Disneyland ResortNews

Disneyland a Ghost Town, Crowds Disappear From California Parks

Disneyland Resort has recently seen a noticeable drop in crowds, with reports from multiple guests claiming the theme parks are eerily empty. This comes after weeks of rumors and false reports surrounding ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) activity at the parks, fueling confusion and concern among visitors. Social media videos posted on TikTok showed a lack of the usual summer crowds at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, sparking further speculation about why attendance has dwindled.

The rumors began a few weeks ago, fueled by viral videos suggesting ICE agents had been seen at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Allegations spread that agents had been roaming the parking garages and near Disney cast member entrances, attempting to catch undocumented guests or employees. The reports gained significant traction, leading to a swift response from Disneyland Resort.

A group of diverse people, mostly young women, smile and hold hands while wearing teal uniforms with red accents. They are standing closely together in an outdoor setting, suggesting a formal or celebratory event. The background shows more people, slightly out of focus.
Credit: Disney

Within hours of the rumors spreading, the Southern California Disney Resort issued a statement confirming that ICE was not present on the property, and all theme park operations continued as usual. Despite this, the rumors reportedly made an impact. Many Disneyland Resort guests noted a significant difference in crowd levels compared to previous summers.

On June 18, TikTok users @guerasunshine and @queen.alejandra shared videos showing sparsely populated areas of Disneyland Park. “Disney is literally EMPTY,” @guerasunshine wrote, showcasing areas like Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, and Main Street, U.S.A., typically filled with guests during the summer season. “Walk on lines and super short wait times and space to actually walk! …A blessing?”

@guerasunshine

Disney empty…a blessing? #fyp #disney #disneyparks #disneyland #anaheim #california

♬ Le Monde – From Talk to Me – Richard Carter

Similarly, @queen.alejandra posted a video featuring areas near the Matterhorn Bobsleds and Sleeping Beauty Castle, commenting, “Seems like a slow day.” The comparison to a typical bustling summer day at Disneyland Park couldn’t have been starker, as both videos showed places that are usually crowded with visitors empty or with significantly fewer people than expected.

@queen.alejandra

seems like a slow day 🥰 #disneyland #anaheim #fyp #disneycrowds #70thcelebration #lesscrowded

♬ Nothing Can Stop Us Now – Kyle Allen Music

The comments section of these TikTok videos was flooded with reactions from others who had experienced the same lack of crowds.

“Got 11 rides with snack breaks done in 8 hours, [it] was the best day to go,” said @whaileelady. “I’m honestly shocked but it’s so nice.”

A woman and a young girl laugh joyfully in front of a castle at a theme park. The girl wears Mickey Mouse ears and holds a colorful toy. Both appear happy, surrounded by a magical atmosphere at this Disney park.
Credit: Disney

“[It] was great,” @misspurple316 replied. “Longest wait was 45 mins for Rise. I didn’t think it was that hot but I am from AZ.”

However, not all recent Southern California Disney Park visitors shared the same sentiment. Some reported a return to the usual packed crowds shortly after, suggesting that the lighter crowd levels may have been temporary.

Mickey Mouse waves from a balcony at Disneyland Resort, set against a vintage train station building with a clock showing ten past one. Red, white, and blue bunting decorates the scene, and bright daylight enhances the festive atmosphere at this Disneyland park.
Credit: Steven Beyer on Unsplash

“Hahaha I was there Tuesday and it was horrid,” @jess_nicoleoros recalled. “Wall to wall people.”

“I was there yesterday and it was packed,” said @l_u.i.s.

Are crowds disappearing from Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, and Downtown Disney? Share your opinion with Disney Fanatic in the comments! 

Jess Colopy

Jess Colopy is a Disney College Program alum and kid-at-heart. When she’s not furiously typing in a coffee shop, you can find her on the hunt for the newest Stitch pin.

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