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Disney Adults Behaving Badly (Things We Need To Stop)

Steven WilkLast Updated: August 6, 2024

3 minutes read

Disney adults have an infamous reputation. Although what people define as a “Disney Adult” varies.

Some say it when referring to obnoxious guests, others use it when talking about someone over 18 who loves Disney, while specific individuals use it to trash Disney super fans (of all ages, shapes, and sizes).

Disney Guests with Chip n Dale — Credit: Disney

But there’s nothing wrong with being a park guest over 18 years old who likes riding Dumbo The Flying Elephant or “it’s a small world.” However, some things experienced Disney park fans may do that get under the skin of other park guests.

What are some of these annoying things? Let’s explore…

Complaining About Other Park Guests

Part of being a true Walt Disney World Resort fan is sharing the experience with other theme park guests. Many first-time Disney Park visitors don’t know how to board TRON Lightcycle / Run or where to turn when the secret door opens in the Haunted Mansion queue.

But some irritable Disney adults will complain about crowds, lines, show seats, or anything else that hampers their experience. And although these irritations may be legitimate, it’s odd to witness a 40-year-old whine over the line of “it’s a small world” or their seat on Expedition Everest.

Ignoring Safety Instructions

Although this is not unique to Disney adults, it’s something we should be doing more than anyone else. When hardcore Disney fans don’t follow safety instructions because we “know” something is safe, it may signal to others that it’s okay.

Shots of Guest jumping off of Pirates of the Caribbean — Credit: TikTok user _curlyliz_

In addition, some extreme Disney fans may ignore safety information because they want to show off, increase the thrill of a ride, or get a great photo for social media.

There are reasons for safety bars and seat belts. And we Disney adults should set an example.

Ignoring Park Rules

Similar to ignoring safety instructions, Disney adults who do this send the wrong message.

Only someone who views themself as superior will budge others in line, hop out of a moving vehicle, or reach out and touch ride props. Granted, this is not something ALL Disney adults do; some will engage in it.

People who think they know better than park policies or other guests will often get themselves (and perhaps others) in trouble.

Self Identifying

It’s one thing to be a Disney fan or a Disney adult. But it can be a little off-putting to be showy over it. It sends the message of “I know everything, I’m an expert” or “I’m more important.” No one likes a bragger.

Talking Over Pre-Show And Ride Dialog

Nothing is more cringy than listening to a Disney fan recite every word of dialog in a pre-show.

As Disney adults, we get it. Sometimes, reciting the lines you know in a show or ride is almost like singing along to your favorite song. But aside from possibly annoying other guests, it can ruin the experience for those enjoying it for the first time.

Certain attractions, such as Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT or Avatar Flight of Passage at Animal Kingdom, require some dialog to understand the story.

Talking over the show or ride disrupts the Disney magic for other guests.

Final Thoughts

As stated earlier, there’s nothing wrong with being a Disney adult. But there’s also no excuse for being an unpleasant guest while visiting the Disney parks. When guests other than us have a good time, it improves Disney and creates more Disney-loving adults.