Seeing the Walt Disney World sign at the start of a trip always makes us smile. The beginning of a Disney World trip is filled with so many emotions.
There is so much to do at Disney World, but there are also some surprising things you will want to avoid so you don’t get kicked out of it.
There are quite a few rules in place at Disney World to keep guests, cast members, and animals safe, while also ensuring everyone has the best experience possible. However, some of the rules are a bit surprising! So today we’re bringing you 10 ways to get kicked out of Disney World that might surprise you.
Not Being Kind or Being Disruptive
We hope that you always treat Cast Members and other park-goers with kindness and respect. Being kind can really go a long way! However, did you know that you can actually get kicked out of Disney World if you are not? In December 2022, Disney wrote a specific rule about this saying, that guests “must always remember to treat others with respect, kindness, and compassion. Those who can’t live up to this simple wish may be asked to leave Walt Disney World Resort.” Disney World can be exhausting and frustrating sometimes, but don’t forget to take a breather if you need one. As well, being disruptive in the parks can also get you kicked out. Don’t do crazy things, like running around naked or jumping out of a ride vehicle.
Dressing Up as Your Favorite Character
We know, we know. Disney World is supposed to be the Most Magical Place on Earth, and you can’t even dress up as your favorite character? This is true to an extent, so we want to make sure you are aware of this. Disney World does allow you to dress up if you are younger than 13 years old or if you are attending Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. However, if you are older than 13 years and not at the Halloween Party, take special consideration when you are deciding on your outfits. Disney World will not allow you to elaborately dress up as your favorite character and enter the park. They are worried that you could be mistaken for that character, and they would not be able to control how you portray that character. If you are wanting to dress up as your favorite character, we recommend Disney bounding, which is wearing regular outfits that represent the character.
Being Too Young
Disney World is a place for all ages, but there is one rule that could get you kicked out of Disney World. You must be at least 14 years old to enter the park by yourself. If you are younger than 14, you will need to be accompanied by another group member who is at least 14 years old. Essentially, if you could dress up as your favorite character still, you will need to be accompanied by someone who would only be able to Disney bound.
Going Backstage
Disney World is a magical place, but there is also a lot going on behind the scenes to make the magic happen. While you are free to explore the theme parks to your heart’s content, backstage areas are off limits unless you are taking part in a tour or being specifically escorted by a cast member. You may be very curious about what happens backstage, but don’t risk it sneaking backstage. You may end up not being able to return to Disney World ever again. If you are really curious, you can sign up for various tours that will give you a glimpse behind the scenes.
Taking Certain Photographs
While you are at Disney World, you will likely be taking A LOT of photos. However, there are a few that could get you escorted out of the park. Taking pictures backstage is one. Of course, we already covered that you shouldn’t be backstage, so taking pictures backstage is also a no-go. Don’t take pictures when you have been specifically told not to. For example, you shouldn’t take photos on certain rides or use your flash during shows. You won’t be kicked out if you accidentally take one photo with flash, but repeat offenders may be asked to leave. As well, you can’t bring in your own commercial photographer. You are welcome to take photos in the park, but bringing in a hired photographer is not allowed. Disney World offers various options including PhotoPass cast members throughout the park, and even private Capture Your Moment sessions that will allow you to have a professional photographer take your picture. Finally, you are not allowed to take pictures from drones or fly drones for that matter. Disney World is a no-fly zone, and flying a drone will get you kicked out.
Bringing in Certain Items
There are lots of items that are not allowed to be brought into Disney parks, but some are a bit more surprising. Some of these include folding chairs, skateboards (including scooters, inline skates, and wheelie shoes), alcohol, and artificial noise makers. These items will all need to be left at home for your next trip. Also, balloons are not allowed in Animal Kingdom or Animal Kingdom Lodge. They will need to be left behind or deflated to protect the animals.
Petting Wild Animals
We get it, there are some pretty adorable animals wandering around Disney World. However, Disney World also has strict rules about interacting with these animals. You cannot pet, feed, touch, harass, or harm any wildlife while at Disney World, or you may risk getting kicked out. No matter how adorable the baby ducks might be, just admire them from a distance. If you absolutely must touch some animals, take the train ride over to Rafiki’s Planet Watch in Animal Kingdom and check out the Affection Section. You can pet various animals including goats and pigs.
Climbing the Landscape or Going Places You Shouldn’t Be
Be respectful of your surroundings and don’t climb around on the landscape or go into areas you shouldn’t be. There are lots of areas throughout Disney World that allow for climbing and exploring like The Boneyard in Animal Kingdom. Unless you are in a designated playground area, don’t climb on the landscape. Also, when you are on attractions, make sure you are staying where you should be. Don’t jump out of the ride vehicle or leave the designated queue area.
Selling Your Own Stuff
Disney World also has a strict rule about selling your own stuff while you are there. You should not be bringing your own products to sell to others, unless you have already sorted it out with Disney World prior. You cannot sell goods or services on Disney World property. While your handmade ears are fabulous, you won’t be able to sell them while you are at Disney World.
Spreading Ashes
This is one of those things that we wish we didn’t have to say. But spreading ashes while at Disney World will get you kicked out. Not only is it a big health hazard to both cast members and guests, but it will also cause major delays as they clean it up. So, please, leave the ashes at home and just have fun at Disney World!
There you have it, that was ten surprising ways to get kicked out of Disney World! Now you are even more prepared for you next Disney World trip to make sure you are following the rules.
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Do you know of any other weird Disney World rules? Let us know in the comments!
Rox says
Disney is missing out on a major business opportunity. A lot of people would pay to have their own or loved ones’ ashes at Disney.
Daphnne says
The best place I have ever worked I really enjoyed working there looked forward to going to work