Disney Parks Ban Smoking, Alter Policies for Strollers, Loose Ice

in Disney, Entertainment, Theme Parks

magic kingdom castle

Credit: Disney

Disney has just announced new policies on smoking, stroller size, and loose ice, which may affect your next trip to the Disney Parks at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort. Here is an in-depth look at the changes.

This time of year is when many Disney fans begin planning their next vacation to the Disney Parks, and as we all know, a lot of new offerings and changes will be coming to both coasts’ magical lands in just the next few months. Specifically, the addition of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at both Disneyland and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. To keep guests safe and to provide the best experience possible for all, Disney has decided to make a few changes to some of its policies. And to get ahead of the large crowds to come, Disney will begin enforcing some of these new changes starting today.

Related: Woman Brings Loaded Gun to Disney World, Gets Banned From Parks

Tips for your next Park visit
Credit: Disney

Smoking

As per Disney, beginning May 1, smoking areas will no longer be present inside Walt Disney World or Disneyland theme parks, water parks, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, or Downtown Disney in California. However, Disney will designate smoking areas outside the entrances of the areas listed above and at Disney Springs in Florida. For guests who have room or dining reservations, smoking areas will be available at Disney Resort hotels.

Disney Parks bans smoking
Credit: Disney

Related: Disney Guests Argue Alcohol Should Be Banned in Parks

Strollers

As we all know, for those with little ones, strollers really are a must. However, Disney will be changing the sizes of strollers allowed in the parks beginning May 1.

As part of this change, Disney will only be allowing strollers no larger than 31″ (79cm) wide and 52″ (132cm) long. According to Disney, many strollers on the market, including many double jogging strollers, fit within these guidelines.

Tips for your next Park visit about Strollers
Credit: Disney

With the release of this news, Disney also wanted to remind park guests that wagons are not permitted in the parks, and beginning May 1, stroller wagons will also no longer be permitted. This change is designed to help guests flow better in the park and will ultimately ease congestion, making the parks more enjoyable for everyone.

Tips for your next Park visit about strollers wagons
Credit: Disney

A tip offered to guests from the Disney Parks Moms Panel about the change states: The smaller your stroller, the easier it is to navigate and maneuver the parks. “My number one go-to is renting a stroller from Disney,” explains Disney Parks Moms Panelist Tabitha. “At Walt Disney World Resort, you can rent a single or double stroller once you arrive, and they can be rented each day or you can choose a Length of Stay Rental.” While Walt Disney World already offers a double stroller rental, Disneyland Resort will soon offer one too!

Loose Ice

The last change coming to the Disney Parks, which begins today, is for guests planning to bring a cooler or cooler bag to store snacks and drinks for the theme parks or water parks. No longer will guests be allowed to bring in loose or dry ice. However, all hope for keeping food items cold is not lost as guests can utilize reusable ice packs.

Additionally, Disney will allow guests to visit Quick-Service locations throughout the park, where they can request complimentary cups of ice for the purpose of their coolers. Complimentary cups of water are another offering that can be found at these locations as well.

Tips for your next Park visit about loose and dry ice
Credit: Disney

For an even closer look at these new updates, be sure to visit the official website for FAQs.

If you’re looking to plan your next trip to Walt Disney World or Disneyland, be sure to contact our friends at Academy Travel. As an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, this company is super knowledgeable of the Walt Disney World parks and can help you with FastPass+, Advanced Dining Reservations, special or seasonal events, discounts, and so much more. Best of all, when you use Academy Travel to book your vacation, you don’t pay any extra fees or commissions.

Additionally, the company will constantly be looking for reduced rates or discounts the second you book with them, up until the first day of your stay. If a better deal becomes available, they will automatically cancel and rebook your reservations to save you money! Click here for a no-obligation vacation quote from Academy Travel!

What are your thoughts on these new policy changes to Disney Parks? Let us know in the comments below!

Source: Disney

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