Hotel ART Shuttle System Shutting Down Operations in Disneyland

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January 30, 2026

Hotel ART Shuttle System to End Operations

For nearly 30 years, the bright blue and white buses of the Anaheim Transportation Network (ATN) have been a staple of the Southern California skyline. However, a major shift in the Disneyland Resort landscape is coming: ATN has officially announced that it will begin an “orderly wind-down” of its operations, with all services—including the popular ART (Anaheim Regional Transportation) shuttle—permanently concluding on March 31, 2026.

The decision marks the end of an era for the transit agency that has moved more than 8 million riders annually, connecting millions of tourists, employees, and local residents to Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure, the Anaheim Convention Center, and beyond.

The closure comes after years of mounting financial pressure. According to ATN officials, the agency has faced “structural deficits” that became increasingly difficult to manage. ATN is primarily funded through a combination of rider fares and contributions from local hotels, which pay into the system based on their room counts.

While hotel contributions were capped at a 5% annual increase, this was not enough to offset skyrocketing labor costs, which account for more than 70% of the agency’s operating expenses. Last year, the City of Anaheim explored a potential takeover of the transit network to stabilize its finances, but those discussions ultimately fell through, leaving the ATN Board of Directors with no viable path forward.

For guests staying at “Good Neighbor” hotels along Harbor Boulevard, Katella Avenue, and near the Anaheim Convention Center, the ART shuttle has long been the primary alternative to walking or expensive parking.

The impact of the shutdown will be felt across several key services:

Regional Connections: Services to the Anaheim Packing District, the Outlets at Orange, and the ARTIC transportation hub will also cease.

The ART Shuttle: The fixed and on-demand routes that service dozens of off-site hotels will vanish.

The Toy Story Parking Lot: Currently, ATN operates the buses for the Toy Story lot. While it is expected that Disney will find a third-party contractor to keep these specific shuttles running, no formal plan has been announced yet.

Have you ever used the ART shuttles?

Disneyland Removes Captain America Sam Wilson in Avengers Campus Ahead of Release of Marvel’s Doomsday

By

Sara

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January 30, 2026

Sam Wilson’s Captain America Exits Avengers Campus Ahead of ‘Marvel’s Doomsday’

Sam Wilson’s Captain America has officially concluded his run at Disney California Adventure, with the character no longer scheduled for appearances within Avengers Campus.

The hero’s final flight reportedly took place on Saturday, Jan. 24, marking the end of Sam Wilson’s tenure as a resident of Avengers Campus. Previously, the character was a staple of the land’s atmosphere, appearing both as a meet-and-greet hero and a lead in the Avengers Assemble stunt show. The latter’s closure last spring was part of a broader series of entertainment budget cuts across Disney California Adventure.

This departure arrives as the MCU prepares for Avengers: Doomsday, a landmark film featuring the return of Chris Evans as Steve Rogers alongside Anthony Mackie’s Sam Wilson. Mackie’s Captain America was last seen on the big screen in February 2025 with the release of Captain America: Brave New World.

Are you sad to see this Captain America leave Avengers Campus?

Disneyland After Dark: Tickets for Star Wars and Disney Channel Nites Go on Sale Feb. 5th

By

Sara

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January 30, 2026

Disneyland After Dark Tickets on Sale Feb. 5th

Dust off your Mickey ears and polish your lightsabers—Disneyland has officially dropped details for this Spring’s Disneyland After Dark events. In a recent announcement via the @DisneyParks Instagram, the resort confirmed that Star Wars Nite and Disney Channel Nite are returning to Disneyland Park with new characters, nostalgic entertainment, and an earlier-than-expected ticket drop.

Disney Channel Nite: The Ultimate Throwback

This year’s event is leaning heavily into the 2000s nostalgia that fans crave. The biggest news? Penny Proud from The Proud Family will be making her official Disneyland Resort debut.

Entertainment Highlights:

High School Musical – ZOMBIES Pep Rally: A high-energy mashup of your favorite DCOM hits.
DescenDANCE: A villain-kid-themed party along the Rivers of America.
Camp Rock Sing-Along: Belt out “This Is Me” at the Golden Horseshoe.
The Food: Disney is leaning into the theme with “Loaded Dino Nuggies” and a brand-new Ice Cream Naco (a nod to Kim Possible).

Star Wars Nite: The Force Returns

Fans of a galaxy far, far away will see the return of the “March of the First Order,” featuring Captain Phasma patrolling Tomorrowland for Resistance spies. You might also catch a glimpse of Darth Maul at the Tomorrowland Terrace or catch a set from Figrin D’an and the Modal Nodes (The Cantina Band).

New Galactic Eats:

Pizza Five-Blossom Bread: Debuting at Oga’s Cantina.
Galactic Bundt Cake: Available at multiple locations throughout the park.

A Bonus Treat: 70 Years of Favorites

Disneyland also shared a sneak peek at the 70 Years of Favorites event taking place March 3 and 5. The standout feature will be “Sounds of Magic,” a riverfront serenade. This show will feature live vocalists performing medleys from retired fan-favorite shows, including Tiana’s Showboat Jubilee and Frozen – Live at the Hyperion.

Ticket Sale Timeline: Mark Your Calendars

Demand is expected to be sky-high, so fans should prepare for the virtual queue early. Tickets go on sale to the general public no earlier than 9 a.m. PT on Thursday, Feb. 5.

However, Magic Key holders get a head start with two exclusive pre-sale windows:

Tuesday, Feb. 3 (9 a.m. PT): Pre-sale opens for Inspire Key holders.
Wednesday, Feb. 4 (9 a.m. PT): Pre-sale opens for all Magic Key holders.

Disneyland After Dark events are more than just a party; they offer a “mix-in” period that lets you maximize your time in the park. Each ticket includes:

Early Admission: Enter Disneyland Park three hours before the official party start time.
Disney PhotoPass: Unlimited digital downloads of all photos taken during the event.
Commemorative Swag: A themed credential and event guide map.

Will you be attending either of those Disneyland After Dark events?

First Look at Pixar’s Hoppers Popcorn Buckets, Sippers and More

By

Sara

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January 29, 2026

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Pixar’s Hoppers Novelty Popcorn Buckets and Sippers Revealed

With Pixar’s latest adventure, Hoppers, set to leap into theaters on March 6, 2026, the real race isn’t just for tickets—it’s for the concession stand. Movie theater chains are going all out with exclusive novelty items that celebrate the film’s “Amphibian King” viral sensation, Tom Lizard, and the robotic beaver hero, Mabel.

Here is a breakdown of the must-have popcorn buckets, sippers, and collectibles coming to a theater near you.

AMC Theatres: The “Climbing” Tom Lizard Bucket

AMC is leaning into the viral popularity of Tom Lizard with a highly stylized 3D popcorn tin.

The 3D Popcorn Tin: This black metal bucket is covered in a vibrant green gecko-print pattern. The standout feature? A sculpted green Tom Lizard figure that appears to be “climbing” up the side of the bucket.
Character Toppers: AMC will also offer themed cups with a variety of collectible toppers, including King George, Mabel in her beaver form, and (of course) Tom Lizard.
Dolby Cinema Exclusive: Fans attending the early screening in Dolby Cinema on March 7 can snag a mystery character keychain, available while supplies last.

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Cinemark: The Pond Crew Tumbler

Cinemark’s collection focuses on the colorful “Pond Crew” and offers some of the most unique structural designs we’ve seen recently.

The 16oz Sculpted Tumbler: This clear, yellow-tinted tumbler features a “cup within a cup” look. A Tom Lizard figure sits at the very bottom, while the lid is topped with a clear dome housing a figure of Mabel.
Fun-Sized Combo: For those looking for a classic set, Cinemark is offering a bright yellow “Pond Crew” popcorn pail and matching cup featuring the full animal cast, including Ellen Bear and Loaf.

Harkins Theatres: The Beaver Lodge Bucket

Harkins is taking a more “sculptural” approach with a bucket that looks more like a toy than a snack container.

Beaver Lodge Popcorn Bucket: This elaborate bucket is shaped like a beaver lodge. It features Mabel (in robot beaver form) and her communicator perched on top.
The “Easter Egg”: True to the film’s playful nature, the lodge contains a hidden Tom Lizard tucked away for fans to find.

Fandango & Marcus Theatres: Exclusive Pin Bundles

If you prefer your collectibles to be wearable, Fandango and Marcus Theatres are offering a Pond Crew Pin Bundle.

The Deal: For $29.99, fans receive a movie ticket and one of three official Disney exclusive collector pins.
The Designs: The pins feature Mabel, King George, or Tom Lizard, each holding their own tiny box of movie theater popcorn.

When to Buy

While Hoppers officially opens on March 6, these novelty items typically hit concession stands 1–2 weeks early. Given the “accidental viral marketing” success of Tom Lizard, these are expected to sell out quickly. You don’t usually need a movie ticket just to visit the concession stand, so if you have your heart set on that 3D lizard tin, you might want to “hop” over to the theater early!

Paint the Night returns to Disneyland this Friday!

By

Sara

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January 29, 2026

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Paint the Night Glows Again at Disneyland This Friday

Get ready to glow, Disney fans! The moment we have all been waiting for has finally arrived. This Friday, January 30, 2026, the favorite “Paint the Night” Parade officially makes its grand return to Disneyland Park, lighting up the streets of Anaheim once again!

After a long hiatus, the most vibrant nighttime spectacular in Disney history is back to dazzle guests with its 1.5 million brilliant LED lights, high-energy soundtrack, and incredible cast of performers.

Since its debut during the Diamond Celebration, “Paint the Night” has held a special place in the hearts of Disneyland guests. The parade is a modern tribute to the Main Street Electrical Parade, but with a massive technological upgrade.

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From the moment the first notes of Owl City’s “When Can I See You Again?” hit the speakers, the energy on Main Street, U.S.A. is unmatched. You can expect to see all your favorite floats returning, including:

Mickey Mouse and Friends: Leading the way in a whirlwind of light.
Monsters, Inc.: Featuring Mike and Sulley and those iconic glowing doors.
Cars: Including a massive, light-up Mack truck that spans the entire street.
The Little Mermaid: With King Triton and Ariel in an underwater neon wonderland.
Toy Story: Slinky Dog taking a trip through a glowing toy chest.

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If you are planning to head to the park this Friday to catch the premiere, here is what you need to know:

Check the App: Showtimes are typically scheduled for twice nightly, but you’ll want to check the Disneyland App for the exact times on Friday to ensure you don’t miss a beat.
Arrive Early: “Paint the Night” is a fan powerhouse. Expect the parade route from “it’s a small world” to Main Street to fill up hours in advance.
MagicBand+ Integration: Don’t forget to wear your MagicBand+! The bands are expected to sync with the parade, pulsing with colors and vibrations that match the music and floats as they pass by.

The return of “Paint the Night” kicks off a spectacular weekend at the Disneyland Resort. Whether you’re a local or traveling from afar, there is something truly soul-stirring about seeing the park come alive under the glow of millions of lights.

So, grab your neon gear, find a spot on the curb, and get ready to “Paint the Night!”

Comcast CFO Confirms Epic Universe Still Not Operating at Full Capacity

By

Chris B

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January 29, 2026

Universal Orlando Investing $20 Million on New Secret Event Venue Coming to Epic Universe

Universal Epic Universe Still Not at Full Capacity but the Park Is Already a Powerhouse

Even eight months after opening, Epic Universe is still stretching its legs. During this week’s earnings call, executives from Comcast confirmed that Universal’s newest theme park is not yet operating at full capacity, but that has not stopped it from being the main engine behind a massive 22 percent jump in theme park revenue last quarter.

Epic Universe Helps Universal Theme Park Revenue Jump 22% in 2025

Comcast CFO Jason S. Armstrong shared that Epic Universe is not yet running at full run rate capacity, but meaningful progress has been made expanding ride throughput, with the company focused on scaling further over the coming quarters through higher attendance, stronger per guest spending, and increased operating leverage. While co CEO Mike Cavanagh had previously suggested Epic Universe could hit full capacity within a few months, he clarified on the call that the park is now expected to reach that milestone by the end of this year.

Cavanagh also touched on the future of the park, noting that Universal plans to continue investing in Epic Universe, though the priority this year is filling the on site hotels. That said, site preparation is already underway for potential future expansion, hinting that the story of Epic Universe is far from finished. Epic Universe officially opened on May 22, 2025, and even without running at full capacity, it has already reshaped Universal Orlando’s attendance and spending patterns, making it clear this park still has plenty of room to grow.

Epic Universe Helps Universal Theme Park Revenue Jump 22% in 2025

By

Chris B

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January 29, 2026

Universal Orlando Resort Survey Suggests New Annual Pass Options for Epic Universe

Universal Theme Park Revenue Jumps 22 Percent Thanks to Epic Universe Success

Universal’s latest earnings report just dropped and it is a blockbuster worthy of a front row seat. Parent company Comcast revealed that Universal theme parks pulled in $2.9 billion in revenue during Q4 2025, marking a massive 22 percent increase compared to the same quarter in 2024, with Epic Universe taking a well earned victory lap after opening in May 2025. The numbers tell a very clear story as guests are spending more, staying longer, and flocking to Orlando to explore Universal’s newest park anchored by the show stopping Chronos entrance.

It was not just revenue climbing the coaster hill either. Universal’s theme park adjusted EBITDA jumped 24 percent to $1.035 billion, showing that Epic Universe is not just popular, it is profitable. Comcast reported full year revenue of $123.7 billion, essentially flat year over year, but adjusted EBITDA climbed to $37.4 billion. The quarter also benefited from the release of Wicked: For Good, which has already grossed $1.3 billion worldwide, proving that Universal’s theme parks and film divisions are feeding each other like a perfectly themed cinematic universe.

Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up to be even bigger for Universal. It will be the first full year of Epic Universe operations, plus the debut of the new Universal Kids Resort, the opening of Fast and Furious Hollywood Drift at Universal Studios Hollywood, and the start of construction on Universal’s brand new theme park in Great Britain. If Epic Universe is the opening act, Universal’s long term expansion plans look ready for a full on encore.

Disney Modifying Happily Ever After Fireworks Due to Cinderella Castle Repainting

By

Sara

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January 29, 2026

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Happily Ever After Fireworks to be Modified During Castle Repainting

If you’re planning to catch Happily Ever After soon, you might notice a few changes! To accommodate the ongoing repainting of Cinderella Castle, Disney has made some temporary modifications to the nighttime spectacular to ensure the magic stays bright while the castle gets its glow-up.

While the show’s signature fireworks, pyrotechnics, and castle projections are still lighting up the night, guests will notice one major element missing: the lasers have been temporarily cut. This modification is most noticeable during the high-energy “Friend Like Me” segment, which typically fills the sky with beams. You’ll also spot the difference during the Finding Nemo section, the powerful conclusion of the “Hero’s Welcome” sequence, and several key moments throughout the grand finale.

The long-awaited transformation of Cinderella Castle is officially underway as of January 28, 2026. This restoration marks the end of the “rose gold” era, as Disney moves away from the pink and royal blue scheme introduced for the 50th Anniversary in 2021. Instead, the park’s icon is being restored to its timeless, classic palette of traditional grays, creams, and light blues, accented by radiant gold spires.

Work is already visible on the castle’s upper spires, with fresh gray paint appearing earlier this week as crews began the transition. To accommodate the extensive project—which involves high-reach cranes and specialized crews—Magic Kingdom has adjusted its daily entertainment schedule:

“Let the Magic Begin” Welcome Show: This morning ceremony is currently running in a modified format, featuring the classic fanfare and music but excluding characters and pyrotechnics for the time being.
“Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire”: Performance times for this castle stage show have been shifted to later in the afternoon (typically starting at 1:00 PM) to allow painting crews to work undisturbed during the morning hours.
A Photo-Friendly Project: Disney plans to lower and remove cranes from view by noon each day, ensuring guests can still capture those iconic, unobstructed castle photos throughout the afternoon.

The project is expected to continue through most of the year, with the full classic reveal slated for later in 2026.

Disney World Celebrates World War II Veteran 101st Birthday at Magic Kingdom Flag Retreat Ceremony

By

Sara

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January 29, 2026

101-Year-Old WWII Veteran Honored at Magic Kingdom’s Flag Retreat

At Walt Disney World, every day is full of magic, but some days are truly monumental. On Sunday, January 25, 2026, the Magic Kingdom had the distinct honor of celebrating the 101st birthday of World War II Veteran Herbert Maneloveg.

Related – Veterans Day Celebrations at Disney Parks

Herbert’s legacy of service is nothing short of heroic. He served as a Private in the U.S. Army’s 106th Infantry Divisionduring the infamous Battle of the Bulge. It was during this pivotal conflict that Herbert was wounded in action, later receiving the Purple Heart for the injuries he sustained while defending freedom on the front lines.

Herbert and his family spent the day soaking in the wonder of the park, including a front-row view of the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade. However, the highlight of the celebration took place in Town Square during the storied Flag Retreat Ceremony.

A Legacy of Honor: These daily ceremonies have been a staple at Disneyland since opening day in 1955 and at Magic Kingdom since 1971.
The Representative of the Day: Each evening, a veteran or active-duty service member is chosen to serve as the “U.S. Armed Forces Representative of the Day,” standing as a symbol of gratitude for all who serve.

As America prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, The Walt Disney Company remains dedicated to recognizing the brave men and women who have served—both within the Disney workforce and in our local communities. By sharing the enduring legacies of veterans like Herbert Maneloveg, Disney ensures that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

Bluey #1 Most Watched Show of 2025

By

Catherine

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January 29, 2026

The Heeler Reign Continues: ‘Bluey’ Crowned Most-Watched Show of 2025

For the second year in a row, the Heelers are sitting comfortably on the iron throne of streaming. According to the latest data from Nielsen’s ARTEY Awards, the beloved Australian animated series Bluey was the most-streamed title in the U.S. for 2025, amassing a staggering 45.2 billion minutes watched.

The achievement is a testament to the show’s cross-generational appeal. Despite being a children’s program, Bluey beat out every heavy hitter in the streaming world, including gritty adult dramas, blockbuster films, and long-running sitcoms.

The David Among Goliaths

What makes Bluey’s 45.2 billion minutes truly remarkable is the “efficiency” of its library. While other top-charting shows rely on hundreds of hour-long episodes to rack up time, Bluey achieved its #1 spot with:

Only 154 episodes currently available on Disney+.
An average runtime of just 7–9 minutes per episode.

In comparison, the runner-up, Grey’s Anatomy, clocked in at 40.9 billion minutes. However, the medical drama boasts a massive library of 455 episodes, each running roughly 40 minutes. For Bluey to outpace such a giant with a fraction of the content suggests a level of “rewatchability” that is virtually unparalleled in modern media.

2025’s Top 10 Most-Streamed Titles

The 2025 charts were dominated by “acquired” content—older shows licensed to streamers—with only one streaming original breaking into the Top 10.

Rank	Title	Minutes Watched (Billions)	Platform(s)
1	*Bluey*	45.2	Disney+
2	Grey’s Anatomy	40.9	Hulu / Netflix
3	Stranger Things	40.0	Netflix
4	NCIS	36.9	Various
5	SpongeBob SquarePants	34.3	Paramount+
6	Bob’s Burgers	34.1	Hulu
7	Family Guy	33.4	Hulu
8	The Big Bang Theory	32.4	Max
9	Law & Order: SVU	26.8	Hulu / Peacock
10	Criminal Minds	24.1	Hulu / Peacock

The “Gunsmoke” Phenomenon

While Bluey took the overall crown, Nielsen highlighted another surprising success story at the ARTEY Awards: the classic Western Gunsmoke.

Running for 20 seasons between 1955 and 1975, the series was named the “Most-Binged Title of the Year.” It saw a meteoric rise from 10.2 billion minutes in 2024 to 22.5 billion minutes in 2025.

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Nielsen’s deep dive into the data revealed some fascinating trends:

Extreme Loyalty: Viewers watched an average of 241 episodes per person.
Accessibility Matters: Its presence on free, ad-supported platforms (FAST) like Pluto TV significantly drove growth.
Diverse Audience: While the show skews toward an older demographic, Black viewers accounted for a significant 29% of its total stream time.

As streaming consumption hit a record 16.7 trillion minutes in 2025 (a 19% increase from 2024), the “Bluey effect” shows no signs of slowing down. With a Bluey feature film reportedly in development and the show remaining a staple in the Top 10 weekly charts, the Heeler family seems poised for a potential hat-trick in 2026.

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift Cars Being Delivered to Universal Studios Hollywood

By

Chris B

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January 28, 2026

First Section of Coaster Track Installed for Fast and Furious Hollywood Drift at Universal Orlando

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift Cars Arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is officially shifting into high gear as the first ride vehicles for Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift have arrived on property. Universal shared the milestone in a new Instagram video showing the cars being delivered to the park, marking another major step forward for the upcoming attraction.

Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift Cars Being Delivered to Universal Hollywood

Fans eager for a close up look at the ride vehicles will need a little more patience. In the video, the cars are fully covered during delivery, meaning Universal did not reveal their final design just yet. Even so, the arrival of the vehicles is a significant construction milestone and suggests the project is moving steadily toward testing phases.

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is set to become Universal Studios Hollywood’s first outdoor roller coaster and will feature spinning ride vehicles designed to simulate drifting through high speed turns. The coaster is being built on the Upper Lot and has been spotted testing in recent weeks.

Universal has already confirmed that Hollywood Drift is also coming to Universal Orlando Resort, where it will replace Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit. While the Orlando version will share the same Fast & Furious drifting concept, the track layout will be different from the Hollywood coaster. Once Hollywood Drift opens in Orlando, Fast & Furious Supercharged will close and be re-themed into an entirely different dark ride, marking a major shift for the franchise’s presence at Universal Orlando.

View this post on Instagram

With ride vehicles now arriving in Hollywood and long term plans already in motion for Florida, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is clearly a key part of Universal’s future coaster lineup. While no opening dates have been announced yet, momentum is building fast on both coasts.

Magic Kingdom Space Mountain Testing Single Rider Queue

By

Chris B

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January 28, 2026

Magic Kingdom Space Mountain Testing Single Rider Queue

Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom Tests New Single Rider Queue

Space Mountain at Magic Kingdom quietly tested a new single rider queue on Tuesday, January 27, giving guests a possible glimpse at a faster way to blast through the stars solo. According to Cast Members, the test ran for a short window from 10 am to 12 pm, with additional tests expected in the coming days or weeks depending on crowd levels.

Normally, single riders at Space Mountain wait in the standard standby line and can mention they are a solo guest when reaching the Lightning Lane merge point. In those cases, Cast Members may fit a single rider into an earlier rocket if space allows, but this usually only trims about 10 minutes off the wait. During the recent test, Cast Members noted that the new system moved single riders through the queue much more efficiently and felt the trial went well overall.

During the test period, guests were informed that a single rider option was available and were told exactly how it worked. Parties choosing this option agreed to be split up before entering the Lightning Lane queue. At the merge point, single riders identified themselves again and were directed into a dedicated single rider queue on the Omega side of the load area, while the Alpha side continued to serve standby guests only.

Because Lightning Lane guests tap their MagicBands again at the merge point, the system prevents guests from falsely claiming single rider status at the main entrance. Single riders were then used to fill empty seats in rockets with Lightning Lane guests on the Omega side, helping maximize ride capacity while keeping standby and Lightning Lane operations running smoothly. While nothing has been officially announced, this test could signal a more permanent single rider option coming to one of Magic Kingdom’s most iconic attractions.