A Brief Look at Walt Disney World’s Reopening Plans

In what was (probably) the most-watched Orange County meeting in history, we finally have some firm dates on when Florida’s Disney Parks are expected to open. Like a lot of things around the area, Disney will begin the opening process in stages. While these plans have been approved by Mayor Jerry Demings, they will still need the seal of approval from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

Let’s take a look at some of the highlights of the Task Force meeting:

The reopening dates –

• The Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom will have a phased opening on Saturday, July 11. EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios will follow a few days later on Wednesday, July 15. There will be soft opening days and Cast Member previews, along with phased capacity. You can expect the overall attendance to be limited.

 

• An advance reservation system will be required. You must have a reservation to gain entry to the park. Disney will be releasing details closer to the parks’ opening dates. At this time, there is a pause on new ticket sales and hotel reservations to accommodate those with existing reservations. However, existing ticket holders and Passholders will be able to make reservations in phases at a later time.

 

• Disney Vacation Club resorts and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground will reopen on June 22. Disney’s Vero Beach and Hilton Head resorts will open on June 15. Along with advanced cleaning procedures, physically distancing requirements will be in place at the resorts.

 

• Disney Springs has already moved into another phase of their reopening plans, with the World of Disney store welcoming guests this morning on May 27.

 

On to park operations –

• All parks and resorts will follow enhanced safety protocols under the guidance from local health authorities.
• Cast Members and Guests (over the age of 3) will be required to have the appropriate face coverings.
• All guests will have a temperature screening before entering the parks. Cast members will also have temperature checks.
• Cashless transactions are recommended for all guests.
• Disinfection and cleaning procedures will be increased in high-traffic areas.
• Parades and nighttime spectaculars have been canceled. Other “high-touch” experiences, such as makeover opportunities, character meet and greets, and playgrounds are temporarily unavailable.

Like many of these proposed plans, there are a lot of questions left to be answered. We have a vague idea about the reservation system, but no information about transportation or the water parks.

 

What do you think about these plans? Are they too restrictive or too lenient? Would you still go without extras like the parades or fireworks? Let us know in the comments!

 

Don’t forget to check out our Twitter poll about the opening dates.