We already knew that the Disney theme park experience was going to be a lot different when the Walt Disney World theme parks open back up on July 11. From required masks to temperature screenings and social distancing inside the parks, Disney has made a lot of general operations to try and keep guests safe while the COVID-19 Pandemic is ongoing. However, as we move closer and closer to the theme parks’ reopening date, more details have been revealed about what kinds of changes guests can expect when experiencing attractions at Walt Disney World after reopening.
1. Many Cast Members will be wearing masks and face shields
Though all Cast Members are required to wear face masks, attractions Cast Members and those with guest facing positions where social distancing is not possible will also be required to wear face shields in order to keep themselves safe while working. This can include Cast Members at the front of attractions, those involved with load/unload, and even those stationed near characters around the park.
2. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will be different
One of the big reasons why Disney’s Hollywood Studios has the least availability for Parks Pass reservations is due to the popularity of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. And it looks like in an effort to keep guests safe in this new land a number of changes specific to this land have been confirmed:
- Oga’s Cantina will not be available
- Savi’s Workshop will not be available
- Guests will move straight through the pre show room on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and will not be seated with other parties inside the Millennium Falcon
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance will greatly reduce capacity and ride vehicles during the final section of the attraction will only seat one party at a time. In addition costumes worn by Cast Members in this attraction will be modified to accomodate face shields.
3. At least one in-park character dining experience will be available, but with modifications
Disney has said previously that all character interactions have been suspended until further notice, which unfortunately includes character dining experiences like those at Cinderella’s Royal Table and Crystal Palace. However Disney has clarified this point somewhat saying that while Character Dining will still not be offered during the initial reopening there will be a “modified Character Dining experience” available at Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera, as well as Garden Grill Restaurant inside Epcot. We don’t know exactly what constitutes a “modified” experience at these locations, but hopefully we’ll learn more soon!
4. Guests with cancelled dining and experiences can now rebook
As of June 30 guests with previously-cancelled dining experiences or special experiences like Droid Depot at Disney’s Hollywood Studios can rebook. Guests must call ahead up to 60 days in advance of their arrival to secure replacement experiences and can also go online for dining rebooking.
With less than two weeks to go before the Walt Disney World theme parks reopen, we expect even more details to come to light about how the park experience will be different in the weeks and months ahead. Will you be visiting the theme parks while these changes are in place? Or waiting until things go back to normal?
As always, while this situation is evolving, all travelers should check out the CDC’s official site here, which has information on the virus and how to prevent its spread.
Theme Park Tourist COVID-19 Complete Coverage: 5 Things You Need to Know Happening at Disney Springs Right Now I Disney Parks Hit Capacity Limits for Opening Week as Orange County Confirms Reopening I The 16 Major Theme Park Projects Now Officially Cancelled, Delayed or Slimmed Down (June 27, 2020) I The 16 Major Theme Park Projects Now Officially Cancelled, Delayed or Slimmed Down (June 27, 2020) I Disneyland Theme Parks Will NOT Open Next Month I Disneyland Paris Will Begin Phased Reopening On July 15, 2020 I Disney Parks Pass System Has Rough First Day as Disney Announces Which Hotels Are Reopening I Disney Park Pass System Opens Next Week, Availability to be VERY Limited I Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Cancelled at Walt Disney World
