2020-09-01
What You Need to Know About Returning to Walt Disney World
When Walt Disney World reopened in July, it was a time for excitement. Many visitors, locals and cast members were overjoyed to be able to return to the "The Most Magical Place On Earth." And as the pandemic evolves, The Walt Disney Company continues to adjust how to best serve its guests. We have the latest updates and tips to help you plan your next visit!
There are new operating hours for each park, beginning the second week of September 2020.
- Magic Kingdom: 9 AM to 6 PM ET
- Epcot: 11 AM to 7 PM
- Hollywood Studios: 10 AM to 7 PM
- Animal Kingdom: 9 AM to 5 PM
© Disney
In the meantime, here is what you can expect:
Increased safety and sanitation measures, including temperature checks, social distancing labels, reminders to wash hands, and the requirement that masks be worn by guests ages 2 and older.
You HAVE to wear a mask at all times, unless you are eating or drinking while seated. This means masks must stay on for attractions and taking photos. Because of this, you should bring more than one mask for the day. Many people find the disposable masks are more tolerable in the Florida sun.
You must have purchased a ticket AND have an online reservation for admission for the day. Gone are the days of just showing up at the park of your choice on the day you want to enter, and this applies to passholders, as well.
© Disney
Most attractions have hardly any lines, and consequently you will be able to do and see more of the park each day. (For now, the FastPass+ service has been suspended.) The exception is Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, which is still so popular that boarding passes are gone within minutes. Passes are released on the My Disney Experience app at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily.
You need to have a contactless form of payment because cash is not accepted.
Dining reservations are being accepted. If you want a guaranteed spot at a table-service restaurant, make a reservation online or on the app.
Character meet-and-greets, parades and fireworks are not taking place. Instead, you may be surprised by unscheduled character appearances.
Finally, leave the driving to Margaritaville Resort Orlando! Our complimentary shuttle will take you to Walt Disney World and bring you back to your tropical oasis. What’s more magical than that?
