Fans Feel “Different Magic” When Visiting Disney World During Pandemic

in Walt Disney World

disney world

Credit: Disney

When Walt Disney World reopened the theme parks to Guests back in July 2020, there were several different protocols put into place in order to operate safely during this unprecedented time.

From face mask requirements to social distancing measures to increased hand sanitizing stations, Disney World really stepped up to ensure that during pandemic operations Guests and Cast Members would be as safe as possible.

disney world guests
Credit: Disney

Additionally, Disney World announced they would be modifying other experiences in order to make sure they were pandemic friendly. These included the elimination of character meet and greets, parades, shows, and nighttime spectaculars, and the addition of pop-up cavalcades at the four theme parks for Disney characters to appear randomly throughout the parks from a safe distance.

However, due to these protocols, as well as the lack of entertainment offerings, many Disney World fans were wondering if it’s worth visiting the Florida Disney theme parks during this time and more importantly, if Walt Disney World is still the Most Magical Place on Earth.

Wonderful World of Animation
Credit: Disney

Related: Disney Says 80% of Guests Approve of Safety Protocols

Disney World Guests Speak Out

Though right now every Disney World park Guest must wear a face mask and follow other safety protocols put in place, on top of the fact that Walt Disney World is not hosting all of its entertainment offerings including shows, meet and greets with Disney characters, nighttime spectaculars, or parades, Guests visiting are still feeling the magic.

Inside the Magic reader Janet P. shared that on her recent visit to Walt Disney World, she still had a great time, even though it’s different than before the pandemic hit.

I was there 1/22 – 1/26. Incredible experience. Sure it’s different but thoroughly enjoyed myself. Thanks for all the attention to safety detail and still love hearing, “Welcome Home” every time I scanned my Magic Band. Even with COVID restrictions still managed to do all 4 parks in one day. Our first park on Saturday was Hollywood Studios and before 11:00 am we had completed 6 rides.

epcot sunrise
Credit: Disney

Another Inside the Magic follower, Marie, shared with us that Cast Members have been very aware and enforcing the safety protocols. She said:

I have an incredible time and I love the way Cast Members are Very Attentive to guests and asking them to comply, unlike other theme parks I have visited.

Other Guests @passholderparentsportal shared that they have been Platinum Passholders for over 15 years. They have really been enjoying the minimal crowds and have hopes for the future:

We live a few minutes away from Disney world. We have been Platinum passholders for over 15 years. We go to the parks a few times per week. We also stay on Disney property at the resorts at least once a month. We have been enjoying ourselves with less crowds and great opportunities. We will one day return to normal operations at Disney but for now as everyone else is doing we are making the best of things…..

cinderella castle
Credit: Disney

Aszkara, another Inside the Magic reader and follower, said that one of her favorite things to do at the theme parks now is watching the pop-up character cavalcades! She said:

It’s definitely different, but I honestly had an amazing time. The lines looked A LOT longer than they actually were, and even the wait times posted were longer than the actual waits for almost everything. My favorite new/different thing was the random character cavalcades. So fun!

disney world space mountain
Credit: Disney

If you are planning to visit Walt Disney World, please remember to follow the new safety and health protocols in order to keep yourself and others safe during this time. Keep your distance from other Guests, wear your appropriate face coverings at all required times, use the hand sanitizer located throughout the resort, try to use paperless payment methods, and cover your mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing. For more information on Disney World’s safety protocols, visit their official website here.

Do you want to visit Disney World in the near future but are having trouble knowing where to begin planning? If so, we highly suggest working with our friends over at Academy Travel. Not only will they help you book your hotel and secure Disney Park Pass reservations, but also they will offer tips and tricks for you and your family so you get to enjoy all of the magic offered at Walt Disney World for the 50th anniversary and beyond! You can get started today by clicking here.

Have you visited Walt Disney World recently? Do you still feel the magic despite the protocols and lack of entertainment? Let us know in the comments below.

in Walt Disney World

View Comments (5)