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Snow is rare at Disneyland Paris, so we were delighted when it started snowing during our trip in early January.
Soon the park was covered in white and it felt like a whole new world.
The main street and Sleeping Beauty Castle looked even more beautiful than usual, and we discovered hidden corners of the park that made us feel as if we were deep in the countryside.
Some of the rides and restaurants were closed, but we didn’t mind because just hanging out was a unique experience.
In this post, I share photos from this magical trip, as well as tips on what to expect if you end up visiting Disneyland Paris in the snow.
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What to expect when it snows at Disneyland Paris
We were lucky enough to have two snowy days at Disneyland Paris, the one in between was very cold and the snow didn’t melt.
Even more fortunately, it didn’t snow the morning we arrived and it melted the day we set off, so we didn’t experience any travel chaos.
Some flights and hotel shuttles are canceled on snowy days, so travel delays are the biggest drawback if it snows.
We were delighted to stay Disneyland Hotelonly two minutes from the gate, so we didn’t have to worry about getting to the park.
It is also accessible on foot from all hotels within the hotel.
When it snows, all is not well in the park. Openings may be delayed, parades may be canceled and some rides may be closed.
Outdoor rides are most likely to close, with Fantasyland the worst affected, with Dumbo, Casey Junior and Le Pays de Contes de Fées all closed. Rides like “It’s a Small World” operate intermittently.
Autopia and Indiana Jones were also closed (although I’m not sure Indiana’s problem was the snow since it never reopened).
We were impressed when they opened Big Thunder Mountain. Riding it in the snow is like sitting on a snowmobile – so much fun!
Some restaurants are also closed. This may be due to staff shortages (many people are unable to go to work). Toad Hall was closed due to heavy snowfall, as were all outdoor stands such as the Old Mill and Cool Post.
Still, there are plenty of places to eat.
When it snowed heavily, the parade was canceled, but the day after it stopped, it went on despite the snow on the ground (they cleared the streets).
Unfortunately, we found that the app didn’t reliably keep us updated on restaurant, parade, and show closures, but it was more accurate when it came to rides.
Of course, if it snows, it will be cold. We had temperatures as low as -5°C (23°F), but we wore lots of layers to stay warm enough.
Look at me A guide to Christmas at Disneyland Paris Exactly for the clothes we wear.
If there is a chance of snow, waterproof shoes (preferably boots) and thick socks are a must. It’s miserable when your feet are wet.
You will also need shoes with good traction as the roads can be really slippery. While they have cleared some roads, many are still covered in snow.
I also recommend two pairs of gloves (they will get wet) and a large scarf to protect your face.
You can always warm up with a glass of mulled wine or hot chocolate!
Paris Snow Disneyland Tour
Let me take you to Disneyland in the snow.
Our favorite places to walk in the snow are Phantom Manor, Islands of Adventure, and Indiana Jones.
The snow stays in a more pristine state in less trafficked areas, so if it does snow, dress warmly and head out to explore.
Main Street USA
Main Street in the Snow is beautiful, but it doesn’t last as long as the rest of the park. Since this is a high traffic area, it can get muddy quickly. Additionally, it was cleared to ensure parade safety.
But when the snow first falls and the Christmas lights come on, it’s so magical!
sleeping beauty castle
Sleeping Beauty Castle looked absolutely stunning covered in snow and we were lucky enough to see it.
fantasy world
The fantasy world looks lovely and fresh as it is like a quaint European village.
The canal outside the Peter Pan ride is particularly beautiful.
The reindeer outside It’s a Small World are cutely manicured.
The problem with Fantasyland is that it’s a busy area, so once the snow stops it can quickly become muddy and unattractive.
adventure world
The world of adventure in the snow is amazing. It’s quiet in many places so the snow stays fresh and all the trees and water make you feel like you’re in the wilderness.
Wandering Islands of Adventure (although some areas are closed), viewing Pirate Ships and Skull Rock in the snow, and strolling along quiet snowy roads to Indiana Jones are highlights.
Pirates of the Caribbean is our favorite warm-up tour. The lines are usually not very long, most are inside (if the line is outside, don’t ride), and the boats inside are quite long. (This is also probably the best version of Pirates).
borderland
Frontierland is another highlight in the snow.
Riding Big Thunder Mountain in a blizzard was awesome, everyone was in a good mood and had lots of fun with snow on their faces. It’s great to see the park from a higher perspective.
Phantom Manor is the most beautiful ride in the snow.
The view from outside the house (just before you enter the ride) over Big Thunder and the river is great.
Be sure to walk to Boot Hill Cemetery on the other side of the property. This is always a hidden gem and a great place for a snow walk.
The Thunder Mesa Riverboat did not sail while it was snowing, but did sail on the day between showers (although the top deck was closed). This is a great way to take in all the snowy beauty in the area.
Finally, when we went to see the amazing Lion King show, we discovered that there were a lot of trees and snow in this area of the park.
The Frontierland station was closed during the snow, but looked great.
Discovery Park
Discoveryland doesn’t look as impressive in the snow as other places, but it’s cool to see Hyperspace Mountain looking like winter.
The pond in The Mystery of the Nautilus even freezes over.
final thoughts
We were so happy to experience so much snow on our trip to Disneyland Paris, especially at the end of the Christmas festivities.
Yes, there are some inconveniences in the park when it snows, and you may not be able to accomplish everything you planned.
But we think they’re doing a great job keeping the park as operational as possible. For us, it was worth it to see the park transform into a winter wonderland.
Unfortunately, you can’t plan for snow at Disneyland Paris. This only happens a few times a year, but your best chance is in January or February.
If you get lucky and it snows, throw your plans out the window, put on all your clothes and enjoy the magic!
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