It’s official, only 5 more days until the Magic is back! After almost a 4 month closure due to concerns over the Corona Virus and Covid-19, Walt Disney world will be opening two of its parks this Saturday July 11, 2020. Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL are both set to reopen this weekend. Hollywood Studios and Epcot are scheduled to open shortly after on July 15, 2020. However, the parks may look and feel a bit different with many safety guidelines put in place to stop the spread of Covid-19.

The parks are taking many precautions amidst the Covid-19 outbreak. A major change is that attendance will be limited due to capacity limitations and will be managed through a new park reservation system called Disney Park Pass System. You will need a park reservation and a valid theme park admission to enter the parks. In the past, having a dining reservation would guarantee you a spot into the park, but right now this is not the case. Having a dining reservation does not guarantee admittance. Existing ticket holders and annual passholders will have priority in Disney’s new reservation system. However, unless an annual passholder has resort reservations too, they will be limited to a maximum of 3 days reserved at one time. Staying at a Disney resort will lift that restriction. This is designed this way to hopefully allow more people a chance at getting reservations at Walt Disney World.

Disney World has always been a top vacation destination for our family. We have been visiting Disney Parks at least once a year since our eight year old twins were one. It truly is the most magical place on Earth! We’ve made some many amazing family memories over the years but if you’re like us you might be wondering how will the parks be different once they reopen. As mentioned above Disney Parks will be added an abundance of safety precautions to try to ensure visitors safety. As a result, for prior visitors the experience won’t be quite the same as we are used to. Disney has stated on their website that together we can find new ways to create magical moments and memories to treasure.

In the interim, many iconic Disney experiences won’t be available as guests return to the parks. All character dining options have been canceled as well as meet and greets. However, you may still see your favorite characters from a distance at the parks. You also won’t see classic Disney parades or fireworks shows. Both of those events have been canceled until further notice.

Disney Parks will have enhanced cleaning practices in place throughout Walt Disney World. They have committed to cleaning high-traffic areas more frequently. These spots include restrooms, elevators, escalators, benches, tables, handles, and more. The same enhanced cleaning practices will be put into place at Disney Resort hotels and in addition there will be reduced contact.

To adhere to social distancing guidelines, Disney Parks has put multiple measure into place. If you visit the parks you will notice there will be additional signage and ground markings to help guest practice physical distancing while at the parks. You will see this in line for the rides and throughout other areas of the parks. In addition there will be physical barriers in place in select locations where it may be difficult to practice social distancing. Examples of spots you may see physical barriers are near cash registers or at guest relations. Disney will also be enlisting cast members to engage with guest to help promote physical distancing amongst guest at the resort. Think of it as a friendly reminder to stay safe.

There will also be reduced contact throughout the park. Disney is recommending all guest to have cashless transactions and are offering contactless payment options such as mobile wallets and MagicBand usage. You will also see modified housekeeping services designed to keep guest safe and reduce contact.

Make sure to check by here for more Disney Park news and updates!