Walt Disney World Guest Behaviors to AVOID
Millions of people visit Walt Disney World annually. This means that the WDW gates see crowds of people from all walks of life.
When you add these crowds and the amount of effort put into planning a Disney trip, this can result in … interesting guest behaviors.
Disney
When guests breach social contracts at Disney World, this can be due to things like a lack of awareness of feelings of overwhelm.
Today, let me help you avoid acting like “that” guest. Here are some behaviors to avoid in the parks. Your fellow guests will appreciate it!
Disney
Arriving Late to Shows or Parades
Tardiness happens to us all, but it’s best to avoid it here. Popular indoor shows and attractions can’t seat latecomers. And if they do, it’s disruptive to guests who are seated and have found their sight line for the stage.
Showing up late to parades is even worse, especially if a guest squeezes in front of someone who waited an hour (or more) for their spot.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade
My recommendation is to always leave ample time to arrive on time. If you get delayed, do your best to find a more discreet viewing location.
When it comes to viewing spots for fireworks or parades, let’s follow the golden rule.
Photo: Disney
Putting Older/Taller Kids on Dad’s Shoulders
I know this could ruffle feathers, but it’s difficult to see past fathers lifting children to see the fireworks.
I sympathize; it’s difficult for kids to see over the crowds. Instead of relying on dad, I’d grab a spot early or enjoy the nighttime spectaculars from a distance. You can also enjoy fireworks from a nearby hotel or attend one of the dessert parties with reserved fireworks seating.
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show
With a little flexibility, everyone in the family can enjoy the best finale to a park day.
Disney
Stopping Without Warning
We’ve all done it. You’re strolling down Main Street U.S.A. when suddenly the Dapper Dans pop out for a toe-tapping show. You stop to gape in awe, and promptly have someone run into you.
Or maybe you’ve stopped in your tracks to grab a Lightning Lane reservation on your phone. (I’m guilty of that for sure.)
Whether you’re taking in the sights or fiddling with technology, try to be aware of the traffic flow. If necessary, step aside or take a seat.
If you do forget and make a sudden halt, don’t beat yourself up. Just apologize, move on, and remember that everyone else in the park is also on a mission.
Line Cutting
While Disney World has a no line-cutting policy, some take advantage of the “grey” area. That includes situations where families get split up, or a small child needs to leave to use the restroom.
Personally, I don’t mind if someone needs a bathroom break. However, I do mind when large parties send one representative to wait in line, and then rejoin them at the last second.
Not only is it annoying, but it also makes life harder for the Cast Members. These people are working tirelessly to maintain guest flow, accurately predict wait times, and determine staffing.
When parties of two explode to parties of twelve at random, it’s frustrating for everyone. With special exceptions aside, let’s all avoid “soft” line jumping.
Cosmic Rewind
Being Disrespectful to “Face” Performers
Diehard fans know that Disney character performers are classified as either “fur” or “face”. Mascots are considered fur characters, and face characters include human characters like Ariel, Peter Pan, etc. All are trained to give you a magical character interaction.
Personally, I think face characters have the more challenging gig. They constantly have to maintain serene facial expressions while answering all kinds of questions.
Photo: Disney
Unfortunately, some guests go overboard teasing face characters. While it’s harmless to ask Jack Sparrow why the rum is always gone, I’ve seen videos of adult guests insulting performers to their faces.
If you want to banter with characters, do so with kindness and the understanding that they have to maintain an image. And never trick them into breaking character.
Photo: Disney
Most of all, be kind to these folks. They are here to make magic.
Arguing with Cast Members
Speaking of magic makers, Cast Members are real-life fairy godmothers. They make the parks beautiful, run beloved rides, and bring fantasies to life.
But vacationing at Disney can still be overwhelming. When it is, please don’t take your frustration out on Cast Members. 9.5/10 times that employee is doing their best to make a difference.
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Cast Members
If you aren’t feeling heard, you can always speak to someone else or visit Guest Relations. Just remain calm and keep your frustration in check. Plus, you’ll always catch more flies with honey than vinegar!
No one is perfect, and no one travels perfectly. But if we can all be just a little more aware and a little more patient, Disney can be even more magical.
Cast Members
I’m inviting all of us to have courage and be kind. Happy travels!
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Feature Image: Disney
