As spring break arrives at Disneyland Resort, crowds are quickly escalating to overwhelming levels, pushing even the most devoted fans to reconsider their trips. This surge in attendance has led to complaints about overcrowding, making it harder for guests to enjoy the magic of Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.
Spring break is typically one of the busiest seasons at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, only rivaled by the holiday rush between Christmas and New Year’s and the Fourth of July. With public schools and universities on break, families from all over flock to the parks, making for a hectic and sometimes frustrating experience. For many, Disneyland Resort’s charm is overshadowed by the sheer number of people flooding the parks.
A Rising Tide of Crowds at Disneyland Resort
This week, Reddit user u/spotheadcow sparked a heated discussion by sharing their experience at Disneyland Resort during the busy spring break period. They described the overwhelming crowds, saying, “The magic is being smothered by the crowds.”
“When they took the benches out and widened the walkways a few years ago it was to increase the number of people that could be let into the park. And yes they are filling the park to its limit most days, it seems. Now the lines are too long for rides and food. There aren’t enough tables in the restaurants. The cast members are overburdened. The wonder and magic in the park is dying. Instead of appreciating the music and views on my way to the next ride, I’m on my phone booking a lightening lane. It’s stopped being magic and it stopped being fun. So I’m voting with my wallet. I used to go 3 times a year for a week at a time. I need a break. Maybe someday, if things change.”
The magic is being smothered by the crowds.
byu/spotheadcow inDisneyland
This statement resonated with many other Disney fans, who expressed similar frustrations about the conditions at the Southern California theme parks.
Disgruntled Disneyland Guests Share Their Stories
The frustration over the crowds was palpable across the Reddit thread, with many Disneyland Resort guests sharing similar experiences.
“I dread going more and more each time,” u/amandeezie commented. “So many people, so many motorized scooters running into us, long long lines and even the tram line is ridiculous. I’m just over it.”
“100% agree,” said u/lovelightdance. “I went twice this year and the second time I was dreading it (which has never happened!), but we wanted to take the little ones in the family for their first ever trips. I’m well versed on how to plan and we did the best we could, the kids had a blast (which is the most important thing to me!), but I won’t be going back to DLR for a long time. I am glad I got to enjoy it so much before it became what it is today, and I hope they figure out a way to make some positive changes in the years to come.”
Many loyal Disneyland Resort visitors said their patience has worn thin.
“I used to go about 3x a year as an out-of-state visitor, but with my last trip a year ago, I’m voting with my hundreds of dollars,” u/tabithabee commented. “It’s the only way I can make any kind of impact. Also I’d rather hold on to the incredible memories of being there in the “golden age” vs. fight for a taste of what’s gone.”
“I’m not renewing my magic key when it expires later this year,” u/Warm_annual431 agreed. “Sad to say. It’s not the same anymore. Them cutting budget costs and raising prices for the consumer is so clearly showing through the quality of every experience in the park. The food, the rides, the crowds…The pre-Magic Key Disneyland I have memories of holds such a special place in my heart.”
Entertainment Cuts Make Matters Worse
The frustrations don’t end with overcrowding. For many Disney Park guests, the lack of live entertainment has made the situation even worse. Show cancellations and the removal of certain attractions have left people scrambling to find other ways to enjoy the park.
“Only solution is to have more attractions/shows or simply jack up price,” u/bellygrubs argued. “With how lazy Disney is nowadays i think we all know what they will pick.”
“They didn’t even have parades when I was there in January this year,” u/TokyoTurtle0 replied. “It was my last time in a very very very long time…I had fun but everything takes so much longer to do everywhere.”
Are Disneyland Crowds a Problem?
Some visitors believe overcrowding is simply part of the Disney Park experience, especially during busy times like spring break.
“We were there during Halloween season last year as the first time for our kids all the way from NZ,” u/upsidedownmeow recalled. “Was it crowded? Sure, we expect that (it’s Disneyland!) was there a lot of planning to get the most out of our trip? Sure, but when you’re paying $40k local currency for a family vacation you want to spend that time. If it’s lost it’s magic for you then do what you’re doing, stop going. Make room for those who can’t go 3 times a year and that will enjoy and find the magic.”
“I find I have a better experience without lightning lane but getting there early,” said u/jenjen828. “I can get a lot done before it gets busy and then take it slow the rest of the day wherever the wind takes me…”
When is the best time to visit Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park? Disney Dining would love to hear your opinion in the comments!
Get rid of the stupid Annual/Magic Key Passes! These people cause most of the problems in the park as it is! This group of people are one of the main reasons the parks are losing money daily! These people end up being some of the rudest guests in the parks because they think they own the park and think they’re owed something just because they have a pass! I’m telling you if get rid of these passes, half of the resort’s problems would disappear!