Epic Universe Park Hours Extended for Grand Opening Week—Here’s What’s Changing
Hold onto your dragon scales and warp whistles, because Universal Orlando just leveled up the opening plans for Epic Universe! Just ahead of the park’s highly anticipated debut on May 22, Universal has quietly extended the daily park hours, giving guests more time to explore every portal, potion, and pixel of its five immersive lands.
Originally, Epic Universe was set to operate from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with Early Park Admission for select guests beginning at 8:00 AM starting May 23. But now? The park will stay open until 10:00 PM every day from May 22 through June 1. That’s one whole extra hour to squeeze in a night flight on How to Train Your Dragon: Untrainable, battle dark forces in the Ministry of Magic, or take one more victory lap in Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge under the neon lights of Celestial Park.
Here’s the breakdown of what we know so far:
🔔 New Park Hours at Epic Universe:
May 22 – June 1: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
June 2 – June 15: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
June 16, 23, 24, 30: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
All other June dates: Currently listed as 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Keep in mind, Universal’s calendar is known to shift depending on demand—so don’t be surprised if we see more 10 PM closings added as summer vacation crowds start to build.
The best part? This extra hour makes a huge difference when it comes to maximizing your day. From jaw-dropping animatronics in Dark Universe to epic nighttime lighting packages (trust us, you’ll want to see Celestial Park glow), the after-dark vibes are next-level immersive.
If you’re visiting during opening week, be sure to pace yourself, stay hydrated, and maybe save that last Butterbeer for a moonlit stroll through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic. Magic hits different after dark.
Stay tuned to Chip and Co for more Epic Universe updates as opening day approaches—we’ll keep you posted on any further schedule changes, entertainment updates, and tips for navigating the grandest universe Universal has ever created!
Advance Tickets for Disney’s Live-Action “Lilo & Stitch” Are Here!
Get ready to journey back to the sunny shores of Hawai’i with the mischievous 626! Disney has announced that advance tickets are officially on sale now for the highly anticipated live-action reimagining of the beloved 2002 animated classic, “Lilo & Stitch.”
To add to the excitement, Disney has also released brand-new posters for the film, perfect for downloading and sharing with fellow “Lilo & Stitch” enthusiasts. These vibrant visuals offer a fresh look at the characters and the film’s enchanting world.
Mark your calendars! “Lilo & Stitch” will open exclusively in movie theaters on May 23rd, promising a visually stunning experience on premium screens everywhere, including Dolby Cinema, RealD 3D, Cinemark XD, and 4DX.
For those unfamiliar with the magic, “Lilo & Stitch” tells the wildly funny and deeply touching story of Lilo, a lonely young girl living in Hawai’i, and Stitch, a fugitive alien who crash-lands into her life. Through unexpected friendship, they help each other navigate life’s challenges and learn the true meaning of ‘ohana’ – family.
This live-action adaptation is helmed by award-winning filmmaker Dean Fleischer Camp, with a screenplay penned by Chris Kekaniokalani Bright and Mike Van Waes. The talented cast includes Sydney Elizebeth Agudong, Billy Magnussen, Tia Carrere, Hannah Waddingham, and Chris Sanders, who reprises his iconic voice role as Stitch. The film also features Courtney B. Vance, Zach Galifianakis, and introduces the charming Maia Kealoha.
“Lilo & Stitch” is produced by Jonathan Eirich, p.g.a., and Dan Lin, with Tom Peitzman, Ryan Halprin, Louie Provost, and Thomas Schumacher serving as executive producers.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of “Lilo & Stitch” on the big screen. Grab your advance tickets now and get ready for a heartwarming adventure that will remind you that ‘ohana means nobody gets left behind, or forgotten.
Florida Residents Can Unlock Summer Magic at Walt Disney World with Specially Priced Tickets
Sun’s out, magic’s in! Florida residents, get ready to heat up your summer plans with an unbeatable Walt Disney World offer just for you. Starting May 6, 2025, you can snag the new Summer Magic Ticket and enjoy the parks for as low as $60 per day, with no blockout dates through September 27, 2025!
Whether you’re in it for one enchanted day or looking to spread out the pixie dust across several visits, there’s a Summer Magic option to match your Disney style.
🌞 Florida Resident Summer Magic Ticket Prices:
4-Day Ticket – $60/day (Total: $240 + tax)
3-Day Ticket – $75/day (Total: $225 + tax)
2-Day Ticket – $105/day (Total: $210 + tax)
🎟️ Each ticket grants access to one Walt Disney World theme park per day and must be used by September 27, 2025. Use the days consecutively or nonconsecutively—it’s totally up to you!
✨ Add Even More Magic with These Optional Upgrades:
Park Hopper Option – Add $40 more per ticket, and visit multiple parks on the same day
Water Park and Sports Option – Add $35 more per ticket, and enjoy visits to water parks, mini golf, and more
Park Hopper Plus Option – Add $53 more per ticket for the best of both worlds: park hopping and water park/sports access
🌊 Both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach will be open from May 21 through September 7, so water park lovers, plan accordingly!
🗓️ When Can You Visit?
The Summer Magic Tickets are valid May 18 through September 27, 2025, with no blockout dates—just be sure to make park reservations in advance.
🎢 Important to Know:
You’ll need valid theme park admission and a reservation for the first park you plan to visit
After 2 PM, you can park hop (if you’ve added that option) without an additional reservation
Theme park capacity and reservation availability are limited, so book ASAP after purchasing
Proof of Florida residency is required at the park entrance for all adults using these tickets
Whether you’re finally trying that new EPCOT attraction, catching Happily Ever After fireworks, or splashing down at Typhoon Lagoon, the Summer Magic Ticket is the perfect way to turn your weekdays (or weekends!) into unforgettable Disney days.
Florida friends—this is your golden ticket to the magic this summer. Don’t wait too long… this offer disappears after September 27!
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Refurbishment Update: Track Work and Tumbleweed Touch-Ups Progressing in Magic Kingdom
Yeehaw, progress is rollin’ along on the wildest ride in the wilderness! Since closing for a major, multi-year refurbishment in January 2025, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Magic Kingdom is starting to show signs of transformation both inside and out. While most of the early work focused on backstage upgrades and interior refurbishment, recent developments give us a much clearer picture of what’s happening behind those Frontierland construction walls.
One of the most visible changes is now taking place outside the show building. Rolling planters have been added to block the view of the main queue path, and portions of the sidewalk have been torn up, signaling a full queue overhaul. Crews are currently repainting exterior walls of the queue buildings, first applying a white primer and then adding fresh new color. The return of a newly refreshed queue experience seems all but certain.
🎨 Tumbleweed Gets a Fresh Coat of Paint
Over in the town of Tumbleweed, located within the attraction’s main show scenes, construction crews have made significant strides in recent weeks. We spotted workers repainting the Gold Dust Saloon, touching up white trim and detailing on the facade. Much of the town has been wrapped in scaffolding, suggesting a full facelift is underway for the weathered western outpost. Disney clearly wants this fan-favorite frontier town to look its best when it reopens.
🛠️ Track Work Continues Behind the Scenes
Meanwhile, inside the mountain itself, track replacement is progressing steadily. New sections of steel track are being installed, with crews actively working near the sharp turn by the water. Several black metal supports and gas-powered welding tools have been brought in to complete these new connections. Nearby, fresh pink spray-painted lines on the rocks may indicate upcoming scenery or rockwork additions.
Crucially, a new tripod-mounted weather station has been spotted behind the construction walls, suggesting that environmental conditions are being carefully monitored during this phase of the project.
🔧 Generator Power and Heavy Machinery in Use
Large portable generators and cranes continue to be used throughout the site, powering jackhammers and other equipment needed to break up and replace old support infrastructure. A new gas pump was recently spotted being lowered onto the track area, hinting at continued welding or high-power tool use for precise installations.
Construction is also underway on a mysterious new building between Big Thunder Mountain and the upcoming Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Crew members were seen installing metal roofing, and while Disney hasn’t shared official details yet, this structure may serve future operational, entertainment, or guest service purposes for the area.
🗓️ When Will Big Thunder Reopen?
While there’s no confirmed reopening date just yet, Disney has filed new construction permits that extend through April 2026, replacing earlier ones that expired in the spring. Disney has teased that the attraction will feature “a little bit of new magic” when it reopens, but we’re still waiting to hear exactly what that means. Enhanced effects? Storyline tweaks? A smoother ride? Time will tell!
For now, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad remains a construction hotbed—but these latest updates prove that Disney is giving this beloved attraction the kind of thorough glow-up it deserves.
A New Queue Is Being Installed for The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure at Hollywood Studios
Big changes are making a splash in Animation Courtyard! As we count down to the debut of The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure on May 27, 2025, construction has officially expanded beyond the walls of the former Voyage of the Little Mermaid show building. Guests visiting Disney’s Hollywood Studios will now notice work taking place in the outdoor queue area, signaling the next stage of transformation for this under-the-sea spectacular.
Until now, most of the work on the upcoming live stage show has remained tucked away inside the building. But recently, rolling planters have been rolled in to obscure the area, and portions of the concrete sidewalk in the queue have been torn up—likely the first step in installing a brand-new queue system to better accommodate crowds for the upcoming show.
While Disney hasn’t officially revealed details of the new layout, this renovation points to a reimagined guest experience before guests even step foot inside the theater. Whether we’ll see shade structures, themed props, or other enhancements is still under wraps—but the work in progress shows that this production is getting a top-to-tail refresh.
What to Expect From The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure
Replacing the long-closed Voyage of the Little Mermaid, the new stage show invites guests of all ages to relive Ariel’s story with cutting-edge effects, immersive set design, and a splashy soundtrack filled with beloved hits like:
“Part of Your World”
“Under the Sea”
“Poor Unfortunate Souls”
“Kiss the Girl”
From dramatic showdowns with Ursula to dreamy musical moments with Prince Eric, this musical fairytale promises to bring the heart of the classic animated film to life in a way that’s both familiar and fantastically fresh.
📍 Animation Courtyard, Disney’s Hollywood Studios 🎭 Opening Date: May 27, 2025 👨👩👧👦 All Ages Welcome ♿ Accessibility details to be confirmed closer to opening
As Disney continues to reimagine guest favorites with updated technology and storytelling magic, this return to Ariel’s world couldn’t come at a better time. With summer crowds just around the corner, we expect this to be one of the most popular new offerings at Walt Disney World this year.
Stay tuned—we’ll be keeping an eye on the queue makeover and sharing all the updates as we inch closer to opening day. After all, life is the bubbles!
Maleficent is taking over V.I.Passholder Summer Days 2025 with Exclusive Magnet
Walt Disney World Annual Passholders have a new reason to embrace their villainous side this summer. As part of the V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days celebration, a striking new Passholder-exclusive magnet featuring Maleficent, the iconic villain from Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty,” will be available for a limited time.
Passholders looking to add this wickedly wonderful keepsake to their collection can claim their Maleficent magnet at the Creations Shop in EPCOT during regular park operating hours from May 14th through July 31st, 2025. This special magnet pays homage to the powerfully villainous fairy, instantly recognizable with her dramatic horns and imposing presence.
While visiting Walt Disney World Resort during V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days, Passholders can also look forward to other exciting new offerings. Notably, “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After,” a brand-new stage show brimming with delightful mayhem and mischief, is set to debut at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on May 27, 2025. This fiendishly funny show will offer a fresh perspective on beloved Disney villains as they share their side of the story.
The Maleficent Passholder magnet provides a unique souvenir for Annual Passholders enjoying the special perks and new entertainment available during Walt Disney World’s V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days.
Increased Discounts at Select Restaurants
Passholders can save 40% at select dining locations for a limited time this summer, Monday to Thursday only. These savings are available as part of V.I.PASSHOLDER Summer Days.
Save 40% at the following table-service restaurants—valid Monday to Thursday only from May 14 to June 30, 2025:
The Seas with Nemo & Friends Returning to Full-Day Hours at EPCOT Starting May 27
Good news, ocean explorers! Beginning May 27, 2025, The Seas with Nemo & Friendspavilion at EPCOT will once again operate on full-day hours, aligning with the rest of the park’s schedule. After several months of closing early at 7:00 PM, the pavilion is finally swimming back into the evening lineup—just in time for Memorial Day weekend.
Starting May 27, guests can enjoy both the Nemo-themed attraction and the multi-level aquarium right up until EPCOT’s standard closing time, which is typically 9:00 PM. This updated schedule is already reflected on Disney’s official park calendar.
Over the past few months, evening access to The Seas pavilion had been limited, with many guests missing out on nighttime visits to the tranquil aquariums and ocean exhibits. While Disney hasn’t officially commented on the early closures, they were likely tied to ongoing construction projects and a temporary closure of the manatee exhibit.
One of the most exciting updates within the pavilion is the reopening of the manatee habitat, which now features newly rescued manatees. Disney is working in collaboration with the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRP) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to support short-term rehab efforts for these gentle giants.
So whether you’re riding along with Mr. Ray and the gang, watching dolphins dart through the water, or saying “hi” to a couple of chunky sea cows, The Seas pavilion is once again a perfect spot to relax, explore, and enjoy the wonders of the ocean—day and night.
The Beak and Barrel: New Details from the Pirates of the Caribbean Tavern
Get ready to shout “Ahoy!” and raise your mugs high! 🍻 Adventureland in Magic Kingdom will soon be home to a lively new pirate pub: The Beak and Barrel, opening later this year! Founded by the legendary pirate rumrunner Captain Meridian “Merry” Goldwyn and her chatty first mate, Rummy (more tales of them to come!), this rollicking spot will welcome all ye swashbucklers, scallywags, and buccaneers, young and old, from every corner of the seven seas. 🏴☠️
As Merry’s trusted companion and first mate, Rummy serves as the tavern’s quartermaster keeping an eye on the place from his roost high atop the bar. Although retired from seafaring life, Rummy is a dutiful crewman to his beloved Merry, ensuring everything is ship-shape, sharing tales of piracy and leading the bar in a rousing toast or two.
Eagle-eyed Disney fans may notice that Rummy bears a striking resemblance to the original Barker Bird that previously sat at the entrance to Pirates of the Caribbean but flew the coop some time ago.
The Mess
The largest and central space at The Beak and Barrel was once the mess hall for Spanish soldiers and is now known appropriately as “The Mess.” Long tables span the room, allowing for pirates to gather ‘round and tell their own tales, while an imposing anchor covered in candles and dripping wax hangs high above.
A large bar anchors one side of the room, cobbled together from salvaged portions of a cursed shipwreck. At its center, the skull-shaped stern holds an impressive collection of grogs and brew. Guests may also spot the Enchanted Rum Bottle, which was gifted to Merry by the enchantress Tia Dalma and seemingly serves as the source of the tavern’s specialty brews, or Rummy hobbling along the bar’s ledge, greeting the patrons and keeping a close eye on the crew while Merry is away.
Captains’ Quarters
Inside the Captains’ Quarters, visiting pirates can enjoy a taste of the finer life, which was once the living quarters of the Spanish Comandante. However, the fine artwork and drapery hasn’t escaped slashing blades or burn marks over the years by rambunctious pirates, and in some places, faded spots on the wall are all that remains of now plundered portraits.
Above the fireplace are mounted five miniature ships in glass bottles, rumored to represent pirates from every corner of the world banding together to defeat tyranny. Keep a weathered eye out, as these mysterious bottles have been known to come alive and engage in a fearsome battle.
There’sstill plenty more to be discovered inside The Beak and Barrel, but that’s enough for today. Be sure to stay tuned for more details, including the opening date and a first look at some of the sea-worthy selection of drinks which are coming soon.
Ghostly Dog Bench Returns to Magic Kingdom After Nearly Five Years
Some spirits never truly leave—and one fan-favorite phantom pup is officially back at Magic Kingdom! The Ghostly Dog Bench, a cleverly creepy piece of theming that once resided near the Haunted Mansion, has made its long-awaited return just outside Memento Mori, the macabre gift shop near the Mansion’s entrance.
This isn’t a new addition, but rather a beloved blast from the ghoulish past. The bench was originally removed during the 2020 park closure and hasn’t been seen in the park since—until now.
The returning bench sits to the right of the stairs leading to Memento Mori’s porch, blending right into the eerie aesthetic of Liberty Square. Crafted from light brown wooden planks, the bench features green metal armrests and legs—but look closely and you’ll notice the true (ghost) story behind this seating.
Each armrest is shaped like the head of a dog, with swirling leaf patterns along the side and feet resembling fallen leaves. The painted red eyes give these ghostly good boys a haunting presence, contrasting sharply with the mossy green metal and drawing the eye in a very Haunted Mansion kind of way.
Freshly repainted and full of ghoulish charm, the bench fits right in with the spirit of Memento Mori and the overall lore of the Haunted Mansion. So whether you’re looking to rest your weary feet or just snap a photo with this spooky pup, this charmingly eerie bench is a perfect example of the small touches that make the Haunted Mansion experience feel delightfully haunted—even outside the ride itself.
Magic Kingdom’s Emporium Gets a Magical Makeover with New Counters, Flooring, and Finishing Touches
The iconic Emporium on Main Street, U.S.A. is slowly unveiling a brand-new look, and Disney fans are definitely going to want to take a stroll through. Since kicking off its multi-phase refurbishment earlier this year, the largest shop in Magic Kingdom is getting a major glow-up—from fresh flooring and vintage-inspired wallpaper to stylish new checkout counters that fit right into the turn-of-the-century aesthetic.
From Casey’s Corner to the Park Entrance: Progress Marches Down Main Street
The Emporium’s refurbishment journey started in the room closest to Casey’s Corner, but construction has steadily moved down the block to the room near the park entrance. During our latest visit, we spotted some big updates in this area, including:
Brand-new check-out counters made from light brown wood with elegant bronze accents and decorative bronze grates
A refreshed white and beige wallpaper in a vintage floral pattern, replacing the previous red or blue-gray walls
Framed vintage photos and sports memorabilia behind the counters—like medals and themed hand fans—tying into the Casey’s Corner baseball motif
Raised ceilings and structural column detailing, giving the space a more open and classic department-store feel
Function Meets Flexibility
One of the most functional upgrades? The replacement of built-in merchandise walls with movable display units. These allow Disney to easily adjust the shop layout based on crowd flow and seasonal merchandise. While there are still a few open areas, we expect more modular displays to be added soon.
Elsewhere in the shop, construction walls have come down in several sections, revealing beautiful wood-style flooring in a lighter tone than before. The registers near the former Magic Shop area are now open and styled similarly to the other new counters—with gold-toned lighting, vintage wallpaper, and framed art bringing a cohesive, elegant vibe to the space.
Across each newly updated room, you’ll find subtle nods to the turn-of-the-century theme that defines Main Street, U.S.A.:
New chandeliers in the latest room match the existing fixtures but add a touch of variety with their rounded shape and frosted glass
Columns clad in updated wallpaper—white and beige in front, with striped accents on the back—add texture and polish
Mobile checkout podiums and updated shelving near exits help guide the flow of guests
Even the exit doors have gotten in on the refurb fun, with fresh white paint and a touch of stained glass that fits right in with the nostalgic charm of the Emporium.
What’s Next?
With the refurbishment marching toward completion, we’re eager to see if the final touches—like new wallpaper in the back rooms or more artwork installations—will arrive in the coming weeks. Whether you’re hunting for Loungeflys, picking up a Mickey tee, or just soaking in the ambiance, the refreshed Emporium is the perfect blend of function, fashion, and Main Street magic.
GEO-82 Lounge at EPCOT Opens for Reservations—Menu, Cocktails, and Prices Revealed!
A sleek new sip spot is headed for the stars—well, almost. The all-new GEO-82 lounge is set to open inside EPCOT’s iconic geodesic dome on June 4, 2025, and Disney just dropped the full menu and pricing for this elevated, adults-only experience. Reservations are now open, and trust us—you’ll want to snag one before this space-age hangout is booked solid..
Located within the newly reimagined World Celebration neighborhood, GEO-82 is a 21+ lounge inspired by global flavors and classic cocktail craftsmanship. The name itself is a tribute to EPCOT history—GEO-82 nods to the geodesic design of Spaceship Earth and its debut year: 1982. With sleek design, panoramic views, and an intimate, adults-only vibe, it’s poised to be the crown jewel of EPCOT’s dining lineup.
Small Plates, Big Flavor
Let’s get to the tasty stuff—here’s what’s on the menu:
Chef’s Selection of Artisanal Cheeses, Cured Meats, and Accompaniments – $29
GEO-82’s drink list is out of this world. The specialty cocktail lineup includes adventurous creations like:
Caramelized Leek Martini – $26
Strawberry-Black Pepper Sour – $25
Brown Butter Old-Fashioned – $28
Clarified New York Sour – $26
Brûlée Banana Highball – $26
High Brow Batanga (with tequila, kola nut & lime) – $25
Exclusive Disney Select Bourbon Flight – $45
Zero-proof options aren’t an afterthought here—they’re an experience:
A Walk Through the Garden – $17
Manhattan in the Morning (yes, it features cold brew!) – $17
Wine & Beer Offerings
From bubbly Brut Rosé to elegant Napa Valley Chardonnays, the wine list is stacked with options ranging from $16–$26 per glass. Beer lovers can choose from domestic classics to non-alcoholic IPAs, with prices ranging from $8.25 to $11.25.
Reservations are required and available now via the official Disney website. Here’s what to know:
GEO-82 is 21+ only—valid photo ID required
Guests staying at a Disney Resort Hotel can book 60 days out for their full stay
All other guests can book 60 days in advance at 6:00 AM EST daily
A New Chapter for Spaceship Earth
GEO-82 isn’t just another lounge—it’s a love letter to EPCOT’s past and future. With a menu as bold as its views and a vibe that channels retro-futurism with modern elegance, this is the kind of hidden gem that EPCOT fans and cocktail connoisseurs alike will treasure.
Ready to toast to the future? Book now, and don’t forget your ID—this one’s just for the grown-ups!
New Entry Gates Installed at Disneyland, Replacing Turnstiles
The first step through Disneyland park’s entry gates is a cherished tradition for countless visitors, an unforgettable moment that welcomes them into a realm of classic charm, futuristic dreams, and pure fantasy, leaving an indelible mark.
Once through the Disneyland park gates, guests can explore this premier family destination at their own pace. Options include experiencing classic rides like Haunted Mansion, enjoying iconic Disney snacks, or taking photos at landmarks such as Sleeping Beauty Castle. Regardless of whether you’re a local, a visitor from afar, or staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel, quick park entry is likely a priority.
For those curious about the most efficient ways to enter Disneyland park and Disney California Adventure park, we have details on the recent upgrades to their entry gates.
Where Can I Find the Entry Turnstiles at the Resort?
Located at the main entrance to both Disneyland and California Adventure, you can enter the parks through the esplanade located between both theme parks. You may be used to seeing turnstiles located at these entry points over the years but will be delighted to see modernized new entry gates!
Pro Tip: Select guests with valid theme park admission can also skip the main entrances by entering at three other locations:
Aboard the Disneyland Monorail via Downtown Disney District station: Guests with a valid park admission or Magic Key pass and reservation to Disneyland park can travel straight to Tomorrowland on this highway in the sky.
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa: Hotel guests at the Disneyland Resort can soon discover Disney California Adventure by entering the park near Grizzly Peak with a valid park admission or Magic Key pass and reservation to Disney California Adventure park.
Near Pixar Place Hotel: 30 minutes prior to park opening until 12 p.m. PST, hotel guests at the Disneyland Resort can enter Disney California Adventure by entering the park near Goofy’s Sky School with a valid park admission or Magic Key pass and reservation to Disney California Adventure park.
How Do I Use the New Entry Gates at Disneyland?
Once you’re ready to start the fun, head over to the entrance gate of your choice. Every gate is ADA compliant, allowing all guests with ECVs, wheelchairs and strollers to use and pass through them with ease!
Step 1: To enter each park, you will scan each ticket using screens present at individual entry gates.
Step 2: Once each ticket is scanned, every guest in your group will then use the screen to take their own picture by pressing the camera icon on the screen to capture your photo. And don’t worry about the kids: each entry gate is equipped with camera technology that will automatically adjust to each guest’s height while you are snapping the photo!
Step 3: Once your ticket is scanned and the photo is digitally attached to your ticket, the entry gates will automatically swing open for your party to head into the park together.
What is the Entry Process Like?
Many guests want to kick off their early morning at the resort by quickly scanning their tickets at the entrance gates so they can pick up their food and beverages they mobile ordered from Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe or head toward a popular attraction like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
At each entrance gate, you will be able to scan your tickets and take your own pictures to attach to your tickets. If you have a multi-day ticket or a Magic Key pass, you will only have to take your picture linked to your ticket one time, making this process smooth for returning guests!
While this new process allows guests to scan their tickets by themselves, a nearby cast member will also be there to help so you can get to your next ride or make your lunch reservation in time.
What is New About This Entry Experience?
These updates at the entryways to Disneyland and California Adventure aim to improve the arrival experience with even more gates than before.
While a cast member will still be present at the park entrances to validate tickets and photos and welcome guests to the resort, newly accessible gates will open automatically after you scan your ticket and take a photo, including for guests with ECVs, wheelchairs and strollers.
The updated entry gates will also have an access point to tap your MagicBand+, allowing for easy and hands-free access.
How Does My Toddler Enter the Parks?
All guests under the age of 3 do not need a valid admission ticket or theme park reservation to enter either park, though all guests ages 3 years old and above must have both. Guests over the age of 3 will follow the same process of scanning and capturing a photo when entering, with an adult’s help of course!
And there’s plenty to do with your little one at both theme parks once you pass through the entry gates – make sure to hop on a kid-friendly ride like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway in Mickey’s Toontown, catch “Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!” when it debuts on May 16 or dance and play at the Fantasyland Theatre with Pixar Pals Playtime Party when it returns for a limited time beginning May 23!
Can I Use the Disneyland App or MagicBand+ to Enter?
Of course! Once you’ve purchased your tickets and made your theme park reservation, open the Disneyland app and select the menu (the three horizontal lines in the bottom right of the navigation bar).
Then, once you tap “My Tickets and Passes” and load your tickets to the app by selecting “Link Tickets & Passes,” you’ll be all set to head toward the entry gates to scan your tickets and enter the park. Feel free to use the Disneyland app or tap your MagicBand+ to the access points to enter!
With additional planning tools, exclusive content and park updates including ride wait times and showtimes, the Disneyland app is your new best friend when visiting the resort over the course of your stay.
Are There Any Disney-Inspired Features?
There are! Each entry gate features animated clips of beloved characters welcoming and eventually bidding farewell to guests upon entering and exiting, with Mickey Mouse at Disneyland and Oswald the Lucky Rabbit at California Adventure!
How Do I Re-Enter the Parks?
Whether you’re trying to catch the dazzling nighttime return of the upcoming “Paint the Night” parade in Disneyland park or looking to take in the sights and sounds of “World of Color Happiness!” in Disney California Adventure park, the process remains the same for all guests when re-entering the parks with a theme park reservation and a valid ticket for the same day. Just scan your admission media and come on in!
What do you think about the new way to enter the theme parks at Disneyland Resort?
