Disneyland Closes Rides Early; Says Business Slow

For the first time in its 43-year history, Disneyland has begun closing large numbers of rides early, including all of Toontown and such signature attractions as the Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean and Jungle Cruise.

The move drew immediate fire from frequent park visitors and from former Disneyland President Jack Lindquist, who said it shortchanges guests. They said that in the past, the number of early closings--and late openings--were minuscule compared with the more than 20 attractions affected this year.

The affected rides typically are closing at 6 p.m. or 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, while the park stays open until 8 p.m.--and its shops even later. So far, the early closures aren’t in effect on weekends.

Park spokesman Ray Gomez said the moves were “seasonal adjustments” as the weather cools and attendance lags.