Do the parks really close

[webairs]

If there is a large crowd in the parks at closing time, do they still close on time or do they extend the time open?

 

[mom2of2]

nope they close at closing time

 

[missymagic]

Thuey start pushing people at closing time but at the MK (from my experience) it takes a while and it takes about an hour.

 

[Vickie46]

I think the rides might close down.. but the shops stay open..

 

[Sleeping Becca]

You can get in line for an attraction up untill closing time. After closing time you are not allowed to ride anymore attractions. The shops near the exit do stay open longer, so you can linger for a while until most people have cleared out, if you want to avoid a long line at your bus stop.

To answer your question, no, they do not extend park hours. The park hours are set ahead of time using the occupancy in Disney and the surrounding area hotels. Disney has an idea of how crowded a park will be well before the day arrives.

 

[Scraper]

The rides close. most the shops stay open awhile after. We have been in MK 2 hours after closing just taking Pics. Lots of people still there.

 

[seashoreCM]

According to Corey Sandler (author of one of the unofficial guidebooks) park closing time is the latest time a guest can join ride lines. I think this is still true. Everyone in line will be able to ride. I am not sure whether on occasion a ride line is blocked off sooner simply because that line was too long.

It is easy for a CM to stand in a line to mark the dividing point between regular guests and (behind) party/EMH guests.

Disney hints:
http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/disney.htm