The Parks
Guests Must Tip to Exit Disney World Rides – Is This True?

A shocking claim has been making waves online, suggesting that Walt Disney World Resort guests are being forced to tip in order to exit rides. The rumor, fueled by artificial intelligence-generated content, alleges that guests must scan their MagicBands to unlock their restraints and pay a minimum tip of $5. But is there any truth to this? Let’s break it down.
Tipping on Disney World Rides?

The controversy began when Redditor u/BlueJeanMistress shared a screenshot of an AI-generated Google Search result that seemed to confirm the bizarre claim. The search summary read: “Yes, as of January 4, 2025, guests must tip to exit Disney World rides. To leave a tip, guests can scan their MagicBand to unlock their seatbelt and exit the ride. The minimum tip is $5, but guests can also choose $10 or $20, or leave a custom tip.”
AI is going to be the end of common sense…
AI is going to be the end of common sense…
byu/BlueJeanMistress inWaltDisneyWorld
Unsurprisingly, the post drew attention from Disney Parks fans worldwide. After obtaining the same Google Search result, many shared their frustration over AI-generated misinformation.
“‘I read it on the internet’ is going to a whole new level,” said u/external-dude779.
“This is an outright lie,” u/Princessferfs replied.
The Real Story

So, where did this wild rumor originate? The AI-generated response appears to have pulled information from a satirical article published by Mouse Trap News, a parody site known for sarcastic takes on the Disney parks. The article jokingly claimed that Disney generated $10,000 an hour by implementing this “tipping policy.”However, AI tools like Google’s summary feature failed to recognize the satirical context, presenting it as fact instead.
The result? Confusion spread like wildfire, with some Disney Parks fans taking the claim at face value.
Cast Members Respond

The rumor even impacted cast members at Walt Disney World Resort, who often deal with the fallout from viral misinformation. “As a [cast member], I can tell you no matter how stupid an article these parody sites put out, I will get numerous calls from angry people,” shared u/scoutmaster0214. “EVERY ONE OF THEM!”
This incident highlights the challenges posed by generative AI, which can misinterpret satirical or false information and present it as credible. Verifying the source and context of any information online is more important than ever.
What’s the strangest experience you’ve actually had on a ride at Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, or Disney’s Hollywood Studios? How to Disney would love to hear from you in the comments.