One of my favorite places to go with my husband is to a Disney park. I’m not a huge fan of the movies, but I love the immersiveness of Disneyland and Disney World.
Disney theme parks are known for being the happiest places on earth, but they also have some surprising rules to maintain that magical atmosphere.
While many rules are what you’d expect, like no weapons, others are more unexpected and may catch you off guard.
1. Adults Wearing Costumes
At Disney parks, guests over the age of 14 are not allowed to wear costumes, except during special events like Halloween parties. This rule is in place to prevent confusion between park guests and official Disney characters. Disney wants to ensure that the characters children meet are part of the official experience.
2. Using Selfie Sticks
Selfie sticks were banned in all Disney parks in 2015 due to safety concerns. These devices can cause accidents on rides or block other guests’ views. While you can still take selfies, you’ll have to do it the old-fashioned way—by holding your camera or phone in your hand.
3. Bringing Balloons to Animal Kingdom
At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, balloons are not allowed. This rule is in place to protect the animals, as balloons can be a choking hazard if they end up in the habitats. Disney takes its animal care seriously, so this is one precaution they strictly enforce.
4. Using Profanity or Offensive Language
Disney parks are family-friendly environments, and using profanity or offensive language is strictly prohibited. Cast members have the authority to ask guests to leave the park if they violate this rule. Disney is committed to keeping the atmosphere magical for all visitors.
5. Holding Unauthorized Events or Gatherings
Organizing events, protests, or unauthorized gatherings is not allowed in Disney parks. If you’re planning a big get-together or flash mob, you’ll need to get permission from Disney first. They prefer to control the flow of guests and activities to avoid disruptions.
6. Feeding the Animals
Feeding the animals, including birds and squirrels, is prohibited in all Disney parks. This rule is in place to protect both the animals and the guests. Feeding animals can make them dependent on humans and disrupt their natural diet, which can harm their health.
7. Wearing Offensive Clothing
Guests wearing clothing with offensive language, graphics, or excessive exposure are not permitted in Disney parks. Cast members may ask guests to change or cover up if their outfit is deemed inappropriate. Disney strives to maintain a wholesome and welcoming environment for all.
8. Running or Horseplay
Running or engaging in rough play is not allowed, especially in crowded areas. This rule is meant to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all guests. Disney parks are busy places, and unexpected movements can lead to injuries.
9. Bringing Large Strollers or Wagons
Disney has specific size restrictions for strollers, and wagons are completely banned. This rule was introduced to help with crowd control and make it easier for everyone to navigate the parks. Oversized strollers can cause congestion and are a safety concern.
10. Smoking Outside Designated Areas
Smoking is only allowed in designated areas within Disney parks. In 2019, Disney banned smoking in all other areas, including walkways and common areas, to improve the experience for non-smoking guests. This rule applies to vaping and e-cigarettes as well.
11. Taking Flash Photography on Rides
Flash photography is forbidden on many rides to ensure the safety of guests and maintain the integrity of the experience. Bright flashes can distract ride operators and ruin the immersion for other guests. Always check the rules before snapping a picture on an attraction.
12. Bringing Pets
Pets are not allowed in Disney parks, with the exception of service animals. This rule helps maintain cleanliness and safety for all guests. Disney provides kennel services for those who need to bring their pets along, but the pets must stay outside the park.
13. Wearing Full Face Masks
Guests over the age of 14 are not allowed to wear full face masks, except for medical reasons or during special events. This rule is to ensure that all guests can be easily identified and to maintain security. Partial face coverings, like hats or sunglasses, are allowed.
14. Selling or Distributing Items
Guests are not permitted to sell or distribute any merchandise, flyers, or promotional items without prior approval from Disney. This rule helps maintain the park’s atmosphere and ensures that only approved vendors and content are shared with guests.
15. Climbing or Sitting on Railings
For safety reasons, climbing or sitting on railings is strictly forbidden. Railings are there to protect guests, and climbing on them can lead to falls or injuries. Disney parks are designed with guest safety in mind, and this rule helps prevent accidents.
16. Wearing Offensive Tattoos
While tattoos are allowed, those that feature offensive language or imagery must be covered up. Cast members can ask guests to wear additional clothing or accessories to hide tattoos that don’t fit the family-friendly atmosphere.
17. Spreading Ashes
It’s an unfortunate but persistent myth that Disney parks are popular places to spread ashes of loved ones. However, this practice is strictly prohibited. If caught, guests will be escorted from the park, and the area where ashes were spread will be thoroughly cleaned.
18. Littering
Littering is not tolerated in Disney parks, and guests are expected to dispose of their trash in the provided bins. Cast members work hard to keep the parks clean, and guests are expected to do their part to maintain the magical environment.
19. Bringing Coolers or Loose Ice
Bringing large coolers or loose ice into the parks is forbidden. Disney has these restrictions to prevent long security checks and to ensure that prohibited items aren’t smuggled in. If you need to bring a cooler for medical reasons, it must be within the allowed size limits, and reusable ice packs are preferred.
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