Disney World Opens July 11th, Who’s Going?

I was so excited when I received the update announcing park openings at the happiest place on earth and then reality set in. Disney World in Orlando Florida will open two theme parks despite the growing number of coronavirus cases. Since July 5th, there have been more than 5,000 additional reported cases according to the Florida Department of Health. Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom will be the first parks to open followed by Epcot and Hollywood Studios on July 15th.

Are there Covid-19 Precautions at Disney World?

Like most businesses Walt Disney realizes the importance of increasing their sanitation procedures. All guest will must book attendance through the Disney Parks Pass reservation system. receive temperature checks and wear a face mask for everyone over two. Using the reservation system will allow the theme park to limit the number of visitors. Signage featuring the Incredibles will remind people about social distancing.

Related: Disney on a Budget

What Happens with Annual Passholders?

There was a time that this was the hottest ticket in town much like Hamilton. The Disney World Annual Pass not only provides access to all four theme parks and two water parks, ESPN World of Sports Complex and access to Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course but also discounts on merchandise and dining. Pass holders generally don't have black out dates but now they can't just show up without a reservation. The Park Pass reservation system does allow for pass holders to book up to 3 days at a time. Disney addicts are not happy about this.

Park Hopper Tickets

This is going to complicate things because you are required to make a reservation to visit all parks so gone are the days that you can pop back and forth between parks. These were often my favorite tickets because I always want to go to Animal Kingdom everyday.  Reportedly if you purchased a hopper that still has days, they will allow you to redeem it. Contact Disney World Customer service before you start planning,

Where to Stay while at Disney World?                                    

Disney Vacation Club properties at Walt Disney World and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground have begun to reopen to Members and Guests.  Staying at one of the Disney World resorts will allow you a better chance to gain admittance to the park. Be mindful this will only allow you to book for the length of your stay.

What's Open at Disney World?

Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom will welcome guest on July 11th and the two other parks, Hollywood Studios and Epcot will open on July 15th. Disney Springs is open to guest with restrictions. You can expect limited parking and reduced entrances. There is a mask policy for all except children under 2. Keep in mind that stand alone bars and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is temporarily closed. Most restaurants will require a reservation so arrive early or use a ride share because once parking has reached capacity, you will be turned away.

Who's Going?

If you didn't have tickets in hand prior to the pandemic then you're out of luck. They don't intend to sell any more tickets for 2020 and many of the special attractions are cancelled. It's too early for me, but I have my fingers crossed that these procedures help keep everyone safe. Here are the basic procedures to try to secure a reservation.

1. Download the My Disney Experience App
2. Create a profile
3. Link all tickets to your account
4. Register all members of your party
5. Select date and park to attend
6. Add any dining reservations
7. Finalize and Review

Let's do our part by wearing a mask, washing your hands and practicing social distancing.

Will you take your chances and make a reservation to go to Disney World?