Big Changes Regarding Strollers, Smoking, and More at Walt Disney World and Disneyland

It’s that time of year when many families are eagerly counting down the days to their next Disney vacation. With so many exciting new offerings coming to Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in 2019 and beyond, there is so much to look forward to as you plan your next visit.

When planning, be sure to take a moment to look at the rules for each destination, which are easily available on DisneyWorld.com/Rules and Disneyland.com/Rules. These pages are an excellent planning resource and provide detail on a variety of policies for the parks, Disney Resort hotels and beyond.

While you may be familiar with the rules, please read them in advance of your next visit, as Walt Disney World and Disneyland make updates from time to time and are implementing some changes, including the removal of smoking areas within parks and the adjustment of park policies related to stroller size, stroller wagons and loose ice.

Here are a few tips to help ensure a smooth arrival during your next visit.S

STROLLERS
Families with little ones know strollers are an important part of a vacation. It’s the napping zone, the storage place, and the spot for tired legs to rest while experiencing the magic.

Beginning May 1, we are adjusting our guidelines on stroller sizes, which will require them to be no larger than 31″ (79cm) wide and 52″ (132cm) long. The good news – many strollers on the market, including many double jogging strollers, fit within these size guidelines. Also, just a reminder that wagons are not permitted in our parks. Beginning May 1, stroller wagons will also no longer be permitted. These updates are designed to help guest flow and ease congestion, making the parks more enjoyable for everyone.

TIP: 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!

SMOKING
Also 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.

TIP: Designated smoking areas will be available outside the entrances of the areas listed above and at Disney Springs in Florida. For guests who have room or dining reservations, smoking areas are also available at Disney Resort hotels.

LOOSE ICE
Beginning today, if you plan to bring a cooler or cooler bag to store snacks and drinks for theme park or water park adventures, it’s important to know that loose or dry ice are no longer permitted in our parks.

TIP: We recommend you keep your items frosty with re-useable ice packs instead. “You can visit any Quick-Service location for complimentary cups of ice for your cooler (you can also request complimentary cups of ice water to stay hydrated!),” recommends Disney Parks Moms Panelist Linda.

For additional information about these updates, visit our FAQs at DisneyWorld.com/RulesFAQ and Disneyland.com/RulesFAQ. For more tips or to ask questions about planning your upcoming Disney vacation, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from one of our panelists.