AI Enters Disney Theme Park, Employee Roles Reduced as Machines Do Their Job

Disneyland Resort is stepping into the future with a new AI self-checkout system, and it’s already being tested at one of the park’s popular eateries—Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta. While guests enjoy delicious meals, they now have the chance to try out this futuristic technology for themselves!

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AI Self-Checkout Comes to Disneyland Resort

The AI self-checkout technology is not entirely new to Disney fans. This high-tech checkout system was previously tested at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort in Walt Disney World earlier this year. After a month-long trial, the system was pulled from the resort, and traditional checkout lines returned. Now, Disney has decided to test it again, this time at Disneyland Resort’s Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta in Disney California Adventure.

What’s Different About This Test?

At Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta, two AI self-checkout stations have been placed near the north exit of the location. They’re set up on folding tables, but the tables have been wrapped with themed decor to blend in seamlessly with the rest of the restaurant’s design.

The technology itself looks exactly as it did during the earlier test in January 2025. Guests are asked to place their food and beverage items on a tray, and the built-in scanner automatically detects the items for checkout. However, there’s a catch—guests must ensure that each item is placed separately on the tray, as the scanner can get confused if items are too close together.

How Does It Work?

Once your tray is scanned, the large screen beside the scanner will automatically begin loading, and guests are prompted to confirm that the correct items are listed. The AI system is still in its testing phase, so it can struggle with identifying modified menu items or similar-looking products. Guests are advised to double-check the scanned items before proceeding.

After confirming everything, the payment process begins. The system accepts MagicBands, credit cards, and mobile payment options, but it doesn’t handle cash payments—so be sure to bring a form of digital payment.

Manual Adjustments and Cast Member Assistance

The AI system is designed to be easy to use, but Disney has made sure to have Cast Members nearby to assist guests during the trial. If needed, a page will pop up on the screen where guests can manually add items, though this function is typically reserved for Cast Members to make adjustments.

If any issues arise during the checkout process, the Cast Members stationed nearby are ready to assist and observe the system to ensure the test goes smoothly.

As Disney continues to innovate with technology, it’s clear that the AI self-checkout system could be the future of theme park dining experiences. While the system is still being tested, we can expect it to evolve and improve as Disney gathers feedback from guests.

Will you be trying out the new AI checkout at Disneyland Resort? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!