We are currently living in times of uncertainty with the COVID-19 pandemic sweeping the nation. Although cases are rising, some normality is returning with the opening up of some of our favorite places, including Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Like everywhere else, they have new safety measures and regulations in place to welcome you back to the happiest place on earth. Today we have all the new safety measures for guests piled together as well as our thoughts on them!
Park Pass Reservation System
There are a few new steps you have to take before you even enter the park to keep safe. First off, Disney is using a new way to book your trip called the Park Pass Reservation System. Basically what this is is an extra reservation on top of your theme park ticket. This is a way Disney is making sure they are not having too many people come to a specific park one day. There is a certain number of reservations for Annual Passholders, guests staying at a hotel, and day guests. These are free but they do go quickly. We think this is a great idea, even though it means no more park hopping.
The Four Park Icons
Entering the Parks
There have been a few safety measures for getting into the theme parks. The first is temperature screenings. This is a really quick check to see your temperature. If your temperature is below 100.4℉, you’re all set to go in. I personally really like how they’ve given some flexibility with the temperature limit since Florida is so hot which can increase your body temperature. They’ve also implemented a new bag screening process. The new way is like an x-ray machine in an airport compared to the old way of a physical bag search. I love this idea so much because 1) it’s quicker and 2) you don’t have to feel bad about having a lot of stuff in your bag!
Train Station Outside Magic Kingdom
Masks
First off, everyone has to wear masks. These masks have to have ear loops so they are secure and must be worn at all times. You are only allowed to take them off when stationary and you’re away from other guests to eat or drink. But, they do have relaxation stations where you can sit, cool off, and be mask free. Disney has made a specialized team of Cast Members to reinforce these measures and promote social distancing. From what I’ve heard, they’ve done a great job!
Katie Charming Wearing A Mask
Cast Members also have to wear masks and those who have to be close to guests are also required to wear a face shield. Personally, Katie and I think this is a wonderful idea. Face masks add a layer of protection even if they aren’t perfect so we think requiring them sounds like a good idea. We also think face shields for Cast Members were very smart to help keep guests and themselves protected while still doing their job. Finally, I love the idea of rest areas cause sometimes you need a break since Florida is so hot! Overall, we really like Disney’s mask policy.
Queues & Lines
Disney has also added some social distancing measures within the lines for attractions. First of all, they’ve added stickers of where to stand for each party. This is standard in many places now but we love it because they are clear and take away that worry about not being in the right place. Second, they’ve added Plexiglas in many areas where the line loops back or loading areas right next to each other. Katie Charming loves this because it feels very safe and also separates you from other people. I agree that this was very smart and something you would never think would be an issue.
Splash Mountain
Ride Experiences
When you’re actually on the rides, a few things are a little different. For example, if the ride has a preshow, chances are it won’t be running or you will just walk through it. The Haunted Mansion has a preshow if the stretching room which now you walk right through but the Millenium Falcon has a preshow with Hondo Ohnoka which is continually running and you just walk through. So although every ride is different, there are a few changes to preshows. It makes me sad to think I can’t hear the Ghost Host’s speech anymore but I don’t know how they would be able to socially distance while being efficient so I understand these measures. They’re also spacing out people in ride vehicles. For example, you may get your own car or they may be boarding every other row. I really like this personally because it’s distanced and I have a feeling it feels more personalized.
The Haunted Mansion
Characters
One of the most iconic things from the Disney parks is character interactions. But due to the circumstances, you can’t exactly go up and hug Mickey mouse now. Despite this, Disney has still found a way to bring your characters back. The first is through character cavalcades which are like small unannounced parades. This way, you can see your friends without the risk of people waiting for the cavalcade. They also have characters meeting where guests can’t get to them like on the train station or in a field. I love this whole idea because you can easily see and interact with your favorite friends without getting too close or creating a crowd.
Amanda Charming with Olaf (Pre- COVID)
Crowds
Speaking of crowds, Disney theme parks are operating at a much lower capacity. Some days, they aren’t even filling this low capacity so the parks are much less crowded then you are used to. Now I will say that this doesn’t necessarily mean that lines are less crowded because you do have to spread out in lines and sometimes it takes longer to board for safety measures. But overall, many people have said it feels like they have the park to themselves. Lines are much shorter than you’re used to and it is truly a unique experience
Screenshot of Wait Times 7-29-20
These are all of the safety measures put into place at Walt Disney World! This way, you can still go back to the park and have a safer trip. Remember, none of these completely get rid of the chance of getting COVID from being in the parks. Please just be safe and responsible if you’re going or thinking of going. This way, we can keep the parks open and make everyone’s trip as magical as it can be!
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