So, you’re going to the Happiest Place on Earth?! Well it’s no secret, Disneyland is the go-to destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. With its iconic attractions, live entertainment, and immersive experiences, it’s not hard to see why people, from all over the world, flock to Disneyland to experience the magic for themselves.
But, if you’re visiting during peak season it can get overwhelming and frustrating, quickly! From long lines to packed walkways – just navigating through the crowds feels like an impossible task.
That’s why we’ve got you covered with tips and tricks to help you navigate Disneyland’s busiest seasons with ease – or avoid it altogether. Whether you’re a seasoned Disneyland pro or a first-time visitor, these insider tips will help you make the most of your experience while avoiding the crowds and long wait times.
So buckle up, put on your Mickey ears, and get ready to discover how to navigate the Happiest Place on Earth during its busiest times!
When is Disneyland’s busy season?
Disneyland’s busy season typically falls between the months of June and August. This is the peak tourist season, with long wait times and packed walkways. But, there are other times of the year that can be just as bad. So, you’ve got to plan ahead.
Holidays and special events can also contribute to large crowds. Christmas Day and New Year’s Day are two of the busiest days at the park! Halloween season can be pretty busy as well (though totally worth the trouble for the sake of attending Oogie Boogie’s Bash). Grad Nights and cheerleading competitions can bring in huge groups of visitors too! So make sure to check a crowd index calendar before planning your trip.
What are the worst days to visit Disneyland?
Now that we’ve told you the busies times of year at the parks,, let’s take a closer look at the worst days of the week.
The busiest days of the week at Disneyland are typically Saturdays and Sundays. These days attract local visitors who aren’t at school or work. So the park can quickly fill up. Fridays can also be busy, especially during the summer and holiday seasons, and even Mondays as out of town visitors may extend their trips.
Weekends are the busiest and most likely to hit capacity. Which could mean that if you arrive too late in the day, you might not be able to enter the park at all! And even if you do get in, you’ll likely be met with long lines and crowded walkways (ew). To avoid the crowds, try visiting on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday instead.. You’ll still have a magical experience, and able to enjoy it more without feeling overwhelmed by the crowds.
What to Expect in Peak Season
First things first, let’s talk about the crowds. During peak season, Disneyland can get pretty packed, which means you’ll be dealing with longer wait times and a more hectic atmosphere. But don’t let that discourage you completely! With the right mindset and some strategic planning, you can still have a magical time.
One of the best ways to manage expectations is to accept that you might not be able to do everything on your list. Prioritize the attractions and experiences that are most important to you, and be flexible if things don’t go according to plan. Remember, part of the fun of Disneyland is discovering new things!
Consider taking advantage of the entertainment options outside of the rides. During peak season, Disneyland offers a variety of parades, shows, and other experiences that can be just as entertaining as the attractions themselves. Be sure to check the schedule and plan your day accordingly.
Finally, don’t forget to take breaks throughout the day. With all the excitement and energy of Disneyland, it can be easy to forget to slow down and recharge. Take some time to relax, enjoy a snack, or people-watch. You’ll be surprised at how much more enjoyable your visit can be when you’re well-rested and refreshed
Arrive Early and Use Genie+
The early bird really does catch the worm at Disneyland. Arriving at the park before it opens can give you a few precious hours of lower crowds and shorter lines. Also, be sure to take a look at Genie+, which allows you to reserve a spot in line for popular attractions, so you can skip the long waits.
Stay at a Disneyland Resort Hotel or Book a VIP Tour
Staying at a Disneyland resort hotel can be a splurge, but it can also be a game-changer when it comes to avoiding crowds and long lines. Not only will you be just a short walk away from the park, but you’ll also have access to exclusive perks like early entry and special character experiences. If a resort hotel isn’t in your budget, consider booking a VIP tour, which will allow you to skip lines and get a behind-the-scenes look at the park.
Visit Attractions with Shorter Lines
While popular attractions like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean are a must-see, they also tend to have long lines. Consider checking out some of the lesser-known attractions and activities that tend to have shorter lines, such as the Enchanted Tiki Room (aka Dole Whip), the Disneyland Railroad, or the Storybook Land Canal Boats. You might be pleasantly surprised by what you discover!
Ride closures during off-season
Disneyland has many popular rides and attractions, but unfortunately, during the off-season, some rides may be closed for maintenance or other reasons. This can be disappointing for visitors, but there are ways to plan ahead and avoid disappointment.
What Time of Year has the Most Ride Closures?
The off-season for Disneyland is generally from January to mid-March and late August to mid-September. During this time, ride closures are frequent as the park takes the opportunity to complete necessary maintenance and refurbishment projects.
What Rides are closed and Why?
Ride closures occur for various reasons such as routine maintenance, refurbishment, or the need for repairs. In some cases, closures are announced in advance, while in others, they may be sudden and unexpected. To stay informed about ride closures, visitors can check Disneyland’s official website or mobile app for the most up-to-date information. It’s also a good idea to ask a cast member at the park’s information desk about any closures or refurbishments happening during your visit.
Some of the upcoming ride closures include the Haunted Mansion (for its annual holiday overlay), It’s a Small World (for holiday refurbishments), and Splash Mountain (which will be transformed into a new ride based on “The Princess and the Frog”).
What if My Favorite Ride is Closed?
If your favorite ride is closed during your visit, there are plenty of other attractions and experiences to enjoy. For example, you can explore the park’s themed lands, watch live entertainment, or sample the fantastic food and drinks available throughout the park.
While ride closures are always a possibility during peak season, there are steps you can take to minimize disappointment and make the most of your Disneyland experience. By staying informed, being flexible, and exploring everything the park has to offer, you can have a fun and memorable visit regardless of any ride closures that may occur.
There you have it! With a positive attitude and some careful planning, you can still have a magical time at Disneyland during the busy season (or avoid it altogether). So go forth, have fun, and make some memories!
