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
Disney Cruise Line Charts a Big Fall 2027 and Spring 2028 Adventure
Disney Cruise Line is plotting a particularly busy course for Fall 2027 and Spring 2028, and the itinerary map is getting deliciously crowded. The Disney Wish is heading to New York City, the Disney Magic is crossing the Panama Canal, and ships will sail from ports spanning San Juan to Singapore. Early booking opens August…
Downtown Disney District: The Disneyland Resort Stop Worth Exploring
Downtown Disney District has always been the Disneyland Resort’s handy little in-between: close to the parks, close to the hotels and very good at convincing a casual stroll to become dinner, dessert and a new souvenir bag. This outdoor promenade is continuing its evolution, particularly on the west end, where a new entrance, fresh shops…
Magic Kingdom’s Villains Land Reveals Its Wickedly Detailed Story
The fairest land of them all is taking a delightfully darker turn. Disney has revealed fresh details about Villains Land, the upcoming Magic Kingdom expansion where poisoned wishes, towering villain lairs and a little delicious trouble await beyond the safe side of the forest. Inspired by classic Walt Disney Animation Studios characters, Villains Land will…
Magic Kingdom Puts Two Piston Peak Rides in Gear
Start those engines: Piston Peak National Park is bringing two Cars-inspired attractions to Magic Kingdom, and this particular national park has a geyser field, a snowcapped summit and one very large school bus with demolition-derby energy. New details revealed at D23 put the pedal down on the expanding land’s ride lineup. Guests can expect an…
Disney Believe Takes Shape—and Three New Disney Cruise Ships Are on the Horizon
Disney Cruise Line is putting a little more wind in its sails. The Disney Believe, due to set sail in late 2027, has revealed its first big design details-right down to the characters hitching a crayon-powered ride on the stern. That is not the only fleet news making waves. Disney Cruise Line also shared an…
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!
