Big changes just hit the front gates of Disneyland and Disney California Adventure. If your muscle memory had you ready to scan, smile, and spin through a turnstile… think again.
Walk Right In, Like You Own the Place
Disney has finally ditched the old-school spin gates and gone full 21st century with sleek, open digital entry portals. They look more like luxury hotel elevators than theme park gates—and yes, they open automatically when you scan in.
No wrist-flicking turnstiles. No awkward photo ops. No backup at the gate because someone’s ticket got chewed.
So, What’s It Like?
You walk up. You scan your phone, MagicBand+, or ticket. A camera takes your photo (it’s fast, but you can tap the screen if you want to snap it manually). Then the gates slide open and boom—you’re in.
It’s touch-free, it’s fast, and it’s stroller- and wheelchair-friendly. Honestly, it’s about time.
Those Fancy Gates? They Even Say Hi
When you enter Disneyland, animated Mickey greets you. At DCA? Oswald waves you in. Not a huge deal, but very on-brand Disney fluff.
Staying at a Hotel? Use the VIP Entrances
If you’re staying at one of the on-property hotels, there are a few alternate ways in:
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Grand Californian guests can stroll right into DCA like it’s their backyard.
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Pixar Place Hotel now has a direct walkway into DCA, but heads-up: it closes at noon, so don’t oversleep.
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The Monorail still drops you inside Disneyland at Tomorrowland—but only if you’ve already entered the park or scanned in.
Re-Entry Is Still a Thing
You can leave the park and come back, no problem. Just scan again—your ticket is still linked to your photo. No re-scanning ID or re-checking with a Cast Member.
And If You’ve Got Kids?
Under 3? They don’t need a ticket, and they don’t go through the gate. Ages 3 and up follow the same scan-and-go flow as adults.
Physical Tickets Still Work (If You’re Old-School)
Yes, you can still use a physical card or printed ticket. You’ll still get your photo taken, and you’ll still enter through the new gates just like everyone else.
Why Now?
This whole glow-up is part of Disneyland’s prep for its 70th anniversary celebration, which kicks off May 16. New tech at the gates is step one in streamlining entry, reducing delays, and giving guests a smoother start to their day.
What do you think of this new change at Disneyland?
