The holiday season has brought an unexpected twist to Disneyland Resort. Disneyland Park found itself quieter than usual while its neighbor, Disney California Adventure Park, absorbed the festive chaos. The week between Christmas and New Year’s Day is traditionally one of the busiest times of the year, but this year, something unusual unfolded—crowds shifted dramatically.
A Surprising Holiday Shuffle
Disneyland Park’s Main Street, U.S.A., decorated in its iconic seasonal splendor, is usually packed with holidaymakers vying for a glimpse of Sleeping Beauty Castle adorned in twinkling lights. But this season, many guests sought refuge from the chaos by heading to Disney California Adventure Park. The result? Starkly different crowd levels and wait times between the two parks.
Screenshots shared by Redditor u/CoasterCar highlighted the disparity. Goofy’s Sky School at Disney California Adventure showed a 100-minute wait, while Disneyland’s Storybook Land Canal Boats had no wait at all.
Wait Times Giving Mixed Signals Today
Wait Times Giving Mixed Signals Today
byu/CoasterCar inDisneyland
Another Redditor, u/gilbert2gilbert, shared an app screenshot showing a 65-minute wait for The Little Mermaid – Ariel’s Undersea Adventure at Disney California Adventure Park:
Can you imagine standing in line for 65 minutes for The Little Mermaid?
Can You Imagine Standing In Line For 65 Minutes For The Little Mermaid?
byu/gilbert2gilbert inDisneyland
“Ahh the Holidays at Disney probably the worst time to go,” Reddit user u/jacoblaue wrote in response to the screenshots.
“We knew our son was growing up when he agreed to delay his birthday (soon after Christmas) trip for a week or so due to the crowds,” said u/Imaginary_Roof_5286. “We had always gone on his bday (by his request), which tended to fall on the day the Rose Bowl teams, bands, cheer, & fans all went the park. Crowded didn’t come close to explaining what it was like!”
Surviving the Disneyland Crowds
Preparation is key if you’re planning to visit Disneyland Resort during the holidays. The official Disneyland Resort app is invaluable for checking wait times and securing dining reservations. Lightning Lane options, such as the Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Passes, are available for those looking to skip the longest lines.
While Disney California Adventure Park proved to be a popular escape this year, both parks offer unique holiday experiences. From festive parades and seasonal treats to dazzling decorations, there’s magic to be found everywhere—if you plan ahead.
Have you braved the Disneyland Resort crowds this time of year? In the comments, share your tips for a magical vacation with Disney Dining.
