What is Walt Disney World like during Covid?
Wondering what Walt Disney World is like during Covid? I can promise you that you are not alone! There have been quite a few adjustments that have been put into place for the safety and health of park goers, and we are here to help you navigate through them all. Let’s look at some of the most common questions about visiting Walt Disney World during this time.
Do I need a park reservation?
Before Covid-19, you were able to attend any park on any day you wanted assuming the parks were not at capacity. Now, park attendance is managed through the Disney Park Pass reservation system, accessible through your My Disney Experience account and you will need a reservation. As soon as your tickets or Disney vacation package is booked, you can choose what park you would like to attend on specific dates of your trip. You will be able to view the calendar and see if the dates of your choice are available or already at capacity.
Is park hopping allowed during Covid?
Yes! Park hopping has returned! Initially, park hopping was discontinued as part of a phased reopening but now it’s once again an option. The first thing you need to know about park hopping during Covid is that you will need to attend the park in which you made a reservation for first. You can make a park reservation through the Disney Park Pass reservation system. Once you have entered the first park, you are free to park hop after 2 p.m., as long as the park you wish to hop to has not hit capacity. Park hopping is allowed from 2 p.m. to the parks scheduled close time. If you are unsure about park hours you can check the calendar here.
Is park capacity limited during Covid?
Park capacity is something that has dramatically changed at Walt Disney World during Covid. All of the parks are now operating at 35% capacity. While lesser crowds at Disney may sound ideal, it’s important to know that limited dining and entertainment options and six feet social distancing markers may make it feel even more crowded than it truly is. As Covid-19 cases decrease and more vaccines are distributed, park capacity will be re-evaluated.
Will I have my temperature checked at Disney World?
It is important to know that contactless temperature screenings will take place before entry into any Disney resort or park during Covid. Based on guidance from health authorities, anyone displaying a temperature of 100.4 F or above will be directed to an additional location for rescreening and assistance. Those with temperatures 100.4 or above will not be allowed entry into the parks. Those in their party will also not be allowed entry.
Are face masks required at Walt Disney World?
Face coverings are required for all guests ages 2 and up with the exception of dining or swimming. Masks must remain worn even during photos taken for your memory maker. Face mask requirements are as follows: Masks must be made with at least 2 layers of breathable material, fully cover the nose and mouth and secure under the chin, fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face and be secured with ties or ear loops and allow the guest to remain hands free. Neck gaiters, open chin triangle bandanas and face coverings containing valves, mesh material or holes of any kind are not accepted or allowed. You can find the cutest Disney facemasks from Shop Disney here. Trust me, you will be having so much fun on your trip you will forget that you are even wearing a mask!
Can I still make Fast Pass (FP+) reservations?
Fast Pass Plus reservations have been temporarily discontinued due to limited capacity at the parks. What this means is it is even more critical to arrive with a plan. If you want to ride all the attractions at each park without spending most of your time socially distancing in lines, you need to think out your day strategically. If this level of detailed planning feels overwhelming to you, no worries, we have a previous blog post on why outsourcing your Disney vacation planning is smart, that you can find here! Why wait in lines when you don’t have to?
Can I still get the Disney Dining Plan?
Due to limited dining options and lowered park capacity, the Disney Dining Plan has been temporarily discontinued. You are still able to book dining 60 days in advance. This is especially critical for those hard to snag dining spots as options are currently somewhat limited. (Luckily for our clients, we take care of all of the dining reservations for you!)
Day guests not staying overnight at a Disney resort are required to have a dining reservation if wanting to dine at a table service restaurant inside the resort itself. Reservations are still highly recommended and encouraged for overnight guests as well.
You can check restaurant availability using the mobile My Disney Experience app. While on the app you can also use the Mobile ordering service that enables you to order ahead at select dining locations and pick up your food during a designated arrival window. I love this time saving feature!
We are all eager to hear a return date for the dining plan, as it’s always been an awesome money and stress saving feature of the Disney vacation packages. But in the mean time, we’re happy to advise on the best dining options for your family and take care of arranging the plans.
What else has changed at Disney due to Covid?
You should know that magic bands are no longer included with a resort stay. If you have a vacation package, you can purchase solid colors for $5 per band or choose a more elaborate design for an extra premium. If you are not a resort guest you can purchase the plan bands for $14.99 each. I prefer to use a magic band for contactless payments and for the convenience of not having to tote my purse around the parks all day. Not to mention they make great souvenirs!
Whether this is your first time to Disney World or the 100th, so much has changed since the pandemic has started. If you want to be confident that you will know what Disney World is like during Covid and how to navigate the changes, contact us today for expert level planning.
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