently offered. Tickets to enter Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park must be purchased for all visitors ages 3 and up.


Why is Disney still using the reservation system?

Today, Disney is still using the park reservation system, presumably to continue tracking the expected number of guests in each of its parks on a given day to better plan for staffing, food needs and more logistics.


How many reservations does Disney allow per day?

You can only hold 3 park reservations at a time (unless you have a resort stay booked). It's recommended you book Disney's Hollywood Studios first, as this reservation goes the quickest.


Can you buy Disneyland tickets at the gate without a reservation?

While buying in person is possible, I highly recommend that you purchase your tickets ahead of time to avoid the worry of being able to get same-day reservations. In order to enter the parks, you need both a ticket and a theme park ticket reservation.


What age is free at Disneyland?

Bear in mind that Disneyland tickets are free for those under 3 years old. We went to Disneyland with a two-year-old Arlo, but it was just a week before his third birthday, which saved us a lot of money! Also, you don't have to prove the child is under three, so make of that what you will!


Can you get free water at Disneyland?

Whenever you're thirsty, stop by one of our many water fountains—located throughout the Resort, including outside of most restrooms. If you wish to use disposable cups at drinking fountains, feel free to request them from the nearest restaurant or snack shop at no extra charge.


Is Disneyland cashless?

Yes, Disneyland takes cash at both of their parks, all merchandise locations, restaurants, festival booths, snack carts, and ticket offices.


Can you go to a Disney park without a reservation after 2PM?

You don't need a parks pass reservation for any parks you visit after 2PM after you visit your first park, however you do need to start your day at that first park with a parks pass reservation. You cannot simply show up at any park after 2PM if you haven't first used a park pass reservation to visit a park.


Is it cheaper to buy Disneyland tickets at the gate?

A common question is “Are Disneyland tickets more expensive at the gate?” Tickets purchased directly from Disneyland will cost the same whether you buy them online or at the gate. At the gate, you can buy the same types of tickets you can get online: 1-Day 1 Park Tickets. 1-Day Park Hopper Tickets.


Are backpacks allowed in Disneyland?

Suitcases, bags, coolers or backpacks, with or without wheels, larger than 24 long x 15 wide x 18 high (61 cm x 38 cm x 46 cm) are not allowed in any theme park. Loose or dry ice is not permitted in these containers. Re-usable ice packs are recommended.


What does it mean if Disneyland reservations are full?

Unfortunately, Tracey, if theme park reservations are fully booked for a particular day, you will not be able to access additional tickets or enter the parks. The Theme Park Reservation Availability Calendar reflects real-time availability for park reservations.