Right now, there’s no way to know exactly when theme parks in the US will reopen after the threat of COVID-19 has passed. However, one thing we do know for sure is that when they reopen, it won’t be business as usual. Though we don’t know exactly what changes will take place from now until reopening (reportedly as soon as June), it looks like Bob Iger, former CEO and current Executive Chairman of The Walt Disney Company has been having some discussions about what kind of measures Disney parks could take to ensure everyone’s safety.
Mandatory temperature checks at the entrance to every theme park
Bob Iger recently said in an interview with Barron’s, that he is excited for the parks to reopen so guests can have a place to enjoy and escape to maybe in ways they will appreciate it more than they ever have. However, Iger also acknowledged that things will be different when the parks reopen, adding that one of the things currently being discussed is more scrutiny and restrictions for incoming guests that could come in the form of mandatory temperature checks, similar to what is being done in China.
These temperature checks would likely be done at the front of the theme parks, and be an extra addition to the security bag check area, and guests with temperatures that fall in an acceptable range would be admitted to the parks.
Limiting the number of guests
One idea that has previously been discussed when it comes to Disney parks reopening is having smaller openings at first, with parks re-opening in phases with a limited selection of attractions and shows at first, and then scaling up over a period of time. In addition to fewer attractions, Disney may also be looking at severely limiting both the amount of guests who can enter the park as well as the number of people who will be let in to indoor queue spaces.
Disney may also restrict the number of hotel rooms they sell at first, in an effort to help maintain distance at resorts too.
Keeping dining safe
One of the trickiest things that Disney may be looking at is dining within its theme parks. Disney may be looking at reducing table service restaurant reservations by 50%, and keeping tables being spaced at least six feet apart so guests can keep their distance and feel safe while dining. In addition, Disney could roll out a “no line” policy at quick service restaurants, with Mobile Order via My Disney Experience being required for all quick service meals.
When to reopen?
Though measures like social distancing in restaurants and doing temperature checks at the park’s front gates might seem extreme, they could be necessary if Walt Disney World wants to reopen any time in the near future. Right now the parks are closed until further notice, but both Walt Disney World and Disneyland have begun taking reservations for hotels beginning June 1 2020. Of course a lot will depend on the spread of the COVID-19 virus in the coming weeks, but hopefully we’ll know soon if a summer opening is indeed possible.
As we’ve said previously, there is no way to know exactly how long theme parks will be dealing with the effects of Coronavirus, but while this situation is continuing, all travelers should check out the CDC’s official site here, which has information on the virus and how to prevent its spread.
