With each new year comes new rules, and Disneyland is no exception.
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In 2025, Disneyland introduced a significant change to its pin trading system. Previously, guests could trade pins freely throughout the park, which often led to disarray and crowding in popular areas. Now, avid pin traders must use a designated trading area located near the Westward Ho Trading Company. This change aims to streamline the trading experience, promoting a more organized and enjoyable environment for all guests.
Along with the new trading area, Disneyland has also placed restrictions on the size of bags that guests can bring for pin trading. Each trader is allowed to bring one bag, which must not exceed dimensions of 14 by 12 by 6 inches. This limitation ensures that traders keep their setup compact, further minimizing the chaos that can sometimes accompany large social gatherings of pin enthusiasts.
In previous years, some traders attempted to set up elaborate displays to entice others to trade. To address this, Disneyland has prohibited the use of lights, signs, and park benches for displaying pins. In doing so, the park aims to maintain a balanced and enjoyable atmosphere, while also ensuring that trading remains a fun and social activity rather than a marketplace.
Changes to Disability Access Service (DAS)
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Another major change in 2025 pertains to Disneyland’s Disability Access Service (DAS). This service is designed to assist guests who require special accommodations while waiting for rides. With a history of misuse, Disney implemented a new enrollment process that requires guests to participate in a virtual video call with a trained cast member. This change not only aims to streamline the registration process but also to ensure that the service is truly beneficial to those in need.
Following enrollment, guests can select an attraction and receive a return time, echoing the procedures of the Lightning Lane system. This method allows guests to enjoy other park experiences while minimizing their wait for popular attractions. The modified DAS process is intended to provide a more equitable and enjoyable experience for all park visitors.
Disneyland has made it clear that abuse of the DAS system will have consequences. They will implement strict actions against those found misusing the service, creating a system that prioritizes the needs of guests who genuinely require assistance. By reinforcing these rules, Disneyland hopes to foster respect and understanding among all visitors.
2025 also saw the introduction of virtual queues at Disneyland, aimed at enhancing the guest experience. This system functions similar to making a reservation at a restaurant—guests can receive a designated time to return and experience an attraction without the need to wait in lengthy lines. This approach allows for better crowd management and a more enjoyable experience overall.
Many guests appreciate the efficiency of virtual queues compared to traditional standby lines. While standby lines require guests to physically wait in line for potentially extended periods, virtual queues give them the flexibility to engage in other park activities while they wait for their return time. This feature has made a significant difference in how visitors experience the parks.
As Disneyland continues to evolve, virtual queues have proven popular among visitors. These queues often feature for new attractions, allowing guests to bypass the lengthy wait times typically associated with highly anticipated rides. However, guests should be prepared to wake up early to secure their spot, as availability is limited and can sell out quickly.
One of the attractions significantly impacted by these new rules is Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Initially, this attraction operated solely under the virtual queue system. However, in 2025, Disneyland allowed access through the standby line, providing more options for guests to experience Princess Tiana’s latest adventure without relying solely on virtual queues.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, another popular ride, has also undergone changes similar to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Once exclusively accessible through virtual queues, guests can now experience this thrilling ride via the standby line as well. This shift reflects Disneyland’s commitment to adapting to guest feedback and improving the overall experience.
With the successful implementation of these new rules, Disneyland is poised to integrate them into upcoming attractions as well. Guests can expect to see a combination of virtual queues and standby line options for new experiences, further improving their visit to the park. Disneyland’s adjustments ensure that they remain committed to providing a magical experience for everyone, regardless of the attractions they wish to explore.
These new rules and procedures mark a notable era in Disneyland’s history, aiming to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and overall visitor enjoyment. As the years go by, Disneyland will continue to adapt and cater to the needs of its diverse guest base, ensuring it remains “The Happiest Place on Earth.”
