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Complete Guide to Disneyland Reopening

HomeDisneylandDisneyland Reopening

Published: June 16, 2020 Updated: September 10, 2021

Complete Guide to Disneyland Reopening

HomeDisneylandDisneyland Reopening
Complete Guide to Disneyland Reopening

Following in the footsteps of Walt Disney World, Disneyland is finally open once again after being closed for over a year.

It hasn’t been an easy journey for the Anaheim-based resort, but Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure reopened on April 30, 2021!

On March 5, it was revealed that California theme parks could reopen as early as April 1 once the county they are located in reached the red tier. Disneyland Resort is in Orange County, which is now currently in the yellow tier.

Beginning April 1, Disneyland, and other California theme parks, were allowed to reopen at 15% capacity in the red tier, 25% capacity in the orange tier, and 35% capacity in the yellow tier.

bob chapek statement on disneyland reopening

Out-of-state guests are now allowed to visit Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.

Per Disney, “While Guests will not be required to show proof of vaccination, all Guests must attest that they are aware that: 1) the State of California strongly recommends that Guests be fully vaccinated or obtain a negative COVID-19 test prior to entering the Disneyland Resort, and (2) all Guests (ages 2 and up) must wear face coverings when indoors, including on many attractions and in enclosed transportation vehicles.”

There’s definitely a lot to know prior to visiting Disneyland, including the following reopening dates:

  • Opened July 9, 2020: Downtown Disney District
  • Opened April 29, 2021: Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
  • Opened April 30, 2021: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure
  • Opened May 2, 2021: The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
  • Opened June 4, 2021: Avengers Campus (more details)
  • Opened June 15, 2021: Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel (more details)
  • Opened July 2, 2021: Disneyland Hotel (more details)
pixar pier

Like Disney World, this is a phased Disneyland reopening with limits on capacity, entertainment, experiences, dining, and more. There are also of course certain health and safety measures both guests and Cast Members have to follow.

Even though our experiences at the parks will be different for some time, there’s no do doubt Disney continues to go above and beyond to make guests’ feel as magical (and as safe) as possible.

With that, here’s everything you need to know about Disneyland’s reopening.

In this article

Disneyland Reopening Protocols & Updates as of Sept. 10, 2021

The following is what’s currently known about Disneyland’s reopening. We will update with more information as soon as it is announced.  

2021 Ticket Sales

Walk-up ticket sales are allowed, as noted by the state of California, but Cast Members must collect guests’ complete name and contact information, including a phone number, for necessary contact tracing. This is for red, orange, and yellow tiers. Proof of residency may be required.

Also, ticket pricing “will not exceed 2020 prices.”

disneyland park reservation system announcement

These are the key dates to keep in mind:

  • NOW: If you currently hold a theme park ticket, you can check available days for your 1-day ticket type via the Park Availability calendar.
  • NOW: The theme park reservation system is now open for those who previously had valid theme park tickets prior to Disneyland’s closing.
  • NOW: Theme park ticket sales have resumed and guests without park tickets may begin purchasing tickets and making park reservations.
disneyland park availability

Important: Prior to purchasing tickets, you can view theme park reservation availability.

disneyland park reservation availability calendar

On April 9, Disneyland released the pricing and availability calendar. Per the website, the parks have reopened with the tiered ticket pricing structure that was introduced in February 2020.

2021 disneyland reopening ticket prices

If you’re not sure what kind of ticket you have, the ticket type is listed on your ticket. For those with multi-day tickets, these have different entitlements and validity dates. Make sure you check the details of multi-day tickets when purchasing.

disneyland ticket types

Unused Tickets & Expiration Dates

Unused Non-Promotional Single Day Tickets: Unused non-promotional single day Disneyland theme park tickets that expire on Dec. 30, 2020 or March 31, 2021 will have the expiration date extended to Dec. 16, 2021.

Unused non-promotional single day tickets that expire on Dec. 30, 2021 or March 31, 2022 will have the expiration date extended to Dec. 30, 2022.

Wholly Unused, Non-Promotional Multi-Day Tickets: Wholly unused, non-promotional multi-day tickets that expire on Jan. 12, 2021 or April 13, 2021 will have the expiration date extended to Dec. 16, 2021, and the ticket will expire 13 days after first use or on Dec. 16, 2021, whichever occurs first.

Wholly unused, non-promotional multi-day tickets that expire on Jan. 12, 2022 or April 13, 2022 will have the expiration date extended to Jan. 12, 2023, and the ticket will expire 13 days after first use or on Jan. 12, 2023, whichever occurs first.

Multi-Day Tickets: Guests with multi-day tickets who used their first visit between Feb. 28, 2020 and March 13, 2020 but did not reach their ticket’s maximum number of uses, will have the 13-day expiration period of their ticket extended to Dec. 16, 2021.

Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland

Promotional Southern California Resident Tickets: Promotional Southern California Resident Tickets’ expiration dates will be extended through Dec. 16, 2021. Tickets may be used on non-consecutive days. Blockout days apply (March 16-April 11, 2021; July 4, 2021; Nov. 20-27, 2021).

Promotional Child Tickets: Promotional Child Tickets that have not been used will see the expiration date extended through Dec. 16, 2021. The ticket will expire 13 days after first use or Dec. 16, whichever occurs first.

Guests who used their first visit between Feb. 28, 2020 and March 13, 2020, but did not reach their ticket’s maximum number of uses will have the 13-day expiration period extended to Dec. 16. Blockout days apply (March 16-April 11, 2021; July 4, 2021; Nov. 20-27, 2021).

Promotional Canada Resident Ticket or Australia/New Zealand Resident Tickets: Promotional Canada Resident Ticket or Australia/New Zealand Resident Tickets that have not been used will see the expiration date extended through Dec. 16, 2021.

The ticket will expire 13 days after first use or Dec. 16, whichever occurs first. Guests who used their first visit between Feb. 28, 2020 and March 13, 2020, but did not reach their ticket’s maximum number of uses will have the 13-day expiration period extended to Dec. 16.

2020 Military Salute Tickets: 2020 Military Salute Tickets will have the expiration date extended through Dec. 16, 2021. Tickets may be used on non-consecutive days. Blockout days apply (March 16-April 11, 2021).

Expiration dates on eligible ticket(s) will be updated prior to the theme parks’ reopening. At that time, you may link your ticket to your Disney account on Disneyland.com or the Disneyland app in order to check the latest expiration date.

If you have questions, call (714) 781-4636 for more information.

Health & Safety Protocols

Face Coverings

As of July 30, all Cast Members and guests ages 2 and up, regardless of vaccination status, must wear face coverings again in all indoor locations.

Face coverings will also be required “upon entering and throughout many attractions and in enclosed transportation vehicles, including shuttles and buses.” It’s unclear which attractions will require masks.

While Guests will not be required to show proof of vaccination, all Guests must attest that they are aware of the following:f

  • State of California strongly recommends that Guests be fully vaccinated or obtain a negative COVID-19 test prior to entering the Disneyland Resort.
  • Unvaccinated Guests must wear face coverings when indoors.

All face coverings must:

  • Fully cover the nose and mouth and allow the guest to remain hands-free
  • Fit snugly, but comfortably against the side of the face
  • Be secured with ties or ear loops
  • Be made of breathable material, either disposable or reusable

Important: neck gaiters, open-chin triangle bandanas, and face coverings containing valves, mesh material or holes of any kind are not allowed.

Face coverings may have an integrated transparent plastic panel to aid in viewing the wearer’s mouth. These face coverings must also:

  • Be a fabric face covering featuring a solid plastic panel containing no openings that is attached to the fabric on all sides using tight knit stitching
  • Meet all face covering requirements listed above

Temperature Screenings

The Disneyland Resort ended onsite temperature screenings for Guests and Cast Members on June 15, 2021.

Resorts

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa reopened on April 29, 2021, The Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa reopened on May 2, 2021, Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel reopened on June 15, 2021, and the Disneyland Hotel reopened on July 2, 2021.

You can now make reservations for all hotels.

Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

grand californian at disneyland

Here’s what’s available:

The special entrance to California Adventure for Disneyland Resort hotel guests who are visiting the park is available at Grand Californian.

Club Level rooms at Grand Californian are now available for Guests arriving beginning June 4, 2021.

Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel

paradise pier hotel

Here’s what’s available:

Paradise Pier hotel guests are more than welcome to visit any of the nearby dining locations at Grand Californian and in the Downtown Disney District. There are also select restaurants in Downtown Disney offering delivery.

Paradise Pier and Grand Californian guests can scan QR codes on their in-room TV to access links to the Downtown Disney restaurants that deliver. They can then order and have food and beverages delivered to the hotel lobbies.

If guests have valid theme park admission and a park reservation, they can also dine inside Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure — or order from another restaurant in the area.

Disneyland Hotel

disneyland hotel reopening

Here’s what’s available:

Checking In & Out

When it comes to checking in for your resort, Disney highly encourages guests to do so via the Disneyland website and/or app. You can check access online check-in via your Disney account 5 days prior to your arrival.

If you use the online check-in service and agree to receive text messages, you’ll receive a text message notification when your room is ready. After, you can stop by the Front Desk to pick up your room keys.

When checking out, you’ll be automatically checked out of your room. You don’t have to visit the Front Desk, but Cast Members will be available to answer any questions you may have.

grand californian hotel and spa reopening

Cleaning & Housekeeping

Guest rooms will be thoroughly cleaned prior to your arrival and also serviced during your stay. Hotel common areas will also receive increased cleaning, including high-traffic areas like elevators, escalators, handrails, benches, tables, handles, restrooms, and more.

As for housekeeping, the following will be cleaned:

  • High-touch areas, like TV remotes and door handles
  • Floors, which will be vacuumed between Guests
  • Housekeeping tools, which shall be cleaned between room cleanings

Glassware and TV remotes will be individually wrapped, along with pillows being double-cased.

enhanced cleaning at disney resorts
Here’s an example of enhanced cleaning at Walt Disney World Resort hotels.

Rooms will be serviced every other day (unless you choose to decline housekeeping), which includes the removal of trash and used towels, replenishment of towels and amenities, wiping and cleaning of vanity and counter surfaces, and vacuuming, if needed.

Disney Vacation Club Members using their Membership to stay in a Villa at Disney’s Grand California Hotel & Spa will receive service on the 4th and 8th days, unless they decline service.

Important: If there is more than one room on your reservation and you choose to decline service, your selection will apply to all rooms on the reservation.

Disney also notes that they “reserve the right to enter any room at a hotel of the Disneyland Resort for maintenance, safety, security or any other purpose, even if the Room Occupied sign is displayed on the room door.”

Pools

Pools, whirlpools/spas, and waterslides are operating, but they may operate with reduced hours so you’ll need to confirm with the Front Desk.

Poolside cabanas are available for an additional fee (reservations are required), but poolside activities (pool parties and waterslides) won’t initially be available.

Fitness Centers

Check with the Front Desk for the latest hours and operations. Fitness centers will operate in alignment with state and county regulations. There will also be reduced capacity and instructor-led classes aren’t available.

Activities & Amenities

The following activities and amenities are temporarily unavailable:

  • Tenaya Spa at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
  • Select hotel dining and character dining
  • In-room dining service
  • Art of Craft Tour
  • Children’s lobby entertainment areas
  • Extra Magic Hour benefit
  • Instructor-led fitness classes
  • Special classes and programs
  • Character experiences

Hotel Services

Some services may be modified or unavailable based health guidelines. These include:

  • Bell Services: will deliver luggage to rooms, but will not escort Guests
  • Club-level service: temporarily unavailable
  • Deliveries: only made to occupied rooms
  • Disney Floral & Gifts, including in-room celebrations: not available
  • Dry-cleaning and valet laundry services: unavailable; self-service laundry is available
  • Shipping services: unavailable

Parking

Self-parking is available at all Disneyland Resort hotel sand valet service is only available at Grand Californian. Guests with disabilities requiring parking assistance will need a valid disability parking permit.

Restaurants

There are several changes to take note of when it comes to dining across Disneyland. Many of the updates have been made for health and safety reasons.

Face Coverings

As of July 30, all Cast Members and guests ages 2 and up, regardless of vaccination status, must wear face coverings in all indoor locations, including dining.

Face coverings will also be required “upon entering and throughout many attractions and in enclosed transportation vehicles, including shuttles and buses.” It’s unclear which attractions will require masks.

Contactless Payment

Contactless forms of payment are encouraged, like debit cards, credit cards, Disney Gift Cards (at participating locations), and tap-to-pay cards.

Dining Reservations

Dining reservations for table-service restaurants can be made on Disneyland.com or via the Disneyland app. You can make them 60 days in advance.

You will need both a ticket and a valid theme park reservation to enter the theme park and to redeem your dining reservation.

disneyland dining reservations

Here’s where you can currently make advanced-dining reservations:

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

  • GCH Craftsman Bar (open as a Table Service location)
  • Napa Rose
  • Storytellers Café

Disneyland Hotel

  • Goofy’s Kitchen (opening Aug. 18, bookings available Aug. 11)

Disneyland Park

  • Cafe Orleans
  • Plaza Inn (character dining returns August 12, with bookings opening Aug. 11)
  • River Belle Terrace

Disney California Adventure

  • Carthay Circle Restaurant
  • Carthay Circle Lounge — Alfresco Dining
  • Lamplight Lounge

Downtown Disney District

  • La Brea Bakery Cafe
  • Naples Ristorante e Bar
  • Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen
  • Splitsville Luxury Lanes (for groups larger than 8)
  • Tortilla Jo’s
  • Uva Bar & Cafe

Health & Safety

Seating areas, dining areas, and pagers will be cleaned between guests. At select table-service and quick-service restaurants, guests can scan a code with their mobile device to access the digital menu. Beverages and other items that were previously self-serve will be serve by Cast Members, or in a modified manner.

Dining Experiences

There are some updates to dining experiences, including:

  • Menu Items: these may vary and you should check the restaurant’s menu online or on the Disneyland app.
  • Character DiningReturns to Storytellers Café starting July 22 and Plaza Inn beginning August 12.
  • Dining Packages: Currently unavailable.
  • Private & In-Room Dining: Currently unavailable.

At this time, following state and county guidelines, outdoor patio seating and limited indoor seating at select locations will be permitted.

Mobile Order

Guests are strongly encouraged to not only save time, but limit their contact by placing a Mobile Order.

disneyland mobile order

Below are the available dining locations at each park, along with where you can Mobile Order.

Disneyland Park

  • Alien Pizza Planet (Mobile Order)
  • Bengal Barbecue (Mobile Order)
  • Blue Bayou Restaurant
  • Café Orleans
  • Carnation Café (reopens Sept. 16)
  • Churros
  • Docking Bay 7 Food & Cargo (Mobile Order)
  • Edelweiss Snacks (Mobile Order)
  • French Market Restaurant (Mobile Order)
  • Galactic Grill (Mobile Order)
  • Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor (Mobile Order)
  • The Golden Horseshoe (Mobile Order)
  • Harbour Galley (Mobile Order)
  • Hungry Bear Restaurant (Mobile Order)
  • Ice Cream Carts
  • Jolly Holiday Bakery Café (Mobile Order)
  • Kat Saka’s Kettle
  • Little Red Wagon (Mobile Order)
  • Market House
  • Maurice’s Treats
  • Milk Stand (Mobile Order)
  • Mint Julep Bar (Mobile Order)
  • Oga’s Cantina
  • Plaza Inn (Mobile Order; character dining returns Aug. 12, bookings available Aug. 11)
  • Popcorn
  • Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante
  • Red Rose Taverne (Mobile Order)
  • Refreshment Corner (Mobile Order)
  • River Belle Terrace
  • Ronto Roasters (Mobile Order)
  • Ship to Shore Marketplace
  • Stage Door Café (Mobile Order)
  • Tiki Juice Bar (Mobile Order)
  • The Tropical Hideaway (Mobile Order)
  • Toon-Up Treats

Disney California Adventure

  • Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats (Mobile Order)
  • Alfresco Tasting Terrace (reopen for a limited time strictly for Legacy Passholders and their guests; online reservations available)
  • Angry Dogs
  • Award Wieners (Mobile Order)
  • Bayside Brews (Mobile Order)
  • Cappuccino Cart (Mobile Order)
  • Carthay Circle Restaurant
  • Carthay Circle Lounge – Alfresco Dining
  • Churros
  • Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream (Mobile Order)
  • Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill (Mobile Order)
  • Corn Dog Castle (Mobile Order)
  • Cozy Cone Motel – Cones 1-3 (Churros, Ice Cream, Cone-coctions) (Mobile Order)
  • Cozy Cone Motel – Popcone (Mobile Order)
  • Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe
  • Flo’s V8 Cafe (Mobile Order)
  • Ghirardelli® Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop
  • Hollywood Lounge (Mobile Order)
  • Ice Cream Carts
  • Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums
  • Lamplight Lounge
  • Lamplight Lounge Brunch (only Friday, Saturday, Sunday)
  • Lamplight Lounge — Boardwalk Dining (walk-up only for patio dining)
  • Lucky Fortune Cookery (Mobile Order)
  • Mendocino Terrace
  • Pacific Wharf Distribution Co. (Mobile Order)
  • Paradise Garden Grill
  • Popcorn
  • Poultry Palace
  • Pym Test Kitchen (Mobile Order)
  • Pym Tasting Lab (Mobile Order)
  • Rita’s Baja Blenders (Mobile Order)
  • Señor Buzz Churros
  • Schmoozies! (Mobile Order)
  • Shawarma Palace
  • Shawarma Palace Too at Hyperion
  • Smokejumpers Grill (Mobile Order)
  • Sonoma Terrace (Mobile Order)
  • Studio Catering Co. (Mobile Order)
  • Terran Treats
  • Wine Country Trattoria

Check out the Avengers Campus foodie guide.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

  • GCH Craftsman Bar (open as a Table Service location; online reservations can be made now)
  • GCH Craftsman Grill (Mobile Order)
  • Hearthstone Lounge (Mobile Order)
  • Napa Rose
  • Storytellers Café

Disneyland Hotel

  • Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar (accepting reservations for both lunch and dinner beginning Aug. 11, with the first reservation date on Aug. 15)
  • Tangaroa Terrace Tropical Bar & Grill (Mobile Order)
  • The Coffee House (Mobile Order)
  • Goofy’s Kitchen (opening Aug. 18, bookings available Aug. 11)

Downtown Disney

  • Ballast Point Brewing Company
  • Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes
  • Catal Restaurant
  • Crazy Shake Window by Black Tap
  • Earl of Sandwich
  • Jamba
  • Kayla’s Cakes
  • La Brea Bakery Café
  • Naples Ristorante e Bar 
  • Napolini Pizzeria
  • Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Express
  • Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen
  • Salt & Straw
  • Splitsville Luxury Lanes
  • Starbucks
  • Starbucks West
  • Taqueria at Tortilla Jo’s
  • Tortilla Jo’s
  • Uva Bar & Cafe 
  • Wetzel’s Pretzels

Mobile Dine Walk-Up List

If you don’t have a dining reservation, you can add your party to the mobile walk-up list at select table-service restaurants, depending on availability.

First, make sure you download the Disneyland app and that you’re logged into your account.

You can simply check availability via the app or by scanning a QR code located near the restaurant entrance. You don’t need to visit the host stand.

Carthay Circle Restaurant

You can add your party to the walk-up list and even confirm your party details, including special dietary requests. When your table is ready, you’ll be notified to proceed to a specified location.

Important: All members of your party must be present when you arrive, because your entire party will be seated at once.

You can use the walk-up list at these locations:

Disneyland Park

  • Oga’s Cantina
  • River Belle Terrace
  • Café Orleans

Disney California Adventure

  • Carthay Circle Restaurant (reopens July 22)
  • Carthay Circle Lounge — Alfresco Dining
  • Wine Country Trattoria

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

  • Napa Rose
  • Storytellers Café

Disneyland Hotel

  • Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar

Mobile Check-In For Dining Reservations

You can check in for dining reservations at select table-service restaurants using the Disneyland app.

When your reservation check-in window arrives, you’ll receive a push notification. You can start the check-in process by scanning the QR code located near the restaurant’s entrance. You don’t need to visit the host stand.

From the push notification or QR code, you’ll be able to check in for your reservation, confirm your arrival time, and party details. When your table is ready, you’ll be notified via the app to go to a specified location.

Important: All members of your party must be present when you arrive, because your entire party will be seated at once.

You can use mobile check-in at these locations:

Disneyland Park

  • Blue Bayou Restaurant
  • Café Orleans
  • Oga’s Cantina
  • River Belle Terrace

Disney California Adventure

  • Carthay Circle Restaurant
  • Carthay Circle Lounge — Alfresco Dining
  • Lamplight Lounge
  • Wine Country Trattoria

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

  • Napa Rose
  • Storytellers Café

Shopping

There are several changes when it comes to shopping across the Disneyland Resort.

  • New Product Launches: Guests can still find new merchandise throughout the resort and on shopDisney.
  • Pin Trading: Cast pin trading with lanyards will not be available to maintain physical distancing.
  • Delivery Option: Package delivery to Disneyland Resort hotels will be suspended.
  • Cashless Payments: Guests are encouraged to use cashless or contactless forms of payment, including debit cards, credit cards, Disney Gift Cards, and tap-to-pay cards.

Here are the available stores:

Disneyland Park

  • 20th Century Music Company
  • Adventureland Bazaar
  • Balloons
  • Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique (makeovers unavailable)
  • Black Spire Outfitters
  • Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen (Mobile Order available)
  • Creature Stall
  • Cristal d’Orleans
  • Crystal Arts
  • Disney Clothiers, Ltd.
  • Disney Showcase
  • Disneyana
  • Dok-Ondar’s Den of Antiquities
  • Droid Depot
  • Emporium
  • First Order Cargo
  • Glow Carts
  • “it’s a small world” Toy Shop
  • Kaman’s Art Shoppe
  • Le Mascarade d’Orleans
  • Little Green Men Store Command
  • The Mad Hatter in Fantasyland
  • The Mad Hatter on Main Street, U.S.A.
  • Main Street Magic Shop
  • Pieces of Eight
  • Pioneer Mercantile
  • Pooh Corner (Mobile Order available)
  • Pressed Coin Machines
  • Resistance Supply
  • Savi’s Workshop – Handbuilt Lightsabers
  • The Star Trader
  • Toydarian Toymaker
  • Westward Ho Trading Company

Disney California Adventure

  • Balloons
  • Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff
  • Campus Supply Pod
  • Collector’s Warehouse
  • Disneyland Backlot Premiere Shop
  • Elias & Co.
  • Glow Carts
  • Julius Katz & Sons
  • Kaman’s Art Shoppe
  • Kingswell Camera Shop
  • Knick’s Knacks
  • Off the Page
  • Oswald’s
  • Paradise Pier Sunglass Cart
  • Pressed Coin Machines
  • Ramone’s House of Body Art
  • Rushin’ River Outfitters
  • Sarge’s Surplus Hut
  • Seaside Souvenirs
  • Studio Store
  • Trolley Treats (Mobile Order available)
  • WEB Suppliers

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

  • Acorns Gifts & Goods

Downtown Disney

  • California Sole
  • Curl Surf
  • Disney Home
  • Disney’s Pin Traders
  • The Disney Dress Shop
  • Disneyland Resort Shopping Reservation
  • The LEGO Store
  • Marceline’s Confectionery (Mobile Order available)
  • PANDORA Jewelry
  • Pressed Coin Machines
  • Sephora
  • Sugarboo & Co.
  • Star Wars Trading Post
  • Sunglass Icon
  • WonderGround Gallery 
  • World of Disney

Parks

Just like Walt Disney World’s Disney Park Pass System, Disneyland is implementing a new theme park reservation system.

This will help manage park capacity and also means guests ages 3 and up will need both a park reservation and valid theme park admission in order to gain park access.

Theme Park Reservation System

All guests ages 3 and older must have both a valid ticket and a theme park reservation in order to enter either theme park.

Keep in mind that a guest’s party size cannot contain more than three households and the guest, and that all members of the guest’s party must be in-state visitors.

You can check the availability calendar online.

Important: Park reservations can be made up to 120 days or more in advance, subject to availability. In order to accommodate as many types of ticket holders as possible, reservations for select dates may be made available on a rolling basis. Be sure to check the calendar for updated availability!

Key dates:

  • NOW: If you currently hold a theme park ticket, you can check available days for your 1-day ticket type via the Park Availability calendar.
  • NOW: The theme park reservation system is now open for those who previously had valid theme park tickets prior to Disneyland’s closing.
  • NOW: Theme park ticket sales have resumed and guests without park tickets may begin purchasing tickets and making park reservations.
disneyland park reservation system steps

You must make a park reservation for each day you plan to visit a theme park. There is a limit of one theme park reservation per guest, per day. You cannot modify theme park reservations, but they can be cancelled by visiting My Theme Park Reservations.

If you want to cancel an existing reservation and book a new one, make sure you check that there is availability first.

Here’s how to make a park reservation if you already have tickets:

1. Access the reservation system

  • Sign into your Disney account (or create one).
  • If you have a Walt Disney Travel Company vacation package or a Disneyland Resort hotel reservation with separately purchased park tickets, you’ll need to link your hotel reservation to our Disney account prior to making theme park reservations.

2. Create your party

  • Make sure to link your tickets to your Disney account. You’ll also need to enter a valid theme park ticket number for each person in your party to link their tickets to your account.
  • You might need to enter the name of each ticket holder.
  • Select the ticket you want to make a new theme park reservation for.
disneyland theme park reservation

3. Select day and theme park you want to visit

  • Select the date and theme park that you want.
  • Repeat the process to make reservations for each day of your ticket, if you have a multi-day ticket.

4. Review and confirm your visit

  • Review and confirm your theme park reservations.
  • By “Confirming,” you’re agreeing to the Terms & Conditions, including a COVID-19 liability waiver.
  • Provide an email address to receive confirmation of your reservation and QR code.
  • Check your email account to ensure you’ve received your confirmation email and required QR code.

*Be prepared to present your QR code and the associated valid ticket when you arrive at the Disneyland.

As of May 17, you can also now purchase tickets and make park reservations at the same time. Here’s what to do:

  1. Go to the Park Reservations website and click “Select Ticket.”
  2. Select your number of park days.
  3. Select the number of tickets you need for everyone in your party. Only guests ages 3 and older need tickets.
  4. Choose your ticket type: one park per day or Park Hopper.
  5. Pick a date and park for your theme park reservation. If you have Park Hopper tickets, you’ll choose your starting park for each day of your visit. Park Hopping begins at 1 p.m. daily, based on availability.
  6. You can also choose the add-on option of purchasing park vouchers in advance.
  7. Finally, you’ll review and purchase.

Park Hopping

Yes, park hopping is returning. Guests with Park Hopper tickets will make a park reservation for the first park they plan to visit at the start of their day. Then, starting at 1 p.m. that same day they can hop over to the other park.

Parking

Guests can park at the Mickey & Friends, Pixar Pals, and Toy Story parking structures, located off Disneyland Drive.

Keep in mind that the tram won’t be operating, but stroller, wheelchair, and ECV rentals will be available at the parking structures.

Disney MaxPass & FastPass

Disney MaxPass and FastPass services are officially retired at Disneyland.

On Aug. 18, Disney announced a new paid FastPass system coming to both Disneyland and Walt Disney World sometime in fall 2021 called Disney Genie+.

The digital service is built right into the Disneyland app. Genie+ offers guests the chance to skip the line for select attractions — for a daily fee of $20 per ticket per day.

We have a post breaking down what we know so far about Genie+.

disney genie walt disney world

Disney PhotoPass

PhotoPass is still available for purchase. For $78, you can get the PhotoPass+ One Week plan allowing you to download a whole week’s photos for one price.

You can also purchase the Expiration Extension for $19.95. This one-time extension gives you an additional 15 days to access unexpired images in your account.

There also the new Disney PhotoPass+ One Day that’s available for $19.99 through the Disneyland app, which gives you unlimited downloads from one day of your visit.

FYI: Unlimited PhotoPass downloads from your day are included with your purchase of Genie+.

Magic Morning & Extra Magic Hour

Magic Morning and Extra Magic Hour offerings will be suspended upon the reopening of the hotels and theme parks.

Available Attractions And Entertainment Offerings

Here is the full list of available attractions and entertainment at both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventures. At the time being, indoor attractions must be limited to no more than 15 minutes.

Disneyland Park:

  • Alice in Wonderland
  • Astro Orbitor
  • Autopia
  • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
  • Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters
  • Casey Jr. Circus Train
  • Davy Crockett’s Explorer Canoes
  • Disneyland Railroad
  • Dumbo the Flying Elephant
  • Fortune Tellers
  • Gadget’s Go Coaster
  • Haunted Mansion
  • Indiana Jones™ Adventure
  • “it’s a small world”
  • Jungle Cruise
  • King Arthur Carrousel
  • Mad Tea Party
  • Main Street Cinema
  • Main Street Vehicles
  • Mark Twain Riverboat
  • The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
  • Matterhorn Bobsleds
  • Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
  • Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
  • Peter Pan’s Flight
  • Pinocchio’s Daring Journey
  • Pirates of the Caribbean
  • Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin
  • Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough
  • Snow White’s Enchanted Wish
  • Space Mountain
  • Splash Mountain
  • Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
  • Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance (virtual queue; details below)
  • Tarzan’s Treehouse™
  • Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
snow white's enchanted wish

Disney California Adventure:

  • Animation Acadmey
  • Games of Pixar Pier
  • Golden Zephyr
  • Goofy’s Sky School
  • Grizzly River Run
  • Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT!
  • Incredicoaster
  • Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind
  • Jessie’s Critter Carousel
  • Jumpin’ Jellyfish
  • The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure
  • Luigi’s Rollickin’ Roadsters
  • Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree
  • Mickey’s PhilharMagic (closed for refurbishment)
  • Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sulley to the Rescue!
  • Pixar Pal-A-Round – Non-Swinging
  • Pixar Pal-A-Round – Swinging
  • Radiator Springs Racers
  • Redwood Creek Challenge (closed for refurbishment)
  • Silly Symphony Swings
  • Soarin’ Around the World
  • Sorcerer’s Workshop
  • Toy Story Midway Mania!
  • Turtle Talk with Crush
  • WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure (virtual queue; details below)

Single Rider Queues will temporarily be suspended.

Entertainment, parades, nighttime spectaculars, character meet and greets, and makeovers at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will be suspended for an unknown amount of time upon reopening.

Rise of the Resistance Virtual Queue

Similar to Rise of the Resistance at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Hollywood Studios at Disney World, Disneyland Park’s attraction also utilizes a virtual queue.

rise of the resistance virtual queue at disneyland

You can only access the queue via the Disneyland app. There isn’t a standby line, so if you want to ride Rise of the Resistance, you must join the virtual queue. Make sure your park ticket is linked to your Disney account.

There are two distribution times for virtual queue enrollment:

  • One in the morning at 7 a.m.
  • The second later in the day at 12 p.m.

If you start your day at Disneyland Park, you can access the virtual queue system in the morning on the day of your park reservation. Like Disney World, you don’t have to be in the park or on property to try at 7 a.m.

To access the second virtual queue later in the day, you must have a valid ticket and park reservation, and have entered Disneyland Park, or Disney California Adventure with a Park Hopper ticket, by noon.

If you aren’t able to join the first boarding group, you can try again at 12 p.m.

Remember, park hopping begins at 1 p.m. each day. So, if you start your day at Disney California Adventure, you can then enter Disneyland Park with your Park Hopper ticket after 1 p.m. for your boarding group.

WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure Virtual Queue

The new Avengers Campus attraction (both open on June 4) will also have a virtual queue instead of a standby line.

There are two distribution times for virtual queue enrollment:

  • One in the morning at 7 a.m.
  • The second later in the day at 12 p.m.
web slingers at avengers campus

If you start your day at Disney California Adventure, you can access the virtual queue system in the morning on the day of your park reservation. You don’t have to be in the park or on property to try at 7 a.m.

If you aren’t able to join the first boarding group, you can try again at 12 p.m.

To access the second virtual queue later in the day, you must have a valid ticket and park reservation, and have entered Disney California Adventure, or Disneyland Park, with a Park Hopper ticket, by noon.

Again, park hopping begins at 1 p.m. each day. So, if you start your day at Disneyland Park, you can then enter Disney California Adventure with your Park Hopper ticket after 1 p.m. for your boarding group.

Keep in mind that Avengers Campus will use a standby queue if the land reaches capacity.

If it hits capacity, those with a WEB SLINGERS boarding group will still be able to enter the campus, but only after their boarding group is called.

Those with a boarding group should head to the left of the land’s main entrance along the parade corridor to enter the land.

For both WEB SLINGERS and Rise of the Resistance:

You will receive a push notification via the Disneyland app when your boarding group is called to return. You have up to an hour from the time of the alert to go to the attraction entrance.

And, finally, an important detail to keep in mind: “Guests may only enter a virtual queue once per day for each attraction, and may not hold a boarding group for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and WEB SLINGERS: A Spider-Man Adventure at the same time.”

Characters

Despite the temporary suspension of character meet and greets, guests can still meet characters in safe and new ways.

Keep your eyes peeled for the following socially-distanced interactions:

Disneyland Park

Galaxy’s Edge

  • Rey, Chewbacca, Vi Moradi: above speeder garage at Black Spire Station
  • Kylo Ren and Stormtroopers: platform by TIE Echelon starfighter
chewie in galaxy's edge at disneyland

Fantasyland

  • Disney Princesses, like Mulan and Belle: Royal Theatre

New Orleans Square

  • Captain Jack Sparrow: hanging out on balconies

Frontierland

  • Miguel from Coco: Rancho del Zocolo

Mickey’s Toontown

  • Mickey and friends: outside their homes

Main Street, U.S.A.

  • Mickey and friends: at railroad station
mickey in toontown

Disney California Adventure

Buena Vista Street

  • A variety of characters: Carthay Circle

Pixar Pier

  • Pixar stars: Pixar Pier Bandshell and along the pier

Hollywood Land

  • Disney Junior characters, like Vampirina and Doc McStuffins: Disney Theater
  • Marvel superheroes, like Black Widow, Captain America, Thor, Spider-Man, Black Panther, and Dora Milaje: Hollywood Backlot Stage (they will become regular visitors at Avengers Campus when it opens on June 4, 2021)
black panther and dora milaje at california adventure

Cars Land

  • Lightning McQueen, Mater, and Red: along Route 66

Events & Experiences

Reservations for select experiences will resume beginning April 22, 2021.

Before reserving an event, tour, or experience, make sure you review the Important Details and policies. Some have fees if you do not cancel in time or are a no-show.

The following experiences may be available: 

Disneyland Park — Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Unique Tours

The following tours are available: 

  • Disneyland Resort VIP Tours: To learn more about VIP Tours or to make a reservation, contact Disney Special Activities at [email protected] or (714) 300-7710.

The following tours are unavailable: 

Adventures In Dining

These dining events are unavailable:

Separately Ticketed Events

Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite

Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite

Disney is working on rescheduling this event that was originally set for Aug. 27, 2020. If you purchased a ticket, you will automatically be eligible for the rescheduled event option. Guests who don’t want to use their event ticket may call (714) 781-4636 for assistance.

Disneyland After Dark: Villains Nite

Disneyland After Dark events 2020

Disney is working on rescheduling this event that was originally set for April 30, 2020. If you purchased a ticket, you will automatically be eligible for the rescheduled event option. Guests who don’t want to use their event ticket may call (714) 781-4636 for assistance.

2020 Food & Wine Festival Sip & Savor Pass

2020 food and wine festival at california adventure

This event did not take place as planned through April 21, 2020. Guests who purchased a 2020 Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival Sip and Savor Pass may request a refund in the amount of $7.00 for each qualifying entitlement tab (unused entitlement tabs that remain attached to the 2020 Food & Wine Festival Sip and Savor Pass and are returned).

*Detached tabs will not qualify for refunds.

How to obtain a refund:

  • Online: Submit a request through the Help Center by selecting “2020 Food & Wine Sip and Savor Pass Refund Request” in the “Subject” drop-down menu and filling out the form
  • Phone: Call (888) 231-7639 for assistance.

Disneyland Annual Passes

On Jan. 14, Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock announced that the current Disneyland Annual Passholder program was discontinued.

At the time, they also announced that they were “currently developing new membership offerings.” On Jan. 27, Disneyland announced a new “Legacy Passholder” program for Passholders who held active Passports as of March 14, 2020.

During the April 29 D23 Inside Disney podcast, it was announced Disney’s new annual pass membership program will debut by the end of 2021.

Disneyland Annual Passes discontinued

On Aug. 3, Disneyland announced its new annual pass program called — Magic Key.

There are four tiers: Dream Key, Believe Key, Enchant Key, and Imagine Key.

They each offer different perks and have ranging price levels. You can begin purchasing keys on Aug. 25, 2021 (no earlier than 10 a.m. PST).

disneyland magic key - tiers

Check out our complete Magic Key rundown for all of the details.

Downtown Disney District

Now that Downtown Disney is open, guests can visit a variety of shopping and dining experiences.

There are many operational changes, along with new health and safety measures put in place. There are many similarities to Disney Springs. Below is everything you can expect upon visiting.

Downtown Disney reopening procedures

Hours

Check the Disneyland app or website for official operating hours.

Parking & Entrances

Guests can self-park in the Simba Parking Lot (located off of Disneyland Drive, between Katella Avenue, and Paradise Pier Hotel).

The first hour of parking costs $10 (validations apply after the first hour of paid parking).

You can park an additional 3 hours of same-day parking with a $20-minimum purchase and validation from any Downtown Disney location or up to 5 additional hours of same-day parking with validation from any Downtown Disney table-service restaurant

Beyond the validations, each additional hour costs $14, charged in 30-minute increments, with a minimum $7. The maximum daily parking and lost ticket fee is $66.

Entry may be paused due to limited capacity. When this happens, parking in the Simba Parking Lot and admission of guests choosing to enter Downtown Disney District on foot will also be paused.

Digital message boards on Disneyland Drive and Katella Avenue will indicate when entry is paused due to capacity limitations.

Rideshare drop-offs are at the Downtown Disney guest drop-off and pick-up location on Downtown Drive.

Downtown Disney's reopening health and safety measures

Health & Safety Measures

These are the following health and safety measures guests can expect upon reopening:

Temperature & Security Screenings

IMPORTANT: The Disneyland Resort ended onsite temperature screenings for Guests and Cast Members on June 15, 2021.

All guests must have their temperature taken before entering the district. Temperatures will be taken in front of the designated Downtown Disney security screening location. 

Anyone with a 100.4 F or above temperature will be directed to an additional location for rescreening. Guests with a temperature of 100.4 F or above, along with everyone in their party, will be denied entry.

Enhanced Cleaning Procedures

High-traffic areas, like handrails, benches, tables, handles, and restrooms will be cleaned more frequently. Guests can also expect hand-washing and hand sanitizer locations. 

Face Coverings

As of July 30, all Cast Members and guests ages 2 and up, regardless of vaccination status, must wear face coverings again in all indoor locations.

Face coverings will also be required “upon entering and throughout many attractions and in enclosed transportation vehicles, including shuttles and buses.” It’s unclear which attractions will require masks.

While Guests will not be required to show proof of vaccination, all Guests must attest that they are aware of the following:

  • State of California strongly recommends that Guests be fully vaccinated or obtain a negative COVID-19 test prior to entering the Disneyland Resort.
  • Unvaccinated Guests must wear face coverings when indoors.

All face coverings must:

  • Fully cover the nose and mouth and allow the guest to remain hands-free
  • Fit snugly, but comfortably against the side of the face
  • Be secured with ties or ear loops
  • Be made of breathable material, either disposable or reusable

Important: neck gaiters, open-chin triangle bandanas, and face coverings containing valves, mesh material or holes of any kind are not allowed.

Face coverings may have an integrated transparent plastic panel to aid in viewing the wearer’s mouth. These face coverings must also:

  • Be a fabric face covering featuring a solid plastic panel containing no openings that is attached to the fabric on all sides using tight knit stitching
  • Meet all face covering requirements listed above

Dining Reservations

  • Guests will be able to make advance dining reservations for some table-service restaurants by booking online or on the official Disneyland app
  • Some dining locations may use their own reservation system or virtual waitlist
  • You should check with each individual location for the reservation process
  • All members of your party must be present upon arrival in order to be seated and the hosts must bring your entire party to the table at one time

What’s Open

Dining

  • Ballast Point Brewing Company (beer garden is open)
  • Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes
  • Catal Restaurant
  • Crazy Shake Window by Black Tap
  • Earl of Sandwich
  • Jamba
  • Kayla’s Cakes
  • La Brea Bakery Café
  • Naples Ristorante e Bar 
  • Napolini Pizzeria
  • Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Express
  • Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen
  • Salt & Straw
  • Splitsville Luxury Lanes
  • Starbucks
  • Starbucks West
  • Taqueria at Tortilla Jo’s
  • Tortilla Jo’s
  • Uva Bar & Cafe 
  • Wetzel’s Pretzels

Retail

  • California Sole
  • Curl Surf
  • Disney Home
  • Disney’s Pin Traders
  • The Disney Dress Shop
  • Disneyland Resort Shopping Reservation
  • The LEGO Store
  • Marceline’s Confectionary
  • PANDORA Jewelry
  • Pressed Coin Machines
  • Sephora
  • Sugarboo & Co.
  • Star Wars Trading Post
  • Sunglass Icon
  • WonderGround Gallery 
  • World of Disney

When it comes to merchandise locations, guests should note the following regarding:

  • Mobile Wait List: A mobile wait list may be used at times to manage the number of guests shopping if capacity is reached. 
  • Dressing Rooms: Dressing rooms will not be available right now.
  • Returns: Eligible returns and exchanges will be accepted at the World of Disney store and other Disney-owned and -operated locations upon the reopening of merchandise locations.  

FAQ’s

Although we have received more questions than we currently have answers for, we will continue to update this section as we learn more information. 

Have a question we haven’t answered? Drop us an email.

Should I Postpone My Trip?

This one is tricky, but here’s our thoughts:

If this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip – especially if you are traveling with little ones or small children – then as sad as we are to say it, postponing may be the right decision. 

For people that are frequent visitors that may not mind that things aren’t “normal” or that all experiences aren’t available or if you are not traveling with little kids that may struggle with the mask requirements and you personally feel comfortable traveling, then going may make sense for you. 

Every family and every situation will be different. There is no one right or wrong answer. Our goal is provide all the information you will need to make the best decision for you and your family.

Sleeping Beauty Castle

Are Masks Required?

As of July 30, all Cast Members and guests ages 2 and up, regardless of vaccination status, must wear face coverings again in all indoor locations.

legacyFace coverings will also be required “upon entering and throughout many attractions and in enclosed transportation vehicles, including shuttles and buses.” It’s unclear which attractions will require masks.

While Guests will not be required to show proof of vaccination, all Guests must attest that they are aware of the following:

  • State of California strongly recommends that Guests be fully vaccinated or obtain a negative COVID-19 test prior to entering the Disneyland Resort.
  • Unvaccinated Guests must wear face coverings when indoors.

All face coverings must:

  • Fully cover the nose and mouth and allow the guest to remain hands-free
  • Fit snugly, but comfortably against the side of the face
  • Be secured with ties or ear loops
  • Be made of breathable material, either disposable or reusable

Important: neck gaiters, open-chin triangle bandanas, and face coverings containing valves, mesh material or holes of any kind are not allowed.

Face coverings may have an integrated transparent plastic panel to aid in viewing the wearer’s mouth. These face coverings must also:

  • Be a fabric face covering featuring a solid plastic panel containing no openings that is attached to the fabric on all sides using tight knit stitching
  • Meet all face covering requirements listed above

Will The Pools At The Resorts Be Open?

Pools, whirlpools/spas, and waterslides are operating, but they may operate with reduced hours so you’ll need to confirm with the Front Desk.

Poolside cabanas are available for an additional fee (reservations are required), but poolside activities (pool parties and waterslides) won’t initially be available.

What About The Characters?

The character meets are temporarily suspended, however, there are some characters that are out and about entertaining guests from a safe distance.

What About Character Meals And Buffets?

A modified Character Dining experience is currently available at the following locations:

Will Park Hopping Be Allowed?

Yes, park hopping is allowed. You need both a valid ticket and theme park reservation for park entry.

Guests with Park Hopper tickets will make a park reservation for the first park they plan to visit at the start of their day. Then, starting at 1 p.m. that same day they can hop over to the other park.

I Have A Resort Reservation But Had Not Yet Purchased Tickets, Will I Still Be Able To Buy My Tickets?

Theme park ticket sales resumed on April 15. You need both valid theme park admission and a park reservation for park access.

How Will Bag Check Work If They Are Trying To Limit Contact?

There is a new contactless security system available. 

That said, the security procedures may vary by location. You might also be at times asked to remove select items from your pocket or wallet, like umbrellas, metal water bottles, portable chargers, etc.

When Can I Book A Trip For 2022?

You can now book 2022 vacation packages valid for arrivals Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2022.

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We will continue to update this page with all of the information you’ll need for your Disneyland vacation, so keep checking back!

If you’re looking into visiting Disneyland once it reopens, an experienced travel professional at Small World Vacations can help!