New Magic at the Gates: Disneyland’s Entry Experience Gets a High-Tech Upgrade
Welcome to a Smoother Disneyland Entry Experience
Entering Disneyland Resort is a memory guests cherish forever. Now, this iconic moment just got even more magical with the launch of modernized entry gates designed for convenience, accessibility, and speed.
Where to Find the New Disneyland Entry Gates
The new gates are located at the esplanade between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Guests will recognize the area but will be greeted by sleek, tech-forward entry gates replacing the old turnstiles.
Alternate Entry Points Include:
-
Disneyland Monorail (Downtown Disney): Direct entry to Tomorrowland with valid ticket and reservation.
-
Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Entrance: Direct access to Disney California Adventure near Grizzly Peak for hotel guests with valid admission.
-
Pixar Place Hotel Entrance: Early morning access to Disney California Adventure near Goofy’s Sky School for hotel guests, available until 12 p.m.
How to Use the New Gates
-
Scan Tickets: Simply scan tickets at the entry gate screen.
-
Take a Photo: Capture a quick selfie using the built-in camera, which adjusts for all heights—even the littlest visitors.
-
Enter Automatically: Once verified, the gates swing open, welcoming your group inside.
A Quick and Friendly Process
Guests with multi-day tickets or Magic Key passes only need to take their entry photo once. Cast members remain nearby to assist with any questions, ensuring everyone can enjoy their day without delays.
New Features to Enhance the Experience
-
More Entry Gates: Reducing wait times with additional gates.
-
ADA Compliance: Gates designed for easy use with strollers, wheelchairs, and ECVs.
-
MagicBand+ Integration: Hands-free access with a simple tap.
-
Animated Character Greetings: Mickey Mouse and Oswald the Lucky Rabbit bring extra Disney magic to every entry and exit.
What About Young Guests?
Children under 3 do not require a ticket or reservation. Guests aged 3 and up follow the same scan-and-photo process with adult help if needed.
App and MagicBand+ Entry Options
Guests can load tickets in the Disneyland app or use MagicBand+ for seamless entry. The app also offers mobile ordering, park maps, showtimes, and real-time wait times.
What’s Coming Next to Disneyland Resort?
The Disneyland Resort 70th Celebration kicks off May 16, 2025, featuring limited-time entertainment, themed food, special merchandise, and new experiences across the resort. Downtown Disney continues to expand with new dining and shopping.
Closing Magic
Whether arriving for a first visit or returning for nighttime spectaculars, the upgraded gates make park entry faster and more magical than ever before. Don’t miss the chance to be part of Disneyland Resort’s exciting next chapter starting May 16.
Recent Posts
Fireworks & The Lion King Dazzle Aboard Disney Adventure
New Nighttime Magic: Fireworks Set to Light Up the Disney Adventure Disney Cruise Line is bringing the magic sky-high with a brand-new fireworks spectacular aboard the Disney Adventure. Guests can look forward to “The Lion King: Celebration in the Sky,” a breathtaking tribute to the timeless tale of The Lion King, lighting up select nights…
New Era of Elegance: Napa Rose Reopens at Disney’s Grand Californian Feb. 6
Napa Rose Returns with a Fresh Look and Flavorful Twist Napa Rose, the beloved fine dining gem at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, is set to reopen on February 6, 2026, unveiling a renewed dining experience that honors its 25-year legacy. With fresh interiors and a globally inspired menu rooted in California wine country…
Spring Sounds Bloom at EPCOT: Garden Rocks 2026 Lineup Revealed
Garden Rocks Concert Series Returns for 2026 with a Star-Studded Lineup The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is making its vibrant return from March 4 through June 1, 2026-and so is the much-loved Garden Rocks Concert Series! Featuring an eclectic mix of iconic bands, powerhouse vocalists, and rising stars from Orlando, this year’s musical…
Afternoon Tea Returns to Garden View Lounge with Whimsical Wonderland Flair
A Whimsical Wonderland Awaits at Garden View Lounge Get ready to fall down the rabbit hole – in the most delicious way. The beloved Garden View Lounge at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is reopening its doors for a magical afternoon tea experience starting March 19, with reservations available from February 19. Inspired by…
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge to Welcome New Eras and Iconic Heroes This Spring
Step Into New Eras at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge Beginning April 29, 2026, the timeline at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland Resort will unlock like never before, welcoming characters from across the galaxy’s vast history. From the Age of the Republic to the Rise of the Resistance, this immersive land will now span multiple…
Let's Start the Magic!
Crazy Imagination Travel Advisors are experts at the art of vacationing Disney and beyond. No two families are alike and no two vacations are alike. Each vacation is carefully planned and customized to our guest. From the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida to world-wide adventures in Australia, our Travel Advisors are ready to help guests plan their dream vacation. Go ahead. Put our service to the test!
