Disneyland is always evolving, and if you’ve been visiting for years, you already know that what worked on your last trip might not fly anymore.

Disneyland

From updated park policies to new tech, 2026 is bringing a handful of changes that could seriously impact how you plan your day. We’re breaking down some of those changes and what you’ll want to know before you book your next vacation to the Southern California theme park resort.

Facial Recognition Technology Is Expanding

The Disney Parks have fully embraced the digital age — and the Disneyland Resort is no exception. In fact, Disneyland is leaning further into biometric technology in 2026, with expanded use of facial recognition systems at entry points.

New facial recognition sign

These lanes are optional for the time being, and you can find signage posted all over the resort right now that includes some in-depth information on the new tech. Ultimately, Disney is trying to use facial recognition to speed up lines and reduce ticket misuse — but it also means the days of casually sharing tickets or skirting the system are pretty much over.

Disneyland entrance scanners

While Disney has stated this is about efficiency and security, some guests are still getting used to the idea of more advanced tech being part of the park experience. For now, opting in is up to you, but we’ll see how long that remains the case.

Security Rules Are Getting Stricter

If it feels like security is taking a little longer lately, you’re not imagining things. As the world continues to change, so does Disneyland’s enforcement of bag checks and prohibited items in 2026. The resort is consistently updating its policies to prohibit newer items (like vapes) that it doesn’t want inside its parks, shopping districts, and hotels.

Security Lines

The resort is also taking a closer look at oversized bags, loose ice, and certain types of containers. They’re also being more consistent about enforcing stroller size limits and mobility device guidelines. Unlike Disney World, Disneyland still uses old-school metal detectors and bag checkers, and that process doesn’t seem to be changing in 2026. Make sure you check the Disneyland website for a list of approved and banned items before your visit.

No Cell Phones Allowed Out on Certain Rides

If you’re used to filming your entire ride-through, this one’s a big shift. Disneyland is cracking down on having phones and loose items out on select attractions — especially faster rides or those with more intense movements like Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway.

No Cell Phones

Cast Members have been stopping guests before boarding and reminding them to secure their phones, bottles, glasses, Mickey/Minnie ears, and other loose items completely. This is a total safety issue, and this rule change makes all the sense in the world.

Park Hopping Changes

As of this writing, park hopping between Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure can only begin at 11 AM…but that’s about to change.

The Disneyland esplanade — from here, you are feet away from everything Disneyland has to offer!

Later this year, Disneyland will eliminate the 11 AM rule — and you’ll be able to move between the two parks without worrying about the time. We still don’t know when this change will go into effect, but we’ll let you know as soon as it’s announced.

DCA Entrance

If there’s a constant about the Disney Parks, it’s that they never stay the same for too long. We’re always keeping up with all the latest changes, so stay tuned right here at the Disney Food Blog for every update!

4 Curfews Disneyland Is Enforcing in 2026

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If you could implement certain Disneyland rules in 2026, what would they be? Let us know in the comments!