Menu

Should Disney Do Something About Phone Usage in Parks? Guests Think So

A group of four people enjoys a thrilling indoor roller coaster ride. The front two are smiling and excited as the September adventure unfolds, with vibrant lights and colors akin to a cosmic rewind enhancing the lively atmosphere.
Credit: Disney

Is now the time for Disney to take action?

Disney Space Mountain

Credit: Disney

Related: Disney Loungefly Holiday Backpacks You Need to Make Your Season Extra Festive

Disney Parks have long embraced the magic of the moment, but they’ve also navigated the complexities of technology use within their enchanting realms.

Compared to other theme parks, such as Universal Studios or Six Flags, Disney remains somewhat lenient with its regulations, allowing guests to carry personal items.

However, as the trend towards smartphone dependence increases, Disney is taking steps to ensure that phones do not detract from the overall experience. Guests frequently find themselves in discussions about stricter phone policies, urging the park to consider additional bans to maintain the magical atmosphere.

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Hollywood Studios

Credit: Disney

A discussion was recently sparked on the Walt Disney World Reddit, with many guests agreeing that something should be done about phone usage on rides and attractions.

What are your thoughts on attractions having 'no phone' ride vehicles?
byu/thermal7 inWaltDisneyWorld

 

Related: Can Disney World Guests Expect Vacation Cancellations Amid Hurricane Policy Changes?

The prevalence of phones in theme parks has created some significant challenges. Many visitors find themselves distracted by their devices, missing out on the enchantment surrounding them. The allure of recorded experiences often draws eyes away from the spectacular sights and sounds of the parks. A recent example is the Disney 100 Firework Show; while it was a breathtaking sight, many guests were seen recording it rather than enjoying it live.

This behavior can lead to an emotional disconnect among park-goers. Visitors, engrossed in their screens, sometimes fail to engage meaningfully with friends, family, or even with other guests. This detachment can reduce the senses’ engagement with the atmosphere, which is a core component of the Disney experience. Authentic interactions and genuine connections may suffer as individuals become more absorbed in their digital worlds.

Potential Benefits of Restricting Phones

Proposing a restriction on phone usage could offer various benefits to the guest experience at Disney Parks. For starters, with fewer devices in hand, guests may engage more with each other, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. Without the constant temptations of social media or selfies, families might find themselves genuinely bonding over thrilling rides or shared excitement.

Moreover, reducing phone use could immensely enhance the immersive experience that Disney strives to create. Guests would be less inclined to record their ride moments and more inclined to surrender fully to the joy of the experience. This enhancement promotes the idea of escapism, allowing visitors to profoundly enjoy the carefully curated worlds Disney has constructed.

Additionally, the presence of phones can lead to disruptions in ride queues. Guests taking the time to snap pictures or send messages can slow down lines, causing frustration for those eagerly waiting. By limiting phone use, Disney could streamline operations and perhaps even enhance overall satisfaction among its visitors.

A majestic castle with blue and gold spires towers against a bright blue sky with fluffy clouds. Fireworks explode around the castle, and a group of costumed characters stands in front, waving to an audience. Lush green trees frame the scene.

Credit: Disney

Related: The Cost of a Disney Vacation Just Got Significantly More Expensive: Here’s Why

Concerns About a Mobile Ban

While the potential benefits of restricting phone usage are significant, various concerns linger regarding such a move. One major issue is the loss of valuable data and real-time information that phones provide. From navigating the park to checking ride wait times, visitors increasingly rely on their devices for operational efficiency. Restricting phones could lead to a disorganized experience if guests find themselves unaware of the best routes or current crowd levels.

Moreover, in the age of social media, a ban on phones could negatively impact Disney’s online presence. The self-promotion that stems from viral social media posts contributes to attracting new visitors. Removing that element could diminish the park’s visibility in an increasingly digital world. Many potential guests may miss out on the allure of the parks if they cannot witness the experiences through social media channels.

Safety concerns also come into play. Without access to phones, guests may feel anxious about potential emergencies. The ability to connect with friends or access assistance quickly can provide comfort that is hard to replicate. For many, having their device as a safety net becomes a necessity rather than a luxury.

About Luke Dammann

When at Disney world, Luke will probably be found eating with his favorite animatronic, Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. When not at Disney World, Luke will probably be found defending Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe to people who claim "there are better restaurants"

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.