Disney World just announced the reopening date for its theme parks and resorts

Dreams are finally coming true for Disney fans who’ve been mourning the closure of Disney theme parks around the world since the coronavirus pandemic forced them to shutter. On May 27, Disney announced plans to begin a phased reopening of Walt Disney World’s Orlando theme parks and resorts on July 11. Their proposal is expected to be approved by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and, if it is, the “Most Magical Place on Earth” will be back in business soon!

The reopening begins with Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme parks on July 11. Disney World’s other two theme parks, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT, will open on July 15.

Things Will Look A Bit Different

In line with CDC guidance, Disney will be implementing a number of safety measures and precautions. These include:

Reduced capacity: Theme parks, resorts and modes of transportation will all operate at reduced capacity to help promote physical distancing. In order to control capacity, Disney will be implementing a reservation system for theme parks, requiring guests to get a reservation in advance for park entry.

Physical distancing: To help with physical distancing, it’s expected that Disney will implement measures already seen at the reopening of Disney Springs and Shanghai Disneyland, including markers on the ground denoting where to stand to support physical distancing.

Reduced contact: “High touch” experiences like makeovers, character meet-and-greets and playgrounds will all be temporarily unavailable. Cashless transactions will be encouraged through the use of mobile-ordering apps, credit cards and Magic Bands.

Parades, fireworks and other experiences that encourage large crowds will also be temporarily suspended.

Enhanced Safety Protocols

A number of additional safety measures will be taken to ensure the health and safety of guests and cast members. These include:

Temperature screening: Guests will undergo a temperature screening. Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 or higher will not be permitted to enter, nor will the rest of their party.

Face coverings: All Disney cast members and guests over the age of 2 must wear a mask or face covering, except when dining or swimming.

Hand-washing and sanitizing stations: Additional hand-washing and hand sanitizer stations will be positioned throughout the parks and resorts to promote regular hand-washing.

Planning Your Visit

In order to support reduced capacity, Disney has paused all new resort reservations and ticket sales temporarily, though Disney Vacation Club members can still make reservations. Disney Vacation Club Resorts at Disney World will reopen on June 22. Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground at Disney World will also begin reopening June 22. Disney Vacation Club resorts in Vero Beach, Florida, and Hilton Head, South Carolina, will open on June 15. Disney has yet to confirm opening dates for Disney World resort hotels.

Other Orlando Theme Parks Are Opening Even Sooner

More than a month ahead of Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort will reopen all three of its parks — Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida and Volcano Bay Water Park — on June 5. They have yet to announce when resort hotels will reopen. Universal will be implementing similar safety guidelines to Disney’s.

Sea World announced its proposed reopening plan yesterday as well. If approved, Sea World will reopen its three parks, which include Discovery Cove and Aquatica, on June 11.

Disney At Home

Not ready to visit the theme parks yet but still want to keep some Disney magic alive at home? Disney has been sharing the recipes for many of its most iconic snacks and treats — like Dole Whip, Churro Bites, Mickey Beignets, Mickey Pretzels and more — so you can make them at home!

Are you ready to get back to traveling and visiting theme parks? Let us know!