Disneyland just dropped a new rule that’s catching a lot of attention. At Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, guests can no longer keep their phones, cameras, or even hats with them once the ride begins. Cast Members won’t even let the attraction launch until every item is tucked away.
The reason behind this shift is simple: safety and storytelling. Runaway Railway’s trackless ride system is sensitive to objects falling onto the floor, which could trigger an emergency stop. At the same time, glowing screens and flashes ruin the detailed environments Imagineers spent years perfecting. For some fans, this change is long overdue, while others are disappointed that filming for social media is no longer an option.
With this move, Disneyland is setting a new standard that Walt Disney World seems likely to follow. TRON Lightcycle / Run already forces riders to store their belongings in lockers, and it may just be the beginning.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
EPCOT’s newest thrill ride relies on projections and carefully controlled darkness. A single phone screen can shatter the illusion of flying through space. Add in the spinning vehicles, and the risk of a dropped phone is high enough to justify a ban.
Space Mountain
This Magic Kingdom classic thrives on its pitch-black setting. A rogue screen light can instantly spoil the experience. Beyond the distraction, phones flying out of hands have been an ongoing safety concern for years.
Haunted Mansion
Phones have long been an issue in this beloved attraction. Guests often film the hitchhiking ghosts or ballroom scene, but the glowing screens pull everyone else out of the haunting atmosphere.
Pirates of the Caribbean
Phones have become a constant distraction here, too. The dark lighting and timed effects lose their impact when a guest suddenly lights up the boat with their device.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
Since Disneyland has already made the change, it’s almost inevitable that Disney World’s version will enforce the same policy. With the number of breakdowns caused by dropped objects, this one seems like a matter of “when,” not “if.”
Why the Change Feels Necessary
Disney pours millions into making its rides immersive. When phones interrupt that, the experience is diminished for everyone. Add in safety concerns, and it becomes clear why these bans are being considered. Like it or not, phones on rides may soon be a thing of the past at Walt Disney World.
