Written by Travel Ease Advisor Amanda Porcelli
Are you wondering what it’s like to be at Walt Disney World right now? Is the magic still alive?!
Here are some of the main differences.
Masks. Let’s rip this band-aid off. Although the rip may not be too bad anymore since we are used to masks, Disney is no exception. Everyone ages 2+ requires a mask. Disney is very strict about this policy
They have cast members walking around with signs, and they will call you out if they notice your mask is down. The only time you can take off your mask is when you are eating or drinking while stationary, at the mask relaxation zones, to take a photograph while stationary, or at the pool. Cast members are also required to wear masks, and most wear face shields too. We are so excited Disney revised the mask policy as of 04/08 so you can take socially distanced photos without a mask. Bring on those castle pictures!
it was in the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror!
Enhanced Cleaning and Sanitizing Stations. When you first walk into your Disney Resort room, you will see a sign with a list of enhanced cleaning examples with added focus in key areas such as door handles, light switches, bathroom fixtures, etc.
You will also find hand sanitizing stations all around the property, and increased cleaning in high-traffic areas such as public elevators, handrails, benches, tables, handles, restrooms and more.
Temperature Checks. No-touch temperature checks are required for entry into most locations. If you have a temperature of 100.4 or higher, you will be asked to sit in a “cool down” area for about 10 minutes, just in case you’re just hot from the weather. After the cool down period they will check you again. If your temperature still displays 100.4 or higher, you and your party will not be allowed entry.
Social Distancing. Disney has put physical distancing markers down in all of the ride queues, as well as added walls in most indoor queues.
Park Pass Reservations and Itinerary Planning. Due to capacity limitations, a reservation is required to get into each park. Fast Passes are also unavailable.
Mobile Ordering. Ordering quick service meals and popular snacks is highly recommended from the ‘My Disney Experience’ app. It is super easy, and it reduces contact and having to wait in line. I recommend making your mobile service order early, so you have the most return time options to choose from.
Fireworks on Pause. Yes, this is a bummer. A big one. But fireworks bring crowds, and that is something Disney wants to stay far away from. Side note – I was a Disney College Program intern many many years ago, and working Parade Audience Control at Magic Kingdom was my main job. I worked and watched the fireworks show almost every night for six months, so I really miss the shows. But I know they will be back and better than ever eventually.
Parades on Pause. For the same reasoning as the fireworks, traditional parades at Walt Disney World have not yet returned. Disney had a fun new idea though – cavalcades! Cavalcades are like a “mini-parade” with characters and a float or car. They are SUPER cute, and honestly much less stressful than a typical parade because they are at random times and short, so large crowds don’t have time to gather.
Character Meet and Greets on Pause. We all cannot wait until we can hug Mickey again!!! But for now you can see characters a few other ways: select character meals, cavalcades, and out and about waving hi or having fun from a distance. There’s often times you can get a socially distanced photo with them as well.
Is the Magic Still Alive?? YES! From Cinderella Castle, the smells, classic attractions, music, characters, and the delicious food and drinks. Magic is built into Walt Disney World. Nothing can take that away.
So although Walt Disney World may look different, it is because Disney has our best interest and health at heart, and they are doing a great job keeping people as safe as they can.
Planning Walt Disney World vacations is my passion. I love to help families and adults (yes, Disney is not just for kids!!) experience the most magical place on earth! I help with every step of the planning process; from Resort selection to help with My Disney Experience, Park Passes, dining reservations, park touring, and much more.
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PS — If you’re on the fence about a Walt Disney World vacation and want to give it a “test run”, our team is hosting a “Food & Wine Getaway Weekend” Thursday Nov 11th – Sunday Nov 14th! Bring the family or make it an adults only trip! You can do your own thing all weekend, we will provide guides to Food & Wine Festival, help planning a second park day, and optional events thrown in like a cocktail hour, scavenger hunt for some prizes, and meetups. Everyone needs some time away… This may be the perfect opportunity! Email or call me for more info!