Welcome to Ask The Duchess – Vol. 86, a monthly Q&A post covering a variety of resort-related topics. Ask The Duchess answers questions submitted by readers. If you have a question you’d like answered, send me a message here.
1. Is it true that Walt used to go around the park in the Mickey costume so he could be incognito? (submitted by Juan)
I have never heard that, and I have a hard time believing he would do that based on what I’ve read about him. Walt was notorious for freely roaming the park as himself, and seemed to enjoy doing that quite a bit.
2. Does Disneyland have vaping areas? (submitted by Tracey)
Not inside either park. There are designated smoking/vaping areas outside of both park gates, but those are the only areas where it’s permitted.
3. Do you have a preference between being there for park open and park close? (submitted by Katherine)
Both are the most peaceful times at the park, so it’s hard to pick. But if I have to choose – I’d go with park open. The lightning in the morning is stunning in both parks, and there’s something really satisfying about knocking out a few rides quickly to get your day started.
4. Is Disneyland doable for seniors that don’t like roller coasters? I’d like to bring my parents on our family trip but I’m not sure they’d have enough to do. (submitted by Helena)
Absolutely. Between shows, non-coaster & walkthrough attractions, restaurants, snacking & afternoon drinks, shopping, meeting characters…they will have more than enough to do!
5. If my kid loses their mind on a ride because it’s too scary, can we do an emergency exit? (submitted by Gayle)
I have heard of cast members stopping a ride in extreme cases, but it’s uncommon. And it can be pretty miserable on a longer ride like pirates – I’ve been on a boat with a kid who screamed from the very first scene in the bayou until the very end. To try and prevent this, cast members will often ask frightened kids if they want to ride before boarding, or discourage a family from boarding if the kid is clearly not ok before even getting in the ride vehicle. I do have a post on scarier rides if it helps you assess, but if you take your child on a ride and they don’t like it, you’re most likely stuck until it’s over.
Regarding #4, I had back surgery last year and no longer do roller coaster type rides (no more Big Thunder unfortunately), and I NEVER run out of things to do and see at Disneyland! Between gentler rides, shops, dining, shows, characters, and walking around and taking in the details, non-thrill ride people will still have a great time.
My mom hates roller coasters and Disneyland is one of her favorites places to visit – completely agree with you! 🙂