Average Daily Attendance At Disneyland
If you want to go to Disneyland without fighting huge crowds, understanding the park’s average daily attendance can help you plan your visit during less busy times. At the Happiest Place on Earthâ„ ̆, the number of visitors per day varies quite a bit depending on the season.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: the average daily attendance at Disneyland ranges from about 25,000 guests on low days to up to 65,000 guests on high capacity days, with an overall annual average around 50,000 visitors per day.
Weekends, summers, and holidays tend to be the busiest.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down Disneyland’s average daily attendance numbers month-by-month, day-by-day, and by park area. We’ll also look at how crowds vary across different seasons and special events. Use these Disneyland crowd statistics to plan when to visit for lower wait times.
Disneyland’s Overall Average Daily Attendance
When it comes to measuring the popularity of a theme park, one of the key metrics is the average daily attendance. Disneyland, known as the “Happiest Place on Earth,” attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year.
Let’s take a closer look at the overall average daily attendance at Disneyland.
Annual attendance across both theme parks
Disneyland consists of two main theme parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Together, these parks offer a wide range of attractions, entertainment, and experiences for guests of all ages.
In 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic, Disneyland welcomed a staggering total of over 18 million visitors across both parks. This number gives us a sense of the immense popularity and draw of the Disneyland Resort.
It’s important to note that attendance numbers can vary from year to year, influenced by various factors such as new attractions, special events, and even the state of the economy. However, Disneyland has consistently maintained its status as one of the most visited theme parks in the world.
Average per-park attendance breakdown
While the overall attendance figures are impressive, let’s dive deeper into the average per-park attendance breakdown. Disneyland Park, the original and iconic theme park, typically sees higher attendance numbers compared to Disney California Adventure Park.
On an average day, Disneyland Park may attract around 40,000 visitors, while Disney California Adventure Park sees an average of 25,000 visitors.
This discrepancy in attendance can be attributed to the classic attractions and timeless charm of Disneyland Park, which has been captivating guests since its opening in 1955. However, Disney California Adventure Park, with its thrilling rides, immersive lands, and unique experiences, continues to gain popularity and attract a significant number of visitors.
It’s worth mentioning that these attendance figures are approximate and can vary depending on the time of year, holidays, and other external factors. Disneyland Resort’s attendance is also affected by the availability of annual passes, special promotions, and ticket prices.
For more information on Disneyland’s attendance and other park statistics, you can visit the official Disneyland Resort website at https://disneyland.disney.go.com/.
Disneyland Crowd Levels by Month
Planning a trip to Disneyland can be a magical experience, but it’s important to consider the crowd levels during different months of the year. The number of visitors can vary greatly depending on various factors such as school holidays, special events, and weather.
Here is a breakdown of the crowd levels at Disneyland by month:
Least busy months
If you’re looking for a quieter and less crowded experience, there are certain months that tend to have lower attendance numbers. Generally, the least busy months at Disneyland are:
- January: After the holiday rush, January sees a decrease in attendance as many people return to work and school.
- September: With most schools back in session, September can be a great time to visit Disneyland with shorter wait times for attractions.
- November (excluding Thanksgiving week): Before the holiday season kicks into full gear, November can offer a more relaxed atmosphere at the park.
Peak attendance months
On the other hand, there are certain months when Disneyland experiences peak attendance. These months are typically associated with school breaks and holidays, and the park tends to be much busier. The peak attendance months at Disneyland include:
- June: With summer vacations in full swing, June sees a significant increase in attendance as families visit the park.
- July and August: These summer months are the busiest times at Disneyland, with long lines and larger crowds.
- December: The holiday season brings a surge of visitors to Disneyland, especially during the weeks leading up to Christmas.
Holidays that impact crowds
It’s important to note that certain holidays can have a significant impact on crowd levels at Disneyland. These holidays often attract more visitors to the park, resulting in larger crowds and longer wait times. Some holidays that impact crowds at Disneyland include:
- Thanksgiving: The week of Thanksgiving sees a surge in attendance as families gather for the holiday.
- Christmas and New Year’s: The holiday season, particularly the week between Christmas and New Year’s, is one of the busiest times at Disneyland.
- Spring Break: Various school districts have different Spring Break schedules, but generally, the weeks surrounding Easter can be crowded at the park.
It’s important to keep in mind that crowd levels can also vary within each month, depending on weekdays versus weekends and special events happening at the park. Planning ahead and checking the official Disneyland website for crowd calendars can help you make the most of your visit and avoid unnecessary wait times.
Remember, no matter when you visit, Disneyland will always offer a magical experience!
Disneyland Crowds by Day of the Week
Weekdays vs. weekends
When planning a trip to Disneyland, it’s important to consider the crowds. One factor to consider is whether you plan to visit on a weekday or a weekend. Generally, weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends at Disneyland.
This is because many people work or attend school during the weekdays, leading to smaller crowds. On the other hand, weekends, especially Saturdays, tend to be busier as more people have free time to visit the park.
According to Is It Packed?, a website that tracks crowd levels at Disneyland, Mondays and Tuesdays are typically the least crowded days of the week. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, these days might be your best bet.
Wednesdays and Thursdays also tend to be less crowded compared to Fridays and weekends. However, it’s important to note that crowd levels can vary depending on the time of year, holidays, and special events.
Hourly crowd flow throughout the days
Another aspect to consider when planning your visit to Disneyland is the hourly crowd flow throughout the day. Understanding the ebb and flow of crowds can help you make the most of your time at the park. Generally, the park tends to be less crowded in the early morning and late evening hours.
According to Undercover Tourist, a trusted source for Disneyland crowd predictions, the park is typically busiest between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider arriving early in the morning when the park opens or staying late in the evening.
This can allow you to enjoy shorter wait times for popular attractions and experience the park with fewer people.
It’s also worth noting that certain attractions and shows may have shorter wait times during parades or fireworks displays when more people are gathered in specific areas of the park. This can be a great opportunity to experience popular attractions with shorter lines.
Remember, crowd levels can fluctuate depending on various factors, so it’s always a good idea to check crowd calendars and plan your visit accordingly. By considering the day of the week and the hourly crowd flow, you can maximize your enjoyment at Disneyland and make the most of your magical experience.
Attendance by Land and Rides
Most popular lands
When it comes to attendance at Disneyland, certain lands are more popular than others. One of the most visited lands is Fantasyland, which is home to classic attractions such as “It’s a Small World” and “Peter Pan’s Flight.”
Families with young children are often drawn to this charming land filled with whimsical characters and enchanting experiences. Another popular land is Tomorrowland, where visitors can embark on thrilling space missions at “Space Mountain” or pilot their own spaceship at “Astro Orbiter.”
The nostalgia and futuristic vibes of these lands make them a top choice among guests.
Adventureland is also a highly frequented area, with its exotic themes and exciting attractions like “Indiana Jones Adventure” and “Jungle Cruise.” This land offers a sense of adventure and exploration, transporting visitors to different parts of the world without ever leaving the park.
Additionally, New Orleans Square, with its unique blend of Southern charm and haunted tales, attracts crowds to experience the eerie allure of “Haunted Mansion” and the swashbuckling adventures of “Pirates of the Caribbean.”
It’s important to note that the popularity of lands can vary depending on factors such as seasonality, new attractions, and special events. Disneyland constantly strives to create new and exciting experiences to keep guests coming back for more.
Longest ride wait times
While Disneyland is a magical place, it’s no secret that some rides have longer wait times than others. One of the rides notorious for its wait times is “Splash Mountain.” This log flume attraction, located in Critter Country, often sees long queues due to its popularity and the desire to cool off on a hot day.
The wait time can sometimes exceed an hour, but many guests believe the thrilling drops and catchy tunes of “Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah” are worth the wait.
Another ride that often has long wait times is “Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance” in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. This immersive and highly sought-after experience takes guests on a thrilling journey through the Star Wars universe.
Due to its popularity, the ride often reaches maximum capacity early in the day, resulting in lengthy wait times. However, fans of the franchise eagerly endure the wait to be a part of this epic adventure.
It’s worth mentioning that Disneyland offers FastPass and MaxPass services to help guests minimize wait times by reserving a specific time slot for popular attractions. These services can be a great option for visitors looking to make the most of their park experience and avoid spending excessive time standing in line.
For the most up-to-date information on ride wait times, it’s recommended to visit Disneyland’s official website or use their mobile app, which provides real-time wait time updates. The app also offers other useful features such as interactive maps and dining reservations, making it a valuable tool for navigating the park.
Special Events and Their Crowds
One of the reasons why Disneyland is such a popular destination is because of the special events that take place throughout the year. These events attract visitors from all over the world and bring in a significant increase in attendance.
From holiday celebrations to themed festivals, there is always something happening at the park to draw in crowds.
Holiday Celebrations
The holiday season is a particularly busy time at Disneyland. With festive decorations, special parades, and themed shows, the park becomes a magical wonderland. The most popular holiday event is undoubtedly the Christmas season, where guests can enjoy dazzling light displays, meet Santa Claus, and watch a spectacular fireworks show.
Attendance during this time tends to be at its peak, with families and friends flocking to the park to create lasting memories.
Themed Festivals
Disneyland also hosts various themed festivals throughout the year, each with its own unique attractions and entertainment. One of the most anticipated events is the Food and Wine Festival, where guests can sample a wide array of delicious dishes and beverages from around the world.
The park also celebrates cultural events such as Lunar New Year and Dia de los Muertos, offering guests a chance to experience different traditions and cuisines.
During these special events, attendance at Disneyland can skyrocket. The park experiences a surge of visitors, eager to be a part of the festivities. It is not uncommon to see long lines for popular attractions, crowded walkways, and packed restaurants during these times.
However, the vibrant atmosphere and the opportunity to participate in unique experiences make it all worthwhile for many visitors.
If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland and want to avoid the crowds, it’s important to consider the timing of your visit. Checking the park’s official website or app for event calendars can help you plan your trip around special events and potentially avoid the busiest days.
It’s also worth noting that weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, so if flexibility allows, consider visiting during the week for a more enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Planning your Disneyland trip for days and times when fewer people visit can let you spend more time enjoying attractions and less waiting in lines. By understanding daily crowd sizes and how they shift across Disneyland’s two theme parks, months, weeks, and even times of day, you can visit when attendance is lower to have a more relaxed visit.
Armed with the knowledge of average daily Disneyland attendance numbers broken down in all these ways, you can determine the best dates and parks for avoiding long queues. Use these crowd statistics and tips to have the magical, joy-filled Disney day you dream of!
