Credit: Jeremy Thompson, FlickrOn December 28, Disneyland Resort abruptly closed one of its most popular guest parking areas with direct access to the Downtown Disney shopping, dining, and entertainment district. The shutdown forced countless Southern California Disney Park guests to pay at the nearby Mickey & Friends Parking Structure.
Disneyland Parking Change on Sunday
On Sunday, TikTok user @disney.damsel and her family arrived at Disneyland Resort for an evening of shopping and snacking at the Downtown Disney District.
The party planned to park in the attached surface lot, which is free for a period of anywhere between three and five hours for anyone with validation from a purchase at one of several retailers or restaurants in the outdoor complex.
It’s an affordable solution for many families who aren’t planning on visiting Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park, with the bonus of avoiding the towering parking garages and long tram lines.
Unfortunately, @disney.damsel and her family never made it into the Downtown Disney District parking lot. When they arrived on December 28, Disney cast members informed them that the area was closed and that they were required to park in the Mickey & Friends Parking Structure, which theme park guests typically use.
“They only made us pay $10 for parking,” the Disneyland Resort guest explained. “But don’t think that you’re going to go to the Downtown Disney lot, because it’s not going to work.”
@disney.damsel If you’re headed to downtown disney, the lot is closed! we were sent to Mickey & Friends but only had to pay $10 for parking. Thankful Disney accommodated the price but a total tease for my toddler getting on the tram! #disney #disneyadult #disneyland #disneyparks #downtowndisney
In a comment, the guest explained that Disney cast members wrote a note for the family to give to employees at the Mickey & Friends Parking Structure. After reading the slip of paper, the Mickey & Friends cast members reduced what would’ve been a $40-45 parking fee to $10.
“Thankful Disney accommodated the price but a total tease for my toddler getting on the tram!” the Disney Park guest wrote.
What Was Behind the Closure?
The busy holiday season meant that the already limited Downtown Disney District parking lot was likely full of shoppers and restaurant goers. Additionally, many TikTok commenters pointed out that Disney cast members use this parking area, and Disneyland Resort reserves a few hundred slots for employees on duty.
“They need at least 250 spots free for CMs to park that’s why they close it so guests don’t take them all,” @babygulppp explained.
It’s unclear whether the Downtown Disney District lot remained closed on Monday, December 29; however, capacity is constantly changing, so guests driving to Disneyland Resort will need to inquire with cast members about availability.
Do you drive to Disneyland Resort, or travel another way? Inside the Magic would love to hear from you in the comments!