Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida is preparing to reopen its doors!
Disney Destinations - On Wed May 27th, Disney executives laid out their proposal to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force in Florida where they outlined their phased reopening - set to begin on July 11th.
All the parks will not all open at the same time, rather, the proposed schedule starts with Magic Kingdom Park and Disney's Animal Kingdom on July 11th, followed by Disney's Hollywood Studios and EPCOT on July 15th.
Like all businesses across our country, Walt Disney World will need to reimagine its operations, crowd control, and health and safety standards before and during the phased opening.
'As we begin to reach out to our Cast Members and call them back to work, they will be focused on operating our parks in a responsible way that continues to give our Guests opportunities to create magical Disney memories.' - Disney Destinations
The Walt Disney World Resort will limit attendance and control Guest density in accordance with physical distancing guidelines which means that some of their main attractions such as parades and fireworks will return at a later time. Also missing from the initial opening will be character meet and greets, however, Disney does state that the characters will still be in the parks (at a distance).
Cast Members and all Guests aged 3 or older will be required to submit to temperature screenings and wear appropriate face coverings in the theme parks and common areas of resort hotels.
New Theme Park Reservation System
To properly limit and manage guest arrivals, Walt Disney World Resort will require all Guests to obtain a reservation for park entry in advance through their new park reservation system. Priority will be given to Guests who have already purchased their tickets - Disney will resume new ticket sales and hotel reservations once those Guests have been accommodated. Those Guests with previously purchased tickets will receive communication and direction from Walt Disney World shortly.
Disney Springs Is Now Open
The Walt Disney World retail area, Disney Springs, has already re-opened to the public with the same guidance on physical distancing and health and safety. Disney Stores and additional theme parks around the world will follow the careful plans set in motion over the coming weeks and months.
Questions about booking your next Disney vacation? Contact us for more information - we would be happy to help.
Image: Disney