What to Do if Disneyland Tickets Are Sold Out? Answer is – If Disneyland tickets are sold out for your desired date, don’t despair! There are still options available. You can try checking for availability on different dates, consider a park hopper ticket (which allows you to visit both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park on the same day), or keep checking back for cancellations. Sometimes, people change their plans and release their reservations, so it’s worth checking regularly. You can also try using a third-party service that specializes in finding Disneyland tickets, but be aware that they may charge a premium.
Summary
- Yes, Disneyland tickets do sell out, especially during peak seasons and holidays.
- Reservations are required for park entry, even if you have a ticket.
- Sold out dates may have limited availability for park hopper tickets.
- Regularly check for cancellations, as reservations can open up unexpectedly.
- Consider alternative options like visiting on weekdays, exploring nearby attractions, or planning for a future trip.
What to Do if Disneyland Tickets Are Sold Out?
Disneyland, the Happiest Place on Earth, draws millions of visitors every year with its iconic attractions, enchanting shows, and immersive experiences.
However, to ensure a magical and crowd-controlled experience, Disneyland has implemented a reservation system that requires guests to book their park visits in advance.
While this system ensures a smoother experience for visitors, it can also lead to situations where tickets seem to be “sold out.”
Do Disneyland Tickets Sell Out?
Yes, Disneyland tickets can indeed sell out. In fact, it’s not uncommon for tickets to be unavailable for specific dates, especially during peak seasons like holidays and summer vacations.
This is primarily because the reservation system limits the number of guests allowed in the park each day to maintain optimal crowd levels.
It’s important to note that “selling out” doesn’t necessarily mean that there are no tickets available at all. It simply means that the allotted number of reservations for a particular date has been reached.
How Disneyland Reservations Work
The Disneyland reservation system works in tandem with ticket purchases. After purchasing your Disneyland ticket, you need to make a park reservation for the specific date you intend to visit.
This reservation guarantees your entry to the park on that day. You can make reservations through the official Disneyland website or app.
It’s recommended to book your reservation as early as possible, especially if you’re planning your visit during peak season.
Ken Potrock Expert Opinion
According to Ken Potrock, President of the Disneyland Resort, “The theme park reservation system is designed to help us manage attendance and deliver a great guest experience. We want to make sure that everyone who visits Disneyland has a magical time, and that includes managing crowds to ensure that lines are shorter and wait times are minimal.”
How to Get Disneyland Reservations When Sold Out
Even when the Disneyland reservation calendar appears to be fully booked for your desired dates, don’t lose hope! There are still strategies you can employ to secure a coveted spot in the Happiest Place on Earth.
1. Regularly Check for Cancellations
Life happens, and sometimes plans change. This means that Disneyland reservations can open up unexpectedly due to cancellations. Make it a habit to check the Disneyland website or app frequently for newly available slots.
You can do this by navigating to the park reservation calendar and selecting your desired date. If any reservations have been released, they will show up as available for booking.
Consider setting up alerts through the Disneyland app or subscribing to email notifications to be notified instantly when reservations become available.
2. Consider Different Dates and Ticket Types
Flexibility is key when dealing with sold-out Disneyland reservations. If your dates are not set in stone, consider visiting on weekdays or during non-peak seasons.
Weekdays typically have lower attendance compared to weekends, and the months just after holidays tend to be less crowded.
Additionally, explore different ticket options. While single-park tickets for Disneyland Park or Disney California Adventure Park might be sold out, you might find availability for Park Hopper tickets, which allow you to visit both parks on the same day.
3. Try Park Hopping
Park Hopping is a ticket option that allows guests to visit both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park on the same day. If one park is fully booked, you might find availability for the other park.
With a Park Hopper ticket, you can start your day at one park and then hop over to the other park after 1:00 PM, experiencing the best of both worlds.
Jessica Sanders Expert Tip
Jessica Sanders, founder of The Happiest Blog on Earth, recommends Park Hopping as a viable option for those facing sold-out reservations. She advises, “If you can’t get into your preferred park right away, start at the other park and hop over later. This gives you a chance to experience both parks and make the most of your day at Disneyland.”
4. Use a Third-Party Service (with Caution)
Several third-party services specialize in securing Disneyland tickets and reservations. These services often have access to inventory that might not be available to the general public.
However, it’s crucial to exercise caution when using such services. Ensure that the service is reputable and has a proven track record of success.
Additionally, be prepared to pay a premium for their services, as they often charge additional fees on top of the ticket price.
Alternative Options If You Can’t Get Into Disneyland
While Disneyland holds a special place in many hearts, the magic doesn’t stop at its gates. Southern California offers a wealth of alternative attractions and experiences that can fill your itinerary with joy and excitement, even if your Disneyland dreams are temporarily on hold.
1. Explore Nearby Attractions
The Anaheim area, where Disneyland is located, is a hub of entertainment and attractions. Take a stroll down the vibrant Downtown Disney District, which is open to the public and offers a diverse array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Catch a movie at the AMC Theatres, indulge in a sweet treat at Sprinkles Cupcakes, or browse the unique merchandise at the World of Disney store.
Beyond Downtown Disney, consider venturing to Knott’s Berry Farm, a thrilling theme park with roller coasters, water rides, and live shows.
You can also explore the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, home to over 11,000 ocean animals. Or, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Crystal Cove State Park, which boasts stunning beaches, hiking trails, and tide pools.
Suzi Brown Expert Tip
Anaheim tourism expert, Suzi Brown, suggests, “There’s so much more to discover in the Anaheim area beyond Disneyland. Take advantage of the diverse attractions and experiences available, from world-class shopping and dining to outdoor adventures and cultural events.”
2. Visit During Off-Peak Times
If your schedule permits, consider planning your visit to Disneyland during off-peak times. The parks tend to be less crowded on weekdays, particularly Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
Additionally, the months just after the major holidays, like January and February, typically see lower attendance.
By visiting during these less busy periods, you increase your chances of securing reservations and enjoying a more relaxed experience.
3. Plan a Future Trip
If you’re unable to secure Disneyland reservations for your current trip, don’t despair.
Start planning your next adventure! As soon as your dates are finalized, book your tickets and reservations well in advance.
This proactive approach ensures that you won’t miss out on the magic again.
4. Look for Special Events or Tours
Disneyland regularly hosts special events and tours that might be available even when park reservations are sold out.
These events often have separate ticketing and reservation systems. Keep an eye on the Disneyland website for announcements of upcoming events and tours that might interest you.
Some popular options include after-hours events, holiday celebrations, and guided tours that offer behind-the-scenes glimpses of the park.
Additional Tips and Tricks
Even with the best-laid plans, navigating Disneyland’s reservation system can be a challenge. However, armed with these additional tips and tricks, you’ll be well-equipped to secure your spot and make the most of your magical adventure.
1. Book Early
The golden rule of Disneyland reservations is to book early, especially if you’re planning your visit during peak season or holidays.
As soon as your travel dates are confirmed, head to the official Disneyland website or app to secure your tickets and reservations.
The earlier you book, the higher your chances of getting your preferred dates and avoiding disappointment.
Lisa Stiglic Expert Opinion
“Booking early is crucial for securing Disneyland reservations, especially for popular dates and times,” says Lisa Stiglic, Disneyland expert and author of “Disneyland Secrets: A Guide for Adults.” “Don’t wait until the last minute, as you might find yourself out of luck.”
2. Be Flexible
Flexibility is your best friend when it comes to Disneyland reservations. If you’re open to different dates or times, you’ll significantly increase your chances of finding availability.
Consider visiting during off-peak seasons or weekdays, as these periods tend to be less crowded. If you’re flexible with your park choices, you might also find availability for one park even if the other is sold out.
3. Stay Informed
Disneyland frequently updates its reservation calendar and releases new availability due to cancellations. Stay informed by regularly checking the official Disneyland website or app.
You can also sign up for email notifications or download the Disneyland app to receive alerts when new reservations become available.
4. Join a Disneyland Fan Community
Disneyland boasts a passionate and active fan community that thrives both online and offline. Join online forums, Facebook groups, or other social media communities dedicated to Disneyland.
These communities are valuable resources for sharing tips, tricks, and updates on reservation availability. You might even find fellow fans who are willing to trade or transfer their reservations to you.
Dusty Sage Expert Opinion
“Disneyland fan communities are a great way to stay connected with other Disney enthusiasts and get insider tips on everything from reservations to dining to attractions,” says Dusty Sage, founder of MiceChat, a popular online Disneyland community.
FAQs
Can I buy tickets at the gate if they are sold out online?
No, if Disneyland tickets are sold out online for a specific date, they won’t be available at the gate. Disneyland’s reservation system requires guests to have both a valid ticket and a park reservation for the same date to enter.
Is there a waitlist for Disneyland tickets?
Currently, Disneyland does not have a waitlist for park reservations. If your desired date is sold out, the best course of action is to regularly check for cancellations or explore alternative dates and ticket options.
What are the best times to visit Disneyland to avoid crowds?
Generally, weekdays (particularly Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays) and the off-season (typically January through March, excluding holidays) tend to have lower crowds than weekends and peak seasons. You can also consult Disneyland crowd calendars, such as the one offered by Is It Packed?, to get an idea of predicted crowd levels for specific dates.
How can I get the best deals on Disneyland tickets?
The best deals on Disneyland tickets often come from booking directly through the official Disneyland website or app. Look for special offers, promotions, or discounts that might be available. You can also consider purchasing multi-day tickets, as they often offer a lower per-day cost compared to single-day tickets. Additionally, some authorized third-party sellers might offer discounts or package deals, but always verify their legitimacy before purchasing.
Do Disneyland tickets sell out?
Yes, Disneyland tickets can and do sell out, especially during peak seasons like holidays and summer vacations. This is due to the park’s reservation system, which limits the number of guests allowed in the park each day to maintain optimal crowd levels.
How Disneyland reservations work?
The Disneyland reservation system requires guests to reserve their park visit for a specific date after purchasing their ticket. This reservation guarantees your entry to the park on that day. You can make reservations through the official Disneyland website or app. It’s recommended to book your reservation as early as possible, especially if you’re planning your visit during peak season.
How to get Disneyland reservations when sold out?
Even if your desired date is sold out, there are still ways to potentially secure a reservation. Regularly check for cancellations, as other guests might change their plans and release their reservations. Consider visiting on different dates or exploring alternative ticket options like Park Hopper tickets. You can also try using a reputable third-party service, but exercise caution and be prepared to pay a premium.
The Bottom Line
What to Do If Disneyland Tickets Are Sold Out
If you find yourself facing sold-out Disneyland tickets, don’t give up on your dream of experiencing the magic. By employing the strategies outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of securing a reservation and enjoying a memorable visit to the Happiest Place on Earth. Remember to:
- Regularly check for cancellations: Reservations can open up unexpectedly due to changes in other guests’ plans.
- Consider different dates and ticket types: Be flexible with your travel dates and explore alternative ticket options like Park Hopper tickets.
- Try park hopping: If one park is sold out, you might find availability for the other park and hop over later in the day.
- Use a third-party service (with caution): While these services can be helpful, exercise caution and choose a reputable provider.
- Explore nearby attractions: The Anaheim area offers a wealth of alternative entertainment options beyond Disneyland.
- Visit during off-peak times: Weekdays and off-season periods tend to be less crowded.
- Plan a future trip: Book your tickets and reservations well in advance for your next visit.
- Look for special events or tours: These might be available even when park reservations are sold out.
By being proactive, flexible, and persistent, you can overcome the sold-out hurdle and create a magical Disneyland experience for yourself and your loved ones.
