DISNEYLAND COMMERCIALS ARE A RIP-OFF!!

To all who are reading...

I've been to Disneyland at least 4 times that I can remember, and from what I experienced, I never really had a problem. The last two times I went (2007 and 2013), I knew what we were walking into. You know that if you pick a day where it's going to be busy, which for Disney, is pretty much every day, then you gotta know there will be wait times.

Don't take infants or newborns. You know very well that the trip is for the adults when you do that. All you're doing is wasting time and money because you bought an admission ticket for the little one's and an actually admission/ride ticket for the adults.

I agree that if a Company puts on a commercial displaying what they want the customer to see, the customer is obviously going to expect that. That's completely understandable. I'm not going to Subway to buy a hamburger. I know d**n well, they don't sell those.

As for the wait times and deffective rides, I haven't had that luxury of experiencing any. Sorry to say, there are some here that are more childish than the children that they are taking. It's not about you, it's about the kids!

I'm not going to sit here and knock anyone. I'm just being realistic and agreeing with some who have posted that have common sense to understand this.

thank you

Hi,

who was accused of having a black child,  Joan rivers,  who makes sheets and linens Joan rivers who had a black baby Joan rivers. Not Joan crawford who took over Joan crawfords Id Elvis and mamie van doren, carolyn mitchell.  who distroyed kathy jane mcarthurs identity when she was born and edwin rutherford mcarthur   william alton mcarthur jane, judy mcarthur,audrey, beverly and frank cross, kenny mcarthur who distroyed social security mac s printing of calif in montclair and hesperia calif.


how to heal your eyes without a doctor...................say to yourself my conscious mind sub conscious mind superconscious mind stand forth in the name of jesus christ renew all the cells of my mind soul and body.          heals the eyes from being blind........thats what disneyland did they lied and blinded the people and created occults to hurt people they faked peoples deaths to pay property off. goodbye elvis prestley  for life you murdered my dad because he was your father who had brain damage.you are gay and you have distroyed my kids and grandkids lives with lies   

what ever happened to baby Jane

 from kathy jane mcarthur  schweitzer

I know where your coming from on this John.I agree with you that it is sad that our society has come under the radar of FALSE ADVERTISING.To think also that it would be something like Disneyland a family theme park that is supposed to cater to kids and their familys.I've seen the ads that you mentioned before on TV.The truth is however just like others on here have said unfortunately alot of companies false advertise their products to get sales.In the same way that a Beer,Truck,or Fast Food commercial will sell their product on TV,so does Disney in that they will have children just begging their parents to go after seeing these ads.Then the family goes and it's really a tossup on if there lucky to have ample time with a character.My daughter never seemed to have that much time but at least she appreciated the time she did have.Disney really promotes the character breakfasts to as a way of getting their customers to pay for the experience.Just like someone said earlier the Disney company is all about MONEY FIRST.It is a business and the charm and caring swagger the park once had when Walt was alive is gone.Michael Eisner probably had Walt turning in his grave.So there you have it.Is it unfair?I think it is,but it's also reality and if you dont want to support Disney then by all means you have a right to do that.I loved the story from a poster before me who mentioned the unruly woman with kids who swung a plastic hammer to some guests waiting in line.That made me laugh so hard I cried.Thank you sir for that classic story.

You honestly think those commercials count as fraud?? Have you ever been to an amusement park before?

this is ridiculous.. who cares if it is packed it is because all kids love disney.

MY goodness you people need a life and no offense but the main reason the people are complaining is that parents really don't care about their children

The trip is not for you.. it is for the kids...and guess what kids learn patience and that it is worth something when something magical happens to you.

I think this site proves that people of all ages are chilidsh and immature.


you brats...you are lucky to have the money to even go to disney land.. there are some people in the world who don't even have food and your complaining you have to wait in line. You wait in line at the grocery store or the best buy


The real problem is that the parents don't mind making the children wait in line at best buy while the child is screaming his lungs out cause he doesn't want to be there but when the child goes to disneyland and waits the parents become the whiney children

Grow up..and

to the stockholder....your response was also uneducated as was the worker. Threatening someone's job for having an opinion is not very logical. Every person man or woman has a right to opinion just as you but your proving your childish behavior by threatning the child's job. I think most the obnoxiousness in the world is just ridiculous. And furthermore...how did you get the money to claim that position...most woman in money got it only one way...and the worker...jeez.. you are just proving to children and parents the unmagical part of what Walt disney created.. i don't think that is how it was meant to be.. ifyou are unhappy quit.

inthis economy you are lucky to have a job just as the stockholder is lucky to have gotten married to a rich man and have a little bit of money but when the divorce comes she will be inthe same shoes you are-----shutting her mouth to keep her job

this is ridiculous.. who cares if it is packed it is because all kids love disney.

MY goodness you people need a life and no offense but the main reason the people are complaining is that parents really don't care about their children

The trip is not for you.. it is for the kids...and guess what kids learn patience and that it is worth something when something magical happens to you.

I think this site proves that people of all ages are chilidsh and immature.


you brats...you are lucky to have the money to even go to disney land.. there are some people in the world who don't even have food and your complaining you have to wait in line. You wait in line at the grocery store or the best buy


The real problem is that the parents don't mind making the children wait in line at best buy while the child is screaming his lungs out cause he doesn't want to be there but when the child goes to disneyland and waits the parents become the whiney children

Grow up..and

to the stockholder....your response was also uneducated as was the worker. Threatening someone's job for having an opinion is not very logical. Every person man or woman has a right to opinion just as you but your proving your childish behavior by threatning the child's job. I think most the obnoxiousness in the world is just ridiculous. And furthermore...how did you get the money to claim that position...most woman in money got it only one way...and the worker...jeez.. you are just proving to children and parents the unmagical part of what Walt disney created.. i don't think that is how it was meant to be.. ifyou are unhappy quit.

inthis economy you are lucky to have a job just as the stockholder is lucky to have gotten married to a rich man and have a little bit of money but when the divorce comes she will be inthe same shoes you are-----shutting her mouth to keep her job

this is ridiculous.. who cares if it is packed it is because all kids love disney.

MY goodness you people need a life and no offense but the main reason the people are complaining is that parents really don't care about their children

The trip is not for you.. it is for the kids...and guess what kids learn patience and that it is worth something when something magical happens to you.

I think this site proves that people of all ages are chilidsh and immature.


you brats...you are lucky to have the money to even go to disney land.. there are some people in the world who don't even have food and your complaining you have to wait in line. You wait in line at the grocery store or the best buy


The real problem is that the parents don't mind making the children wait in line at best buy while the child is screaming his lungs out cause he doesn't want to be there but when the child goes to disneyland and waits the parents become the whiney children

Grow up..and

to the stockholder....your response was also uneducated as was the worker. Threatening someone's job for having an opinion is not very logical. Every person man or woman has a right to opinion just as you but your proving your childish behavior by threatning the child's job. I think most the obnoxiousness in the world is just ridiculous. And furthermore...how did you get the money to claim that position...most woman in money got it only one way...and the worker...jeez.. you are just proving to children and parents the unmagical part of what Walt disney created.. i don't think that is how it was meant to be.. ifyou are unhappy quit.

inthis economy you are lucky to have a job just as the stockholder is lucky to have gotten married to a rich man and have a little bit of money but when the divorce comes she will be inthe same shoes you are-----shutting her mouth to keep her job

this is ridiculous.. who cares if it is packed it is because all kids love disney.

MY goodness you people need a life and no offense but the main reason the people are complaining is that parents really don't care about their children

The trip is not for you.. it is for the kids...and guess what kids learn patience and that it is worth something when something magical happens to you.

I think this site proves that people of all ages are chilidsh and immature.


you brats...you are lucky to have the money to even go to disney land.. there are some people in the world who don't even have food and your complaining you have to wait in line. You wait in line at the grocery store or the best buy


The real problem is that the parents don't mind making the children wait in line at best buy while the child is screaming his lungs out cause he doesn't want to be there but when the child goes to disneyland and waits the parents become the whiney children

Grow up..and

to the stockholder....your response was also uneducated as was the worker. Threatening someone's job for having an opinion is not very logical. Every person man or woman has a right to opinion just as you but your proving your childish behavior by threatning the child's job. I think most the obnoxiousness in the world is just ridiculous. And furthermore...how did you get the money to claim that position...most woman in money got it only one way...and the worker...jeez.. you are just proving to children and parents the unmagical part of what Walt disney created.. i don't think that is how it was meant to be.. ifyou are unhappy quit.

inthis economy you are lucky to have a job just as the stockholder is lucky to have gotten married to a rich man and have a little bit of money but when the divorce comes she will be inthe same shoes you are-----shutting her mouth to keep her job

First -- to the multitude of posters, how many of you have been to Disneyland, see the ads and really have cared about the image presented on the ads -- oh and who have actually taken their infant or toddler to the parks?!?!

We have been going to Disneyland for years and have been previous annual passholders. I have taken two boys to Disneyland since the youngest was 9 months old. In a 24 month period, he has been to the parks 5 times.

It all starts with realistic expectations, something that both adults and children need to learn.

We realized early on that the first few trips were primarily for us, the adults. We really enjoyed going and it really was a trip for us. However, our son did receive plenty of enjoyment. Now that he's older (3 years old), he really has fun, knows what he likes and recognizes the characters from the films.

The commercials highlight the best case scenario, but then again, which commercial doesn't? Have you seen the ads for a cruise line, Hawaii vacation or anywhere else? Or better yet, what about a beer commercial which has nothing to do with the reality of the product.... But I digress....

Depending on when you plan your trip, you can find a virtually empty park - there are plenty of places to research this information from the official Disney website, to various guides at your local bookstore or online websites. I've been there with virtual walk-on to popular attractions, even provided the option to ride again without waiting in line. I've also seen characters just jump into a ride with a random person.

If you plan your trip time, you can actually receive one-on-one time with the characters. There are places and times where things are simply crazy. But just ask the cast members for assistance and they can give you some great tips. There are popular places to find characters, and then there the low volume areas where you get some more time with the characters. Yes, I have gone an entire day without seeing a single character (probably between me not looking for them, and that they cycle their breaks) -- oh and also probably because there is only ever one Mickey Mouse in the whole resort at the same time, because, well, there is only one Mickey, right?

Character breakfasts are a great way to get one-on-one time, and I personally feel that it is well worth the money, but not everybody agrees. I think that in perspective with comparable meals in-park, as well as with competitors, you'll find the meals competitively priced.

Regarding dragging your kids through the park, I really think that it bad parenting and is not necessary. But part of this comes from unrealistic expectations. You cannot do nearly as many things with kids, compared to going alone. But you can get a lot of things done, enjoy many rides -- and the park does go way beyond most theme parks to accommodate parents, from baby-care centers, rider-swap programs, and healthy food options.

We always take the kids back to the hotel during lunch for a mandatory nap, 2-3 hours at least. But, with most kids, if you take your time, and make sure you are doing things which engage them and their senses, they can last until park closing and still be happy. My son just loves the fireworks, and it still going full steam afterward.

In all, you need to take a realistic approach and set realistic expectations. Every theme park shows the rides, and never the lines. It's not false advertising, simply unrealistic expectations.

First -- to the multitude of posters, how many of you have been to Disneyland, see the ads and really have cared about the image presented on the ads -- oh and who have actually taken their infant or toddler to the parks?!?!

We have been going to Disneyland for years and have been previous annual passholders. I have taken two boys to Disneyland since the youngest was 9 months old. In a 24 month period, he has been to the parks 5 times.

It all starts with realistic expectations, something that both adults and children need to learn.

We realized early on that the first few trips were primarily for us, the adults. We really enjoyed going and it really was a trip for us. However, our son did receive plenty of enjoyment. Now that he's older (3 years old), he really has fun, knows what he likes and recognizes the characters from the films.

The commercials highlight the best case scenario, but then again, which commercial doesn't? Have you seen the ads for a cruise line, Hawaii vacation or anywhere else? Or better yet, what about a beer commercial which has nothing to do with the reality of the product.... But I digress....

Depending on when you plan your trip, you can find a virtually empty park - there are plenty of places to research this information from the official Disney website, to various guides at your local bookstore or online websites. I've been there with virtual walk-on to popular attractions, even provided the option to ride again without waiting in line. I've also seen characters just jump into a ride with a random person.

If you plan your trip time, you can actually receive one-on-one time with the characters. There are places and times where things are simply crazy. But just ask the cast members for assistance and they can give you some great tips. There are popular places to find characters, and then there the low volume areas where you get some more time with the characters. Yes, I have gone an entire day without seeing a single character (probably between me not looking for them, and that they cycle their breaks) -- oh and also probably because there is only ever one Mickey Mouse in the whole resort at the same time, because, well, there is only one Mickey, right?

Character breakfasts are a great way to get one-on-one time, and I personally feel that it is well worth the money, but not everybody agrees. I think that in perspective with comparable meals in-park, as well as with competitors, you'll find the meals competitively priced.

Regarding dragging your kids through the park, I really think that it bad parenting and is not necessary. But part of this comes from unrealistic expectations. You cannot do nearly as many things with kids, compared to going alone. But you can get a lot of things done, enjoy many rides -- and the park does go way beyond most theme parks to accommodate parents, from baby-care centers, rider-swap programs, and healthy food options.

We always take the kids back to the hotel during lunch for a mandatory nap, 2-3 hours at least. But, with most kids, if you take your time, and make sure you are doing things which engage them and their senses, they can last until park closing and still be happy. My son just loves the fireworks, and it still going full steam afterward.

In all, you need to take a realistic approach and set realistic expectations. Every theme park shows the rides, and never the lines. It's not false advertising, simply unrealistic expectations.

First -- to the multitude of posters, how many of you have been to Disneyland, see the ads and really have cared about the image presented on the ads -- oh and who have actually taken their infant or toddler to the parks?!?!

We have been going to Disneyland for years and have been previous annual passholders. I have taken two boys to Disneyland since the youngest was 9 months old. In a 24 month period, he has been to the parks 5 times.

It all starts with realistic expectations, something that both adults and children need to learn.

We realized early on that the first few trips were primarily for us, the adults. We really enjoyed going and it really was a trip for us. However, our son did receive plenty of enjoyment. Now that he's older (3 years old), he really has fun, knows what he likes and recognizes the characters from the films.

The commercials highlight the best case scenario, but then again, which commercial doesn't? Have you seen the ads for a cruise line, Hawaii vacation or anywhere else? Or better yet, what about a beer commercial which has nothing to do with the reality of the product.... But I digress....

Depending on when you plan your trip, you can find a virtually empty park - there are plenty of places to research this information from the official Disney website, to various guides at your local bookstore or online websites. I've been there with virtual walk-on to popular attractions, even provided the option to ride again without waiting in line. I've also seen characters just jump into a ride with a random person.

If you plan your trip time, you can actually receive one-on-one time with the characters. There are places and times where things are simply crazy. But just ask the cast members for assistance and they can give you some great tips. There are popular places to find characters, and then there the low volume areas where you get some more time with the characters. Yes, I have gone an entire day without seeing a single character (probably between me not looking for them, and that they cycle their breaks) -- oh and also probably because there is only ever one Mickey Mouse in the whole resort at the same time, because, well, there is only one Mickey, right?

Character breakfasts are a great way to get one-on-one time, and I personally feel that it is well worth the money, but not everybody agrees. I think that in perspective with comparable meals in-park, as well as with competitors, you'll find the meals competitively priced.

Regarding dragging your kids through the park, I really think that it bad parenting and is not necessary. But part of this comes from unrealistic expectations. You cannot do nearly as many things with kids, compared to going alone. But you can get a lot of things done, enjoy many rides -- and the park does go way beyond most theme parks to accommodate parents, from baby-care centers, rider-swap programs, and healthy food options.

We always take the kids back to the hotel during lunch for a mandatory nap, 2-3 hours at least. But, with most kids, if you take your time, and make sure you are doing things which engage them and their senses, they can last until park closing and still be happy. My son just loves the fireworks, and it still going full steam afterward.

In all, you need to take a realistic approach and set realistic expectations. Every theme park shows the rides, and never the lines. It's not false advertising, simply unrealistic expectations.

AND WORSE IS THE PARENT WHO DRAGS A SMALL CHILD AROUND A HUGE AMUSEMENT PARK AND SPENDS MUCHOS BUCKS ON THE PRETEXT OF MAKING HAPPY FAMILY MEMORIES. IT IS MORE FOR THE PARENTS ANYWAY.

FOR ONE THING, THE KIDS ARE PROBABLY TOO SMALL TP GO ON MOST OF THE RIDES THAT I HAVE SEEN IN THE DISNEY ADS AND PRINTED LITERATURE. THAT MEANS THAT SOMEBODY IS GOING TO END UP STUCK WITH THE TODDLER WHO CAN BE PETULANT AND TIRED AND BORED AND EVEN SCARED - NOT AT ALL HAPPY BUT THEN WITH YOUNG, INEXPERIENCED AND YUPPIE PARENTS, IT ISN'T ABOUT THE KID ANYWAY.

WHAT CAN A KID WITH THEIR SHORT LEGS AND UNCERTAIN STEPS SEE ANYWAY? HAVE YOU EVER TRIED TO GET ON YOUR KNEES AND SEE JUST WHAT IT IS YOUR CHILD CAN SEE??? THE BIG ASSES OF THE TOURISTS IN A JAM-PACKED AMUSEMENT PARK, THAT'S WHAT YOUR KID CAN SEE AND BEING DRAGGED AROUND BY THOSE SMALL ARMS IS NOT FUN EITHER.

TODDLERS HAVE LESS BADDER CAPACITY THAN ADULTS. THEY GET HUNGRY FASTER AND MORE OFTEN AND THEY GET TIRED FASTER AND THEY TEND TO GET QUITE VOCAL IF THEIR BASIC NEEDS ARE NOT MET.

YOU WOULD BE MUCH BETTER OFF WAITING UNTIL THAT SPAWN OF YOURS IS IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL --ABOUT FIFTH GRADE OR SO WHEN THEY WILL BE OLD ENOUGH TO KNOW AND APPRECIATE WHAT IS GOING ON IN THERE.

AND CONSIDERING THE KIND OF THINGS THAT ARE HAPPENING TO LITTLE KIDS WHEN YOU LEASE EXPECT IT THESE DAYS, I WOULD NOT LET ANY SMALL CHILD OF MINE ENGAGE IN ANY PRIVATE CONVERSATION WITH ANY ADULT I DID NOT KNOW AND EVEN THEM IT WOULDN'T BE SO PRIVATE BECAUSE I WOULD WATCH. MOST TODDLER ARE TERRIFIED OF BIG COSTUMED CHARACTERS. THEY JUST DON'T GET IT.

DO EVERYBODY A FAVOR AND LEAVE THE TODDLERS AND KIDS AT HOME UNTIL THEY ARE OLD ENOUGH TO KNOW WHAT IS GOING ON.

IT IS JUST TOO EXPENSIVE TO WASTE YOUR MONEY ON WHAT CAN BE HELL FOR A TODDLER! AND HELL FOR PEOPLE WHO LISTEN TO IT SCREAM AND CRY AND THEY ARE ALL TRYING TO DIAL THE CHILD ABUSE HOTLINE TO REPORT WHAT YOU ARE DOING TO THAT KID.

Ha.... I wish I could read all of these. It's very amusing.

Anyways... I am an employee. To this original post, you need to stop watching too much TV for one. TV is BAD. Don't take every commercial so literal. People who create commercials are there to entertain you, while getting their company name across. Sure things will be embellished, Disney is not the first company to embellish a commercial. About 99% commercials, this day and age, you see, will all be embellished. Some commercials are so off topic, you have to f*ing clue what they are selling. Get used to commercials, don't take them to heart, and maybe take your kid(s) out of school for one day and go on a Tuesday or a Thursday, around fall when school starts, about a month after x-mas, or Hell, during this whole economic strain. Think logic. Disney is one of the most powerful companies in the WHOLE world. Every child, since the beginning of the Disney corp started, has idolized Disney. It is the ultimate pop icon. The own Hannah Montana, that alone is worth millions. Come on now. OF COURSE THE PARK IS GOING TO BE BUSY. No way is Disney going to hire enough characters to satisfy everyone's needs. Oh and guess what? The park has a certain limit that they can let in. If they go over that limit, they get in trouble. So there is a set limit. Again, I'm sorry you picked a bad day. But what day did you go? A Saturday? A day during peak season? Pick the most random of all days to go. Network with annual passholders and ask them if the park is busy? There are many options. You may have chosen a weekend, a festive holiday timeframe, or during one of the busy seasons. So like I said, plan it out more, and don't rely on a commercial to brain wash you into thinking what is true. Don't take everything to heart and don't be so naive. Sorry if this is offending you, but the truth needs to be said. Be careful, choose wisely, and think logic!!!

Jeff,
We used to live in California, and were season ticket holders at one time. When I read your letter, I had to disagree with you. There are times of the year that the park is less crowded than others. Our youngest daughter, who is now 21 years old, still loves Disneyland, and it is her favorite place to go.
We have photographs of a time when Goofy held her hand and gave her a tour of Toontown. He jumped in the bounce house with her, rode the roller coaster, and took her through Minnie and Mickey's houses. It was like a dream come true for her and we have the pictures to prove it. The time of the year was early October, and the parks have limited hours, but plenty of time to see everything.
Any time you go to an amusement park during peak times, you should expect a wait in line, and more visitors. If you are willing to go during slow season, such as January, or October, you will not wait in lines, or have that many customers to deal with. The characters will spend time with your kids and you can get lots of good pictures.
I just had to reply because even today, Disneyland is her choice for vacation and she is planning to take her children there when they are old enough to enjoy it. It would really hurt her to see someone talking down the place that gave her some of her happiest moments. Thanks.

I agree with the writer. Disneyland is a ripoff. Its no longer the Disneyland I grew up in, and anyone that disagrees has not recently taken a trip there.

I love Disneyland. It is the happiest place on earth, and I agree with that. I lived in Orange, CA for years and had a season pass. I had so much fun taking my baby (at the time) to Disneyland. I would go before work or on my days off. I would take my son all the time about 4 times a month. I would run to the entrance and most likely it would be an empty park. I went on the off season and even when it was full I was able to get on some rides, or go to the Tiki Room for a wonderful time with the birds singing. I would walk around and go to the shops, eat some awsome ice cream on main st., meet with Mickey Mouse. It is true that its hard to see the cast members dressed up at times, but sometimes you get lucky. my sugestion is to go Tuesday thru Thursday. Also there is a little place in California Adventure that is the Bugs area, I dont know the name, but, it is so fun! I have a better time than most kids. Im 26 years old and if I can have a good time in the heat lugging around a baby or chasing my toddler or making it interesting for my kids while standing in line, you can too. Just remember its for the kids and how they perceive things. If your bummed out they will be too. Try to roll with the punches and enjoy the music that is ohh so happy!

I love Disneyland. It is the happiest place on earth, and I agree with that. I lived in Orange, CA for years and had a season pass. I had so much fun taking my baby (at the time) to Disneyland. I would go before work or on my days off. I would take my son all the time about 4 times a month. I would run to the entrance and most likely it would be an empty park. I went on the off season and even when it was full I was able to get on some rides, or go to the Tiki Room for a wonderful time with the birds singing. I would walk around and go to the shops, eat some awsome ice cream on main st., meet with Mickey Mouse. It is true that its hard to see the cast members dressed up at times, but sometimes you get lucky. my sugestion is to go Tuesday thru Thursday. Also there is a little place in California Adventure that is the Bugs area, I dont know the name, but, it is so fun! I have a better time than most kids. Im 26 years old and if I can have a good time in the heat lugging around a baby or chasing my toddler or making it interesting for my kids while standing in line, you can too. Just remember its for the kids and how they perceive things. If your bummed out they will be too. Try to roll with the punches and enjoy the music that is ohh so happy!

I love Disneyland. It is the happiest place on earth, and I agree with that. I lived in Orange, CA for years and had a season pass. I had so much fun taking my baby (at the time) to Disneyland. I would go before work or on my days off. I would take my son all the time about 4 times a month. I would run to the entrance and most likely it would be an empty park. I went on the off season and even when it was full I was able to get on some rides, or go to the Tiki Room for a wonderful time with the birds singing. I would walk around and go to the shops, eat some awsome ice cream on main st., meet with Mickey Mouse. It is true that its hard to see the cast members dressed up at times, but sometimes you get lucky. my sugestion is to go Tuesday thru Thursday. Also there is a little place in California Adventure that is the Bugs area, I dont know the name, but, it is so fun! I have a better time than most kids. Im 26 years old and if I can have a good time in the heat lugging around a baby or chasing my toddler or making it interesting for my kids while standing in line, you can too. Just remember its for the kids and how they perceive things. If your bummed out they will be too. Try to roll with the punches and enjoy the music that is ohh so happy!

I love Disneyland. It is the happiest place on earth, and I agree with that. I lived in Orange, CA for years and had a season pass. I had so much fun taking my baby (at the time) to Disneyland. I would go before work or on my days off. I would take my son all the time about 4 times a month. I would run to the entrance and most likely it would be an empty park. I went on the off season and even when it was full I was able to get on some rides, or go to the Tiki Room for a wonderful time with the birds singing. I would walk around and go to the shops, eat some awsome ice cream on main st., meet with Mickey Mouse. It is true that its hard to see the cast members dressed up at times, but sometimes you get lucky. my sugestion is to go Tuesday thru Thursday. Also there is a little place in California Adventure that is the Bugs area, I dont know the name, but, it is so fun! I have a better time than most kids. Im 26 years old and if I can have a good time in the heat lugging around a baby or chasing my toddler or making it interesting for my kids while standing in line, you can too. Just remember its for the kids and how they perceive things. If your bummed out they will be too. Try to roll with the punches and enjoy the music that is ohh so happy!

I'm going to Disneyland tomorrow for about the hundredth time. I go at least three times a year, usually more.

People always ask me, "Why do you like going there? It's so crowded!"

That is because most people do not use sense.

Do NOT go in the June, July, or near major holidays. Do NOT go on Saturday.

Tomorrow by the way, is Tuesday. It won't be empty because it's summer, but it won't be packed. Wait time for most rides on a good day is 10-20 minutes.

So, if you want to have that family vacation your kids have been begging for, move around your work schedule and take them Monday-Thursday.

The winter months are really great because the park in empty on rainy days. Most of the rides are indoors or under covers anyway.

I'm going to Disneyland tomorrow for about the hundredth time. I go at least three times a year, usually more.

People always ask me, "Why do you like going there? It's so crowded!"

That is because most people do not use sense.

Do NOT go in the June, July, or near major holidays. Do NOT go on Saturday.

Tomorrow by the way, is Tuesday. It won't be empty because it's summer, but it won't be packed. Wait time for most rides on a good day is 10-20 minutes.

So, if you want to have that family vacation your kids have been begging for, move around your work schedule and take them Monday-Thursday.

The winter months are really great because the park in empty on rainy days. Most of the rides are indoors or under covers anyway.

I can remember in 1956 or so when Disney first opened up. It was very popular and I always wanted to go there as a kid but then, I GREW UP!

This is the 21st Century. More people, more mobbing. Kids play violent video games and they see violent films and TV shows... poor cartoon characers... most of these little kids today, don't know who they are, never saw the films they were in and don't give a d**n. They are too small, these characers don't mean jack to them and you are wasting your money taking them because they will not remember for the most part.

Hell, I went to Six Flags Over Texas back in the late 1980s and do not remember very much of it at all and I went several times on my photojournalism press pass.
Theme parks are yesterday's news and probably the gangstas will start fighting there soon if not already.

This is NOT the 1950s anymore, my friends. And THAT is where the Disney Theme Park -- at least the one in CA since I have family that lives there in CA -- is stuck. It is like a time capsule lost somewhere in the past.

My advice to you is to check it out before you waste your money going in there. I hear that the drinks, the snacks, the souveniers and all of the things that children have been programmed to want and scream for and throw tantrums for are WAY OVERPRICED!

I have heard about the long lines and the horrible brats and the employees who MAY not have been suitable for children back then ( maybe that was true in the 1950s but I think they make them have a criminal history check nowdays) and heat strokes and medical emergencies and how they close part of the park to people like us whenever a CELEBRITY wants to visit the park and a specific ride or something...

When I was a kid, I never had too much use for Disney once I figured out that the shows were just big advertisements to sell products spun off from the shows. Great marketing but NOT easy on the pocketbook when you were poor like my family was. they probably would have bought it for me but at what sacrifice? I wanted to eat and that settled that.

People still go to theme parks and I have noticed those sappy theme park ads too BUT they were made for the 1950s crowd with not a hint of TODAY's SOCIAL REALITIES and cunning high-paid marketing strategists make them so subliminally they tell you," If you don't drag your kids to this overpriced, overcrowded hell and spend a lot of money on everything your kid can scream for here, then you are a sorry parent" --this is the MESSAGE OF TV, but I don't believe 3/4 of what I see on TV and only about 20 percent of what I read on the computer.

I am wondering why you believed that sappy commercial...And are you so sure you want your kid alone with a Disney suited characer? Cause it ain't happening in your lifetime, my friend, unless you know sombody who can rent a suit and then pay them to appear at the birtday party or something.

I believed a sappy lawyer commercial on TV and got into a mess but that is because of Tort Reform and I think I would have been screwed no matter which lawyer I got.

In your case, it would have been less expensive and maybe worthwhile to take your kid to a show or a special event at a local museum or just on a picnic at the park or teach them about computers or a public library without derelicts and bums hanging out in it ( Good luck finding one of those!)

Don't go back there. If you paid your good hard-earned money for something that you were promised and it did NOT turn out the way you were promisde it would or that you expected DON'T GO BACK!

The magic died when Walt Disney died.
Clever marketing ploys and ILLUSION --- not magic.

JUST A RIP-OFF!

THERE IS NO MAGIC AT DISNEYLAND.

"When you wish upon a Star" these days, nothing happens.
"Makes no difference who you are". Money talks and Bullstuff walks...
"Anything your heart desires, your dreams come true.." Money still talks loudest.

You can keep hoping but the 1950s have been over for nearly 50 years now. If they ain't coming true by now, they ain't coming true ever.

Stay home, save the money. Trust me when I tell you the kids probably won't remember much of it anyway except that they were barely tall enough to see other people legs and butts and backs as they waited in line, were very hungry and thirsty and teh food and watered down drinks probably made them sick and the stuff they threw tantrums for you to buy tore up before they even got home so they don't even have a keepsake of the event.

Besides, I think those parks are mainly for adults anyway. Adults who keep hoping that the stuff they felt when they were kids was real and that all the magic they saw in the Disney films was real and not an illusion...

So don't go again.

You are going to need to save your money for your children's future and your own retirement.

I love reading complaints about Disney. I've been there many times, and I've had the opportunity to see Disney from multiple perspectives. Without any exceptions, I've never seen Disney do anything, say anything, or present anything that was contrary to its advertising. The vast majority of complaints, such as the one presented here, fall into multiple categories. Feel free to disagree, it's not going to change anything.

1. Unrealistic Expectations:

Someone goes to Disney during a peak travel season such as Spring Break or Thanksgiving. They expect to walk into an empty park, four hours after it's opened, stroll cluelessly from attraction to attraction, and ride all the big rides multiple times with their favorite Disney characters. Sorry, you'll find the parks packed, you'll wait in line for hours, you'll overpay for crappy food, and you'll ride buses from your hotel to your park.

2. Clueless Parents:

Despite the fact that Disney purports to be a family centered company, it's not universally so. Realistically, there's no single place within Disney that's going to appeal to both teens and infants. It doesn't exist. However, you'll still see about 20% of parents who are stupid enough to think that pushing around their 4-month old daughter in an oversized stroller is going to provide her with anything more memorable than a vague snapshot of her stroller ceiling. So, they spend the rest of the day, under a hot, Florida sun complaining about the crowds and ramming into the shins and ankles of the other guests.

3. Lodging

If you're planning a trip to Disney, and staying on property, be prepared to over pay for any accommodations compared to the hotels outside the property, especially during peak season. You'll get a small room, in a reasonably quiet hotel that'll hold a small family for around $200.00. If you want better accommodations for the price, stay outside Disney. You won't find 4 or 5 star accommodations at Disney for less than $600.00 - $1500.00 a day.

4. Ride Expectations

Keeping multi-million dollar rides running costs money and takes time. Maintenance is ongoing, overwhelming and very effective, but rides break down anyway. It's a fact of life. If a ride breaks down before you've had a chance to ride it, you probably won't get a chance to ride it. If you think that entitles you to a refund on your park ticket, you haven't read the fine print, or your expectations are unrealistic. Remember, nobody forced you at gunpoint to buy your ticket.

5. Greed:

Disney has a good reputation at fixing problems, and managers are very good about fixing on-the-spot problems, but if you get to the point where you can't fix anything, writing Disney about a problem is like shouting at a brick. They don't give refunds on anything, and they don't give discounts on anything. Some call that greed. Some call it "running a business successfully." It doesn't matter what you call it; if you don't like it, go someplace else.

6. Lack of Planning:

There are dozens of volumes of good information about planning a trip to Disney, yet the vast majority of guests don't look past their airline tickets and hotel reservations. Therefore, they're unprepared to deal with the vastness and complexities of working the parks. If you can't relinquish some of the spontaneity and do a bit of planning, you're going to increase your risk of disappointment. When it comes to Disney, you can either have a plan, or a frontal lobotomy. It's your choice.

On my last trip to Disneyland, I experienced the following unacceptable incidents:

1. The Pirates of the Caribbean ride was shut down twice whilst I was in line. Both times me and my 5 year old waited more than 20 minutes before being told that the ride needed to be shut down.

2. Thunder Mountain Railway was shut down after waiting over 10 minutes in line.

In addition, there was a 20 minute wait for an ice cream at a shoppe on Main Street. It was 5 bucks for a crappy scoop of Dreyers. Yes, the Dreyers you can buy at Safeway for $3 a gallon.

In addition, it was a tad chilly one evening and I didn't bring a sweater or sweatshirt, so I purchased an overpriced sweatshirt in one of the ripoff gift shops with the intention of returning it for a refund after I was done wearing it. I was very careful to not soil it, and I saved the receipt. At the end of the day when I went to return it, the clerk in the store copped a real attitude about taking it back. She finally conceded, but not until she embarrassed me in front of everyone in the line.

On the fourth evening, I asked my son how he liked Disneyland, and his reply was, "When are we going back to San Diego?"

Disneyland is the crappiest place on earth.

I realize the original post was a few years ago, so maybe things have changed a bit in disneyland, but jut a quick note on the Alleged "false advertisement" in Disneyland ads. It was our personal experience back in 2006 that the staff and characters were right on the money in regards to social interaction and friendliness. Of course, there were some lines for meet and greets, but I also have quite a few pictures of my children being hugged, given "high-fives", and "dancing" with Disney characters...quite spontaneously, I might add. No swarms of children, no lines...all these pictures occured in popular crowded areas when a character simply came up to us and interacted! And we were there in AUGUST! As far as the overcrowding of the park...well of course. It's to be expected. Everyone wants to be at the happiest place on Earth, after all...(even though, by the end of the day it seems to turn into the crankiest place on Earth) If you don't like fighting the crowds, buy a hopper ticket for quite a few days. The recommended time to cover it all is 4 days, but during peak time this may be near impossible, so just keep that in mind. If you're fortunate enough to be able to afford a 6 or 7 day hopper, do it! That way, you won't get so aggravated when it takes you 20 minutes to navigate 10 feet. Most of the aggravation stems from the fact that you're trying to do too much in too little time. Take your time and enjoy yourself your Pete's sake...and get over it!!

On another note, I too would be completely ticked if I got to Disneyland and ALL my favorite rides were closed. If you say you wouldn't, then you probably have yearly passes, or are alone, or only have 1 child. The reason I say this is because we are a family of 6, and traveling to Disneyland for 6 nights is usually a $5-6,000 venture (including food, tickets, lodging, gasoline etc.) AND we usually have to save up for over a year to make it happen! With that said, you can't check repair schedules online when you've booked your dates a year in advance. I'm in NO WAY a cry baby, Just expect to get what I paid for.

i use to work for Disneyland about 4 years ago. Disneyland is like working for any company. i don't know about all there positions but i had benefits and i had fun working there. yes it gets crowded but then again name 1 amusement park that don't have a peak season. as for the rude cast members theres no excuse for that but you cant blame the whole company. when i was there they use to have secret shoppers as they would call them to grade certain staff. and there are plenty of hotels in the area that are way cheaper than staying on the park. when you go to any amusement park you expect to spend a lot of money. be smart about it. if you trying to stay at a fancy hotel your going to spend a lot. Ive been to basically every amusement park in southern California and they're all the same. if you want to have fun make it fun yourself. don't waste your whole day complaining.

Everyone that I've known that went to a Disney park all said how crowded they were.
Most of the commercials i've seen show this to be true. Oceans of people, smiling as they converge on the most famous rodent in history.

I hate crowds, so I won't go there.

I will say this about the Fat-Food commercials: The models in those ads are skinny, and like many high school girls, are bulimic. When you toss the food, you have minimal weight gain. Wouldn't that be a commercial to see? I lost 50 lbs on the Heave-First diet!

If there were absolute truth in advertising, no one would buy anything.

Robert, again, you missed the simple point. As I said, this commerical could have been made truthfully and yet conveyed the same exact message. It's that simple. The problem is that Disney went with the lie when the truth was just as good. Your McDonald's analogy would only be valid if there was nothing Disney could do to make that same type of commercial using truth. Can you understand the difference or are we going to have to go around and around with this?

I see McDonalds, and other FAT-food commercials on TV. They ALL show good looking people who are in good physical shape, just like the beer commercials.

Why don't they show all the fat slobs...you know, the actual customers using their products?

I know why, and so do you Jeff. because advertising is supposed to show the good stuff, not the bad. Look at a cigarette billboard, or magazine ad. See anyone in them hooked up to a respirator, or talking through a voice hooya? Nope. Everyone is smiling with tobacco stainless teeth, and having a great time.

It's called ADVERTISING, Jeff. Get a clue.

Chris, again, there's only one point here: Is the commercial realistic or not? Is it a lie or is it true? Can the commericial have been made as well without the exaggerations? That's all this is about.

This commericial could have been made without the exaggerations but Disney chose not to do it.

I understand that there are people that can get a false sense of how Disneyland or Disney World is from the commercials. But if anyone honestly saw the commercial and immediatly thought that's exactly how their trip would be, than they shouldn't be breeding children in the first place. I know that's harsh, but really . . .
Now, kids see commercials for places like McDonalds with Ronald and the gang, and don't expect to be able to run off and have a fun cheeseburger filled day with him when they go there, do they? And I know Ronald compares nothing to Mickey, but the point is clear. Same with other commercials. When kids eat Trix, a cartoon rabbit's not gonna come jump out from the box trying to steal the cereal.
When people are living in reality, and know that there is a world outside of that five foot circle around themself, they know that what happens in commercials, it not how it always is. The see a commercial for a Disney resort and think, "There's a place to take the family and create some great memories." Not, "Wow, there must be only about 150 people that visit Disney in a day! Hey honey! The kids will definetly get a chance to be the only ones to hold Mickey and Cinderella's hand as they strole around the park sharing cotton candy for hours."
Anyone in reality, even the ones that haven't been to the parks, knows, if they're going to Disney-whatever, they need to plan. The commercials may not say that or imply that, but people know that's what they gotta do to get the most of it if it's the one out of a few chances in their life they're gonna go there.

WE WHERE THERE FOR THANKSGIVING IT WAS GREAT.

YA THERE WHERE ALOT OF PEOPLE BUT HELLO IS DISNEYLAND.

THEY EMPLYEES WHERE GREAT.

VERY HELPFUL. EVEN THOUGHT IT WAS A HOLIDAY THE LINES WHERE NOT LONG

WE WHERE THERE FOR 3 DAYS, DID NOT SEE LONG LINES DURING THE BEGING OF THE DAY

I DID SEE THEM AT THE END OF THE DAY BUT BUY THEN MY KIDS DID NOT WANT TO GO ON THOSE RIDES,,

LOVED THE SNOW IN THE SMALL WORLD AREA.
WOULD NOT MIND BRING MY KIDS THERE AGAIN..

Chris, I appreciate your thoughts but most people are pretty much aware of the need to be well prepared in advance to visit a Disneyland park. But that's not the case with every visitor. Why? Because it's a rather unusual exercise considering Disneyland is so jammed-packed full of things to do and see that it dwarfs any other amusement park.

There's no surprise that you should be scheduling just about everything down to the smallest detail so you can experience the park as best as possible.

But, really, that's not the issue here. You seem to have completely ignored my post right before yours, which is very specific in addressing a TV commercial which, as anyone who has visted the park can attest to is simply false advertising.

For all the reasons I have given, the commerical should not have aired with that ridiculous storyline. With few changes, Disney could have made the commerical based on reality and it would have been at least as attractive and "magical" as the phoney ad they created in its' place.

Again, that TV commerical is long gone and I have not seen anything remotely resembling anything like it so we can be thnakful for that.

John
Concord, California
USA

When it comes to visiting any of the Disney Parks, planning is everything. And EVERYTHING needs to be planned. From where to eat, and how much it'll cost, to when to see the shows, and catch the kids' favorite characters for photo ops. Going to the Disney parks is just like any other vacation-you need to plan ahead. You can't just go there and expect everything to be rolled out to you on a silver platter. And I know that's not what everyone expects, but that's what you're acting like.

When it come to meeting the characters, look at your maps. It will say exactly when and where to see them. Schedule IMMEDIATELY when you're going to see them. That way you know when you can see them, and the kids are happy. Now, the parks are known WORLD WIDE and people come from EVERYWHERE come to experience the parks-expect lines.

You're not the only family in the WORLD that wants to go to Disney this week. Expect lines for everything, from the food, to the rides, to meeting the characters. If you want to guarantee your children will see their favorite character, plan to eat at one of Disney's Character Meals. They are pricey, but if the kids are dieing to see certain character, and there is a Character Meal that features them, the memories will be priceless and it'll worth the extra $$. So save up.

As far as crowds, it's a small world, honestly. If you can't stand crowds, and being crammed into small places, save up for Disney World. Disneyland was built long ago, not expecting to deal with the kind of population the world is dealing with now. But, Disney World was built for it. It is much more open, and even though there are tons of people there, it doesn't feel as crowded. Also, go online and found the number for a reservation specialist, or consierge service that's free- they have them. Ask lots of questions like-When's the best time to go during the year to beat the crowds? The best restaurants that have quick foods, or are less expensive than others? You can even find out what rides that are planned to be closed for the time frame that you'll be visiting. That way, you won't waste time trying to fight the crowd trying to get to a "renovation" sign, and your kids' expectations of a certain ride won't be blown.

I remember back in June when we went to Disney World, and the Pirates rides was closed. We had known that and it sucked, but we made plans to see other things then. When we got to the park, it was actually funny seeing people race to the ride to see it was closed and end up getting P.O.'D. Ya should have planned.

When it comes to visiting any of the Disney Parks, planning is everything. And EVERYTHING needs to be planned. From where to eat, and how much it'll cost, to when to see the shows, and catch the kids' favorite characters for photo ops. Going to the Disney parks is just like any other vacation-you need to plan ahead. You can't just go there and expect everything to be rolled out to you on a silver platter. And I know that's not what everyone expects, but that's what you're acting like.

When it come to meeting the characters, look at your maps. It will say exactly when and where to see them. Schedule IMMEDIATELY when you're going to see them. That way you know when you can see them, and the kids are happy. Now, the parks are known WORLD WIDE and people come from EVERYWHERE come to experience the parks-expect lines.

You're not the only family in the WORLD that wants to go to Disney this week. Expect lines for everything, from the food, to the rides, to meeting the characters. If you want to guarantee your children will see their favorite character, plan to eat at one of Disney's Character Meals. They are pricey, but if the kids are dieing to see certain character, and there is a Character Meal that features them, the memories will be priceless and it'll worth the extra $$. So save up.

As far as crowds, it's a small world, honestly. If you can't stand crowds, and being crammed into small places, save up for Disney World. Disneyland was built long ago, not expecting to deal with the kind of population the world is dealing with now. But, Disney World was built for it. It is much more open, and even though there are tons of people there, it doesn't feel as crowded. Also, go online and found the number for a reservation specialist, or consierge service that's free- they have them. Ask lots of questions like-When's the best time to go during the year to beat the crowds? The best restaurants that have quick foods, or are less expensive than others? You can even find out what rides that are planned to be closed for the time frame that you'll be visiting. That way, you won't waste time trying to fight the crowd trying to get to a "renovation" sign, and your kids' expectations of a certain ride won't be blown.

I remember back in June when we went to Disney World, and the Pirates rides was closed. We had known that and it sucked, but we made plans to see other things then. When we got to the park, it was actually funny seeing people race to the ride to see it was closed and end up getting P.O.'D. Ya should have planned.

When it comes to visiting any of the Disney Parks, planning is everything. And EVERYTHING needs to be planned. From where to eat, and how much it'll cost, to when to see the shows, and catch the kids' favorite characters for photo ops. Going to the Disney parks is just like any other vacation-you need to plan ahead. You can't just go there and expect everything to be rolled out to you on a silver platter. And I know that's not what everyone expects, but that's what you're acting like.

When it come to meeting the characters, look at your maps. It will say exactly when and where to see them. Schedule IMMEDIATELY when you're going to see them. That way you know when you can see them, and the kids are happy. Now, the parks are known WORLD WIDE and people come from EVERYWHERE come to experience the parks-expect lines.

You're not the only family in the WORLD that wants to go to Disney this week. Expect lines for everything, from the food, to the rides, to meeting the characters. If you want to guarantee your children will see their favorite character, plan to eat at one of Disney's Character Meals. They are pricey, but if the kids are dieing to see certain character, and there is a Character Meal that features them, the memories will be priceless and it'll worth the extra $$. So save up.

As far as crowds, it's a small world, honestly. If you can't stand crowds, and being crammed into small places, save up for Disney World. Disneyland was built long ago, not expecting to deal with the kind of population the world is dealing with now. But, Disney World was built for it. It is much more open, and even though there are tons of people there, it doesn't feel as crowded. Also, go online and found the number for a reservation specialist, or consierge service that's free- they have them. Ask lots of questions like-When's the best time to go during the year to beat the crowds? The best restaurants that have quick foods, or are less expensive than others? You can even find out what rides that are planned to be closed for the time frame that you'll be visiting. That way, you won't waste time trying to fight the crowd trying to get to a "renovation" sign, and your kids' expectations of a certain ride won't be blown.

I remember back in June when we went to Disney World, and the Pirates rides was closed. We had known that and it sucked, but we made plans to see other things then. When we got to the park, it was actually funny seeing people race to the ride to see it was closed and end up getting P.O.'D. Ya should have planned.

When it comes to visiting any of the Disney Parks, planning is everything. And EVERYTHING needs to be planned. From where to eat, and how much it'll cost, to when to see the shows, and catch the kids' favorite characters for photo ops. Going to the Disney parks is just like any other vacation-you need to plan ahead. You can't just go there and expect everything to be rolled out to you on a silver platter. And I know that's not what everyone expects, but that's what you're acting like.

When it come to meeting the characters, look at your maps. It will say exactly when and where to see them. Schedule IMMEDIATELY when you're going to see them. That way you know when you can see them, and the kids are happy. Now, the parks are known WORLD WIDE and people come from EVERYWHERE come to experience the parks-expect lines.

You're not the only family in the WORLD that wants to go to Disney this week. Expect lines for everything, from the food, to the rides, to meeting the characters. If you want to guarantee your children will see their favorite character, plan to eat at one of Disney's Character Meals. They are pricey, but if the kids are dieing to see certain character, and there is a Character Meal that features them, the memories will be priceless and it'll worth the extra $$. So save up.

As far as crowds, it's a small world, honestly. If you can't stand crowds, and being crammed into small places, save up for Disney World. Disneyland was built long ago, not expecting to deal with the kind of population the world is dealing with now. But, Disney World was built for it. It is much more open, and even though there are tons of people there, it doesn't feel as crowded. Also, go online and found the number for a reservation specialist, or consierge service that's free- they have them. Ask lots of questions like-When's the best time to go during the year to beat the crowds? The best restaurants that have quick foods, or are less expensive than others? You can even find out what rides that are planned to be closed for the time frame that you'll be visiting. That way, you won't waste time trying to fight the crowd trying to get to a "renovation" sign, and your kids' expectations of a certain ride won't be blown.

I remember back in June when we went to Disney World, and the Pirates rides was closed. We had known that and it sucked, but we made plans to see other things then. When we got to the park, it was actually funny seeing people race to the ride to see it was closed and end up getting P.O.'D. Ya should have planned.

Guys, I posted this "complaint" almost 5 years ago. At the time, Disney was airing a commercial (which has long ago been pulled) that portrayed an idyllic visit to Disneyland that is as far from the truth as could be possible.

It simply showed things that are not going to happen in an average ordinary day at Disneyland. That was the point of my initial post and sadly some people completely misunderstood this simple message. People like "Robert from FL", who just a few posts above this one are spewing bizarre misconceptions of what I said. So, no, "Robert", you're wrong in so many of your odd assumptions. I suggest you stop making these off the mark comments because you are either clueless or purposefully misrepresenting the point of my initial comments.

People like "Jennifer from CA" and "Claire from MD" are two of the many people who understood the point I was trying to make regarding Disney's obvious twisting of the truth to create a fantasy that goes far beyond the realm of reality. Sure, kids are not dumb but they can easily be victims of this TV commerical which goes over-the-top, in what I call a "child's advertisement promise". Kids take what adults tell them with a much greater assurance than we do as adults. To them, what they see on TV is mroe real than what we as adults will accept as real.

Children, are the most vulnerable among us and can easily be sold a bill of goods that we as adults know is just not going to happen.

The TV commercial in question, which was clearly aimed at children and not adults, has been pulled years ago (quite possibly because of complaints over the absurdity of the claims of the commercial) so it's no longer possible to adequately dicuss the content of that commercial since few people have either seen the commercial or who even remember it.

The deceptions of the commercial are simple: We are shown a beautiful day in Disneyland, with few vistors in sight, no lines waiting for rides, Disney characters spending alone time and even skipping through the park with a couple of children, and then the commercial ends the evening watching a fireworks display from the window of the hotel room of this happy family.

When I contacted Disney reservations about watching the "light show" from any Disney hotel window, they told me that you wouldn't be able to see the show very well and nothing of Sleeping Beauty's castle. And certainly not in any, way, shape or form in which Disney showed the happy family in the Disney commericial. For those that don't remember or have never seen this aspect of the TV commerical to which I refer, the advertisement shows the parents and the kids, sitting at their hotel window veering out at Sleeping Beauty's Castle and enjoying the brilliant fireworks show. Since there is no hotel room in Disneyland that allows such a view, it's a blatant lie.

Now, normally, I don't care about the exaggerations of some corporate commerical, but when a company like Disney who insists on marketing themselves as the place that makes children's dreams come true, I find it disturbing when parents have to explain to their chidren why what the TV commercial is showing, is not being truthful. There were other ways that Disney could have made that commerical with the same effect yet avoided the process of deceiving children.

Lastly, I love going to Disneyland and always have a fun time but I have learned what to see and when to see it. I also learned where to stay and other tips to enjoying my visit. There a number of books dedicated to helping you enjoy your trip and avoid wasting all your time fumbling through crowds and spending your time doing things that are not fun.

I hope this further commentary helps to make people better understand my only concern, which was any advertising aimed at children that is either a flat-out lie or a massive exaggeration left to the parents to explain why Disney would show them something that was not true. Thank you.


John
Concord, California
USA

What the "cast members" seem to fail to understand is that a trip to Disneyland is often a once in a lifetime experience. Disneyland and the other parks are being sold as a dream, so parents want to purchase that - and they do, at a huge expense.

If the cost was lower than it currently is, no-one would comment on the crowds. But the fact is, millions of people from all over the world pay for air fares, hotel rooms and the huge costs for the various types of passes in order to give their children the dream of a lifetime.

We are not just talking about the theme park, we are talking about the six months of excitement and build up, the $4000 or $5000 air fares from other parts of the world, the hotel room and food costs and also the cost of buying the Mickey Mouse, Goofy or another of the nurmerous toys that they beg to take home

The "cast members" who belittle those parents who have given their children the dream of a lifetime at an expense they may never be able to afford again, cannot possibily understand their audience.
Last time I went to Disneyland, I waited, with my son, two and a half hours for one ride, only to see those who can afford to have VIP passes just cut in line (and good for them, I would do it too if I could afford it.)

Three years ago, I went to the EPCOT center in Orlando at the most ridiculous cost; only to find that this so-called futuristic fantasyland, had hardly changed one iota since I was there ten years ago. We left after three hours, bored to tears.

Customer feedback is everything. Without customers, Disney are a lost cause. They are living on the profits of selling a dream that is unfulfilled when families buy the package. They will not go again, as I will not.

If a child sees Mickey Mouse hugging another child, then that is what Disney is selling. Therefore, that is what they should deliver! The problem is that they are so focused on packing the place with people at maximum cost, that no-one there actually gives a d**n about whether their customers are happy.

A final note: When Disney sells children an image of wonder, fun and joy, a parent should not have to see multiple "closed for renovation" signs, two and a half hour lines for a ride or "this even is cancelled due to..." Yes, it is a business for Disney, but it is not a business for its customers. At the moment, Disney are making its customers feel that we are an inconvenience to their strategic goals. Oops, sorry about that, we shall go away quickly and quietly.

I am from England - one of those bothersome families that spent $10,000 to come to DisneyWorld and annoy you with my children. I have worked out that my two days at Disneyworld averaged at $34 each per ride. The worse thing - absolute and total disappointment from my four year old.

They are what it's all about - you seem to be forgetting that.

It's hard for me to imagine that it is completely empty besides the one family. But if that is the case, and that is what John actually expected, then no he will never be happy.

In my rebuttle I was pretty much ignoring the complaints about the amount of people in the park, and focused on the character part. I do think it is crazy if anyone truely expects the park to be empty, but I don't think it is crazy to expect a little more contact with the characters, since that is supposedly the main selling point on the commercial, and what I took as the major complaint in John's post.

I read as many rebuttles as I could before my eyes began to bleed, and I saw so many people comparing all the other fake things on tv to this. I don't think it is the same, because Disneyland is real and kids do take things at face value. Younger kids are more excited about the characters than the rides. Again, I think that part of his complaint is no different than people complaining that the cruise wasn't as advertised, or the product didn't work as advertised.

I don't expect Disneyland to show crowded parks, expensive food, trash, etc. just as Taco Bell doesn't focus on wrong orders, slapped together burritos or the fact that you have to wait in line to get food. They focus on the positive, but they also don't advertise you are going to have a waitress either. That to me is about equal to Disneyland commercials showing children running around with Mikey and playing with Pluto.

Common sense should tell you that they can't cater to everybody at a giant theme park, but I do believe that John had a valid complaint about false advertising. I was tired of reading rebuttles claiming that it was the same as the talking kitty on tv and such, I disagree to the likeness.

What John wants is a completely empty theme park for his family. After all, that's what is shown in the commercial.

There is no help for people like John. He knows how theme parks operate, yet still complains. Only a blithering fool would expect a multi-billion dollar business to operate on one family/day. It can be done, but then John would complain about the trip costing him over $10 Million dollars.

No child expects to be the only person there...at least not one who isn't drooling all day. My kids have never complained about waiting in lines for the rides. In fact, I have never seen ANY kids do that. It's ALWAYS the parents who whine about it.

As for false advertisement, I am still waiting to see Tinkerbell fly around...just like in the commercials. Oh wait...I know that's fake, and so do my kids.

In all the other unrealistic commercials that have been stated about, such as the foster farms, talking cats, superheros-whatever, and this whole Disney issue, is that the kids ARE going to Disneyland, and this is what they expect to see.

Kids know that talking cats aren't real, superheros like we see on tv aren't real. But if Gotham really existed, your kid saw a commercial to come visit Gotham, hang out with Batman, don't you think they would really expect Batman to be there? Just like in the commercial? Of course they would. It's real.

To that point, I agree with the original poster, I don't think many people are getting the point. If McDonalds showed a 3 foot tall Barbie doll for thier happy meals and then your kid gets a 3 inch doll, she's gonna be upset. That is false advertising, they know that's what is attracting the kids, and therefore the parents, to go to McDonalds. Very different from a talking cat to try to sell a certain brand of cat food, thats just trying to be cute and make people watch the commercials. You go to the store to buy food, you don't expect a talking cat to come with it! Disneyland is selling an experience, and if they don't live up to what they advertise, you should have the right to be disappointed.

People complain on here all the time because products don't live up to the advertisements, why should the purchase of an experience be different? I see complaints of bad cruises, vacations, etc. all of those are valid complaints, usually about how the advertised experience was different than the reality (as is here!) Those people didn't know any better.

How was John supposed to know that his experience would be totally different than what was shown on tv if he hadn't been there before? So he is warning other people who may not know either, now they can tell thier kids "hey were going to Disneyland, MAYBE we will even see Mikey!" and let thier kids know the reality of it before they get there and are disappointed also. He didn't place the blame on any of the employees, or a specific person, just bad advertising.

I have been there are few times, sometimes it was good, sometimes it was horrible. I think it does depend on your attitude, most grown ups get frustrated waiting 45 minutes to see Mikey, and kids probably pick up on that. But for 50 dollars or whatever it is now, just make the best of it.

In all the other unrealistic commercials that have been stated about, such as the foster farms, talking cats, superheros-whatever, and this whole Disney issue, is that the kids ARE going to Disneyland, and this is what they expect to see.

Kids know that talking cats aren't real, superheros like we see on tv aren't real. But if Gotham really existed, your kid saw a commercial to come visit Gotham, hang out with Batman, don't you think they would really expect Batman to be there? Just like in the commercial? Of course they would. It's real.

To that point, I agree with the original poster, I don't think many people are getting the point. If McDonalds showed a 3 foot tall Barbie doll for thier happy meals and then your kid gets a 3 inch doll, she's gonna be upset. That is false advertising, they know that's what is attracting the kids, and therefore the parents, to go to McDonalds. Very different from a talking cat to try to sell a certain brand of cat food, thats just trying to be cute and make people watch the commercials. You go to the store to buy food, you don't expect a talking cat to come with it! Disneyland is selling an experience, and if they don't live up to what they advertise, you should have the right to be disappointed.

People complain on here all the time because products don't live up to the advertisements, why should the purchase of an experience be different? I see complaints of bad cruises, vacations, etc. all of those are valid complaints, usually about how the advertised experience was different than the reality (as is here!) Those people didn't know any better.

How was John supposed to know that his experience would be totally different than what was shown on tv if he hadn't been there before? So he is warning other people who may not know either, now they can tell thier kids "hey were going to Disneyland, MAYBE we will even see Mikey!" and let thier kids know the reality of it before they get there and are disappointed also. He didn't place the blame on any of the employees, or a specific person, just bad advertising.

I have been there are few times, sometimes it was good, sometimes it was horrible. I think it does depend on your attitude, most grown ups get frustrated waiting 45 minutes to see Mikey, and kids probably pick up on that. But for 50 dollars or whatever it is now, just make the best of it.

In all the other unrealistic commercials that have been stated about, such as the foster farms, talking cats, superheros-whatever, and this whole Disney issue, is that the kids ARE going to Disneyland, and this is what they expect to see.

Kids know that talking cats aren't real, superheros like we see on tv aren't real. But if Gotham really existed, your kid saw a commercial to come visit Gotham, hang out with Batman, don't you think they would really expect Batman to be there? Just like in the commercial? Of course they would. It's real.

To that point, I agree with the original poster, I don't think many people are getting the point. If McDonalds showed a 3 foot tall Barbie doll for thier happy meals and then your kid gets a 3 inch doll, she's gonna be upset. That is false advertising, they know that's what is attracting the kids, and therefore the parents, to go to McDonalds. Very different from a talking cat to try to sell a certain brand of cat food, thats just trying to be cute and make people watch the commercials. You go to the store to buy food, you don't expect a talking cat to come with it! Disneyland is selling an experience, and if they don't live up to what they advertise, you should have the right to be disappointed.

People complain on here all the time because products don't live up to the advertisements, why should the purchase of an experience be different? I see complaints of bad cruises, vacations, etc. all of those are valid complaints, usually about how the advertised experience was different than the reality (as is here!) Those people didn't know any better.

How was John supposed to know that his experience would be totally different than what was shown on tv if he hadn't been there before? So he is warning other people who may not know either, now they can tell thier kids "hey were going to Disneyland, MAYBE we will even see Mikey!" and let thier kids know the reality of it before they get there and are disappointed also. He didn't place the blame on any of the employees, or a specific person, just bad advertising.

I have been there are few times, sometimes it was good, sometimes it was horrible. I think it does depend on your attitude, most grown ups get frustrated waiting 45 minutes to see Mikey, and kids probably pick up on that. But for 50 dollars or whatever it is now, just make the best of it.

I happened to run across this website while researching another park in CA. I must say that I am amazed at some of the comments on here.

I am a California native and I have been to Disneyland many times and have seen the commercials many more. I agree that the visions of the characters running free are an obvious untruth of the actual park experience, but I know better than to base my decisions solely on what I see on TV.

I don't expect to see Foster Farms chickens talking and drinking Slurpees as I look for dinner in the poulty section. Advertising is advertising, plain and simple. My kids know not to think that if we go to McDonalds, that Ronald McDonald, Hamburgler, and Grimace are going to come skipping out and share a cheeseburger with us. So why would we hold Disney responsible for their "false advertising" and not anyone else?

Yes, the park is almost always overcrowded, but as a kid, it was the best place I had ever been to. Now that I have 2 kids of my own, the looks on their faces as we make our way through the crowds say it all. Nothing else should matter!! If the experience is "magical" for the kids, then why should we as adults cloud that with our own gripes?

As for the long lines, plan ahead. Do not go during the holidays or vacations when school is out. I just recently went with my husband and our kids right before Halloween. It was the last weekend that the park was decorated with their wonderful Halloween theme. It was very crowded, but I knew that going into it that we would wait in long lines. We were able to get FastPasses for most of the rides which cut our wait times in half.

I guess, what I am trying to say is that Disneyland is and always has been a place that you can go to feel like a kid. Back to a time when things weren't so real and the world wasnt so demanding. If you go to the park expecting to be upset and have a horrible time, then that is exactly what will happen.

Maybe I am in the minority here, but the kids are all that matter. If they have a place that makes them really believe that in this Magical Kingdom "Dreams really do come true" then who are we to argue that Disneyland is not the Happiest Place on Earth?

Back in a 2002 WD trip, my personal experience at a rip old age this time around; I really have to admit as a visitor for the 3rd time was in Anahiem, CA -they put on a good show if you allow yourself to become emersed in the magical world called, Disney. I was happy to take my significant other with me and make their dreams become a part of the charm they have put in place for the many to experience at WD. The Fantasia at dusk with Mickey mouse and the huge water fountain sprays with musical scores found its way to a breathtaking display of a magical scene.

I would like to thank the awesome work of the "Winnie the Poo" CP for their hard work and love of people. When I was having my picture taken he grabbed me by the arm firmly and pulled me close to him along with my spouse on the other side, during a picture session. We had waited for WTP to show up by his honey house that day after his break, as explained by his spokesperson - as was common for several areas of character appearances for pre-outlined designated areas. It's something you can't forget with the relentless crouds and rising temps along with the warm welcome they inspired that day and remarkably noted.

I was not thrilled at the crowds and costs throughout the entire 4 days we were there but like many have said, you have to be in the right frame of mind to experience the "happiness" of what disneys inspires for you to experience as an enlightenment.

Commercials are paid tv advertisements that will NEVER influence my decision making - Hence, don't let your child be influenced or watch the filth that has become and evolved with the evolution of T.V., in ANY form of representation.

I am sorry to hear of the conditions for the employees. There is no excuse to treat people this way--if the rumors here are true--very SAD. If it wasn't for them my memories of the characters potrayed would not be as well spoken of as they are now.

I hated the crouds and would further comment on that, extensively, but as it seems, just like most areas in America which are always under attack by all the cheap labor forces made up of unskilled workers who will make every theme park an attraction for themselves in hordes, or their willingness to work for less and undermine the fabric of what built the image of Disney and many other industries long AGO. Go Americana!

Back in a 2002 WD trip, my personal experience at a rip old age this time around; I really have to admit as a visitor for the 3rd time was in Anahiem, CA -they put on a good show if you allow yourself to become emersed in the magical world called, Disney. I was happy to take my significant other with me and make their dreams become a part of the charm they have put in place for the many to experience at WD. The Fantasia at dusk with Mickey mouse and the huge water fountain sprays with musical scores found its way to a breathtaking display of a magical scene.

I would like to thank the awesome work of the "Winnie the Poo" CP for their hard work and love of people. When I was having my picture taken he grabbed me by the arm firmly and pulled me close to him along with my spouse on the other side, during a picture session. We had waited for WTP to show up by his honey house that day after his break, as explained by his spokesperson - as was common for several areas of character appearances for pre-outlined designated areas. It's something you can't forget with the relentless crouds and rising temps along with the warm welcome they inspired that day and remarkably noted.

I was not thrilled at the crowds and costs throughout the entire 4 days we were there but like many have said, you have to be in the right frame of mind to experience the "happiness" of what disneys inspires for you to experience as an enlightenment.

Commercials are paid tv advertisements that will NEVER influence my decision making - Hence, don't let your child be influenced or watch the filth that has become and evolved with the evolution of T.V., in ANY form of representation.

I am sorry to hear of the conditions for the employees. There is no excuse to treat people this way--if the rumors here are true--very SAD. If it wasn't for them my memories of the characters potrayed would not be as well spoken of as they are now.

I hated the crouds and would further comment on that, extensively, but as it seems, just like most areas in America which are always under attack by all the cheap labor forces made up of unskilled workers who will make every theme park an attraction for themselves in hordes, or their willingness to work for less and undermine the fabric of what built the image of Disney and many other industries long AGO. Go Americana!

Back in a 2002 WD trip, my personal experience at a rip old age this time around; I really have to admit as a visitor for the 3rd time was in Anahiem, CA -they put on a good show if you allow yourself to become emersed in the magical world called, Disney. I was happy to take my significant other with me and make their dreams become a part of the charm they have put in place for the many to experience at WD. The Fantasia at dusk with Mickey mouse and the huge water fountain sprays with musical scores found its way to a breathtaking display of a magical scene.

I would like to thank the awesome work of the "Winnie the Poo" CP for their hard work and love of people. When I was having my picture taken he grabbed me by the arm firmly and pulled me close to him along with my spouse on the other side, during a picture session. We had waited for WTP to show up by his honey house that day after his break, as explained by his spokesperson - as was common for several areas of character appearances for pre-outlined designated areas. It's something you can't forget with the relentless crouds and rising temps along with the warm welcome they inspired that day and remarkably noted.

I was not thrilled at the crowds and costs throughout the entire 4 days we were there but like many have said, you have to be in the right frame of mind to experience the "happiness" of what disneys inspires for you to experience as an enlightenment.

Commercials are paid tv advertisements that will NEVER influence my decision making - Hence, don't let your child be influenced or watch the filth that has become and evolved with the evolution of T.V., in ANY form of representation.

I am sorry to hear of the conditions for the employees. There is no excuse to treat people this way--if the rumors here are true--very SAD. If it wasn't for them my memories of the characters potrayed would not be as well spoken of as they are now.

I hated the crouds and would further comment on that, extensively, but as it seems, just like most areas in America which are always under attack by all the cheap labor forces made up of unskilled workers who will make every theme park an attraction for themselves in hordes, or their willingness to work for less and undermine the fabric of what built the image of Disney and many other industries long AGO. Go Americana!

In response to the origninal complaint Disney, as do many other companies, often presents the ideal setting and day in it's commercials for the sake of advertising. Knott's tends to present its self as an awsome theme park with amazing rides and tries to make us think that it's right up there with Six Flags. Knott's is the most boring park in Southern California! But it's not false advertising. It's just trying to boost admissions.

Natuarlly Disneyland is going to be crowded in the summer, unfortunately your's isn't the only family who thought "Hey let's take the kids to see Mickey Mouse." The Disney Characters are one of the most popular attractions in the park and during the summer months it's a tough job to spend individual time with each and every kid. But you better believe they try. And to make things easier most of the characters are accompanied by a "Host" to make sure that the kids get seen in an efficiant and timely manner.

If you are disappointed by the wait in Summer perhaps better planning should be made. It is common knowledge that popular points of interest are just plain more crowded in the summer months. But during the off season I HAVE seen kids happily skipping around with the characters spending time all by themselves. Also during the peak time of day (right around mid day when people have seen all their favorite rides so now they are ready to see the characters) it's busier. Try first thing in the morning or about an hour before park closing in the more secluded areas of the park. Pooh corner is practically deserted at night time.

Another thing that helps to plan your time is to ask any of the castmembers with the characters what the times are for any of the specific characters you wish to visit with are. They will happily tell you exactly when and where to find them.

If it is important to you to see the characters and spend some real time with them, it is just as important to plan it into your day as it is to plan in the rides. Don't just try to squeeze it in between fast passes and then be surprised that you didn't get to spend quality time with Cinderella. If it's important, make it a priority.

In response to the origninal complaint Disney, as do many other companies, often presents the ideal setting and day in it's commercials for the sake of advertising. Knott's tends to present its self as an awsome theme park with amazing rides and tries to make us think that it's right up there with Six Flags. Knott's is the most boring park in Southern California! But it's not false advertising. It's just trying to boost admissions.

Natuarlly Disneyland is going to be crowded in the summer, unfortunately your's isn't the only family who thought "Hey let's take the kids to see Mickey Mouse." The Disney Characters are one of the most popular attractions in the park and during the summer months it's a tough job to spend individual time with each and every kid. But you better believe they try. And to make things easier most of the characters are accompanied by a "Host" to make sure that the kids get seen in an efficiant and timely manner.

If you are disappointed by the wait in Summer perhaps better planning should be made. It is common knowledge that popular points of interest are just plain more crowded in the summer months. But during the off season I HAVE seen kids happily skipping around with the characters spending time all by themselves. Also during the peak time of day (right around mid day when people have seen all their favorite rides so now they are ready to see the characters) it's busier. Try first thing in the morning or about an hour before park closing in the more secluded areas of the park. Pooh corner is practically deserted at night time.

Another thing that helps to plan your time is to ask any of the castmembers with the characters what the times are for any of the specific characters you wish to visit with are. They will happily tell you exactly when and where to find them.

If it is important to you to see the characters and spend some real time with them, it is just as important to plan it into your day as it is to plan in the rides. Don't just try to squeeze it in between fast passes and then be surprised that you didn't get to spend quality time with Cinderella. If it's important, make it a priority.

In response to the origninal complaint Disney, as do many other companies, often presents the ideal setting and day in it's commercials for the sake of advertising. Knott's tends to present its self as an awsome theme park with amazing rides and tries to make us think that it's right up there with Six Flags. Knott's is the most boring park in Southern California! But it's not false advertising. It's just trying to boost admissions.

Natuarlly Disneyland is going to be crowded in the summer, unfortunately your's isn't the only family who thought "Hey let's take the kids to see Mickey Mouse." The Disney Characters are one of the most popular attractions in the park and during the summer months it's a tough job to spend individual time with each and every kid. But you better believe they try. And to make things easier most of the characters are accompanied by a "Host" to make sure that the kids get seen in an efficiant and timely manner.

If you are disappointed by the wait in Summer perhaps better planning should be made. It is common knowledge that popular points of interest are just plain more crowded in the summer months. But during the off season I HAVE seen kids happily skipping around with the characters spending time all by themselves. Also during the peak time of day (right around mid day when people have seen all their favorite rides so now they are ready to see the characters) it's busier. Try first thing in the morning or about an hour before park closing in the more secluded areas of the park. Pooh corner is practically deserted at night time.

Another thing that helps to plan your time is to ask any of the castmembers with the characters what the times are for any of the specific characters you wish to visit with are. They will happily tell you exactly when and where to find them.

If it is important to you to see the characters and spend some real time with them, it is just as important to plan it into your day as it is to plan in the rides. Don't just try to squeeze it in between fast passes and then be surprised that you didn't get to spend quality time with Cinderella. If it's important, make it a priority.

In response to the origninal complaint Disney, as do many other companies, often presents the ideal setting and day in it's commercials for the sake of advertising. Knott's tends to present its self as an awsome theme park with amazing rides and tries to make us think that it's right up there with Six Flags. Knott's is the most boring park in Southern California! But it's not false advertising. It's just trying to boost admissions.

Natuarlly Disneyland is going to be crowded in the summer, unfortunately your's isn't the only family who thought "Hey let's take the kids to see Mickey Mouse." The Disney Characters are one of the most popular attractions in the park and during the summer months it's a tough job to spend individual time with each and every kid. But you better believe they try. And to make things easier most of the characters are accompanied by a "Host" to make sure that the kids get seen in an efficiant and timely manner.

If you are disappointed by the wait in Summer perhaps better planning should be made. It is common knowledge that popular points of interest are just plain more crowded in the summer months. But during the off season I HAVE seen kids happily skipping around with the characters spending time all by themselves. Also during the peak time of day (right around mid day when people have seen all their favorite rides so now they are ready to see the characters) it's busier. Try first thing in the morning or about an hour before park closing in the more secluded areas of the park. Pooh corner is practically deserted at night time.

Another thing that helps to plan your time is to ask any of the castmembers with the characters what the times are for any of the specific characters you wish to visit with are. They will happily tell you exactly when and where to find them.

If it is important to you to see the characters and spend some real time with them, it is just as important to plan it into your day as it is to plan in the rides. Don't just try to squeeze it in between fast passes and then be surprised that you didn't get to spend quality time with Cinderella. If it's important, make it a priority.

The last time I went to Disney Land and took my kids my 8 yr old got bored because the rides are so lame. If you want to go to a real park go to Six Flags Magic Mtn!! For that matter go to ANY Six Flags park. You'll have a better time for your money!!

I, myself have been going to Disneyland since I was a baby, I am now 33yrs old. I still go to Disneyland and still greatly enjoy my stay there, my only regrets were when it was time to leave.

I have been able to share these moments with my husband, who had never been there until a couple of years ago, and my daughter who is 8 yrs old. I just hope she has the same magical and great experiences that I have had at Disneyland.

Of course the commercials are over exaggerated, how else are they supposed to sell you on a trip? Anybody would expect a popular park, like Disneyland to be crowded, they are, all year round, not as bad during fall and winter, but still pretty crowded.

But for those of us who love Disneyland and want our children to have a great experience, dont mind so much. I'm sorry there are so many people who havent had great experiences there, I hope you will give it another shot.

I went to Disneyland in Anaheim this past May, right after they began their 50th anniversary celebration. Packed? Oh, yeah - it was unbelievable!

However, I came forewarned and forearmed, with a great program called RideMax. Designed specifically to get you on the maximum number of rides in the least amount of time, RideMax allows you to create a schedule of rides to go on, including times to obtain FastPasses, break times, meal times, and gives great tips and tricks like obtaining multiple FastPasses within a few minutes (instead of waiting until your current ride window came up).

Using RideMax, I was able to go on 11 rides in a total of 5 hours (combined ride time and waiting in line time), plus spend time shopping, eating, and just goofing around at my leisure! RideMax is incredibly accurate about wait time predictions, too - I remember my schedule said I'd wait 11 minutes in line for Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, and I'll be damned if I didn't spend 10 minutes in line before I got on the ride!

If you've gotta go to the Tragic Kingdom when it's packed, do yourself a favor and use RideMax.

Skeptics: No, I am not, nor do I work for the software developer, no association at all. I'm just a very satisfied customer who wants to share the wealth.

QUOTE: "ONE TIME, we went to Disneyland, and it was TOTALLY EMPTY. You could run thru any line and go right in to all of the rides without waiting! The secret -- it was forecasted to RAIN! (Another steal -- If you want 5c phone calls check out 1pau.com) It actually did rain a little that day, but not very much. So that is the way to go with no hassle. Go during the time it is forecast to RAIN."


We last went to Disney World in Orlando one week in March when rain was in the forecast. We bought ponchos and had a great time. We even went on Splash Mountain wearing our ponchos. I think the longest wait was for MGM's Tower of Terror; when the park first opened, there was no wait, but later on there was about a 20 minute wait.

Also, if you're staying in a resort, you should take advantage of the extended hours. There was one day when Magic Kingdom was open for 3 extra hours for the resort guests, and we encountered no lines.

I have not been to WDW during peak months, but I have gone to other theme parks (Six Flags, Carowinds, Busch Gardens, King's Dominion) during the summer. Suggestions: We take advantage of Fast Passes whenever we can. When it's necessary to wait in line, make the best of it. One of us might get into a conversation with someone standing in front of or in back of us. We've even gotten helpful hints from these "line neighbors". We tell jokes. There are games you can play while waiting in line, depending on the ages of your kids. We take pictures (which I later title, "Waiting in Line for....") We take the time to examine the park map and plan out the next few hours. Anything to make it light and not emphasize that you're waiting in line.

Disney costs money, I will not dispute that. So while you're there, you should get your money's worth and have fun. We had a great time. This was our 2nd time going there.

I have a hard time believing that people are that stupid to expect the parks to be empty. What planet are you from? Check the web sight for closers its not hard. I go to disneyland at least once a month and my family has a great time everytime we go. Somedays are busy some arnt to bad. The one thing that gets me when go though are the snooty people pissed off because they have to wait in lines. Well guess what I guess at Disneyland one person is no better than the other you have to wait just like everyone else.. Heres another one that gets me parents that have 2 small kids and are to cheap to rent 2 strollers so there kids are sitting on each other. Parents if you dont want to take care of your kids to make the trip plesant and dont think you should have to wait DONT GO/

I have a hard time believing that people are that stupid to expect the parks to be empty. What planet are you from? Check the web sight for closers its not hard. I go to disneyland at least once a month and my family has a great time everytime we go. Somedays are busy some arnt to bad. The one thing that gets me when go though are the snooty people pissed off because they have to wait in lines. Well guess what I guess at Disneyland one person is no better than the other you have to wait just like everyone else.. Heres another one that gets me parents that have 2 small kids and are to cheap to rent 2 strollers so there kids are sitting on each other. Parents if you dont want to take care of your kids to make the trip plesant and dont think you should have to wait DONT GO/

I have a hard time believing that people are that stupid to expect the parks to be empty. What planet are you from? Check the web sight for closers its not hard. I go to disneyland at least once a month and my family has a great time everytime we go. Somedays are busy some arnt to bad. The one thing that gets me when go though are the snooty people pissed off because they have to wait in lines. Well guess what I guess at Disneyland one person is no better than the other you have to wait just like everyone else.. Heres another one that gets me parents that have 2 small kids and are to cheap to rent 2 strollers so there kids are sitting on each other. Parents if you dont want to take care of your kids to make the trip plesant and dont think you should have to wait DONT GO/

Jade - I totally agree with you. Disneyland is truly a great place for EVERYONE, ANY age.

Yes, over the years the ticket prices have gone up pretty high, and I understand that it's pretty pricey for families and tourists, but if you go from opening time to closing time your day will be well worth the money.

Anyways, here are some tips to getting through the day without the hassle of standing in lines for hours. This helps you get to a lot of rides (and for those who love fitness...a lot of walking exercise :) )

#1) First of all, Disneyland came up with FastPasses for the major rides, which are REALLY great. You put your park ticket/pass in the machine and it gives you a ticket telling you to return to the FastPass line between A time and B time (usually within a one hour time frame). I think it might allow up to 2 FastPasses per park ticket until the time frame of one of them passes. Within usually 10 minutes, BOOM you're already at the front of the line. Don't be crazy by standing in the stand-by line (unless it's fairly short).

#2) Until your return time you can go grab a bite to eat, take pictures, visit shops, or check out the line times on the board in the middle of Main Street. If any of them seem like fairly short times to you, ride those to pass the time.

#3) For those who have a season pass (which allows you into both parks) or have a park-hopper ticket, you can get a FastPass in California Adventure on one of the rides and get a Disneyland ride FastPass....go to one then the other. Remember, after you finish the ride, get another pass in that same park so you don't have to make an extra trip back. :) It's walking back and forth but if you like to walk, great....and it's not even that long of a walk at all.

#4) Shows are definitely really cool at Disneyland, I can't tell you how much more I enjoy them the older I get. They add comedy (adults laugh more than kids do because they actually understand the jokes) and they're really unique shows. I loved the Aladdin show at California Adventure, I would love to see that again. Also, A Bug's Life was cool, that was in 3D and was a lot of fun.

#5) When you're at Disneyland, the child within wants to come out....let it out. Believe me, you'll have a lot more fun. Lines can be crazy but there are ways to get around them. There areas in the park that are less crowded....and the rides that are less thrilling are more interesting and unique.

DO NOT judge it because of a "mis-leading" commercial...it's not misleading, they just can't have a million people running around in a commercial, it would be unprofessional; who knows how many people would be making obscene faces in the background trying to be funny. You surely don't expect Mr. Clean to remove permanent marker stains, right? Try an all-purpose cleaner, you can't wash your hair with that, right? No harm done...just buy shampoo. It's not false-advertising just because it says "all-purpose"....those with strong common sense would understand.

Try to enjoy Disneyland rather than think of it as a money/time-sucking, "false-advertising" scheme. Everyone is welcomed at Disneyland from the second they're there. If they get kicked out for whatever reason, it's their problem. But you can't tell them to leave because it's "over-crowded"....UNETHICAL. Think as if YOU were Walt Disney and how you would run the business, would you lock people out on certain days?

If you have a problem with the price or any past experiences there, maybe it's not a place for you. With the FastPass around now, TRUST ME, you can go to Disneyland on a crowded, sunny, beautiful day of the weekend and still enjoy it as if you were the only person in the park. And how often do you come to a place like Disneyland? Sometimes spending a few extra dollars won't hurt, money comes and goes, and spending time with your family should be worth every penny. If it's not for you, do it for your kids! Hope the tips above help you guys.

I have been to Disneyland twice, each time we got a 7-day pass from our hotel. First of all, I think that Disney World is way better, but part of it is there is less wait it seems, probably because there are more Disney parks in Florida. However, as someone said, you are not going to go to any park in the world where you are the only one there unless you are Bill Gates and can rent out the park for the entire day.

No commercial is going to advertise long lines. I didn't see Cedar Point advertising that you could wait 6 hours or more to ride Top Thrill Dragster when it opened, yet I expected it.

Long lines can be expected everywhere, even at County fairs, and especially during peak times. You just have to come early for certain rides. For example, the year that the Indiana Jones ride opened at Disneyland, we went with early admission passes (an hour before the general public) and still had to wait in line for 45 minutes (this was in the summer also).

Then we wanted to get back on but the wait was up to 2 hours so we chose not to get back in line that day, but rather come back the next morning with early admission again. Later in the day the line was wrapped around past Big Thunder Mountain and we asked what the line was for and told it was for Indiana Jones.

We asked how long the wait was and were told it was approximately 9 and a half hours. I asked someone in line if they knew that, they said they didn't mind because they loved the ride and they figure the actual wait would only be 6 or 7 hours!

We just rode other things (the longest wait was like 30 minutes for everything else). Some people don't mind waiting in line. Others, like just don't do it. It's a choice. We left the park around noon when it started getting hot and longer lines, went and got lunch, swam in the pool, and came back in the evening.

I ALWAYS expect lines at every amusement park. I've never been to one where ever line was over an hour. AND, when we went, no rides were closed. And even if several rides were closed, there's still plenty to choose from.

Also, I found that the character's were pretty accessible. If you want more access, you can purchase a character breakfast (NOT that expensive, only $15-$30). But we were able to take pictures with characters freely and hug them as they walked around, which is all I would expect. Who would expect Mickey Mouse to spend the entire day with just you when there are thousands of other visitors?

I would recommend all of the Disney parks to anyone, especially families and couples. They are all a little pricey, but well worth it. This is just a few disgruntled people being overdramatic.

I have been to Disneyland twice, each time we got a 7-day pass from our hotel. First of all, I think that Disney World is way better, but part of it is there is less wait it seems, probably because there are more Disney parks in Florida. However, as someone said, you are not going to go to any park in the world where you are the only one there unless you are Bill Gates and can rent out the park for the entire day.

No commercial is going to advertise long lines. I didn't see Cedar Point advertising that you could wait 6 hours or more to ride Top Thrill Dragster when it opened, yet I expected it.

Long lines can be expected everywhere, even at County fairs, and especially during peak times. You just have to come early for certain rides. For example, the year that the Indiana Jones ride opened at Disneyland, we went with early admission passes (an hour before the general public) and still had to wait in line for 45 minutes (this was in the summer also).

Then we wanted to get back on but the wait was up to 2 hours so we chose not to get back in line that day, but rather come back the next morning with early admission again. Later in the day the line was wrapped around past Big Thunder Mountain and we asked what the line was for and told it was for Indiana Jones.

We asked how long the wait was and were told it was approximately 9 and a half hours. I asked someone in line if they knew that, they said they didn't mind because they loved the ride and they figure the actual wait would only be 6 or 7 hours!

We just rode other things (the longest wait was like 30 minutes for everything else). Some people don't mind waiting in line. Others, like just don't do it. It's a choice. We left the park around noon when it started getting hot and longer lines, went and got lunch, swam in the pool, and came back in the evening.

I ALWAYS expect lines at every amusement park. I've never been to one where ever line was over an hour. AND, when we went, no rides were closed. And even if several rides were closed, there's still plenty to choose from.

Also, I found that the character's were pretty accessible. If you want more access, you can purchase a character breakfast (NOT that expensive, only $15-$30). But we were able to take pictures with characters freely and hug them as they walked around, which is all I would expect. Who would expect Mickey Mouse to spend the entire day with just you when there are thousands of other visitors?

I would recommend all of the Disney parks to anyone, especially families and couples. They are all a little pricey, but well worth it. This is just a few disgruntled people being overdramatic.

I have been to Disneyland twice, each time we got a 7-day pass from our hotel. First of all, I think that Disney World is way better, but part of it is there is less wait it seems, probably because there are more Disney parks in Florida. However, as someone said, you are not going to go to any park in the world where you are the only one there unless you are Bill Gates and can rent out the park for the entire day.

No commercial is going to advertise long lines. I didn't see Cedar Point advertising that you could wait 6 hours or more to ride Top Thrill Dragster when it opened, yet I expected it.

Long lines can be expected everywhere, even at County fairs, and especially during peak times. You just have to come early for certain rides. For example, the year that the Indiana Jones ride opened at Disneyland, we went with early admission passes (an hour before the general public) and still had to wait in line for 45 minutes (this was in the summer also).

Then we wanted to get back on but the wait was up to 2 hours so we chose not to get back in line that day, but rather come back the next morning with early admission again. Later in the day the line was wrapped around past Big Thunder Mountain and we asked what the line was for and told it was for Indiana Jones.

We asked how long the wait was and were told it was approximately 9 and a half hours. I asked someone in line if they knew that, they said they didn't mind because they loved the ride and they figure the actual wait would only be 6 or 7 hours!

We just rode other things (the longest wait was like 30 minutes for everything else). Some people don't mind waiting in line. Others, like just don't do it. It's a choice. We left the park around noon when it started getting hot and longer lines, went and got lunch, swam in the pool, and came back in the evening.

I ALWAYS expect lines at every amusement park. I've never been to one where ever line was over an hour. AND, when we went, no rides were closed. And even if several rides were closed, there's still plenty to choose from.

Also, I found that the character's were pretty accessible. If you want more access, you can purchase a character breakfast (NOT that expensive, only $15-$30). But we were able to take pictures with characters freely and hug them as they walked around, which is all I would expect. Who would expect Mickey Mouse to spend the entire day with just you when there are thousands of other visitors?

I would recommend all of the Disney parks to anyone, especially families and couples. They are all a little pricey, but well worth it. This is just a few disgruntled people being overdramatic.

I have been to Disneyland twice, each time we got a 7-day pass from our hotel. First of all, I think that Disney World is way better, but part of it is there is less wait it seems, probably because there are more Disney parks in Florida. However, as someone said, you are not going to go to any park in the world where you are the only one there unless you are Bill Gates and can rent out the park for the entire day.

No commercial is going to advertise long lines. I didn't see Cedar Point advertising that you could wait 6 hours or more to ride Top Thrill Dragster when it opened, yet I expected it.

Long lines can be expected everywhere, even at County fairs, and especially during peak times. You just have to come early for certain rides. For example, the year that the Indiana Jones ride opened at Disneyland, we went with early admission passes (an hour before the general public) and still had to wait in line for 45 minutes (this was in the summer also).

Then we wanted to get back on but the wait was up to 2 hours so we chose not to get back in line that day, but rather come back the next morning with early admission again. Later in the day the line was wrapped around past Big Thunder Mountain and we asked what the line was for and told it was for Indiana Jones.

We asked how long the wait was and were told it was approximately 9 and a half hours. I asked someone in line if they knew that, they said they didn't mind because they loved the ride and they figure the actual wait would only be 6 or 7 hours!

We just rode other things (the longest wait was like 30 minutes for everything else). Some people don't mind waiting in line. Others, like just don't do it. It's a choice. We left the park around noon when it started getting hot and longer lines, went and got lunch, swam in the pool, and came back in the evening.

I ALWAYS expect lines at every amusement park. I've never been to one where ever line was over an hour. AND, when we went, no rides were closed. And even if several rides were closed, there's still plenty to choose from.

Also, I found that the character's were pretty accessible. If you want more access, you can purchase a character breakfast (NOT that expensive, only $15-$30). But we were able to take pictures with characters freely and hug them as they walked around, which is all I would expect. Who would expect Mickey Mouse to spend the entire day with just you when there are thousands of other visitors?

I would recommend all of the Disney parks to anyone, especially families and couples. They are all a little pricey, but well worth it. This is just a few disgruntled people being overdramatic.

I have been on vacation to Walt Disney World in Florida 18 times. First was when I was five and most recently I took my sisters children with me.

I don't go during Christmas, Easter or march break, usually in the low season. I have walked directly on to rides with no more that a 15 minute wait on practically EVERY ride in EVERY park.

the characters have played, danced, teased and performed for me and the children I was with and if they didn't get enough "face to face" time with a character we went to a Character dinner, lunch or breakfast for a different character experience and most recently my niece took part in a princess tea party where Sleeping Beauty practically doted on her the entire time.

Don't even bother complaining to me of the extra cost of these things and you can't afford it because I don't care...I make a few cents above minimum wage and I was able to get discounts and managed to scrape together enough money to make an unforgettable experience ALL 18 TIMES!!!!

It can be expensive to go to Disney and I want to make sure every minute is worth it and I have never been disappointed.

Twice I had a bad experience with a cast member and niether was TERRIBLE but it was enough that I complained to one of their co-workers and the situation was handled to my absolute satisfaction and I felt better afterward. I figure two bad experiences out of the THOUSANDS of cast members I came in contact with is not a bad percentage at all.

So if you or your children believe everything they see on TV that's unfortunate for them and it's your responsibility to let them know how reality works or you can b***h and gripe and moan and be the jerk that ruined your childrens vacations...they probably would have been just amazed to meet a character anyway...or you can make it as real for them as possible by learning how to navigate the parks to suit your childrens needs.

Remember it's not suppossed to be all about you

I own Disney stock,and ,yes,the commercials are total bull,the place is a zoo,and 90%of the cast members are self rightegous minimum wage Lord Of The Rings Zombies,ala'Disney.Thank GOD for small minded self important people,because without them,there would be no cast.But I just bought a 5 bedroom house( my 3rd) in San Francisco with my payout.
Keep em coming.
P.S. Nobody cares about the'Cue'Mickeys,so get another hobby guys.

ONE TIME, we went to Disneyland, and it was TOTALLY EMPTY. You could run thru any line and go right in to all of the rides without waiting! The secret -- it was forecasted to RAIN! (Another steal -- If you want 5c phone calls check out 1pau.com) It actually did rain a little that day, but not very much. So that is the way to go with no hassle. Go during the time it is forecast to RAIN.

Hello,

I was reading these ridiculous reports of how packed disney world/land is and I have to agree. They are packed, and their customer service stinks! I went just after christmas, probably not the best time, but still it should not have been that packed! I felt like I was being herded along like cattle down the ride lines. I finally got so tired of it that I left disney world and went to the best theme park in the world Universal Orlando. They have disney beat hands down, from short and FAST ride lines to awesome customer service. I say the mouse has gotten too big for his own ears...if you want real fun go to Universal. Short wait, short lines, and a great time, not to metion the ticket prices won't put a dent in your wallet. That's my suggestion.

Hello,

I was reading these ridiculous reports of how packed disney world/land is and I have to agree. They are packed, and their customer service stinks! I went just after christmas, probably not the best time, but still it should not have been that packed! I felt like I was being herded along like cattle down the ride lines. I finally got so tired of it that I left disney world and went to the best theme park in the world Universal Orlando. They have disney beat hands down, from short and FAST ride lines to awesome customer service. I say the mouse has gotten too big for his own ears...if you want real fun go to Universal. Short wait, short lines, and a great time, not to metion the ticket prices won't put a dent in your wallet. That's my suggestion.

Hello,

I was reading these ridiculous reports of how packed disney world/land is and I have to agree. They are packed, and their customer service stinks! I went just after christmas, probably not the best time, but still it should not have been that packed! I felt like I was being herded along like cattle down the ride lines. I finally got so tired of it that I left disney world and went to the best theme park in the world Universal Orlando. They have disney beat hands down, from short and FAST ride lines to awesome customer service. I say the mouse has gotten too big for his own ears...if you want real fun go to Universal. Short wait, short lines, and a great time, not to metion the ticket prices won't put a dent in your wallet. That's my suggestion.

Hello,

I was reading these ridiculous reports of how packed disney world/land is and I have to agree. They are packed, and their customer service stinks! I went just after christmas, probably not the best time, but still it should not have been that packed! I felt like I was being herded along like cattle down the ride lines. I finally got so tired of it that I left disney world and went to the best theme park in the world Universal Orlando. They have disney beat hands down, from short and FAST ride lines to awesome customer service. I say the mouse has gotten too big for his own ears...if you want real fun go to Universal. Short wait, short lines, and a great time, not to metion the ticket prices won't put a dent in your wallet. That's my suggestion.

My kids have been watching the DL commercials for a couple of years now & had been begging to go. We even ordered the free video and visited the website. They never talked about wanting to frolic w/the characters, they just wanted to go to this great park they saw on TV. As a matter of fact, we forgot to even get a picture w/Mickey. But I did work hard to assure that we would have as good a time as possible. While researching, I found out about the pin trading and bought plenty of them on EBay before the trip so the kids could enjoy trading all day.

I started planning my vacation to DL about a year in advance. I got online, read reviews, wrote down tips, looked up old weather reports, checked hotel/motel prices, etc. Since we were going to spend the money, my husband wanted to make sure we had a "magical time."

In spite of some bad reviews about "non-magical" employees, we stayed at the Paradise Pier. Part of the reason was because it only cost $30 more than staying at one of the Good Neighbor Motels. The other part was because my husband wanted to stay in a "DL Hotel". We started on a Thurs in late Sept, so we gave our daughters a couple of days off school. It's really not that big of a deal because they're 6 and 8 and wouldn't miss anything they couldn't make up. I figured this time of year wouldn't be too hot during the day nor too cold at night. It was still a little hot, but I guess I can't have it all. I reserved directly w/the hotel, so I paid less & avoided a deposit. They even gave us temp. charge cards to charge everything to the room.

When we checked in, we were given special balloons, an autographed picture of Minnie, and a birthday pin since we were celebrating one of my daughter's birthdays. Any cast member who saw the pin said Happy Birthday to her. She was estatic. My other daughter thought it was cool. They even brought free Mickey shaped Rice Crispy treats and chocolate coins to our room.

We decided the character breakfast would be a good start. Although a breakfast shouldn't cost $23A/$13C, we got to visit, dance, and take pictures with about 8 characters w/o leaving our hotel. Figure that you will probably pay close to that in the park anyway.

Yes, there were rides that were closed; rides that me and my husband REALLY wanted to get on. But we just moved on to a different attraction. When we saw characters, we stood in line to take a picture & get autographs in the albums we bought before breakfast. The characters did get chased, but they each took the time to say a few kind words to each kid while pictures were snapped. Each has a cast member with them, so it's all pretty organized. It's funny, my kids think they saw the real Cinderella and Mulan.

Hard as it was, we let the kids guide us a little throughout the day. We skipped rides they weren't interested in and worked hard to keep from dragging them across the park in one day. As a matter of fact, the first day, we only stayed in the park for a couple of hours before heading back to the hotel to swim and have lunch. There is a grocery store about a mile west of DL and the hotel had a fridge, so I stocked up. We stayed at the hotel and watched Disney channel the rest of the afternoon and the kids were totally happy. That night we swam at the DL Hotel then headed back to watch the fireworks from the rooftop pool instead of from a crowd. The kids wore backbacks the next day and we took snacks & drinks to avoid spending so much on food. CA wasn't really crowded either, and to comment on the issue of CA being in Calfornia: I don't think it was intended for the residents. I think it was intended to give the out-of-towners a snapshot of all that Calfornia has to offer.

ALL of the employees were polite to us the entire time we were there. I'm sure it was our attitudes that carried us through the vacation. My husband practically makes friends w/everyone he talks to, so we got lots of breaks along the way.

The park was steady w/people, but not too crowded. We used Fast Pass and the only ride I remember waiting for was some canal ride.

Guess what?? Ice water is free inside DL and CA. I ordered it anytime we ate and saved a bunch of money.

In all, the trip cost us about $2000, but that included a trip to the ESPN zone, the Disney Store, and the Build-a-Bear Factory in the Disney District. BUT....my kids didn't load up on souvenirs either. We walked out with the bears, a hat, and a lollipop. I've worked pretty hard so that they are not souvenir kids. You'd be surprised how much money it saves.

We had a great time at DL. We didn't have expectactions of a visit like we saw in the commercial, so we were not disappointed.

My kids have been watching the DL commercials for a couple of years now & had been begging to go. We even ordered the free video and visited the website. They never talked about wanting to frolic w/the characters, they just wanted to go to this great park they saw on TV. As a matter of fact, we forgot to even get a picture w/Mickey. But I did work hard to assure that we would have as good a time as possible. While researching, I found out about the pin trading and bought plenty of them on EBay before the trip so the kids could enjoy trading all day.

I started planning my vacation to DL about a year in advance. I got online, read reviews, wrote down tips, looked up old weather reports, checked hotel/motel prices, etc. Since we were going to spend the money, my husband wanted to make sure we had a "magical time."

In spite of some bad reviews about "non-magical" employees, we stayed at the Paradise Pier. Part of the reason was because it only cost $30 more than staying at one of the Good Neighbor Motels. The other part was because my husband wanted to stay in a "DL Hotel". We started on a Thurs in late Sept, so we gave our daughters a couple of days off school. It's really not that big of a deal because they're 6 and 8 and wouldn't miss anything they couldn't make up. I figured this time of year wouldn't be too hot during the day nor too cold at night. It was still a little hot, but I guess I can't have it all. I reserved directly w/the hotel, so I paid less & avoided a deposit. They even gave us temp. charge cards to charge everything to the room.

When we checked in, we were given special balloons, an autographed picture of Minnie, and a birthday pin since we were celebrating one of my daughter's birthdays. Any cast member who saw the pin said Happy Birthday to her. She was estatic. My other daughter thought it was cool. They even brought free Mickey shaped Rice Crispy treats and chocolate coins to our room.

We decided the character breakfast would be a good start. Although a breakfast shouldn't cost $23A/$13C, we got to visit, dance, and take pictures with about 8 characters w/o leaving our hotel. Figure that you will probably pay close to that in the park anyway.

Yes, there were rides that were closed; rides that me and my husband REALLY wanted to get on. But we just moved on to a different attraction. When we saw characters, we stood in line to take a picture & get autographs in the albums we bought before breakfast. The characters did get chased, but they each took the time to say a few kind words to each kid while pictures were snapped. Each has a cast member with them, so it's all pretty organized. It's funny, my kids think they saw the real Cinderella and Mulan.

Hard as it was, we let the kids guide us a little throughout the day. We skipped rides they weren't interested in and worked hard to keep from dragging them across the park in one day. As a matter of fact, the first day, we only stayed in the park for a couple of hours before heading back to the hotel to swim and have lunch. There is a grocery store about a mile west of DL and the hotel had a fridge, so I stocked up. We stayed at the hotel and watched Disney channel the rest of the afternoon and the kids were totally happy. That night we swam at the DL Hotel then headed back to watch the fireworks from the rooftop pool instead of from a crowd. The kids wore backbacks the next day and we took snacks & drinks to avoid spending so much on food. CA wasn't really crowded either, and to comment on the issue of CA being in Calfornia: I don't think it was intended for the residents. I think it was intended to give the out-of-towners a snapshot of all that Calfornia has to offer.

ALL of the employees were polite to us the entire time we were there. I'm sure it was our attitudes that carried us through the vacation. My husband practically makes friends w/everyone he talks to, so we got lots of breaks along the way.

The park was steady w/people, but not too crowded. We used Fast Pass and the only ride I remember waiting for was some canal ride.

Guess what?? Ice water is free inside DL and CA. I ordered it anytime we ate and saved a bunch of money.

In all, the trip cost us about $2000, but that included a trip to the ESPN zone, the Disney Store, and the Build-a-Bear Factory in the Disney District. BUT....my kids didn't load up on souvenirs either. We walked out with the bears, a hat, and a lollipop. I've worked pretty hard so that they are not souvenir kids. You'd be surprised how much money it saves.

We had a great time at DL. We didn't have expectactions of a visit like we saw in the commercial, so we were not disappointed.

I've just finished reading this (quite large) thread about Disney, Disney's advertising, working conditions, etc. I agree with pretty much everything people are saying, good or bad.

Working for Disney is going to be the same as working for any other company any more... business in the US has been so tight for the past few years that all businesses pretty much _have_ to worry about money.

How many working people have been fired / laid off due to jobs being taken overseas? How many businesses have failed becasue people aren't spending as much money there?

As far as bad working conditions, I'm sure it would be extremely difficult, but there are laws about unsafe / unhealthy working conditions that could be brought up, if enough people could provide proof.

Advertising is a business also... advertising agencies are trying to make money for them AND their clients. They are going to create ads that will attract the consumer (read... You) to purchase their product, go to their attraction, etc.

False advertising? If enough people would contact the state Attorney General about false advertising, something might be done. In Disney's case, the advertising probably can't be proven to be false as people _could_ go the DL, DW, Paris Disney, etc. when there's very few people there.

As fas as admission rates, well... I agree that the rates are outrageous. I've seen them go from about $15 - $20 a day to what they are now. I lived near Disneyland for many years, both as a kid and as an adult, and I was a regular visitor for those years (early 1970's to the late 190's).

The one thing that really ticks me off about 'Disney business' is Michael Eisner's salary... he has earned over $80 MILLION dollars (per year) for how many years??? PLUS BONUSES??? I'm sorry... I don't believe ANYONE should be making that kind of money, not even Bill Gates. This is a big reason for the high admission prices.

I had hoped, sometime in the past few years, to take my family to Disneyworld (3 kids) before they became adults, as a family vacation. Guess what? According to the online reservation system, it would have cost as much to buy a car as to spend a week at DW (I think the quotes were anywhere from $3500 to around $4500 for 5 days, not including general spending money). Some people might think... Not bad price', but when you are a working family (making barely $30k per year gross at the time) trying to put 3 kids through high school, that's a lot of money to come up with in a short amount of time.

Yes, everything is expensive anymore. The reason? Greed. Everyone wants money, money, money. I believe that things will continue to get worse until this country folds from bankruptcy, and I don't think it will be too many more years (Everything based on money eventually crashes).

I just wanted to touch on a few things here,
1st: The Cast Member from Deleware. Has anyone ever noticed on the name badges of each cast member they list where they are from? I have seen people from all over this country as well as others.

2nd: The Lines...we went to Disney to ride the rides and see the characters. We EXPECTED there to be lines. If we wanted to go it stands to reason that there are MANY MANY people who want to go too or else Orlando wouldn't be booming in tourisim.

3rd: Prices...I agree that prices have gotten way out of control. From the $55.00 for adults (considered to be anyone over 10, please don't tell my kids this), $44.00 for under 10 to the $2 or $3 for a bottle of water you have to throw out before you reach the front of the line. But they can continue to charge it if we continue to pay it.

4th: Ride Closures...I am VERY happy that Disney keeps their rides in top working order, but as a consumer I wish they could do it after hours and/or limit it to one major ride at a time.

5th: Commercials...they are ment to entice you to go...I have never bought a single thingthat looked like it did in the ad. That is the nature of ads...they represent the utopian view of said product. Hey...even God didn't promise life would be easy, just that we would be rewarded in heaven for our good deeds here on earth!

I will continue to visit Disney World as long as the kids want to go there. I will stand in lines that I have to, but I will make it as easy on myself and go off peak times. I will respect the cast members and hope they respect my fasmily & me.

As an avid Disney goer and seasonal employee, Rides that are scheduled for rehab are posted on various sites, includung Disney.com. Rides that are down unexpectedly will not be. I worked at the Tower of Terror and can tell you that we would go down in at least one tower (we have two sides)once a day. Sometimes Rockin Roller Coaster would be down for 2-3 hours. If you went and hose rides were down that is unfortunate, but it would not have been because of a planned rehab. It could be for something as important as a failure in a safety system.

To the employee that says all rides that are closed are posted on the Disney web site. I got news for you sparky they are not. We took our kid for his B-Day and I checked the Disney web page and it said one ride was close. When we bought the tickets there was no mention of any other rides closed. When we got into the park we found space mountain, huanted mansion, matterhorn, half of tom's island and a few of the smaller rides closed. Some update that was, and what a nice way to say happy B-day to an 8 y.o., sorry kid come back next year we might have more rides open for ya then.
I'm not buying your excuse for a minute.

I have just read through this complaint/rubuttal and just don't understand alot of you people. First I have spent 2003-2004 with a florida season pass and visited all 4 florida parks (I know the orignal complaint was about california but the problems of overcrowded parks are common in all locations) I visited roughly 10 times during the year, and only one time was it 'packed like sardines' that was durning the summer. Think people, summer time, spring break, winter break... this is when schools are out, and where are parents gonna take the family??? Disney!!! So yeah, it's crowed like crazy!!

But, if you go to the park during sept, oct, nov, jan, feb you will find a park like you see on the commercials! We went during these times because we researched, many websites have tracking charts that show the busiest days and months. when we went and rode splash mountain the kids wanted to ride again... the castmember said "it's fine, stay seated" and they launched the boat and we were off again ready for the big splash down! We had to wait in line for mission space (awesome by the way) a total of 5 minutes.

We actually visited all 4 parks in one day and rode all the 'big' rides with no wait!!! I mean real rides... Rocking Rollercoaster, Tower of Terror, Star Tours, Dinosaur, Primeval Whirl, It tough to be a bug, Pirates, Slash Mt, Space Mt, Phillharmagic, Tree house, Haunted Mansion, small world, test track, spaceship earth, mission space, malestrom, imagination, all of em even the carousel of progress was open!!

Now I have been to many theme parks lately including Universal IOA, which was fun don't get me wrong, but the place was filthy. Toilets didn't work, overflowing and down right dirty in a restaurant restroom too! Busch Gardens Tampa has some cool coasters, but the overall theming was not done to well, I didn't feel as though I was in timbuktu. Sea world, well only 2 or 3 rides, everything else smells like fish :(

And above all, the food at disney parks may seem high, but they are down right cheap compared to some other parks, heck even Kennedy Space center's food costs are outrageous, $2.00 for a small coffee!!!!

Is Disney in business for money.... we yeah! all businesses are in it for money, wouldn't be much of a business without income! But in my personal experience the only parks that truely make me happy inside and out have been Disney parks.

So before you make any plans, check out the Net. do some searching and find the best time in your schedule that matches on of the 'slow' seasons and you will be pleasantly surprised how close it does come to the commercials, even getting to play with the characters!

I worked at the disneyland resort for only a short time but it was one of the greatest jobs i've ever had. granted a majority of the time the parks (both parks) are standing room only when it gets that packed I know that I as well as several other cast members would try to talk to the people in line and make them forget about the crowd. and there are many times when the park is empty enough to have time to play with characters it's just choosing your vacation wisely. also when a ride is closed it is usually for one of three reasons one to make repairs because it broke down (we cannot predict breakdowns) two to maintain the ride so that the guest isn't upset because one of the pirates of the carribean isn't moving or three to make the rides better and more exciting for the guest so that they want to come back and experience it again (i.e. spacemountain) granted that some ex employees now loathe disney they need to remember our job was to make the magic not to experience it we are the ones that see the unpainted back areas and the characters being out of character so we need to realize that disney is a company flat out it's mission is to make money. God rest his soul but even though walt publicly said disneyland is going to be just for kids and magical and all that well it is but being the genius that he was i'm sure he realized without money nothing would fuel his dream park. yeah there are high ticket prices and pretty much every other prices but that's inflation that's how business works. so before you complain and so on remember disneyland is a business just like mcdonalds or whatever. come on when have you ever gotten a big mac that looked like the picture and be honest. also for the stockholder how can you threaten that employee if walt disney himself was still alive he couldn't threaten that employee because you only have his first name idiot and being that disneyland resort employs more than 22,000 people I seriously doubt he's the only one with that first name. thank you

I worked at the disneyland resort for only a short time but it was one of the greatest jobs i've ever had. granted a majority of the time the parks (both parks) are standing room only when it gets that packed I know that I as well as several other cast members would try to talk to the people in line and make them forget about the crowd. and there are many times when the park is empty enough to have time to play with characters it's just choosing your vacation wisely. also when a ride is closed it is usually for one of three reasons one to make repairs because it broke down (we cannot predict breakdowns) two to maintain the ride so that the guest isn't upset because one of the pirates of the carribean isn't moving or three to make the rides better and more exciting for the guest so that they want to come back and experience it again (i.e. spacemountain) granted that some ex employees now loathe disney they need to remember our job was to make the magic not to experience it we are the ones that see the unpainted back areas and the characters being out of character so we need to realize that disney is a company flat out it's mission is to make money. God rest his soul but even though walt publicly said disneyland is going to be just for kids and magical and all that well it is but being the genius that he was i'm sure he realized without money nothing would fuel his dream park. yeah there are high ticket prices and pretty much every other prices but that's inflation that's how business works. so before you complain and so on remember disneyland is a business just like mcdonalds or whatever. come on when have you ever gotten a big mac that looked like the picture and be honest. also for the stockholder how can you threaten that employee if walt disney himself was still alive he couldn't threaten that employee because you only have his first name idiot and being that disneyland resort employs more than 22,000 people I seriously doubt he's the only one with that first name. thank you

I worked at the disneyland resort for only a short time but it was one of the greatest jobs i've ever had. granted a majority of the time the parks (both parks) are standing room only when it gets that packed I know that I as well as several other cast members would try to talk to the people in line and make them forget about the crowd. and there are many times when the park is empty enough to have time to play with characters it's just choosing your vacation wisely. also when a ride is closed it is usually for one of three reasons one to make repairs because it broke down (we cannot predict breakdowns) two to maintain the ride so that the guest isn't upset because one of the pirates of the carribean isn't moving or three to make the rides better and more exciting for the guest so that they want to come back and experience it again (i.e. spacemountain) granted that some ex employees now loathe disney they need to remember our job was to make the magic not to experience it we are the ones that see the unpainted back areas and the characters being out of character so we need to realize that disney is a company flat out it's mission is to make money. God rest his soul but even though walt publicly said disneyland is going to be just for kids and magical and all that well it is but being the genius that he was i'm sure he realized without money nothing would fuel his dream park. yeah there are high ticket prices and pretty much every other prices but that's inflation that's how business works. so before you complain and so on remember disneyland is a business just like mcdonalds or whatever. come on when have you ever gotten a big mac that looked like the picture and be honest. also for the stockholder how can you threaten that employee if walt disney himself was still alive he couldn't threaten that employee because you only have his first name idiot and being that disneyland resort employs more than 22,000 people I seriously doubt he's the only one with that first name. thank you

I worked at the disneyland resort for only a short time but it was one of the greatest jobs i've ever had. granted a majority of the time the parks (both parks) are standing room only when it gets that packed I know that I as well as several other cast members would try to talk to the people in line and make them forget about the crowd. and there are many times when the park is empty enough to have time to play with characters it's just choosing your vacation wisely. also when a ride is closed it is usually for one of three reasons one to make repairs because it broke down (we cannot predict breakdowns) two to maintain the ride so that the guest isn't upset because one of the pirates of the carribean isn't moving or three to make the rides better and more exciting for the guest so that they want to come back and experience it again (i.e. spacemountain) granted that some ex employees now loathe disney they need to remember our job was to make the magic not to experience it we are the ones that see the unpainted back areas and the characters being out of character so we need to realize that disney is a company flat out it's mission is to make money. God rest his soul but even though walt publicly said disneyland is going to be just for kids and magical and all that well it is but being the genius that he was i'm sure he realized without money nothing would fuel his dream park. yeah there are high ticket prices and pretty much every other prices but that's inflation that's how business works. so before you complain and so on remember disneyland is a business just like mcdonalds or whatever. come on when have you ever gotten a big mac that looked like the picture and be honest. also for the stockholder how can you threaten that employee if walt disney himself was still alive he couldn't threaten that employee because you only have his first name idiot and being that disneyland resort employs more than 22,000 people I seriously doubt he's the only one with that first name. thank you

Guess what, there really is a time when you can go into the park and find it as empty as the commericals show, with exactly those thiungs happening. Its usually around 7 AM, 2 hours or so before it opens when the FILM the commercials.

And seriously, who complains that there are lots of poeple at Disney? OF course there is! It wouldn't be there if there was hardly a person in the streets. Yeesh...

As for waiting an hour to get pictures and photos, I call shenanigans. Aside from the few indoor greeting locations, Characters are out approxiamtely 20 minutes at a time. And actually, they DO rotate them around; a new one will come out approxiamtely 5 minutes or so after another leaves.

And by the way: Mickey and Minnie are ALWAYS at Toontown. Any cast member in the park should've told you so, had you asked. I'm betting you didn't though; we get more and more people nowadays that expect instant and prefect gratification without any effort, yes, including TALKING and ASKING (not to mention the long-dead creature once known as 'basic manners'). Sorry; nobody at the Resorts is psychic except for Madame Leota, and she's dead.

Let's start by talking about the commercials the Disney has. False advertising? Oh come on, I suppose then that you go into Best Buy trying to find that little puppet with the strings. Or going to Jack in the Box trying to order the grown man meal. Or going to Las Vegas and getting mad because you are not getting 21 like it showed on TV.

The point is Disney is not ALWAYS crowded as you put in your letter. I am an ex-Cast Member and I have worked MANY times when I was thinking "man won't SOMEONE come on our ride."

Believe it or not I worked MANY times when Indy had no line and we were hurting for people.

People come like on Christmas day and get angry 80,000 other people had that same idea. Get over it, you chose to come on a holiday.

As for the rides being closed, let's see there is the Internet (ever heard of planning your vacation before you go), we have the phone to call and actually take it upon yourself to find out which rides are closed.

Oh wait I forgot if you live near Disneyland you can even ask before you go in, imagine that. So finding the rides being "closed" should come to no surprise.

And let's get one thing straight if there is a wall around the attraction then is is in refurb. If there are cast members out getting yelled at because the ride isn't working, that means it is broken down.

Alot of people get those two confused. And this last part goes to Nancy who reported a Cast Member to the "proper people" for the comment above hers,

OH COME ON!!! Give me a break, ever hear of FREE SPEECH. Don't worry Nancy I will report this post to the "proper people" so you don't hurt yourself.

So in the end, people stop complaining, for 200 dollars you spent you should have planned your day better, and finally not all your life will be happy but Cast Memebers at Disneyland sure try to make it that way, rock on your guys.

Laura, I can appreciate your feelings regarding this matter. It's hard for people to be able to appreciate your position if they haven't been in your shoes. For example, when I was young, I used to work at a fast food restaurant that to this day, I can't eat there. It sounds like it's the same thing with you and Disneyland.

As for the person who posted right above you bragging that they went during the few days of the year when it's the lowest attendance time of the year, they simply missed the point of the original post. Again, most of the time, you are not going to achieve the same type of individual care that the commercial indicates and fools kids into believing that they are going to get the kind of attention they are made to believe they are going to get because of what they see in the tv commercials.

Lastly, anyone notice how Disney has pretty much pulled those ads? My guess is that some consumer group has complained about the fact that visitors are not treated in the manner in which the commercials demonstrate.

Laura, I can appreciate your feelings regarding this matter. It's hard for people to be able to appreciate your position if they haven't been in your shoes. For example, when I was young, I used to work at a fast food restaurant that to this day, I can't eat there. It sounds like it's the same thing with you and Disneyland.

As for the person who posted right above you bragging that they went during the few days of the year when it's the lowest attendance time of the year, they simply missed the point of the original post. Again, most of the time, you are not going to achieve the same type of individual care that the commercial indicates and fools kids into believing that they are going to get the kind of attention they are made to believe they are going to get because of what they see in the tv commercials.

Lastly, anyone notice how Disney has pretty much pulled those ads? My guess is that some consumer group has complained about the fact that visitors are not treated in the manner in which the commercials demonstrate.

Laura, I can appreciate your feelings regarding this matter. It's hard for people to be able to appreciate your position if they haven't been in your shoes. For example, when I was young, I used to work at a fast food restaurant that to this day, I can't eat there. It sounds like it's the same thing with you and Disneyland.

As for the person who posted right above you bragging that they went during the few days of the year when it's the lowest attendance time of the year, they simply missed the point of the original post. Again, most of the time, you are not going to achieve the same type of individual care that the commercial indicates and fools kids into believing that they are going to get the kind of attention they are made to believe they are going to get because of what they see in the tv commercials.

Lastly, anyone notice how Disney has pretty much pulled those ads? My guess is that some consumer group has complained about the fact that visitors are not treated in the manner in which the commercials demonstrate.

In response to the original post...



I am a former cast member of Disneyland Anaheim. I worked there for 3 years. I have learned so much in my time with the company, and my stories blow the minds of captive audiences who inquire as to what it was like to work at this "great place". Working in the department I did, I was able to work shifts at any time of the day, and during the off-season was able to assist in commercial shoots. Areas of the park were extensively cleaned or primed for a few minutes worth of film. I used those commercial and promotional shoots as a reminder of how I envisioned the park as a child. How magical everything seemed, and those memories helped me to get past my bitterness toward company management (Ovitz and Eisner) and to help the guests enjoy the same memories. The stresses of everyday life has evolved so much in that we can't enjoy something that should be pure and simple. It should be a joy, not a chore, to spend a day at Disneyland with the family. Granted, a wrench is thrown into that Norman Rockwell picture when a ride is down for maintenance or the wait in line is unbearably long. Disappointments abound when your expectations are unfulfilled, that is just human nature. Adults who take children to Disneyland need to be reminded of the big picture, and that is that the children are being treated to a special day at a special place with a special family who is able to provide such an opportunity. There are many, many people who are not able to provide such because of financial or medical challenges. Any person who can visit the park and still enjoy that sense of magic is, in my eyes, more privileged than I am. To this day, when I take my son to the park, I have to force myself to experience it through his eyes, and not mine, which have been jaded.

In response to the original post...



I am a former cast member of Disneyland Anaheim. I worked there for 3 years. I have learned so much in my time with the company, and my stories blow the minds of captive audiences who inquire as to what it was like to work at this "great place". Working in the department I did, I was able to work shifts at any time of the day, and during the off-season was able to assist in commercial shoots. Areas of the park were extensively cleaned or primed for a few minutes worth of film. I used those commercial and promotional shoots as a reminder of how I envisioned the park as a child. How magical everything seemed, and those memories helped me to get past my bitterness toward company management (Ovitz and Eisner) and to help the guests enjoy the same memories. The stresses of everyday life has evolved so much in that we can't enjoy something that should be pure and simple. It should be a joy, not a chore, to spend a day at Disneyland with the family. Granted, a wrench is thrown into that Norman Rockwell picture when a ride is down for maintenance or the wait in line is unbearably long. Disappointments abound when your expectations are unfulfilled, that is just human nature. Adults who take children to Disneyland need to be reminded of the big picture, and that is that the children are being treated to a special day at a special place with a special family who is able to provide such an opportunity. There are many, many people who are not able to provide such because of financial or medical challenges. Any person who can visit the park and still enjoy that sense of magic is, in my eyes, more privileged than I am. To this day, when I take my son to the park, I have to force myself to experience it through his eyes, and not mine, which have been jaded.

In response to the original post...



I am a former cast member of Disneyland Anaheim. I worked there for 3 years. I have learned so much in my time with the company, and my stories blow the minds of captive audiences who inquire as to what it was like to work at this "great place". Working in the department I did, I was able to work shifts at any time of the day, and during the off-season was able to assist in commercial shoots. Areas of the park were extensively cleaned or primed for a few minutes worth of film. I used those commercial and promotional shoots as a reminder of how I envisioned the park as a child. How magical everything seemed, and those memories helped me to get past my bitterness toward company management (Ovitz and Eisner) and to help the guests enjoy the same memories. The stresses of everyday life has evolved so much in that we can't enjoy something that should be pure and simple. It should be a joy, not a chore, to spend a day at Disneyland with the family. Granted, a wrench is thrown into that Norman Rockwell picture when a ride is down for maintenance or the wait in line is unbearably long. Disappointments abound when your expectations are unfulfilled, that is just human nature. Adults who take children to Disneyland need to be reminded of the big picture, and that is that the children are being treated to a special day at a special place with a special family who is able to provide such an opportunity. There are many, many people who are not able to provide such because of financial or medical challenges. Any person who can visit the park and still enjoy that sense of magic is, in my eyes, more privileged than I am. To this day, when I take my son to the park, I have to force myself to experience it through his eyes, and not mine, which have been jaded.

I recently went to WDW with my wife and I saw none of the problems you mentioned....

When I felt like there was an extreme amount of closings I went to the guest services office and voiced my complaints...they gave us free passes that never expire!!! (The reason that some of the rides were closed was because of hurricaine damage.)



We went to all of the Orlando parks, even the non Disney ones, and the same held true. Time of year is everything..... Our trip was from Sept 2 through Sept 15 and we walked onto every ride in every park. There were no lines. I have pictures wity every charachter in the park. We even ate at the resturantsyou "can't get into without a reservation."



We had the best vacation of our lives. We planned the trip for a year. We even bought books about the parks that break it down to what to see and what to skip, what to get a fast pass for, and where to eat.



For those of you that still want to go to Disney after all of this bad publicity and want to avoid the hassles these people had, get the books "orlando For Dummies" and "The Passporter Walt Disney World 2004."



In Summary do your homework..only the lazy traveler complains of not having a good time. A small amount of research and a small amount of prior proper planning can prevent vacation disaster.



God bless you all..and I hope you all find the solutions you are searching for.

Tony Hollifield

I am a park guest that is usually there at least 3x a week. With regard to the commercial, I have seen characters hop on to rides, skip holding hands with a child, dance with the crowd on Friday nights, and have pictures of Minnie climbing into my child's stroller and Goofy pushing her around as my son watched in disbelief. Are all the days I'm there like this? - No. Do all the children have this experience? No. But it is possible. There are many shows that allow children to interact with the characters without the pushing and shoving. Even on the busiest day you can have the interaction with characters - the problem is that the parents who have paid for a family of 4 at full price - wants to get their money's worth and races from ride to ride to ride and will stop to see a characters in passing. If they paid attention to where they come in and out of - they would have a wonderful opportunity to interact with a character.



I have learned to go online to see which rides are closed for refurbishment. We also use Fastpass. I hardly wait in line. It's a given if you're going to go to Disneyland in Summer it's going to be busy - It's the Happiest Place on earth - who wouldnt want to be there. I have experienced Disney through a non-pass holders eye in the middle of summer with tenants from my beachhouse. We were there from the time the park opened until the park closed. We went online looked up ride closures and came up with a game plan that included the use of Fast Passes -figuring out lunch etc. They had a blast.



Cast members - I Feel for you- I have experienced some of the rudest people disguised as park guests - in the 10 years that I have been a passholder - I can honestly say I have encountered 2 maybe 3 rude cast members that were probably pushed to the breaking point.



I see it all the time - ie. the electric parade at DCA - I will go to my usual spot 45 minutes before the parade time. Ten minutes to go - it never fails - a family will push and shove their way - My attitude - you can have the seat - I can come back tomorrow and enjoy - they probably have one day to get all in....



Bottom line - it's all in one's attitude- I don't let any one ruin my happiest time on earth

I am a cast member for the Resort. I sat here and read most of these complaints about Disney and our theme parks. (Yes, I am a cast member who CAN spell) If you think all this whining will get any attention from the company THINK AGAIN!



I do agree with most of the complaints listed here; however if you want some serious action taken, take it a STEP further. Take it to the NEW resort president MATT OUIMET. He's always telling us (cast members) how the guest is our main concern. Well if you are all that unhappy with the way things are run let him know about it. Let all of us, the guest and cast members see if he will back up what he says.



If you are all this serious about your complaints do something and help us as well. What you all don't know or see is that the little guys (us bottom of the totem pole cast members) only do what the higher ups (management) tell us to do. If we had it our way we'd want everyone to be happy. You think we enjoy being yelled at, pushed, and treated like crap because someone had a bad day at Disneyland? It's up to higher ups to make your day better then it been. We are all instructed on what we can and can't do. So the next time you come to Disneyland and have a bad day.. Don't take your anger out on the little guy; we are all on your side. Stand there and demand for a manager, then let them have it.



Write your comments and complaints to the one who made the rules not us who just enforce them.



Disneyland Resort President

Matt Ouimet

1313 S. Harbor Blvd

Anaheim, Ca. 92803



The more letters he gets the more he might get the idea that there might be a problem.



"And for all those Disney fans, Please forgive me setting aside my Disney spirit to vent with you all"...

I have been to Disneyland several times. It has its ups and downs. I went when the Spring breaks where going on and it was packed the rides where closed and there was nothing to do but shop. ok yeah so a 70 dollar ticket wasted no big deal my fault should have been more prepared. no i went when California Adventure just opend I went during the week day there was no one there I went on all the rides so many times my head was hurting.



It is a hit and miss I have delt with disgruntled employees like the lady from the photo shop on main street. But all you can do is smile and try to make her day better it was late and I am sure she had a rough day there where a lot of people there packed in to one little room. Yeah I know she had no right to get snappy with the size of photos I wanted and how many but it was a simple request all three photos 5x7 with 4 wallets. I didn't care abou the price i knew i was going to be spending a lot of money but it was my daughters first trip there and i wanted to make it wonderful.



I was upset I didn't get to see all the charecters with her. but the few we did see was good enough you have to take what you are given and not be greedy life goes on. if you want the park all to your self go during the weekday in february its cold no one is there and all the rides are usually operating. but then we come up with the problem of kids being in school right. well they have the year round schools now its like 3 months on three months off solves your problem right. bottom line is there are many ways to prepare for a vacation and going there to complain is a waste of time and money so stay home and complain maybe the parks won't be so full then.



Or you can bit your tounge and take what you get and create lasting memories for your kids like I did. Dont show your kids it is ok to get angry with people it helps them in life to become angry kids and then soon enough will be living by your example. and will walk all over you. teach them right from wrong. it starts at a young age.

I can't believe how much negative response I've seen about Disneyland, which is as one poster said, is truly the Magic Kingdom. Let me tell you one thing: I grew up watching Disney, always wanted to go to Disneyland since I was a boy growing up in Texas, and have a picture taken of me next to Mickey Mouse.



I will say this: yes, the park is always crowded because EVERYONE from around the United States if not the world come to Anaheim to visit Disneyland. Sure you can post and say "there's always Disneyworld, and other Disney parks to go to elsewhere", but Disneyland is the flagship theme park of all Disney-themed parks.



To those of you who thinks Disneyland sucks and rides are closed for renovation or something similar... it is closed for a reason: safety.



And to the one who says California Adventure sucks -- there's other theme parks in Southern California to go to such as Universal.



Nancy in Irvine -- lighten up, ok? Just because Irvine is worlds apart from the Big A, that doesn't mean you can knock Anaheim down. Don't get me wrong I would love to live in Irvine, but Anaheim houses many hard working people who keep places like Anaheim Stadium, the Arrowhead Pond and Disneyland going, among other things. As for traffic, well, this is to be expected as opposed to 50 years ago when Orange County booms like it did since the 1970s. The same holds true with Las Vegas.

And as a patron of theme parks, nothing pisses me off more than going to a park and my favorite ride being closed for repairs. They may have said "closed for refurbishment" but from going to Disney for years now, that probably means repairs. Yes, it is frustrating, but would you rather ride Space Mountain and have the thing collapse on you?



Or have them rush the job thinking: "Oh my God, Joe Special is coming today, let's rush and get the job done quickly so he can feel like a special little unique flower" and the next day you go shooting through the wall in your space craft and kill 2500 people all so you could ride?



I hate the inconvienences more than anyone in the world, but move on and get over it.

I practacally grew up at Disney Land in Anaheim. I loved it there, and still do. The lines are long, the food is awful, and way over priced, and your shoes stick to the pavement because of coke and candy being dropped on the ground. You can expect half of your day to be spent in line waiting for your favorite rides. You will sweat in the heat, and you will be miserable. But, your children will give you the extra push to get thru the rest of the day. When you are whining about how much everything is costing, look at your sons face, or into your daughters eyes when they get to see their favorite characture walk past them. Remember the long drive home, when all your child could talk about was "surviving" the Haunted Mansion, when every other day of the week, that same child will not even go into a dark room alone. And don't forget when you put your child to bed after that long, miserable, over priced, hot day, after you fight all of the traffic, stood in line for 8 hours so that you could ride a single ride, blah blah blah...when your child grabs your neck, kisses your cheek, and tells you, "Thanks mom and dad, I had the best time of my life today!" Our children are watching our country blow up, litterally! They are being taught how to put on a condom at school, but aren't learning the fundamentals and can barely read or write. Many of these kids have parents in jail, on drugs, or parents that are forced to work long hours to support them. They go to school with 12 year old kids that are already parents themselves. The only "vacation" time many of our children get is when they see the Disney commercials that seem to be such a big issue with so many people. Kids are not stupid. They know the difference between reality and make beleive. This country needs a little bit of fantasy, and Disney Land is the perfect supplier. No one cares about Eisner, except his mommy maybe? Disney is a corporation. They are out to make money, point blank! So what? Our country is at war right now with some of the biggest oil supplying countries in the world, and yet, we are still buying gasoline. Companies are using 11 year olds in sweat shops, yet we are still buying shoes. Everything causes cancer, no one plays baseball for the game anymore, you can't say the word "God" in public for fear of hurting someones feelings, blah blah....Get over it people. Don't take Disney Land away from our children. We had it growing up, let them have at least that much. Talk nice about something for a change and maybe your kids will talk nice too. Oh, and by the way Ms. I own stock and will have you fired.....be careful chasing that tail of yours, you might end up biting your own a*s! Disney cast members, I beleive every word you say, but please, watch who you say it in front of. I'm not saying don't tell anyone why your pissed, just don't tell the kids. They need at least one thing to look forward to.

Look at it from both ends...I myself am a former cast-member. Although i found the enviroment at Disneyland fun and enjoyed my fellow Co-Workers, i found most people that worked there unhappy.I do agree that Disneyland admission price is too expensive, food in the park is stupidly expensive,and people do get packed in like rats on a ship.I feel the public does at times take things out on the cast member and vice versa.Remember out of the 45.00 dollars you paid too get in, the average cast member only gets an average of 7.25 an hour of this.They also have too fight for hours when peak season falls.Then you still have angry guests yelling at you out of frustration because they just realized that they spent 45.oo dollars to get in line, too be near the line,too see the line,too be next for the line..I would be just a wee bit angry also.If the public could just imagine getting scheduled to work 4 hours @7.25hr. Thats gas too get there.Do i think Disney is ran bad..yes. It is not the Cast member or Guests Fault,but much higher. I doubt very much that 45.00 admission, 3hr lines,27.00 for a large pizza,7.25HR for basically a u-turn ride too work, the threat of a no-show, and being "landlocked" is what Walt Disney had dreamt of.So lets lay blame where it is due...

Response to Eugene



In response to Eugene's suggestion that the park have people patrol the line to ensure that riders are the correct height, the way I read the article, it was explained that the park did provide several stations throughout the line, where the mother could have verified that her child was tall enough to ride. It's not the park's fault that she was choosing to ignore the signs posted for her safety and convenience.

Rick:



I agree with you. The woman standing in line with her children acted very badly, and set a very bad example for her kids. But I can understand her frustration, standing there for an hour only to be told she couldn't ride after getting all the way to the front. But don't you think the attendant with the measuring stick should have been doing her job? Instead of just standing at the front of the line, she should have have been at the back of the line sizing up the kids. (Or the park should hire someone else to patrol the lines for this purpose.) That way people could be told right off the bat whether they could ride or not. The customer with the two kids would have been disappointed, but would she have gone ballistic, as you say? I think not. If it was a ride with an odd height requirement, it just makes sense to me to let riders know in advance, so they don't have to waste an hour.

I grew up in the Pittsburgh, Pa. area. I remember going to Seaworld in Aurora, Oh in 1969. We had a great time and it left me with fond memories. I now have my own family in Texas. On a trip to Pittsburgh last year I wanted to show my family, wife and twin 11 year old boys Seaworld, now 6 Flags over Ohio. I was very disapointed at how things had changed. The place was packed solid and the lines were well over an hour for the rides.



But you know what sticks in my mind the most about our visit,not the crowds or lines but a patron. There was a steel rollercoaster where you sit on a seat and your feet hang free, we waited over an hour to get to the front of the line. The wait wasn't bad because my one son really wanted to ride this coaster so bad. At several places along the line there are measuring sticks stating clearly you MUST be this tall to ride this ride. I think the height was 48".



Well we get to the front of the line and we are next after the group in front of us gets on. There was one lady with 2 young girls about to get on. The attendant comes over to her with a L shaped stick exactly the length of the minimum height to ride and holds it up to one of the young girls. I could see from where I was that about 3 inches of the stick was sticking above her head. The attendent told the woman that the girl was too short and couldn't ride. The woman went ballistic. Patron:" she has been riding rides all day and no one has said anything before." (this ride required riders to be taller than required for the other rides) The people in line started chanting "let her ride" The attendant explained the added height requirement and kept telling the woman the girl couldn't ride. This went on for about 10 minutes. By this time both young girls are crying and embarassed by how the woman is acting. Then the woman tells the attendant " F*** YOU, I'm not moving until you let her ride" The attendant was getting frustrated, but courteous. The crowd had had enough and started telling the woman to move so we could ride. The Patron turns to the waiting crowd and shakes a big plastic hammer and yells "SHUT THE F*** UP". By now one of the young girls had left the loading platform and the other one tried to leave but the woman grabbed her arm and told her to stay where she was. By now the crowd was getting more vocal, I now understand about the mob mentality, its real. After a total of 15 minutes the attendant relented and let the woman and both girls ride, in violation of saftey procedures. Had the girl fallen off I'm sure the woman would have sued 6 Flags. I left my name and number with the attendant in case he needed it. As I was leaving the ride area I saw two security gaurds escorting the woman some place, hopefully out of the park.



My point of that long story is that the crowds and longs didn't bother me that much. It was a Patron that believed that because she paid to enter the park she could do whatever she wanted and the attendants were there to serve her. What should have stuck in my mind was how much fun we had that day, it was a bonding experience with my two new sons, (I had married their Mother a few days eariler, this was part of our honeymoon)



People be patient! If you don't like crowds don't go to theme parks, DUHHHHHhhhhh.



As for rides being closed and not being able to get next to characters. Today, once you pay your money to get in, corprate Anerica could care less about you having a good time. Its the dollar that matters and you not going there dosen't make one bit of difference to them there are others that will take your place. The less attendants and maintinance workers they have to hire the higher their profit is.



To eliminate crowds how about they triple the ticket price and close the gates when a comfortable number of patrons are in the park. So if you didn't get there early you wouldn't be able to get in until someone left. They could have a reservation system like the resturants have so you could reserve a day to visit so you would be assured of getting in. That would have the potential for people being the first in line at the gate early in the morning and still not getting in because all the slots for that day were filled by reservations. Absurd, isn't it?



Arrive expecting crowds,long lines and rides being closed, you'll have a much better day. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.



Oh by the way one of the best parks I've been to is Kennywood Park in Pittsburgh, Pa. Its small but is never that crowded. I went there for the first time 46 years ago and it hasn't changed that much over the years.

I grew up in the Pittsburgh, Pa. area. I remember going to Seaworld in Aurora, Oh in 1969. We had a great time and it left me with fond memories. I now have my own family in Texas. On a trip to Pittsburgh last year I wanted to show my family, wife and twin 11 year old boys Seaworld, now 6 Flags over Ohio. I was very disapointed at how things had changed. The place was packed solid and the lines were well over an hour for the rides.



But you know what sticks in my mind the most about our visit,not the crowds or lines but a patron. There was a steel rollercoaster where you sit on a seat and your feet hang free, we waited over an hour to get to the front of the line. The wait wasn't bad because my one son really wanted to ride this coaster so bad. At several places along the line there are measuring sticks stating clearly you MUST be this tall to ride this ride. I think the height was 48".



Well we get to the front of the line and we are next after the group in front of us gets on. There was one lady with 2 young girls about to get on. The attendant comes over to her with a L shaped stick exactly the length of the minimum height to ride and holds it up to one of the young girls. I could see from where I was that about 3 inches of the stick was sticking above her head. The attendent told the woman that the girl was too short and couldn't ride. The woman went ballistic. Patron:" she has been riding rides all day and no one has said anything before." (this ride required riders to be taller than required for the other rides) The people in line started chanting "let her ride" The attendant explained the added height requirement and kept telling the woman the girl couldn't ride. This went on for about 10 minutes. By this time both young girls are crying and embarassed by how the woman is acting. Then the woman tells the attendant " F*** YOU, I'm not moving until you let her ride" The attendant was getting frustrated, but courteous. The crowd had had enough and started telling the woman to move so we could ride. The Patron turns to the waiting crowd and shakes a big plastic hammer and yells "SHUT THE F*** UP". By now one of the young girls had left the loading platform and the other one tried to leave but the woman grabbed her arm and told her to stay where she was. By now the crowd was getting more vocal, I now understand about the mob mentality, its real. After a total of 15 minutes the attendant relented and let the woman and both girls ride, in violation of saftey procedures. Had the girl fallen off I'm sure the woman would have sued 6 Flags. I left my name and number with the attendant in case he needed it. As I was leaving the ride area I saw two security gaurds escorting the woman some place, hopefully out of the park.



My point of that long story is that the crowds and longs didn't bother me that much. It was a Patron that believed that because she paid to enter the park she could do whatever she wanted and the attendants were there to serve her. What should have stuck in my mind was how much fun we had that day, it was a bonding experience with my two new sons, (I had married their Mother a few days eariler, this was part of our honeymoon)



People be patient! If you don't like crowds don't go to theme parks, DUHHHHHhhhhh.



As for rides being closed and not being able to get next to characters. Today, once you pay your money to get in, corprate Anerica could care less about you having a good time. Its the dollar that matters and you not going there dosen't make one bit of difference to them there are others that will take your place. The less attendants and maintinance workers they have to hire the higher their profit is.



To eliminate crowds how about they triple the ticket price and close the gates when a comfortable number of patrons are in the park. So if you didn't get there early you wouldn't be able to get in until someone left. They could have a reservation system like the resturants have so you could reserve a day to visit so you would be assured of getting in. That would have the potential for people being the first in line at the gate early in the morning and still not getting in because all the slots for that day were filled by reservations. Absurd, isn't it?



Arrive expecting crowds,long lines and rides being closed, you'll have a much better day. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.



Oh by the way one of the best parks I've been to is Kennywood Park in Pittsburgh, Pa. Its small but is never that crowded. I went there for the first time 46 years ago and it hasn't changed that much over the years.

I grew up in the Pittsburgh, Pa. area. I remember going to Seaworld in Aurora, Oh in 1969. We had a great time and it left me with fond memories. I now have my own family in Texas. On a trip to Pittsburgh last year I wanted to show my family, wife and twin 11 year old boys Seaworld, now 6 Flags over Ohio. I was very disapointed at how things had changed. The place was packed solid and the lines were well over an hour for the rides.



But you know what sticks in my mind the most about our visit,not the crowds or lines but a patron. There was a steel rollercoaster where you sit on a seat and your feet hang free, we waited over an hour to get to the front of the line. The wait wasn't bad because my one son really wanted to ride this coaster so bad. At several places along the line there are measuring sticks stating clearly you MUST be this tall to ride this ride. I think the height was 48".



Well we get to the front of the line and we are next after the group in front of us gets on. There was one lady with 2 young girls about to get on. The attendant comes over to her with a L shaped stick exactly the length of the minimum height to ride and holds it up to one of the young girls. I could see from where I was that about 3 inches of the stick was sticking above her head. The attendent told the woman that the girl was too short and couldn't ride. The woman went ballistic. Patron:" she has been riding rides all day and no one has said anything before." (this ride required riders to be taller than required for the other rides) The people in line started chanting "let her ride" The attendant explained the added height requirement and kept telling the woman the girl couldn't ride. This went on for about 10 minutes. By this time both young girls are crying and embarassed by how the woman is acting. Then the woman tells the attendant " F*** YOU, I'm not moving until you let her ride" The attendant was getting frustrated, but courteous. The crowd had had enough and started telling the woman to move so we could ride. The Patron turns to the waiting crowd and shakes a big plastic hammer and yells "SHUT THE F*** UP". By now one of the young girls had left the loading platform and the other one tried to leave but the woman grabbed her arm and told her to stay where she was. By now the crowd was getting more vocal, I now understand about the mob mentality, its real. After a total of 15 minutes the attendant relented and let the woman and both girls ride, in violation of saftey procedures. Had the girl fallen off I'm sure the woman would have sued 6 Flags. I left my name and number with the attendant in case he needed it. As I was leaving the ride area I saw two security gaurds escorting the woman some place, hopefully out of the park.



My point of that long story is that the crowds and longs didn't bother me that much. It was a Patron that believed that because she paid to enter the park she could do whatever she wanted and the attendants were there to serve her. What should have stuck in my mind was how much fun we had that day, it was a bonding experience with my two new sons, (I had married their Mother a few days eariler, this was part of our honeymoon)



People be patient! If you don't like crowds don't go to theme parks, DUHHHHHhhhhh.



As for rides being closed and not being able to get next to characters. Today, once you pay your money to get in, corprate Anerica could care less about you having a good time. Its the dollar that matters and you not going there dosen't make one bit of difference to them there are others that will take your place. The less attendants and maintinance workers they have to hire the higher their profit is.



To eliminate crowds how about they triple the ticket price and close the gates when a comfortable number of patrons are in the park. So if you didn't get there early you wouldn't be able to get in until someone left. They could have a reservation system like the resturants have so you could reserve a day to visit so you would be assured of getting in. That would have the potential for people being the first in line at the gate early in the morning and still not getting in because all the slots for that day were filled by reservations. Absurd, isn't it?



Arrive expecting crowds,long lines and rides being closed, you'll have a much better day. Prepare for the worst and hope for the best.



Oh by the way one of the best parks I've been to is Kennywood Park in Pittsburgh, Pa. Its small but is never that crowded. I went there for the first time 46 years ago and it hasn't changed that much over the years.

I've never been to Disneyland or Disney World, so I'm no expert. But just by reading all these complaints and rebuttals I have a simple suggestion. If it is so important that all the little kids have a one on one relationship with the characters, then the park should hire several Mickeys and Donalds and Goofys ( all strategically placed so that no two identical ones run into each other.) Hey, it works for Santa Claus, doesn't it? Or does Disney do that anyway? Just a thought.

The commercials you see are advertisements; just like every other company in the world. Hey, ever see a Wendy's or McDonald's commercial? I don't know about you, but I have NEVER got a burger that looked ANYTHING like the one they displayed in the commercials! LOL. That goes for numerous products and places! I have yet to go to a WalMart where I am greeted by a bouncy Yellow Headed Smiley. Also, the employees there are never as chipper as the ones on TV, not to mention I don't get the fuzzy feeling that they REALLY want to make me smile as much as the commercial said.



With that said, is it fair to dump on Disney because Mickey wouldn't skip along with your child? Think of it logically! I am sure Disney assumed the public would grasp the point that Disney is the number one vacation spot in the world and that Mickey is no where near able to skip, hug, and frolic with every single person that enters the gate! Just as I am sure that the WalMart people assumed that the general public would not expect Mr. Falling Prices Yellow Head to go whistling by while they are shopping. They are advertisements, gimmicks, entertainments, and enticements to try to get you to go to their location. I don't think that are trying to falsify anything, I think they are trying to get your attention. That's how it works.



Just for the record I have been to Disney World in Florida in every month of the year. Want my advice? October, November, late January, and early February (before vacation week) are the best months to go. Avoid March and April, the summer months (June, July and August it's very hot and very crowded.) The others months not mentioned are hit or miss.



Happy travels!

Recently I took my family to disneyland. It was mid october (off season). There were alot of people it is true, but we expected that. I must tell you that while walking through the park we saw woody and jessie, they were walking away from us and my children ran up to them, they looked to make sure we were following then beckoned the children to skip along with them. Which they did. Durring one day at the park my children met at least 3 Micky mouses. My children expressed themselves with many of the others too, Jasmine, belle, the beast etc.. We had so much fun we didn't care about the long line ups. I think your attitude and expectations determine your own happiness.

Well firstly on the Issue of the Magic Kingdom..... Disneyland YES Disneyland is and will always be THE Magic Kingdom. It always was. The reason Disneyworld (the theme park section that was constructed to be the DEFINITIVE vison of Walt) Is called Magic Kingdom is the Disneyworld name is used to describe golf coarses and vacation stuff,MK id the amusement park section. STOP GROWING UP A SEC AND THINK ABOUT WHAT YOUR SAYING. That park built in '55 in Anahiem will always be (in history now) magical, and when I've gone there as I have for 30 years It's always been the Magic Kingdom.



Now the pain really starts. Unlike when I was a kid you'll never again on a business day see an uncrowded Disney park. There was even a time when I went with my uncle and was incuraged by staff stay past posted closing... a grad nite was happening and we casually hung out. both my uncle not in high school stayed till 2 am on a nite posted 7 pm closing... How Sweet!!!! never happen again I guarentee And by demolising a parking lot and not expanding disneyland into a bigger park was a big disapointment. the whole getting in out around Disney hysteria (WAY OVERCROUDED) well all I can say is MOO........MMMMMOOOOO! (you know like a cow). vey bad planning. A theme park about california in california...STUPID!!! Hey go 2000 miles to CA to go to a hollywood replica and not go to the origonal instead Pretty dumb (Real Hollywood not kid safe but.....) Would go to New York and go to a manhatten replica theme park??? NO.



Walt Disney Died in the 60's. Sad to see his vison Termally Diseased and dying with him a slow death. I can only wish children would trust and understand when there parents tell them " no really you will have a better time at KNOTTS BERRY FARM!!!!"

Hey Walt, I believe you wrote in the following piece that when you were in MK and CA there were more than 1 e-ticket ride out at a time. Im just wondering how on a trip to DISNEYLAND you happened to be visting THE MAGIC KINGDOM. I am assuming the the MK and CA in your comments were Magic Kingdom and California Adventure. That must of been one expensive trip to keep flying from coast to coast. Or, could it have possibly be you taking out your hatred of a company and making things up to support that hatred?



Nextime you kight do some research before spouting off.



Rebuttal Consumer Comment

Submitted: 4/12/2002 10:33:28 AM

Modified: 2/6/2003 12:26:57 PM

DISNEY BREAKS THEIR OWN RULES

Yeah, I bet American Fork is full of mental giants. Too bad you missed the simple point. And that is, making kids believe that they'll be frolicking with the characters when that does not happen, is bound to disappoint a lot of kids.



I had a neighbor whose kids did indeed go down to Disneyland hoping to get close to the characters just like the commercials showed but they were not able to get close to the characters and left disappointed.



So comparing this blatant lie to the fact that Carls Jr.'s is using a different type of lettuce in real life than in the commercials (which they do), is evidence that you really don't grasp the point of this issue.

I bet you are the same person that complains that your Carl's Jr. Hamburger isn't as large and fluffy as in the add too! Get a life! Disneyland is great. I too don't like the crowds, but I am not as ignorant and naive to believe that someplace that fun, neat and cool will be empty! Remind me never to live in Concord.

I bet you are the same person that complains that your Carl's Jr. Hamburger isn't as large and fluffy as in the add too! Get a life! Disneyland is great. I too don't like the crowds, but I am not as ignorant and naive to believe that someplace that fun, neat and cool will be empty! Remind me never to live in Concord.

I bet you are the same person that complains that your Carl's Jr. Hamburger isn't as large and fluffy as in the add too! Get a life! Disneyland is great. I too don't like the crowds, but I am not as ignorant and naive to believe that someplace that fun, neat and cool will be empty! Remind me never to live in Concord.

Hey, where do you sign up to be a character. I would love to work in terrible conditions if it means to put one happy smile & memory on a childs face.........Let's not forget. Disneyland is for bringing unforgetable priceless memories for our children. It is & will ALWAYS be the happiest place on earth. Let's stop whining about the rides being closed. Those rides are for adults anyway. Have you seen the sad faces on children when they don't reach the height line for the rides? GEEEEEEEEEZ.........It's not an adult park. For that go to Six Flags. Adults complaining about adult rides.........give me a break.........Disneyland is for our children. To spend some time away from the worries & problems of the world. To live ONE DAY in fantazy & be shielded from the real world & have FUN as a family.........(PRICELESS).........

:P

....To paraphrase Yogi Berra. I have been a yearly holder to the Anaheim park for years. The cast go to great lenths to make the experience a fun time. The park got a lot better when California Adventure opened up. Sure there are lines, but the fun is worth the wait. I've met people from all over the world while waiting in line for rides at Disneyland.

I've been reading all of the comments on here about Disneyland, and I all I have to say is: GET OVER IT!



I have only been to Disneyland (CA) one time when I was 8 years old. (I am now 26) And I remember it being so much fun! The parades, the lights, the characters, the rides.....I didn't care about standing in line or how much a soda cost. I was there to see Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck and to see "its a small world"

Those are the memories that I have of that awesome day. Everyone was happy and no one complained.



You people need to realize that Disneyland is a "Legend" and kids go there to have fun. They don't need some complaining nagging adults ruining the best day of their childhood life.



Its all about the memories, and if your child only remembers their trip to Disneyland as being a negative one, they will probably hate you forever...lol...okay thats taking it too far but hopefully you get my point.



:))~

Look we all have kids and they see the ad's and we're all screwed when they do. So lets give them the simple truth, we're goning on whatever day, and it's gonna be wall to wall people and people will be rude, rides will include long waits and food expensive, and just give it to them straight up.



When they get there, be nice, be supportive and if they're as smart as you are and you've taught them well, then they will probably see your disgust of the place from when you were a kid and Michael E. didn't ruin (oops run) the place.



The kids are smart and more patient they we are pertaining to corporate screwings of the general public. They get it from school, tv, their buds in class and their toys etc, etc.



So, I mean, we can b***h and we can write but the fact of the matter is we're trapped, our kids need to go to Disney, Magic Mtn., 6-Flags etc. and take um once and do the same for all the corporate screwing places as advised in the first paragraph - - it might bring home the gamble for the CEO's when kids in school stop talking about going to these places in the future and if our kids now how disgusted we are with places like this then maybe they'll catch on about what they can expect.



Maybe it could be a wake up call for the Mike E's ruining (oops again, running) America... Maybe we can take back our enjoyments again from Corp America and just simly have fun watching them getting fired or maybe even closing!



Just think - this is what Walt build all this for back then? For us to email on a impersonal computer to other impersonal readers all sharing our disgust over corporations ruining (oops, I didn't capitalize it!) our family's enjoyment.



Or in other words, you can boycott and tell people why and maybe they can cath on too, until Mike and his associates change their ways of banging for the biggest buck!

I am not going to dance around and say who I am, where I work, or who I know. I will say this just for reference, I was an annual pass holder. I have seen the ads that you speak of as well.



I have even been there while they are filming the ads. The ads are true if you know how to plan a perfect visit. There will be times during the year that the park is more crowded than others. The people who hold the Southern California Annual Passport know that the blackout dates are the busiest times of the year. So you could get a copy of the blackout date schedule to see what days are busy. Disneyland also has a phone number and updated website to show what attractions are undergoing rehab.



Rehab is for attractions to clean up and ensure safety. I know it can be very disappointing to have a vacation planned and find out that Pirates of the Caribbean is closed but don't let that ruin your trip, don't plan your whole vacation around going on Pirates of the Caribbean. There are several other attractions that are just as enjoyable.



Now I read a lot of people that the ads of Disney create a false hope that the characters are going to interact with children. It is a very special experience for a child to get to meet their favorite character and it wouldn't be fair to the other 17,000 guests if the character spent all their time with one family.



The characters do try their best though to interact with the kids. For example I have a picture here of Stitch, from Disney's Lilo & Stitch, riding the Golden Zephyrs with a few kids. Lilo had similar interactions that day going on Jumping' Jellyfish and a couple other attractions. On a slow day the characters will have more interaction because it is slower. I've even had Stitch run off with my hat, hung out with Mickey Mouse and Goofy, and was chased around by Chip & Dale playing tag. There really isn't any trick to this except just go when it isn't that busy. Also don't be afraid to ask the character host cast member if and when your favorite character will be out.



Cast members carry their guides that have information about everything in parks. And also remember that cast member's first job is safety. Don't assume that when they ask you to do something such as not sit on the railing it isn't to inconvenience you but it may be for your safety.



Their second job is to value the magic. So if there is a cast member who you feel could improve on courtesy don't hesitate to visit City Hall or Guest Services and let them know. Also as a pass holder I have seen other pass holders who are demanding and not very nice who think the park should be served to them on a silver platter because they paid $99. Courtesy can only be extended so far but even cast members have a limit, I have seen it.



Also there are several websites that will break down how to have an excellent visit in a step by step fashion. Also talk to cast members about what you are planning to do that day, talk to the first cast member you see. For me it was a busy day and while waiting for the tram the cast member started to talk with me and I told him what my plans were for that day for my friend and me.



I wanted to go on Indiana Jones, the water ride in California Adventure, and go on Splash Mountain. He came up with a plan that worked perfectly for how busy that day was. He said I could get my fast passes for Splash Mountain, wait in line for the water ride in California Adventure since that line moves fast and if we didn't mind the possibility of being split up we could use the single rider passes for Indiana Jones. It worked great; my total wait time for all 3 attractions was 45 minutes. I find that the parking cast members seem to be your best source for information of what is happening in the parks and in the resort since it isn't that fast paced as inside the park.

I am not going to dance around and say who I am, where I work, or who I know. I will say this just for reference, I was an annual pass holder. I have seen the ads that you speak of as well.



I have even been there while they are filming the ads. The ads are true if you know how to plan a perfect visit. There will be times during the year that the park is more crowded than others. The people who hold the Southern California Annual Passport know that the blackout dates are the busiest times of the year. So you could get a copy of the blackout date schedule to see what days are busy. Disneyland also has a phone number and updated website to show what attractions are undergoing rehab.



Rehab is for attractions to clean up and ensure safety. I know it can be very disappointing to have a vacation planned and find out that Pirates of the Caribbean is closed but don't let that ruin your trip, don't plan your whole vacation around going on Pirates of the Caribbean. There are several other attractions that are just as enjoyable.



Now I read a lot of people that the ads of Disney create a false hope that the characters are going to interact with children. It is a very special experience for a child to get to meet their favorite character and it wouldn't be fair to the other 17,000 guests if the character spent all their time with one family.



The characters do try their best though to interact with the kids. For example I have a picture here of Stitch, from Disney's Lilo & Stitch, riding the Golden Zephyrs with a few kids. Lilo had similar interactions that day going on Jumping' Jellyfish and a couple other attractions. On a slow day the characters will have more interaction because it is slower. I've even had Stitch run off with my hat, hung out with Mickey Mouse and Goofy, and was chased around by Chip & Dale playing tag. There really isn't any trick to this except just go when it isn't that busy. Also don't be afraid to ask the character host cast member if and when your favorite character will be out.



Cast members carry their guides that have information about everything in parks. And also remember that cast member's first job is safety. Don't assume that when they ask you to do something such as not sit on the railing it isn't to inconvenience you but it may be for your safety.



Their second job is to value the magic. So if there is a cast member who you feel could improve on courtesy don't hesitate to visit City Hall or Guest Services and let them know. Also as a pass holder I have seen other pass holders who are demanding and not very nice who think the park should be served to them on a silver platter because they paid $99. Courtesy can only be extended so far but even cast members have a limit, I have seen it.



Also there are several websites that will break down how to have an excellent visit in a step by step fashion. Also talk to cast members about what you are planning to do that day, talk to the first cast member you see. For me it was a busy day and while waiting for the tram the cast member started to talk with me and I told him what my plans were for that day for my friend and me.



I wanted to go on Indiana Jones, the water ride in California Adventure, and go on Splash Mountain. He came up with a plan that worked perfectly for how busy that day was. He said I could get my fast passes for Splash Mountain, wait in line for the water ride in California Adventure since that line moves fast and if we didn't mind the possibility of being split up we could use the single rider passes for Indiana Jones. It worked great; my total wait time for all 3 attractions was 45 minutes. I find that the parking cast members seem to be your best source for information of what is happening in the parks and in the resort since it isn't that fast paced as inside the park.

I was skimming through the reports and I just had to comment on this one. Ok, gripe number one is that you stated you believe that it is false advertising because they showed an empty park and a kid skipping with Donald Duck. Did you SERIOUSLY think that the most popular destination for any family with kids under 18 would not be busy? C'mon. And about false advertisement. Are you one of these people that sees a commercial showing a nerdy guy sitting alone and all of a sudden he pops open a bottle of Corona and he is instantly surrounded by beautiful models and believes this could really happen?



Get a life bro. I saw a commercial on tv where you can get one at K-Mart for 3 easy payments of $19.95 each.

We have a saying here in Florida: "Oralndo, the house the mouse built"



Yes, Disney costs an arm and a leg to visit and for those dollars we expect perfection. Many people strive for that "perfect" vacation and they forget to just relax and have a good time. The idea of a vacation is to RELAX and to have a GOOD TIME. (ie: stop complaining about everything and enjoy yourself)



Would you prefer that you or a family member was injured or killed on an unsafe ride? These rides are just like any other mechanical item.... things can break without notice and it must be fixed before allowing the sue happy general public access. Some of these ride closures are not maint. but repairs after something broke. Stop your whining and be happy that you are alive and able to go enjoy another ride.



As far as the advertisements, nothing is exactly as advertised. Children take their cues from their parents and if mom or dad is whining about their child not being able to play with Mickey, the child picks up on that. My kids had a wonderful time and never mentioned that they did not get to "play" with any of the characters they saw.



Our last Disney vacation (Orlando) it rained on and off both days. Did I grab a disney employee and complain to them? NO, I grabbed a few rain ponchos and we stomped thru rain puddles! Due to rain, several rides shut down, did we whine about how our vacation was ruined? No, we went in search of the rides that did not close. The Haunted house people let us re-enter thru a special door to ride again instead of waiting in line again, several times (Probably because we were NOT giving them a hard time and complaining about everything).



Attitude is everything and a good attitude gets you better treatment by employees who are being treated like dirt by others! As for false advertising, most businesses are guilty of it. I have never bought a big mac that looks like it does in the pictures, People don't turn their heads and stare at my car like they did in the commercials and as for targeting children....

My son doesn't look for the rabbit from the Trix cereal commercial, he doesn't whine when his toys don' do what they did in the commercial and he forgot all about meeting Mickey Mouse when he got on the Buzz Lightyear ride!

Well if WDW is in the wrong then so is every toy manufacture, food company etc. If you can not explain to your children that they it may not be possible to hold the charactors hand then you should not have taken them. How do explain it to your children when the toy they just had to have will not do what it did on TV and does not even come close?

In response to the stockholder who was going to report the Cast Member from Delaware who couldn't spell... to be quite honest, just about EVERYONE is a stock holder with Disney, probably with a majority of the stockholders being Cast Members.



I personally do not shake in my shoes when a disgruntled Guest uses the particular phrase that they are a stockholder to try to sway me to give them what they want.



Congratulations! I'm a stockholder, also!

Being a ex- WDW cast member for a couple of years, I can vouch for the majority of what has been mentioned on here (in terms of the Florida parks).



Some guests complain that cast members are rude to them, and yes that is very wrong. However,try to put your feet in a cast member shoes, as I will explain in detail.



WDW does NOT respect the fact that their cast members have a life as they mandate very often six day work weeks for as long as a two month period(this is most common when the heavier season hits, as well as when the College Program is starting a whole bunch of new seasonal CP's (frequently used term at WDW for a college program cast member).The six day workweeks coupled with the longer days/and having to work all of the holidays is capable of making tired and frustrated cast members as I very frequently saw.



Several times, I myself had encountered abusive guests,and of course I took the majority of times with a grain of salt.however on one or two occasions the conduct was such that I had addressed it to area management, but Disney of course cares more about making money than addressing abusive guest conduct as they are so scared of guests going around saying bad things to people.



Disney corporate culture, as I have pointed out with just these two examples are driving out their best cast members in frustration......Just like the last rebuttal respondent, I myself am under a no-rehire status at WDW for voluntary termination, but personally I can care less as I know I would never go back to the park,even as a guest, and it is ashame considering I use to love Disney.

As a former employee I would just like to state that the park does get severely overcrowded which depends on the season and the weather conditions. While I worked there, they had a daily estimated attendance that was forwarded to every department as a forecast of how many guests would be attending the park that day.



Starting in spring is when the amount of guests increases and then in summer the park adds additional hours to the day. That is when the park is in full swing and the most guests visit. As fall arrives, the park attendance severely drops as well as the hours the cast member's work. So, the best time to visit the park is in the fall or winter during the middle of the week. A common misconception is that Fridays or Mondays are less crowded, but since they are both near the weekends, they are usually just as crowded.



The characters have it the worst. I always felt bad for some of the characters who wore those hot costumes and had to deal with the kids. Some of these cast members were friends of mine and when they would go in the back off stage, they would remove the head piece and be sweating like a w***e in church. I would watch them go back on stage and get overwhelmed by kids.



On another, similar note...

Other former cast members may remember being bombarded with hours starting in the spring and continuing in the summer. Disneyland starts the yearly cycle of hiring towards the beginning of the year to ramp up for the increased attendance in the spring. Just before summer, shifts change and hours increase to 40 plus per week until fall when hours are drastically cut to only 5 hours per week. At this point (September) only the employees who have worked there for over a year and a half or two years continue to get the bulk of the hours, but still less than normal.



Only the few cast members who have stuck it out for a few years continue to get regular hours. The rest are forced to find second jobs or other jobs altogether such as me.



I found a full time job working 40 hours per week, so for September, October, and most of November I gave my 5 hours a week to other cast members that desperately needed the hours. It wasn't until the day before Thanksgiving they called me up and told me they needed me to work Thanksgiving Day, the following day, and the Saturday after that. The hours were something like 2pm 10pm and I was told I MUST work those days.



I went to Disneyland the following day (Thanksgiving) and told them I quit because of the constant lack of hours that forced me to find full-time job elsewhere. I'm in no way a former disgruntled employee, but I was shocked and upset with the fact that they gave me a letter stating that I could no longer work for Disneyland in the future because I voluntarily terminated my employment.



I considered myself a good employee who did good work for this company and was ultimately forced to quit my job and find other employment to be able to survive and pay my bills. If you are considering working for Disney or have children or loved ones who are considering working for this company, let them know how Disney systematically hires mass numbers of employees every year and practically forces them out by reducing their hours. I would have expected this with the temporary cast members who were specifically hired for the spring and summer increase in attendance, but not a regular employee such as the one I was.



There was once a dream of an imaginative man named Walt Disney. The dream was that Disneyland was to be the happiest place on earth, but with the rein of Michael Eisner that general feeling of magic simply slipped away. The diminished sense of wonder of Disneyland began during my time as a cast member and continues to this day



On a lighter note:

For any current or former cast members; how many times a day were you asked, Where's the nearest bathroom?

I have been to Disneyland in Ca. three times in 25 years. Once as a child (age 6), once as a teen (age 14), and once as on adult (age 24). My childhood memories are much more vivid and wonderful than my teen and adult memories. I believe that most children have the same experience. It's similar to the creek in the back yard being a raging river with waterfalls as a child, and years later when you revisit the scene it's actually a trickle over a rock.



Children are resiliant, they bounce back. Any child that doesn't appreciate the trip to D.L. or any other theme park does not appreciate what their parents do for them (hence, they are spoiled).



Don't get me wrong. I beleive in truth-in-advetising and think that D.L. should make a better effort. But don't forget that making a child understand what is and isn't is still the responsibility of the parent. As to the closing of the rides. I agree that too many are closed for too long. During my most recent trip, 7 major rides and attractions where closed. That was during October. But it wasn't crowded, so my husband and I did everything else in one day, and then viseted other locations in So. Cal.



My point is, don't underestimate children. They will have a good time no matter what. Just make sure before you go that you have discussed what they will and won't expect.

Rae, thank you for your support. I really appreciate your thoughts.



Amy, I feel for your situation. When I was younger I remember seeing these Disney commericals where Mickey was dancing and playing with kids.



But when my brother and I went to the park several times, we never saw any sign of Mickey Mouse. We were very disappointed. Disney has since created a special place in Toon Town where you can go and see Mickey in person by standing in line. I think that's a vast improvement but they still have a long way to go before they get it right.



Why not create a special place where you can go to see all the characters? At least that way the kids won't feel slighted. The Disney people have to be the slowest thinking imagination people around. It takes them forever to come up with the next new great idea even when people are complaining about it.

I agree with the origional complaint. When I was young, I was so excited to go to Disney World and play with the characters, just like in the ads. My parents took me and I remember feeling disapointed and slighted because the characters had to be chased down and they were mobbed when you could find them.



The whole day was a long, hot wait in many lines. The moment I got my picture taken with Daffy, I was shoved aside and the next kid jumped in. It was rude and uncaring. Disney obvisouly doens't care about kids.



As an adult, I can look at these commericals and understand that that's what they are -- commericals. But as a child, I believed what they told me -- that at Disney World I would be important to Mickey and the other characters, almost like going over to a friend's house.



Disney deceives children. I still feel resentment when I see their ads. Disney lies to children and my own kids will never go there.

John,



There are some people who will defend Disney to the bitter end, no matter how bad it gets: That's what keeps the corporation slithering along.



You're right about the commercials: NEVER have I seen anyone's children playing in the park with characters, or riding rides with them, etc....those images are created for people whose "dream" it is to go to a magical, faraway place where the sun always shines and everything's perfect. Trouble is, they don't realize life is no better in Orlando and Anaheim that whatever schmaltzy dumpy nowhere town they live in, except that in O & A the traffic is worse and prices are higher. But if everybody brings their family for one visit in a lifetime, who loses? Certainly not the ones broadcasting the misleading commercials....they're getting their money's worth.



Sure wish I could buy TV ads depicting THE REAL DISNEY: I'm betting the truth would make a huge dent in business. After all, who wants to see Discovery Island employees bashing buzzards to death to keep them away from food for the other birds? And how does Disney resolve the publicity blemish? They close down Discovery Island and relocate the birds. Hmm, and I wonder who's watching out for them now, in their "new home?" And I KNOW it was a long time ago--does that make it better? I don't think so. Besides, if these are the stories you hear, imagine the ones you never hear. Trust me, they are worse than the ones that are made public because you have to know the local media (and government) protects Disney. Would you bite the hand that feeds you?



Oh, and while we're on the subject of everybody's favorite Hunny, Disney, let's talk about the 10,000 more-or-less acres they desecreated in Central Florida after setting up a pitiful "mitigation site" on an old worn-out cattle farm (Walker Ranch). Instead of preserving absolutely pristine lands as Walt himself had initially planned, and instead of leaving the critters there who have lived there for all time, Disney tore up the land to build yet another theme park, among other things. But it's okay, isn't is?, since they donated 8,800 acres of FREE LAND (!) to The Nature Conservancy. Trouble is, the "preservation" land had already been raped and plundered by farmers who dug ditches to redirect water and chased off (how? with clubs, maybe? or bullets?) the animals they didn't want on the land.



I guess, if you'd have it the way the supporters tell it, the wonderful Disney corporation set up road signs for the wildlife (with cute little colored "theme park" maps, maybe?) to tell them how to get from the Orange/Osceola county line to way far out down to the current Nature Conservancy site (ten miles maybe). You think? I'm here to say NOT SO. How many of our furry friends were KILLED crossing US Highway 192 to get to their new, preserved greenspace home? After all, nobody built them overhead walkways to make the trip safely.



Just food for thought........from one who's always keeping her eyes open (with one trained steadily on the rotten-to-the-core mouse).

Guys, you're not getting what I'm saying.







There's nothing wrong with Disney not showing long lines. But there is something wrong with making the suggestion that the kids will get a chance to play with the characters. That's not going to happen.







Should Disney show the characters signing autographs and saying hello to kids? Of course, because that actually happens but taking it further and telling kids that'll get to hang out with the characters and skip through the park with them is not being truthful.







All I'm saying is that Disney should leave that part of the commercial out and leave the truthful stuff in. Why is that so difficult to accept?

Do your kids believe that the cartoon action figures in the ads are real too?



Kids need to be taught that not everything is as it appears to be. There is a difference between real & make-believe, and Disneyland is a land of make-believe.



Do you think their ads would be successful if they showed the lines for attractions or to see the characters?

Please!



If a parent can't spend two seconds in front of the tube helping their kid discern what is "real" and what isn't, God help us all--Disney World will be the least of their troubles.



Ads are targeted at kids because they go into whining hyper-drive over McDonald's, Barbie, Disney, etc. Marketers know this and direct their ads specifically to children. Parents can't go on auto-pilot and expect television to portray something as realistic--it's television! It's sales! It's demographics!



Hell, if there was truth in advertising, the Wal-Mart commercials would show customers weighing 400 pounds or more, since any time I've been in one, it is strictly cattle-sized rumps clogging up the aisles.

Please!



If a parent can't spend two seconds in front of the tube helping their kid discern what is "real" and what isn't, God help us all--Disney World will be the least of their troubles.



Ads are targeted at kids because they go into whining hyper-drive over McDonald's, Barbie, Disney, etc. Marketers know this and direct their ads specifically to children. Parents can't go on auto-pilot and expect television to portray something as realistic--it's television! It's sales! It's demographics!



Hell, if there was truth in advertising, the Wal-Mart commercials would show customers weighing 400 pounds or more, since any time I've been in one, it is strictly cattle-sized rumps clogging up the aisles.

Please!



If a parent can't spend two seconds in front of the tube helping their kid discern what is "real" and what isn't, God help us all--Disney World will be the least of their troubles.



Ads are targeted at kids because they go into whining hyper-drive over McDonald's, Barbie, Disney, etc. Marketers know this and direct their ads specifically to children. Parents can't go on auto-pilot and expect television to portray something as realistic--it's television! It's sales! It's demographics!



Hell, if there was truth in advertising, the Wal-Mart commercials would show customers weighing 400 pounds or more, since any time I've been in one, it is strictly cattle-sized rumps clogging up the aisles.

Anon, you don't get the point. These ads are aimed at Children, not adults, and children tend to take what they see at face-value.



If children are shown Donald Duck skipping along with children then a child might very well expect that he's going to get one on one attention like what he saw on TV.



Disney is doing children an injustice by suggesting that children will have that type of one on one focus by the characters.



That's the point and I'm sorry you didn't understand it.

Anon, you don't get the point. These ads are aimed at Children, not adults, and children tend to take what they see at face-value.



If children are shown Donald Duck skipping along with children then a child might very well expect that he's going to get one on one attention like what he saw on TV.



Disney is doing children an injustice by suggesting that children will have that type of one on one focus by the characters.



That's the point and I'm sorry you didn't understand it.

Anon, you don't get the point. These ads are aimed at Children, not adults, and children tend to take what they see at face-value.



If children are shown Donald Duck skipping along with children then a child might very well expect that he's going to get one on one attention like what he saw on TV.



Disney is doing children an injustice by suggesting that children will have that type of one on one focus by the characters.



That's the point and I'm sorry you didn't understand it.

Anon, you don't get the point. These ads are aimed at Children, not adults, and children tend to take what they see at face-value.



If children are shown Donald Duck skipping along with children then a child might very well expect that he's going to get one on one attention like what he saw on TV.



Disney is doing children an injustice by suggesting that children will have that type of one on one focus by the characters.



That's the point and I'm sorry you didn't understand it.

*Gasp!*



A commercial showing an idealized version of something...



so unlike the car commercials showing people living ultra enhanced lives because of their vehicles, or how about talking dogs/cows/cats? Do cats really talk about their litter boxes or brand of cat food?



How about the cartoon bears crapping in the woods and using a particular brand of toilet paper? How about that Viagra commercial? Or Pepsi? Or Slim Fast?



Give me a break.

we went to orlando in Oct of 2001. The only day we encountered crowds was on the sat we were there and that was in the magic kingdom. We were at epcot on friday adn it was desserted.



With the exception of the meet and greets in MK we got to see lots of charecters in the parks. Even if we hadn't had a charecter lunch with pooh and friends we still would have gotten autographs of many of the charecters.



Our only requirement for future trips will be no saturdays in MK again.



It wasn't as bad as Kings Dominion or CaroWinds or Six flags as far as lines for rides.

we went to orlando in Oct of 2001. The only day we encountered crowds was on the sat we were there and that was in the magic kingdom. We were at epcot on friday adn it was desserted.



With the exception of the meet and greets in MK we got to see lots of charecters in the parks. Even if we hadn't had a charecter lunch with pooh and friends we still would have gotten autographs of many of the charecters.



Our only requirement for future trips will be no saturdays in MK again.



It wasn't as bad as Kings Dominion or CaroWinds or Six flags as far as lines for rides.

Folks, the intent of my initial complaint was based on the fact that Disney uses false advertising in their commercials, showing children having private moments or playing with the Disney characters. We all know this is not something that happens on a regular basis and making children think that this is commonly possible is basically lying to children.



Now, alot of you have enlarged the scope of this complaint to include mold growing in the ticket booths making employees sick, outrage about the nature preserve created in Florida, etc. I can appreciate that there are many things that bother people about Disney but when it all comes down to it, this is the direct responsibility of Michael Eisner.



Yes, Eisner has improved the park and given us some great films like "The Little Mermaid", but he's also upset alot of people about how he has turned a family franchise into one that also include violence and sexual situations. Walt would be turning over in his grave if he knew what Eisner has been doing to his beloved company. And the amazing thing is that the things that Eisner has done positively is what I thought of back in 1976 when I was 13 years old!! I told my parents after a trip to Disneyland that they needed to update the rides, charge more to get in the park, and expose the public to Mickey Mouse and his friends on more products and produce more classic Disney films. That's exactly what Eisner did!! If a 13 year old kid could figure this out, why couldn't any adult in the Disney organization figure it out?



In fact, it's my opinion that Roy Disney is a complete moron. He definitely doesn't have the brains that his uncle and his father had. But if he does one smart thing in his whole life, let it be dumping Eisner and restoring Disney's greatness as a place children and adults can come and be young forever. Stop making violent and s**t films. And work out whatever problems Disney has with children advocate and religious groups around the country. Come on, Roy, do the right thing. Make both your uncle and your father proud of you, GET RID OF EISENR!!



In the meantime, get those false commercials off the air!! Shame on Disney for this fraud.

For the person who is a stock holder you can report the person venting and be a jerk. These people get meager salaries and work twice as hard as most. Now you want to get them fired! Hope you handle your stock better than your people skills. The employee that can't spell needs to get a dictionary and go back to school.



There is no use wasting your life in a job that you don't like. Move on. There are some that obviously love working at Disney and they belong there. Like any other company they are going to have problems and have to make a profit. That is business. Rides must be closed for repair and in some instances there may be several at a time. Better safe than sorry. What's it take 5 minutes to call or go online to find out this before you go there?



It is understandable for both sides, employees and customers, to vent. Completely uncalled for to threaten someone's job. If you've never had to vent, then you're a liar. This simply a tool for that reason. No one should get upset over one person's comments.



We've all become so used to getting what we want that we forget the simple pleasures in life. Disney is an escape and it should be understood that during the peak season like most things it's going to be busy. I went to the one in Florida during the off season and had no problems. In 3 days I saw every major attraction and rode the best rides.



I even managed to go to Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. I did all of this in 3 days! Don't blame the park that you can only see so much when you go during the busy season. Plan people! Just be thankful for what you have and try to extend a little kindness. If you extend a helping hand or a kind gesture to one person, think what happens if they do the same.

As an ex-employee of Disney, and one who worked there "BM," when it was a GOOD place to work (before Michael) as well as afterward, I can only say..........AHAHAHAHAHA! You miserable piece of dog doo. All these years you've paid the same for a loaf of bread and a gallon of milk as the poverty-level theme park workers, while reaping zillions of dollars from the blood, sweat and tears of others. You have taken until they fell out and then replaced them with foreign "disposables."



Now it's your turn to sweat, BROTHER EISNER, and let's see how you like the constant threat of losing YOUR job because of "the economy." I sure wish you'd lost enough money in the stock market that you'd have to utilize all of your personal savings in order to survive (like one of my dear relatives is right this minute because of Disney's CORPORATE GREED). It's cheaper to fight the little guy with paid liars than it is to do the right thing, and that's SAD SAD SAD SAD SAD.



As my Mama always says, "What goes around comes around," Michael, and today your BUTT IS IN THE SLING. ENJOY!!!!!!!!!!



NOT A FAN OF DISNEY OR MICHAEL EISNER

As an ex-employee of Disney, and one who worked there "BM," when it was a GOOD place to work (before Michael) as well as afterward, I can only say..........AHAHAHAHAHA! You miserable piece of dog doo. All these years you've paid the same for a loaf of bread and a gallon of milk as the poverty-level theme park workers, while reaping zillions of dollars from the blood, sweat and tears of others. You have taken until they fell out and then replaced them with foreign "disposables."



Now it's your turn to sweat, BROTHER EISNER, and let's see how you like the constant threat of losing YOUR job because of "the economy." I sure wish you'd lost enough money in the stock market that you'd have to utilize all of your personal savings in order to survive (like one of my dear relatives is right this minute because of Disney's CORPORATE GREED). It's cheaper to fight the little guy with paid liars than it is to do the right thing, and that's SAD SAD SAD SAD SAD.



As my Mama always says, "What goes around comes around," Michael, and today your BUTT IS IN THE SLING. ENJOY!!!!!!!!!!



NOT A FAN OF DISNEY OR MICHAEL EISNER

As an ex-employee of Disney, and one who worked there "BM," when it was a GOOD place to work (before Michael) as well as afterward, I can only say..........AHAHAHAHAHA! You miserable piece of dog doo. All these years you've paid the same for a loaf of bread and a gallon of milk as the poverty-level theme park workers, while reaping zillions of dollars from the blood, sweat and tears of others. You have taken until they fell out and then replaced them with foreign "disposables."



Now it's your turn to sweat, BROTHER EISNER, and let's see how you like the constant threat of losing YOUR job because of "the economy." I sure wish you'd lost enough money in the stock market that you'd have to utilize all of your personal savings in order to survive (like one of my dear relatives is right this minute because of Disney's CORPORATE GREED). It's cheaper to fight the little guy with paid liars than it is to do the right thing, and that's SAD SAD SAD SAD SAD.



As my Mama always says, "What goes around comes around," Michael, and today your BUTT IS IN THE SLING. ENJOY!!!!!!!!!!



NOT A FAN OF DISNEY OR MICHAEL EISNER

As an ex-employee of Disney, and one who worked there "BM," when it was a GOOD place to work (before Michael) as well as afterward, I can only say..........AHAHAHAHAHA! You miserable piece of dog doo. All these years you've paid the same for a loaf of bread and a gallon of milk as the poverty-level theme park workers, while reaping zillions of dollars from the blood, sweat and tears of others. You have taken until they fell out and then replaced them with foreign "disposables."



Now it's your turn to sweat, BROTHER EISNER, and let's see how you like the constant threat of losing YOUR job because of "the economy." I sure wish you'd lost enough money in the stock market that you'd have to utilize all of your personal savings in order to survive (like one of my dear relatives is right this minute because of Disney's CORPORATE GREED). It's cheaper to fight the little guy with paid liars than it is to do the right thing, and that's SAD SAD SAD SAD SAD.



As my Mama always says, "What goes around comes around," Michael, and today your BUTT IS IN THE SLING. ENJOY!!!!!!!!!!



NOT A FAN OF DISNEY OR MICHAEL EISNER

At least one person is on my side...thanks Sonya



As for people being rude to vacationers...maybe it is because of what some of these crybabies have put them through, whining about this and that...they just need time to vent before they are back in a cheary mood...hell has't no fury...



If you are going to complain about the crowds at disney...then go to disney in an Off-peak month so you do feel so claustrophobic. Otherwise, do not complain...otherwise, build your own park...

At least one person is on my side...thanks Sonya



As for people being rude to vacationers...maybe it is because of what some of these crybabies have put them through, whining about this and that...they just need time to vent before they are back in a cheary mood...hell has't no fury...



If you are going to complain about the crowds at disney...then go to disney in an Off-peak month so you do feel so claustrophobic. Otherwise, do not complain...otherwise, build your own park...

At least one person is on my side...thanks Sonya



As for people being rude to vacationers...maybe it is because of what some of these crybabies have put them through, whining about this and that...they just need time to vent before they are back in a cheary mood...hell has't no fury...



If you are going to complain about the crowds at disney...then go to disney in an Off-peak month so you do feel so claustrophobic. Otherwise, do not complain...otherwise, build your own park...

At least one person is on my side...thanks Sonya



As for people being rude to vacationers...maybe it is because of what some of these crybabies have put them through, whining about this and that...they just need time to vent before they are back in a cheary mood...hell has't no fury...



If you are going to complain about the crowds at disney...then go to disney in an Off-peak month so you do feel so claustrophobic. Otherwise, do not complain...otherwise, build your own park...

The whole reason behind ads is to make thing look better than they really are. Look at food adds, are you going to whine about the sandwich you ate because it did not look like the photo. No, you wouldnt want to eat the food in the photo nor could you eat the food, it is not real half the time.



Would you go Disney if the add showed everything you saw, no. As far as rude people, that is how the world is going now. There are fewer polite people in the world now. It is the era of ME ME ME, spit on the person beside you.



Guess what no matter were you go in the world, if there is fun to be had, there will always be a crowed. The next time you schedule a vacation use the computer to get all the informaion about peak times and slow times. Use the computer for more things than to whine.

The whole reason behind ads is to make thing look better than they really are. Look at food adds, are you going to whine about the sandwich you ate because it did not look like the photo. No, you wouldnt want to eat the food in the photo nor could you eat the food, it is not real half the time.



Would you go Disney if the add showed everything you saw, no. As far as rude people, that is how the world is going now. There are fewer polite people in the world now. It is the era of ME ME ME, spit on the person beside you.



Guess what no matter were you go in the world, if there is fun to be had, there will always be a crowed. The next time you schedule a vacation use the computer to get all the informaion about peak times and slow times. Use the computer for more things than to whine.

The whole reason behind ads is to make thing look better than they really are. Look at food adds, are you going to whine about the sandwich you ate because it did not look like the photo. No, you wouldnt want to eat the food in the photo nor could you eat the food, it is not real half the time.



Would you go Disney if the add showed everything you saw, no. As far as rude people, that is how the world is going now. There are fewer polite people in the world now. It is the era of ME ME ME, spit on the person beside you.



Guess what no matter were you go in the world, if there is fun to be had, there will always be a crowed. The next time you schedule a vacation use the computer to get all the informaion about peak times and slow times. Use the computer for more things than to whine.

The whole reason behind ads is to make thing look better than they really are. Look at food adds, are you going to whine about the sandwich you ate because it did not look like the photo. No, you wouldnt want to eat the food in the photo nor could you eat the food, it is not real half the time.



Would you go Disney if the add showed everything you saw, no. As far as rude people, that is how the world is going now. There are fewer polite people in the world now. It is the era of ME ME ME, spit on the person beside you.



Guess what no matter were you go in the world, if there is fun to be had, there will always be a crowed. The next time you schedule a vacation use the computer to get all the informaion about peak times and slow times. Use the computer for more things than to whine.

I have read the comments and suggestions and the "notable notes"...I highly doubt that the company will take measures of great length to alter their poor behavior.



I have never been to Anaheim, however I have been to Orlando, and it is the same way there...rides shut down half the year, long lines, and...I am sorry, if it were not for customers Disney would cease to exist--that includes the customers that just purchase Disney Garb and never make it to the theme parks.



The cost to get into Disney in Florida is so overpriced you need to take a second mortgage out on your house just to afford the hotel, meals and parks!



Better to go to Cedar Point--$37 (Sandusky, OH) or Six Flags--$40, or, hell! Even Kings Island--$42 (Cincinnati) or Kings Dominion--$40 (Virginia)--more bang for the buck and not so many problems!



To the employee cast member from Delaware...honey, with the money you earn at Disney, I would suggest investing a couple bucks to get a good Webster's Dictionary, because you do have a serious spelling issue!



Questioning the validity of an employee at Disney California from Delaware in the first place...Disney Florida is much closer...not to mention the other theme parks mentioned above.



The commercials that air here in the east regarding Disney Florida are the same for you west-coast folks, and yes, they are very misleading.



Lastly...shame on Disney...for having a double standard--how is it that you CATER to children, but yet, are listed as one of the top contributors of Planned Parenthood Abortions they offered to pregnant victims of the WTC attacks?

I worked at Disneyland for 3 1/2 years. In that time my experience there went from excellent to horrible. I completely agree with the first message about the commercials being misleading. I never thought about that before, but you're right!



And the park IS overcrowded. They seem to exceed the guest capacity all the time. And the characters never got to break at Code 90 in the last year I was there. It used to be so much fun; characters were free to roam there designated areas and could use their imaginations to appear as magical and cartoon-like to the guests as possible! Then it all turned so conveyer belt.



Character hosts even had clickers which kept track of how many guests were entering the que lines (spelling?)! I'm glad I quit when I did (I quit over a safety issue, not any of the above). But I'll always treasure the great times I had there, back in the days when we were allowed to do just that - have fun!

Julie, all I can say to you is WAAAAAAA...if you don't like Disney, then I am personally glad you do not work for them (anymore?). Your boo-h*o complaining won't change how buisness is run, and if you think about it, if we did things "your way" more than likely the economy would crash to try to make things better...so if you don't like how one Multi-Billion dollar company is being run, then tough...and that goes for all of you people who cannot appreciate the things that are good with Disney or any other company that provides some sort of service to the public...if you are going to cry...then do it yourself.

For those cast members responding in defense of Disney, save your breath; there are how many zillion EX employees out here who KNOW how it is. Disney DOES NOT CARE about anything but money, period. Not its guest experiences, not its "cast members," nothing. And I use "cast members" in quotes because they should call employees "PUPPETS:" That's how it really is--they use people up and then throw them away like old toys. The philosophy is "there's more where they came from."



I can tell any interested party how to get the Disneyland theme park to yourself; go to Disneyland at mid-morning on a weekday in September, just after the kids go back to school. I went there some years ago and was ASTOUNDED at the nearly-empty park. Of course the streets were littered with popcorn boxes and cigarette butts since they cut back staff for the slow attendance period, but who cares! [Dsneyland might be older but it sure isn't better than the Magic Kingdom, except for nostalgic purposes.]



Now on to the TRUTH about Disney.....Does a company who cares about its people allow employees to work in ticket booths where stagnant water runs out of the AC units in the ceilings and down onto the carpets, growing mold and mildew that makes employees sick...AND THEN LIE ABOUT IT OR PRETEND IT DOESN'T HAPPEN? WORSE YET, they get their little monkeys to pull the copper drain tubes out of the EPCOT ticket booths and put up new ceiling tiles to hide the harmful conditions from guest view but refuse to change out the disgusting green, moldy carpet?



FINALLY, does a "caring" company let an employee made sick from the airborne pollutants go without any sort of income for SIX MONTHS?? No workers' comp, no disability (for a ten-plus year employee???? OUTRAGEOUS). FYI, the inside scoop is that this person cannot collect workers' comp because "there is no problem in our ticket booths" (paraphrased for simplicity), yet the only way that same long-term employee can get short/long-term disability benefits is to SIGN AWAY RIGHTS TO MAKE A WORKERS' COMPENSATION CLAIM???? A travesty. Not like these people make big money; NO, just in the $20k's per year. WHOOPEE. Less than a day's take for ONE TICKET BOOTH AT ONE THEME PARK.



Is this person me? Nope. I was smart enough to get out of Disney after being herded with a huge group of employees into a theater at Lake Buena Vista some years back and told "we've got a new philosophy--"get on the bus" and embrace our new creed or get off the bus now and go elsewhere if you don't like it the way we are choosing to do it." MOONS TO YOU, DISNEY; ...I don't do it their way. Instead, I took my old sweet time and scoped out a better-paying position elsewhere, where employees are valued and respected. And yes, I'm surviving quite nicely, thank you, which explains why I have the ability to help support a Disney employee being CHEATED OUT OF ALL SOURCES OF INCOME BY THEIR UNTOUCHABLE, UNCARING, UNREASONABLE COMPANY.



After all, when Disney came to central Florida in the late 60's, they bought their way into government (they have three cities, and their OWN GOVERNMENT OFFICE......Reedy Creek Improvement District). Also into Orange County FL's good graces---and for the most part, nobody here still dares take them on. Slowly that is changing, thankfully. Eventually maybe it will be unacceptable for employers to replace permanent full-time workers with benefits by hiring seasonal temps who get nothing but tickets into their ever-sprawling attractions to go with their six-dollar salaries.



Hey, I know, let's make Disney look good....someone thought a few years ago; tear up thousands of acres of protected wetlands for Disney's own good. Hmmm, how to get away with that? I know, they tell themselves, let's buy some swampland nobody but developers want (Walker Ranch near Poinciana) and call it the Disney Wilderness Prserve---donate it to the Nature Conservancy. We'll buy our way to public favor by taking what we want and offering a token of restitution in exchange. ANOTHER OUTRAGE. Scraped off thousands of acres of wildlife habitat, against development rules, because THEY COULD BUY THEIR WAY OUT. Mitigation bank hell....animals and environment are MUCH MORE IMPORTANT TO ME THAN DISNEY GETTING RICHER!!!!!



I wish every person in the world would do what I have done: TELL DISNEY TO GO TO HELL. BUY NOTHING FROM THEM.....STAY AWAY FROM THEIR BUSINESSES. NO MOVIES, NO THEME PARKS, NO RESORTS. DON'T EVEN WATCH ABC NEWS. Spend your money directly with Disney competitors, and tell Disney to straighten up and fly right or get out of town.



Finally, for the person who made a snide remark about Disney employees in Delaware???, THEY MAY WORK FOR THE DISNEY STORE....and those cancer-type retail establishments are growing out of control everywhere. Remember when it used to require a trip to Disney to get mouse ears or T-shirts? Even their own merchandise is no longer sacred...........they sell their souls to the devil for a dollar.



Think one thing I said here is not true? WRONG. It is TOTALLY TRUE, every bit. And with the help of an outstanding lawyer, my loved one WILL TRIUMPH over Disney..it's just a matter of time. Shucks, just saving that person from the hell that is working at Disney is a triumph in itself, as far as I am concerned.



Current employees: My sympathies. It USED TO BE a great place to work (until Eisner and Wells took over, then concerns for emloyees went out the window in exchange for profits...remember TWENTY PERCENT INCREASE IN TWENTY QUARTERS (five years), Disney employees???? If not, you're too new to know what they are capable of at this point)).



Potential future employees: RUN LIKE HELL unless they offer you a full-time job with a decent salary and full benefits. REFUSE TO WORK FOR LESS. Better yet, JUST SAY NO...........

I work for Disney. I will make sure that these comments are noted because they should be. We need to read these and take the necessary measures to make sure our clients (that's what visitors are "Clients") feel comfortable, safe, and have a very good time at our parks.



Thank you for this dialogue and I hope that, with everything that has happened to our country, we can all have discussions like this, be heard by the companies we complain to, and have the bad situations resolved.



Thank you.

I work for Disney. I will make sure that these comments are noted because they should be. We need to read these and take the necessary measures to make sure our clients (that's what visitors are "Clients") feel comfortable, safe, and have a very good time at our parks.



Thank you for this dialogue and I hope that, with everything that has happened to our country, we can all have discussions like this, be heard by the companies we complain to, and have the bad situations resolved.



Thank you.

I work for Disney. I will make sure that these comments are noted because they should be. We need to read these and take the necessary measures to make sure our clients (that's what visitors are "Clients") feel comfortable, safe, and have a very good time at our parks.



Thank you for this dialogue and I hope that, with everything that has happened to our country, we can all have discussions like this, be heard by the companies we complain to, and have the bad situations resolved.



Thank you.

I work for Disney. I will make sure that these comments are noted because they should be. We need to read these and take the necessary measures to make sure our clients (that's what visitors are "Clients") feel comfortable, safe, and have a very good time at our parks.



Thank you for this dialogue and I hope that, with everything that has happened to our country, we can all have discussions like this, be heard by the companies we complain to, and have the bad situations resolved.



Thank you.

I will be the first to say that Disneyland is beyond PACKED during the summer months. Are they guilty of false advertising? Maybe. I doubt they meant to portray that their park was empty.



Know what? Plan your vacation to go in Oct-Nov or Feb-Mar (maybe April). OFF-SEASON. Got kids and can only go June-August? Not much you can do in that instance.



While certainly not people free it is MUCH less crowded than in the summer months.



As to some rides being shut down...I experienced this as well and it certainly is a bummer, but better safe than sorry. Call BEFORE you go so you'll be prepared if too many rides are closed.



Besides, isn't there like 97 (O.K. a bit of an exaggeration) other amusement parks in Southern California? I can at least think of 3 off-hand within close distance to Disneyland.

I will be the first to say that Disneyland is beyond PACKED during the summer months. Are they guilty of false advertising? Maybe. I doubt they meant to portray that their park was empty.



Know what? Plan your vacation to go in Oct-Nov or Feb-Mar (maybe April). OFF-SEASON. Got kids and can only go June-August? Not much you can do in that instance.



While certainly not people free it is MUCH less crowded than in the summer months.



As to some rides being shut down...I experienced this as well and it certainly is a bummer, but better safe than sorry. Call BEFORE you go so you'll be prepared if too many rides are closed.



Besides, isn't there like 97 (O.K. a bit of an exaggeration) other amusement parks in Southern California? I can at least think of 3 off-hand within close distance to Disneyland.

I will be the first to say that Disneyland is beyond PACKED during the summer months. Are they guilty of false advertising? Maybe. I doubt they meant to portray that their park was empty.



Know what? Plan your vacation to go in Oct-Nov or Feb-Mar (maybe April). OFF-SEASON. Got kids and can only go June-August? Not much you can do in that instance.



While certainly not people free it is MUCH less crowded than in the summer months.



As to some rides being shut down...I experienced this as well and it certainly is a bummer, but better safe than sorry. Call BEFORE you go so you'll be prepared if too many rides are closed.



Besides, isn't there like 97 (O.K. a bit of an exaggeration) other amusement parks in Southern California? I can at least think of 3 off-hand within close distance to Disneyland.

Ok, name ONE park in the whole world where there is not a single person in the park except for you, the employees, and the cast crew? Huh? I can't hear you? You know why? There is NOT one...All of you cry babies fail to realize that no matter where you go, ever single park with the exception of the kiddie playground in your own backyard, with a few exceptions, are packed. You should learn to accept this fact, grow up, and enjoy whatever life brings you. Most people don't even get the chance to enjoy Walt's or anyone elses vision or theme parks, yet you have to piss and moan like impotent jackasses. If you are going to complain then why don't you go buy a Bank of America or two, build your own d**n park, and run it and keep it to yourself? At least you would have no room to complain.

As some of you may have noticed, national parks sometimes get the same "bait-and-switch" treatment. The cover of your road atlas may portray a utopian photo of one of this nation's natural wonders, but actually visit the place and you're likely to encounter crowds and sometimes even engine exhaust reminiscent of the big cities many of us are trying to escape. Even state parks aren't immune; I recently went camping at one in order to relax and experience the sounds of nature only to be bombarded (against park rules) till midnight by noise from what sounded like an army of banshees that dwarfed anything I've ever experienced at my suburban home.

...was that the park is packed. That's been my experience too, although I have to say that Great America was WAY more packed than Disney was when I visited. But the point made was that the park was packed, and then the rebuttals went off on the s****.> I still think the part about the park being packed is valid. If you wanna stand in line, you can just go to the grocery store. It's so bad that at times the line to use the bathrooms is as long as the coaster lines at Great America. That's part of the reason I've never gone back to that one.



I felt packed in like a sardine there. Disney I found better, but I haven't gone to California, only the Orlando one, so it may be different in Ca. In any case guys the original point is still valid, don't you think? Even Disney seems to realize this, with their new VIP concept.

I have season passes at Disneyland. They do their best at Disneyland to make your visit an enjoyable experience. If you can't have a good time at Disneyland, you've got your own problems. I think you take your attitude in there with you. The world is just a reflection of your own personality, good or bad. It's the same at Disneyland.

CAN YOU SAY KNOTTS OR MAGIC MOUNTAIN? I HOPE SO BECAUSE WHEN YOUR TEAMLEADER OR MANAGER ASK WHERE DID ALL THE GUEST GO? YOU CAN TELL HIM/HER MY SMARTASS COMMENTS SENT THEM AWAY!!!!!!!!

This is for the cast member:

First of all, without all of those "snotty" customers around, guess what?? You wouldn't have a job!! (you may not have one for long anyway).

You should count your lucky stars that you were even offered a job there. What was the last grade you completed??? Happy job hunting!

Considering the fact that I am a stockholder with a considerable stake in the corporation, I will make sure that your comments are forwarded to the proper people.



I can understand if you were fired, or are being considered for termination (which may be soon). Your attitude towards customers is noted.

Nancy, I do know how to spell im showing you an example of a burned out castmember who is sick of all the snobs who have passports and cry like babys when a ride is closed for repairs! stop crying and deal with it! it is for your safty!



as for visiting anaheim it is all hotels, and all resort duh! you can go to angel stadium or to the pond come out of your snotty irvine and see what it is like to live in a resort town we work hard for "you Babies" and we get you complaning to us early in the morning if a ride you want is closed sorry no red carpet is going to be laid down to the ride of your choice..



you want the park you fix and clean and plan the entertainment yourself snob! then have others like you complain about it! see yourself in a mirror! you are now being looked at in a jar!

First of all, in reply to the cast member from Delaware (I question this too)- LEARN to SPELL!!! As for the one complaining about the downtime on rides, go online and check before you go to the parks. All the info is there. Or, force yourself to call beforehand. As for Walts vision of Disneyland, Come On, no one envisioned this kind of traffic back in 1955. That place is full because of people getting yearlong passes and going every two days. It is full because Anaheim refuses to let it expand more than a few acres every 50 years or so. When was the last time anyone visited Anaheim? They are lucky to still have a resort!!!

In response to the letter above from a "cast member" (in Delaware?)...



I have no problem with regular maintanence to keep rides safe....safety is crucial and required.



HOWEVER, how difficult could it be to schedule these so that there are not a majority of major attractions down at the same time?? Whether these are listed on the net, posted at the park or tattooed on the cast member's foreheads, it still is bad business to have that many major rides closed all at the same time.

in response to the coment above, we at Disneyland unlike most theam parks do close rides for mantance, usaly in the beging of the year on a regular scedual to make all nessarey adjustments to keep each atraction running smooth and to check all safty devises.



we post all closures on the internet(daily update: Disney.comm) as well as in front at the main gates before guest buy a ticket. Of course a travel agency will not tell you when you buy your vouchers of any rides that are on mantance they have avalible this information to provide to the guest but they don't tell you they send you off with a voucher that is a headace for anyone at the main gate because they mess it up so fast selling it.



example missing info? We as a courtsy post any and all changes to the daily scedual at Disneyland in many forms so guests can be up to date and well informed. as for spring break most of us if not all ( the lucky cast members who had there own vacation at this time) had to work like slaves up to 3 weeks with no day off from morning till night we work and most of us get yelled at by guests and we are sorry that there favorite ride is closed to make sure it is a safe ride by doing the adjustments and mantanence to keep it safe. for this we are sorry for any inconveice, but there are plenty of parks that for the most part never close a ride for the proper repairs this I would be afriad to ride.



try being a little more nice to us castmembers we do work hard very hard and we spend alot of extra time off the clock not paid time for the resort and our guests some by choice others forced because we are to busy for the area leads to let us go home at our regular time off forced to be extended to take care of our guests after we have had long days ourselves.



yes we are real people flesh and blood and we go home with just that left sometimes unless they have a blood drive then we donate our blood too, leaving with just a tired heap of flesh, so tired driving is hard. we are hard working people. castmember Im tired too.

My family and I visited Disneyland recently (beginning of March), spending 3 days in both the MK and CA. I can't begin to tell you how incredibly dissapointed we were to find not one, not two, three, or four but five major attractions closed for "refurbishment". Splash Mountain, Pirates of the Carribean, Space Mountain, and literally half of Fantasyland were all closed. On top of that, it was the week of spring break for Arizona and the last week or so of the "3 days for price of 2" special.



Walt intended for the park to never have more than 2 "E-ticket" rides closed at the same time. This idea has been tossed in lieu of trying to pack everyone in at whatever cost.



The park was PACKED and half of anything worth riding was closed. What do you think that did to the lines of kids trying to get autographs or pictures with the characters??? Exactly what you read above in the original complaint here.



On top of this, we're told that we should consider ourselves lucky because the Haunted Mansion had just re-opened after being "refurbished".



No Fantasmic, no electric parade, half the rides closed, packed park, lots of construction all around, many simple items have been removed for ????? (example: There is a plaque above the tunnels where you first go into Main street that used to mention that something about "leaving today and entering the world of tomorrow and fantasy.." that is now gone with a blank, empty off color space where they used to be).



What happened to the "Happiest Place on Earth"? I completely understand that rides need to be cleaned up from time to time, but Walt set the rule for how many of these could/SHOULD be done at the same time to avoid inconviencing their customers any more than was absolutely necessary. The spirit of Walt is nowhere to be seen in the land of orange groves.....



BTW: CA Adventure really does suck....believe what you hear.

As a cast member Of the Walt Disney Resort in anaheim I fully defend our televised comercials. Our job is to bring joy and a liftime of memories to ALL our guests whether you visit our theam parks our stores or watching a movie with your favorite charater.



Our comecials show all the different and entertaining things that Disney has to offer to Young and old all guests from anywhere in the world.



Our charaters spend many hours visiting and playing with our guests all over the park not just in there toon town nabiorhood or at sleeping beautys castle. our resort does become crowded at times as do most places we go.



we offer quality entertainment and a lifetime of memories to all our guests every year and every day. yes at times guests do wait in a line but once they have recived a hug and autograph form their favorit charater and they talk and play oh the pricless memories and magic that the Disneyland resort can bring to all who visit.