Security lines

[Skyegirl1999]

We go frequently, and the last few visits, the security lines have been crazy long, back to the bus drop-offs (Harbor side, we always park Toy Story). Today we got off the bus basically at 9 (park opening), and we didn't get into DCA until 9:30. We used to often get from parking to in-park in under 30 minutes, and that's more like 45-50 lately.

I'm not sure if the Downtown Disney side is as bad, but just a heads-up to any upcoming travelers - plan on LOTS of time to get in!

 

[disneychrista]

Welcome to the new normal.

 

[flyingdumbo127]

I was at DL this morning at about 10 to 9 and wow the security lines were so long! I had never seen anything like it! It did move quickly though and I appreciate the calmness and also friendliness of the CM's who do this and daily, eek! I think it took about half an hour altogether to get into DL maybe less. Definitely get there early!

 

[l4dyj8]

Plus the new metal detectors! Random selection. Be prepared!

 

[tdhickey]

Yup, this is the new normal. Between people bringing 99000 bags to the park, standing in a long line an looking surprised that they had to find their bag and open it for security (thus adding to the time) and the morning rush; this is normal.

My advice, go at least 30 min before park opening.

 

[GeneralTso]

We just got back and I agree- lines were insane. If you are staying at the Grand Californian---do not go through the DCA entrance. There is only one metal detector and the line wraps around like crazy. Faster to walk through Downtown Disney and go through Main Gate. The GC entrance is great for any time OTHER THAN opening.

 

[GatorChris]

Wondering why DL doesn't have a "no bag" line. They have that at WDW so that you can get in really quick. Not that this would help me. I always carry a backpack and push a stroller. But I'm thinking so many local residents would benefit being able to walk in.

As for the photo, that looks pretty close to how it was when we went in November. It's always been a pain, but that last trip took it to a whole new level. It would cost Disney maybe an extra $160 to add 4 security guards (2 on each side for 2 hours at $20/hour). Do you know how much pressure that would alleviate? Seems like they could bring back a little magic for pennies. ... I remember the days when Disney used to try to create magic. But THAT is another post.

 

[Nonsuch]

...The GC entrance is great for any time OTHER THAN opening.

The GCH entrance to DCA is only exclusive to Disney hotel guests until 11:00AM, so a line of non-hotel guests forms prior to 11. Hotel guests should try to enter before 11 to bypass this line. The line of non-hotel guests quickly clears, but I avoid the entrance from 11 to noon (and park opening).

 

[HydroGuy]

Wondering why DL doesn't have a "no bag" line. They have that at WDW so that you can get in really quick. Not that this would help me. I always carry a backpack and push a stroller. But I'm thinking so many local residents would benefit being able to walk in.

I would love that too but apparently they tried it and for some reason it just did not work at DLR. Folks going thru no bag line...with bags they claimed were not really bags.

 

[l4dyj8]

Well that's unfortunate. We always have bags but it would be great for those without.

 

[GatorChris]

I would love that too but apparently they tried it and for some reason it just did not work at DLR. Folks going thru no bag line...with bags they claimed were not really bags.

"Oh, Oh, let's go to the short line. They won't mind this purse/camera bag/diaper bag." Yeah, I can hear it now.