The holiday season is one of the busiest times at Disneyland Resort, with festive celebrations drawing massive crowds to the Southern California theme parks. However, some guests are reporting a surprising twist: while Disneyland Park is packed with holiday revelers, Disney California Adventure Park has seen significantly lighter crowds. Following guest warnings to “stay away” from the chaos at Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park seems to have become a haven for those seeking a quieter holiday experience.
Holiday Crowds Overwhelm Disneyland Park
Disneyland Park is bustling with guests eager to enjoy seasonal traditions. From the enchanting A Christmas Fantasy Parade to the breathtaking “Believe… In Holiday Magic” fireworks, visitors are flocking to experience the magic of Christmas at The Happiest Place on Earth. With school breaks and family vacations in full swing, the crowds at Disneyland Park have reached peak levels, creating long wait times and jam-packed walkways.
Last week, Disney Dining reported some of the chaos at Disneyland Park. Crowd levels and attraction wait times were so high that many Magic Key Pass holders warned guests to stay away from Disneyland Resort altogether.
“Your reminder to avoid Disneyland during December if you hate crowds,” one Magic Key Pass holder said. “So pretty but the most packed I’ve ever seen it!”
A Quieter Experience Across the Esplanade
Meanwhile, Disney California Adventure Park paints a different picture. Guests have taken to social media and online forums to share their surprise at the park’s significantly lower attendance.
Reddit user u/That_Operation_2433 went as far as to call Disney California Adventure Park a “ghost town,” citing minimal wait times and plenty of opportunities to enjoy attractions multiple times.
“We lucked out,” the guest wrote. “Most rides [had] 5-10 min standby [lines] the whole day! Longest was 60 minutes for Radiator Springs at midday. We did all of them so many times we headed home before close…Was so cool.”
Holiday Festivities at Disney California Adventure Park
Even with its smaller crowds, Disney California Adventure isn’t lacking holiday cheer. Guests can revel in the Festival of the Holidays, enjoy World of Color – Season of Light, and take in the park’s dazzling decorations. The lower attendance allows for a more intimate and relaxed celebration, making it a hidden gem for holiday visitors.
Planning Your Disneyland Visit Amid the Holiday Crowds
For guests heading to Disneyland Resort this season, planning is key. Start your day early at Disneyland Park to avoid the busiest hours, or consider spending more time at Disney California Adventure Park for shorter wait times and a more laid-back atmosphere. Use the Disneyland Resort app to stay updated on wait times and maximize your theme park experience.
Have you noticed lower crowd levels at Disney California Adventure Park? Share your experience with Disney Dining in the comments.
