A chaotic scene unfolded at Disneyland Resort this past weekend as crowds became ensnared in a massive bottleneck at the park’s exit, leading to frustration and confusion among guests.
Disneyland’s Packed Exit Creates Panic Among Guests
A crowded day at the Disney parks is normal, but what happened last weekend took congestion to another level. A perfect storm of events—including Valentine’s Day, the extended Presidents’ Day weekend, and the final day of Lunar New Year celebrations—drew record crowds to Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and Downtown Disney.
As Disney Park guests prepared to leave after a long day of festivities, reports emerged of extreme congestion at the park’s exit. TikTok user @a.z_town shared a video of the jam-packed exit lanes, showing thousands of guests inching forward at an agonizingly slow pace.
“I have to get out of Disneyland with just one big gate,” the Disney Park guest wrote.
@a.z_town I have to get out of Disneyland with just one big gate.#disneyland #disneylandresort #disneylandtiktok #disneylandpark #disneylife #disneyparkslife #disneyadult #disneycontent #disneycontentcreator #disneyfan #disneyfansforlife #disneyfyp #disneyfypシ #disneyfypage #disneyfypシ🏰❤️ #fyp #fypシ #fypage #fypシ゚viral #foryoupageofficiall #foryoupage #foryoupagee #foryoupageee #foryouu #foryouuu
Why Were Guests Forced Through One Gate?
Disneyland Resort cast members reportedly directed all exiting guests through a single large gate, exacerbating the gridlock and making it nearly impossible for some families to navigate. While Disney’s crowd control measures are designed to maintain order, the decision to funnel thousands through one exit caused rising tensions among guests.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the sheer volume of guests struggling to leave the park turned a magical day into an exhausting ordeal.
How to Avoid the Disneyland Exit Crowds
For those looking to bypass similar chaos, strategic timing is key. Exiting immediately after fireworks or World of Color—ONE is a recipe for frustration, as thousands of Disney Park guests head for the exits at the same time. Instead, consider browsing shops, grabbing a snack, or hopping on a final low-wait ride to let the crowds thin out. Waiting just 30 to 45 minutes can make a major difference!
How do you avoid crowds at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort? In the comments, share your favorite strategies with Disney Dining.
