A Walt Disney World vacation is a dream for Disney fans of all ages. From world-class attractions and character interactions to immersive shopping and dining experiences, there’s something magical around every corner.
However, to ensure that everyone enjoys their time in the parks, there are important rules that every guest must follow. By understanding and respecting these guidelines, you can help maintain the magic while avoiding unnecessary disruptions to your trip.
Stay Inside Ride Vehicles at All Times
One of the most critical safety rules at Walt Disney World is to always remain inside ride vehicles. You’ve likely heard Cast Members say, “Please keep your hands, arms, feet, and legs inside the ride at all times.”
This rule applies to every Disney attraction, whether it’s a thrilling ride like Space Mountain or a slow-moving classic like It’s a Small World.
Breaking this rule is dangerous for you and other guests. Cameras monitor each attraction, and Cast Members in the control rooms will stop the ride if they see unsafe behavior.
In extreme cases, failure to follow this rule could lead to being asked to leave the park.
Prohibited Items at Walt Disney World
For the safety of all Guests, certain items are strictly prohibited at Walt Disney World Resort. Make sure to leave the following items at home:
- Firearms, knives, weapons, and ammunition
- Marijuana and other illegal substances
- Drones, horns, and skateboards
- Explosives or fireworks
- Folding chairs
- Selfie sticks
- Toy guns, swords, or any other toy weapons
- Alcoholic drinks
These restrictions help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone visiting the Most Magical Place on Earth.
Dress Code: What to Wear and What to Avoid
Walt Disney World has a dress code to maintain a family-friendly environment. Guests are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing and shoes for a day of fun, but certain attire is not permitted, including:
- Clothing with offensive language or images
- Garments with excessive rips or tears
- Outfits that expose too much skin
- Clothing that drags on the ground
- Any objectionable tattoos that are not covered
Guests who wear inappropriate attire may be asked to change or even denied entry into the parks. To avoid any issues, plan your Disney outfits with both comfort and park guidelines in mind.
Costumes: When and Where They’re Allowed
Dressing up as your favorite Disney character can be fun, but there are rules regarding costumes at Walt Disney World.
Guests over 13 are prohibited from wearing costumes in the parks except during special ticketed events such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and the Oogie Boogie Bash at Disneyland.
Even at these events, costumes must be safe and not present any hazards. Additionally, guests in costume are not allowed to pose for photos or sign autographs, which could lead to confusion with official Disney characters.
Keep Out of the Water
Walt Disney World Resort features numerous stunning lakes, rivers, and lagoons. However, for safety reasons, Guests are strictly prohibited from entering any open water bodies.
To prevent access, roped barriers and netting are in place along the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon, Bay Lake, Lago Dorado, Barefoot Bay, and the Sassagoula River.
Instead of entering the water, Guests can enjoy boat rides or simply take in the picturesque views from designated viewing areas.
Security Screening for All Guests
Every Guest entering a Disney Park or Disney Springs must undergo a security screening. Fortunately, Walt Disney World has implemented advanced security scanners for a seamless entry process.
These scanners are located at:
- All theme park entrances, including the International Gateway at EPCOT
- Multiple locations in Disney Springs
- The Disney Monorail entrances at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
If a scanner flags an item in your bag, you may be directed to a secondary screening area for further inspection.
Stroller Size Restrictions
Strollers are a must-have for many families visiting the Walt Disney World Resort. They help little ones (and their parents!) enjoy the parks with ease. To ensure smooth entry, be sure your stroller meets Disney’s current size guidelines: strollers must not exceed 31 inches in width and 52 inches in length.
Under standard guidelines, stroller wagons are not permitted in the parks. However, there are exceptions for Guests with disabilities. In some cases, a stroller wagon may be designated as a “Stroller as a Wheelchair.” If approved, the stroller wagon will be marked with a special tag from Guest Relations and allowed for use as a mobility aid.
To receive this designation, your child must meet one of the following criteria as outlined in the Accessibility Planning Guide:
- Is a child with a disability who uses their stroller as a mobility device in place of a traditional wheelchair
- Is a child with additional medical equipment who needs a way to transport their equipment while in a queue
- Is an adult with a mobility disability who uses a stroller as a mobility device to assist with walking
This designation must be made in person at a Guest Relations location, so we recommend having a backup plan just in case. Disney offers stroller rentals at all four theme parks and Disney Springs, or you can bring your stroller, as long as it meets the size requirements.
An Adult Must accompany Children
Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult while inside the parks. Teenagers aged 14 and older can explore independently, but younger children must always have supervision.
This policy ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all families visiting Walt Disney World Resort.
Smoking Policy: Where You Can and Cannot Smoke
Walt Disney World is a smoke-free environment, with smoking allowed only in designated areas. Smoking, including electronic cigarettes, is strictly prohibited inside theme parks, water parks, and Disney Resort hotel rooms.
Designated smoking areas are available:
- In select locations at Disney Resort hotels
- Near the entrances of each theme park and Disney Springs
You may be asked to relocate or exit the park if you smoke outside these areas.
Follow the Rules for a Stress-Free Disney Vacation
Walt Disney World Resort is designed to provide a magical and immersive experience for all who visit. By following the rules, you can ensure that your vacation goes smoothly and without unnecessary interruptions.
With these guidelines, you can enjoy a stress-free, magical Disney adventure!
So pack your bags, review the rules, and get ready to experience all the wonder and excitement of Walt Disney World!
