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Gridlock at the Gates: Disneyland Parking Structures Max Out, Backup Plan Activated

Disneyland has been absolutely slammed this week, and guests are feeling it. We’re talking wall-to-wall crowds, ride lines longer than some movies, and entire parking structures maxed out by noon.

A guest and a cast member at Downtown Disney at Disneyland Resort
Credit: Disney

And with Star Wars Day officially landing today, May 4th, things just kicked into hyperdrive.

PARKING MELTDOWN: “I Drove in Circles for 40 Minutes!”

Guests arriving mid-morning found Mickey & Friends and Pixar Pals lots totally full—leaving them rerouted to the Toy Story Lot like it’s Comic-Con weekend. Traffic on Ball Road? Gridlocked. Tempers? Flared.

Some visitors posted on social media that they spent over 40 minutes just looking for a parking space. And once they made it into the parks? That’s when the real waiting began.

Theme Park Obsession shared a photo of the traffic as well, stating, “Parking structure is full and traffic is being rerouted to Toy Story lot. Yeah…they are making a lot on churros and ice cream today.”

RIDE TIMES WENT NUCLEAR

If you thought a 45-minute wait for Haunted Mansion was long, try 60+ minutes. Over in Galaxy’s Edge, Rise of the Resistance nearly hit the 3-hour mark at one point this week—and it’s only expected to be worse today.

Even classic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean, Autopia, and Jungle Cruise were stacked with guests. Some families said they only rode three attractions all day—and paid full price for the privilege.

FOOD? GOOD LUCK.

Mobile ordering at restaurants like Galactic Grill, Ronto Roasters, and Flo’s V8 Café? Forget it by noon—return windows were sold out for hours. Some guests reported walking up and being turned away completely.

It wasn’t just the food lines—gift shops were jam-packed too. With May the 4th merchandise launching, fans rushed for collectibles like limited-edition lightsabers, LEGO Star Wars sets, and Spirit Jerseys, turning Galaxy’s Edge into a merchandise warzone.

MAY THE 4TH = MADNESS

And now? It’s Star Wars Day, baby. Disneyland’s Batuu is expected to hit capacity early, with thousands of fans showing up in cosplay, dragging lightsabers, and ready to drop serious credits on merch and snacks.

With Disneyland stacking exclusive items, photo ops, and themed treats on May 4, this day’s been circled on a LOT of calendars. If you’re not in line by rope drop, you might not even get into the land.

WHY IS IT SO WILD RIGHT NOW?

There’s no one reason, but here’s what we’re hearing:

  • Magic Key holders are squeezing in visits before blockout periods.

  • Out-of-towners are starting summer trips early.

  • The weather’s perfect and dry after weeks of rain.

  • Everyone wants to be part of Star Wars Day.

SO WHAT NOW?

If you’re brave enough to hit the parks this weekend:

  • Show up early—like really early.

  • Be flexible. Plans will change.

  • Hydrate. Be patient. Lower your expectations.

Disneyland is magical, yes. But this week, it’s also chaos. May the Force be with you—you’re gonna need it.

Alessia Dunn

Orlando theme park lover who loves thrills and theming, with a side of entertainment. You can often catch me at Disney or Universal sipping a cocktail, or crying during Happily Ever After or Fantasmic.

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