It has been an exciting and busy day here at Your Story travel Company. Earlier today Disney presented their reopening plans and dates to the Orange County Economics Recovery Task Force. Lots of information but some unanswered questions as well. I'm going to tell you what we have learned.
Let's start with things that opened today before we get into the information that you really want. At Disney Springs the World of Disney shop reopened today. Through the up coming weeks more Disney Stores will reopen throughout the United States and beyond.
June 2020
Starting June 15th Disney Vacation Club Resorts in Vero Beach, Florida and Hilton Head, South Carolina will reopen. Starting June 22nd, Walt Disney World Vacation Club Resorts will reopen to members and guests, along with Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. These plans will include social distancing, enhanced cleaning, and other safety protocols.
Disney World Parks
This is what we have been waiting on! Our beloved parks reopening! Starting Saturday July 11th the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom will reopen to the public with a phased reopening. Epcot and hollywood Studios will reopen on July 15th.
Restrictions and Guidelines
With the phased reopening there will be no parades, fireworks, or character meet and greets due to the fact that these do not allow for social distancing. Park capacity will be very limited. In order for them to stay at low capacity you will be required to have an advanced reservation for park entry. They will be focusing on existing ticket reservations and annual passholders in phases before any new tickets will be sold (unless you are a DVC member who are still able to get buy tickets). Yes, the theme park reservations will be limited to keep attendance down. There is not much information on this new reservation system at this time, but Disney has promised more information on it soon.
Guests WILL be required to wear masks. Worried about wearing a mask in the Florida heat? According to Jim McPhee, Senior Vice President of Operations for Walt Disney World, there will be a designated area you can take a "mask break". Before entering the parks each guest will undergo a temperature screening. If you are above the temperature guidelines you and your party will be asked to leave. There, of course, will be social distancing throughout the parks.
Restaurants will have mobile ordering options. A cashless system using your magic band is recommended to pay for anything at the parks. Be prepared to see plexiglass dividers at all point of sale locations and food locations.
There are still so many questions about this phased reopening. There has been no mention of resort opening or transportation. I'm sure Disney will be giving us an update on these questions and other things we have not thought of yet in the near future.
Keep in mind that this plan has been approved by the "Orange County Task Force and Orlando Mayor only. It has been sent to the Florida governor for approval. As more information is being released, keep an eye on all Your Story Travel Company's social media for updates along with The Mousecapades Podcast and Facebook Group: Mickey Ears, Dole Whips & 'Ohana.
As Always, See You Real Soon!
Jeana Kruetzkamp