Disney World is supposed to be the happiest place on Earth, but let’s be real—sometimes people just don’t get the memo. While most of us are busy taking pictures in front of Cinderella Castle or arguing over whether to grab a Mickey pretzel or a churro, a handful of guests this year have decided to turn their visit into a personal episode of World’s Dumbest Theme Park Fails.
From bizarre public stunts to moments that left security scrambling, 2025 has been packed with guests who clearly didn’t read the “be kind and courteous” part of the park map. And thanks to the power of social media, nearly all of it has been caught on camera.
Whether you’re here for the laughs, the jaw-drops, or the “what were they thinking?” moments, here are the 10 wildest guest stories from Disney World so far this year:
1. Tree of Life or Climbing Wall?
One visitor at Animal Kingdom took things to new heights—literally. In May, a guest was caught on video climbing the Tree of Life. Not admiring it. Climbing it. Like it was some sort of jungle gym. The footage spread fast online, with fans speculating that a permanent ban might be in this guy’s future. Disney didn’t confirm the punishment, but let’s just say this isn’t the kind of thing they let slide.
2. A Mickey Bar and a Baggie of Cocaine?
Back in April, a man attempting to enter Magic Kingdom was stopped by security. Turns out, he had cocaine tucked away in his wallet. He admitted to using it to cope with work stress, but unsurprisingly, that explanation didn’t stop his arrest—or his ban from all Disney properties.
3. National Anthem Gone Wild
At EPCOT, a guest took the popular “Drink Around the World” challenge way too far. After a few stops, they decided the best way to show their patriotism was to belt out the national anthem… while jumping into the fountain at the American Adventure Pavilion. Security wasn’t amused and quickly escorted them out.
4. Fake Bomb Threat Shuts Down Monorail
If there’s one thing you absolutely shouldn’t do at Disney World, it’s shout the B-word. But one guest did just that—falsely claiming there was a bomb, which forced Disney to shut down its monorail system entirely. Police arrived quickly and the individual was arrested, though charges weren’t ultimately filed. Still, it disrupted transportation across the resort and rattled a lot of nerves.
5. Tiana’s Bayou Misadventure – Hat Edition
On the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ride, a man decided his hat was more important than common sense. He jumped off the ride mid-journey and wandered around the attraction, completely ignoring Cast Members. The ride was stopped for safety, causing a big delay and a big headache for everyone else waiting.
6. Tiana Trouble… Again
Oddly enough, this wasn’t the first guest to go rogue on Tiana’s ride. Earlier this year, a different visitor pulled their child off the log and reportedly explored the ride for 40+ minutes before being stopped. That’s not only dangerous—it’s baffling.
7. Fireworks Viewing Turns Violent
Fireworks nights at Magic Kingdom are magical, but they’re also packed. Still, that doesn’t excuse what happened when a Tennessee man couldn’t get a good viewing spot. Instead of moving along, he assaulted a security guard. He was arrested on felony battery charges, putting a serious damper on his vacation—and his record.
8. Child Abuse Arrest at Disney Hotel
One of the most disturbing incidents of the year happened off the park grounds but still on Disney property. A man was arrested at a resort hotel for allegedly strangling a child. Alcohol was reportedly involved, and he pleaded not guilty to felony charges. This one shook a lot of people.
9. Theft at Pop Century Resort
In March, a man decided to shop without paying at the Everything Pop store. Other guests witnessed the theft and the arrest that followed. Not exactly the kind of Disney memory you want to take home.
10. Vandalism Becoming a Trend
Here’s the scary part: this isn’t just about one person. A growing number of guests have reportedly been damaging ride props and set pieces. In some cases, sections of attractions were left unrecognizable. Repairs have been costly and time-consuming, and it’s becoming a trend that fans and Cast Members alike are begging to end.
Disney World Guests: Do Better
Let’s face it—when you act out at Disney World, it’s not just your own day you’re ruining. Thousands of other guests are there trying to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Some families save for years just to spend a few days in the parks. They deserve the magic, not mayhem.
Cast Members work hard in the Florida heat to keep everything running smoothly, all while smiling and spreading joy. Whether they’re managing safety, directing crowds, or making your kid’s day with a surprise high-five, they shouldn’t also have to deal with grown adults behaving like toddlers.
It doesn’t cost anything to be respectful. Follow the rules. Don’t climb things. Don’t fight security. Don’t destroy the experiences that so many people look forward to. You’re in a theme park, not on a prank show.
So next time you visit Disney World, be part of the magic—not the madness.
