A visit to Disneyland or Disney World in the works? Before heading to these California- and Florida-based theme parks, it’s important to be aware of new policies involving strollers, ice and smoking that could see you turned away at the gate.
Of the new policies, a Disney spokesperson sent the following statement to Parentology, “As we expand our offerings, we will continue to take steps to enhance the guest experience and make it more enjoyable for everyone who visits.”
An expansion on the horizon is Disneyland’s May 31 opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the attraction’s August 29 opening at Disney World. In anticipation of larger crowds, the stroller size restriction is intended to help with increased foot traffic and congestion.
Stroller size restrictions will to go into effect on May 1 at both parks. The new stats: 31″ (79cm) wide — a 5” decrease from the current requirements — and 52″ (132cm) long. Wagons aren’t allowed on park grounds and, as of May 1, stroller wagons will join their ranks.
In his article Strollers That Will and Won’t Fit Under Disney’s New Size Restrictions, Arizona Republic’s Scott Craven shared the following list of strollers in keeping with the new guidelines:
Double Strollers That Fit the New Rules
- Graco Ready2Grow LX Double Stroller, Gotham. 23.5 inches wide by 42 inches long.
- BOB Revolution Flex Duallie 2.0 Jogging Stroller, Bob Gear. 30.5 inches wide by 48 inches long.
- Twin Triumph Double Stroller, Maclaren. 31 inches wide by 41 inches long.
- Scooter X2 Double Stroller, Joovy. 30 inches wide by 32.25 inches long.
- Minno Twin Double Stroller, Evenflo. 27 inches wide by 26.75 inches long.
Double Strollers That Won’t Fit
- The Quad LX 4-Passenger Stroller, Foundations. 33 inches wide by 48.5 inches long.
- Navigator Double Jogger Stroller, Baby Trend. 32.5 inches wide by 46 inches long.
- 2016 Summit X3 Double Jogging Stroller, Baby Jogger. 32.5 inches wide by 53 inches long.
No money put aside for a new stroller? Not to worry. Rentals of single- and *double-stroller (*coming soon to Disneyland Resort) are available by the day or length of visit. Details can be found here for Disneyland, and here for Disney World, including information about other companies offering stroller rentals.
As a reassurance to guests with disabilities, the Disney spokesperson added, “Nothing has changed about how we make accommodations for guests with disabilities. Meeting their needs is extremely important to us. Guests with disabilities who have questions or concerns about any of the updates may contact Disability.Services@DisneyParks.com or call 407-560-2547 to address their needs.”
Coolers are already getting special once-overs during the bag check entry process with security on the lookout for now-banned loose or dry ice. Disney Parks are recommending visitors bring reusable ice packs. Also permitted are frozen water bottles and sandwich-or gallon-size freezer bags of ice. If loose ice is needed, park food and beverage facilities will provide complimentary cups of ice.
Another big change on May 1, smoking, vaping and e-cigarettes will be prohibited on park premises, with smoking areas eliminated at Walt Disney World and Disneyland theme parks, water parks, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex and California’s Downtown Disney District. Set to accommodate smokers are designated areas just outside the entrances of these venues, as well as established smoking areas at Disney Resort Hotels.
A final tip from Parentology: when in the planning stages for a Disney Parks visit always check policies via Disneyland.com/Rules and DisneyWorld.com/Rules for potential updates.
Sources:
Disneyland Help Center Frequently Asked Questions
Disney World Help Center Frequently Asked Questions
Arizona Republic: Strollers That Will and Won’t Fit Under Disney’s New Size Restrictions by Scott Crave
Moms Panel Update: Know Before You Go — Tips for Your Next Park Visit