Walt Disney World To Reopen Mid-July

After months of unprecedented closure, Walt Disney World has presented its plans for a phased reopening before the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force group, the last major Central Florida theme park to do so after finalized announcements from Universal Orlando and Sea World.

Walt Disney World plans to begin its phased reopening on the following dates:

Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Saturday, July 11

Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT – Wednesday, July 15

Walt Disney World will reopen much like Shanghai Disneyland, on the basis of a reservation system. Guests will have to secure a reservation on the day they intend on attending the park.

Major changes to operating procedures:

• A reservation system will be in place and be used to visit the parks.
• Required face coverings while on property. This will be enforced by cast members.
• Reduced capacity of theme parks, restaurants, retail, attractions, buses, monorails, and other transportation.
• Temporary suspension of parades, fireworks, and other events that create crowds.
• Temporary suspension of high touch activities such as character meet & greets, playgrounds and water playgrounds.

Disney is also developing “relaxation zones” for guests to break off from the main areas and take off masks in designated spots.

Increased mobile food ordering options will be available, and cashless transactions will be encouraged throughout.

The following COVID-19 General Health and Safety Protocols have been revealed. Signage will be posted throughout the parks and attractions:

Plans were presented during today’s Task Force meeting, headed by Jim MacPhee, Senior Vice President of Operations of Walt Disney World Resort. The phased reopening proposal has since passed with zero opposition from the Task Force.

Reopening plans will require endorsement from the Orange County Mayor before they can be submitted to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis for final approval. You can view the full Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force Meeting from today below:

For a recap of what the current experience is like at Disney Springs, including temperature checks and new social distancing guidelines, click here. Disney Springs expanded its offerings today with the reopening of the World of Disney store, among other Disney-owned and operated restaurants and stores.