Organizing a family trip to Disneyland or Disneyworld has always been somewhat of an ordeal, and things aren’t getting any simpler.
Late last month, Disney announced new rules that may affect families planning a vacation at one of their theme parks. The complete list of Disney park rules is a great resource to read before finalizing plans, but the three biggest changes are as outlined below.
Smoking Is Now Prohibited Inside All (American) Disney Parks
Starting May 1, 2019, smoking will be completely banned from Disney theme parks. Currently, smoking is allowed in Disney parks, albeit only in designated smoking areas. On May 1, that will all change. Guests hoping to sneak a smoke (cigarette, cigars, and e-cigarettes) will need to use one of the smoking areas located outside of the park. Though it will obviously be more legwork, Disney has said it will allow people to exit and then re-enter the park after they are through smoking. (Though smoking is banned throughout all of Disney’s theme parks, it will still be allowed at designated smoking areas within Disney resort campuses. The new smoking ban also does not apply to Disney parks in Japan, China, or France.)
Larger Strollers May Not Be Allowed Into the Park
The second major new rule also kicks into effect on May 1, 2019. On that date, Disney will no longer allow oversized strollers into its parks. What does Disney consider oversized? Any stroller larger than 31” wide and 52”. Stroller wagons will also no longer be allowed starting May 1. So, parents, we recommend busting out the measuring tape before packing up your double stroller so you don’t find yourselves dealing with an unexpected surprise while trying to pass through the gates to the Magic Kingdom.
Loose and Dry Ice Is Also Now Banned
Thinking of packing a cooler full of food and drink for the family while you’re at a Disney park? Not a bad idea! Just know that, as of March 28, 2019, you can no longer bring loose ice cubes or dry ice into Disney parks. Instead, Disney recommends you use reusable ice packs. Problem solved!
Of course, these are just two of the newest rules Disney will begin enforcing. Previous rules, such as bans on selfie sticks, are still in effect.
A spoonful of sugar to help the medicine go down a little easier: Disneyland’s first-ever bar, Oga’s Cantina, will open within the new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge world this year. Cheers to that!
All things considered, these changes should help make Disney parks safer and more enjoyable for all visiting families, but it’s best to know what to expect ahead of your arrival at the happiest, smoke-freest place on earth.
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