How badly have the WOC crowds affected DCA?

[mrswh]

I know I am in the minority here, but I am a huge DCA fan and we spend more time at DCA than DLR on our visits. A big part of the reason we love it so much is that it is soooo pleasantly uncrowded compared to DLR. On our last trip we did not even set foot in DLR past noon, having learned the hard way on the previous trip that it can get painfully crowded in the afternoon and evening. (I'm not even talking about the wait times, I'm talking about just trying to move around the park!)

I know Disney's goal is to get more people into DCA with WOC and the other new attractions . . . is it wrong to hope it hasn't worked?

Any opinions on whether the crowds at DCA have worsened significantly since WOC opened? Or does it just get congested around show times?

Thanks!

 

[caldad]

Any opinions on whether the crowds at DCA have worsened significantly since WOC opened? Or does it just get congested around show times?

Thanks!

We went the first week of July and the crowds at DCA were about normal for summer time crowds. Or at least it didn't seem out of the ordinary to us.

 

[brenda1966]

I would say the crowd levels were normal. Most of the bug's life area was walk on. All of the rides and attractions that get busy, were busy (Aladdin, Soarin, Screaming, Toy Story).

We were able to walk up and get a parade spot 5 minutes before the parade started. We were able to walk into Aladdin at the last minute and still get a seat, high up in the rafters, but still able to get in.

It may have increased the crowds a bit, but we didn't find it unmanageable. Well, except for trying to ride Toy Story. The morning rush really is a mess. Later in the day we rode again and the line was 45 minutes plus, but it probably only took 35 and the line moves fast. It's a great time to grab a popcorn and a slushie.

 

[rrbar]

I was at the guest services booth about 3 pm today and the cast member told a guest that he could still get fast passes for the 11:15 show so that means they are still available for quite a while but only the last show was left.

 

[HydroGuy]

I know I am in the minority here, but I am a huge DCA fan and we spend more time at DCA than DLR on our visits. A big part of the reason we love it so much is that it is soooo pleasantly uncrowded compared to DLR. On our last trip we did not even set foot in DLR past noon, having learned the hard way on the previous trip that it can get painfully crowded in the afternoon and evening. (I'm not even talking about the wait times, I'm talking about just trying to move around the park!)

I know Disney's goal is to get more people into DCA with WOC and the other new attractions . . . is it wrong to hope it hasn't worked?

It depends on what your priorities are I guess. If Disney cannot people excited about DCA and coming to DCA that will reduce their interest in DLR. And investment will be reduced.

And I laughed at the title of this thread. For years it has been bad that DCA cannot draw crowds. Now it may be bad when it is drawing more crowds.

Any opinions on whether the crowds at DCA have worsened significantly since WOC opened? Or does it just get congested around show times?

Don't know but will make my judgement next week.

 

[mrswh]

Thanks for the replies, sounds not too bad! Now just to decide whether to attempt WOC. It sounds like a very large time investment - even if you get a "FAST"pass.

Hydroguy, of course I want Disney to make money, but it was fun (while it lasted) enjoying something that many people did not - made my trip more pleasant.

 

[pixarmom]

I think I'll be with OP! I haven't been to DL for almost 30 years, but we're taking our boys for their first visit next month. We think we would have spent most of our time at DCA, but I'm wondering if WOC is going to make that difficult.

 

[HydroGuy]

I think I'll be with OP! I haven't been to DL for almost 30 years, but we're taking our boys for their first visit next month. We think we would have spent most of our time at DCA, but I'm wondering if WOC is going to make that difficult.

I doubt it will make it difficult but it will make it more challenging - and exciting. From what I read (and will see with my own eyes starting Monday) is that there is more positive Disney energy at DCA since WOC arrived than there has been in a long time...maybe ever. It is a good thing. Some folks are really bothered by crowds - and are better off going off-season.

Even so, with your schedule already set just get there early each day and have a game plan. You will be good.

 

[mrswh]

HG, I'll be anxiously awaiting your Trip Report!