Presidents Day is a popular time to visit Disneyland, with many families taking advantage of the long weekend to enjoy the magic of the park. However, this also means that the park can be significantly busier than usual. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on what to expect when visiting Disneyland on Presidents Day, including crowd sizes, wait times for attractions, special events, and tips for making the most of your visit.
Disneyland tends to be significantly busier on Presidents Day and the surrounding week due to many schools’ mid-winter breaks. Crowd levels during the peak of Presidents Day can reach around 8/10, with wait times for attractions ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. However, with careful planning and a flexible attitude, a visit to Disneyland on Presidents Day can still be enjoyable.
Historical Attendance
Historically, Disneyland experiences large crowds on Presidents Day. The entire week of Presidents Day, including the holiday itself, is generally busier at Disneyland since many schools have mid-winter break during this week. Crowd levels during the peak of Presidents Day can reach around 8/10, with surrounding dates having crowd levels of about 6/10. It is recommended to avoid visiting Disneyland during Presidents Day week if possible, as wait times for attractions can range from 30 to 60 minutes.
Busiest Time of Day
While specific data for Presidents Day is not available, it is generally observed that Disneyland is busiest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. To avoid the busiest times, consider arriving early in the morning or after 3 p.m. Remember that wait times for popular attractions can be longer during peak hours, so planning your visit accordingly can help you make the most of your time at the park.
Average Wait Times for Popular Attractions
On Presidents Day, the average wait times for popular attractions can vary. For example, at Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom, guests waited for an average of 55 minutes per attraction during Presidents Day week in 2023. For Islands of Adventure, the average wait time on Presidents Day was 49 minutes. Keep in mind that these are just averages, and wait times for specific attractions may be higher or lower depending on their popularity.
Crowd Control and Guest Experience
To manage crowd control on Presidents Day, Disneyland uses a reservation system that helps them plan the number of employees needed for the day and other operational aspects. However, the impact on the guest experience can vary. Some guests may find the increased crowds overwhelming, leading to longer wait times for attractions and busier park areas. On the other hand, some guests may still enjoy their visit despite the crowds by planning ahead, using tools like crowd calendars, and employing strategies to navigate the park efficiently.
Special Offers and Discounts
While there may not be specific discounts or special packages exclusive to Presidents Day, there are often deals to be found during this period. Companies like CheapOair, CheapCaribbean, and DealNews often offer deals on flights, vacations, and various other purchases. It’s recommended to check the websites of these retailers for the most up-to-date information on their Presidents Day sales and promotions.
Tips for an Enjoyable Visit
Despite the crowds, visiting Disneyland on Presidents Day can still be a fun and memorable experience. The key is to plan ahead and be prepared. Here are a few tips to make your visit more enjoyable:
- Arrive Early: The park is usually less crowded in the early morning.
- Use Genie+: This tool can help manage wait times for popular attractions.
- Plan Your Day: Research the attractions and shows you want to see before your visit.
- Take Breaks: Rest and recharge during peak crowd times in the afternoon.
- Use Mobile Ordering: Save time and avoid long lines by ordering food through the Disneyland app.
- Be Flexible: Be prepared to adjust your plans based on crowd levels and wait times.
- Dress Appropriately: February can be cooler and potentially rainy, so dress accordingly.
- Stay Late: Crowds may thin out later in the evening, so consider staying late to enjoy the park with fewer people around.
In conclusion, while Disneyland can be busy on Presidents Day, with careful planning and a flexible attitude, you can still have a magical visit. Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Genie+ mentioned in the tips?
Genie+ is a paid service offered by Disneyland that allows you to book access to select attractions at designated times, helping to reduce the time you spend in line.
What is a crowd calendar and how can it be useful for my visit?
A crowd calendar is a tool that predicts the crowd levels at Disneyland on any given day. It can be useful for planning your visit as it gives you an idea of what to expect in terms of wait times and overall crowd density.
How can I use the Disneyland app for mobile ordering?
The Disneyland app allows you to order food from select restaurants in the park right from your phone. You can select your meal, pay, and then pick up your food at a designated time, helping to reduce the time spent waiting in line.
Are there any special events or parades held at Disneyland on Presidents Day?
While Disneyland does not typically hold special events specifically for Presidents Day, they do have regular parades and shows that you can enjoy. Be sure to check the daily schedule when you arrive at the park.
Is there any benefit to staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel during Presidents Day?
Guests staying at Disneyland Resort hotels often get benefits such as early admission to the parks and the convenience of being close to the action. However, there are no specific benefits related to Presidents Day.
