How Guests Really Feel About Disneyland Reopening

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Mickey and Friends

Credit: Disney

On March 12, 2020, Disneyland Resort announced that it was closing its gates due to the rapid spread of COVID-19.  Originally planned to only be closed for a couple of weeks, Disneyland has now been closed for over one year.

disneyland park gates closed
Credit: ITM Rebekah B.

After months of patiently waiting, Disneyland fans were finally shown the light at the end of the tunnel.  On March 5, 2021, the state of California announced that it had readjusted its theme park opening guidelines and that theme parks of all sizes would be allowed to open as early as April 1.

Before Governor Gavin Newsom’s “Blueprint Refresh”, large theme parks, like Disneyland, had been bound by different reopening guidelines than small theme parks with daily capacities under 15,000 visitors.

About two weeks after the state’s announcement, Walt Disney Company CEO Bob Chapek let Disneyland enthusiasts know that Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park would be reopening on April 30.

Disneyland Railroad
Credit: Disney

The Downtown Disney District has been open for shopping and dining, within state regulations, since July 9.  Five months later, Disney California Adventure followed suit and opened up Buena Vista Street for shopping and dining.

Then, most recently, Disney California Adventure reopened more areas, including the popular Pixar Pier, for the limited-time A Touch of Disney event — it is important to note that Buena Vista Street has been operating as an extension of the Downtown Disney District. The theme park remains officially closed and rides and attractions have not been operational.

downtown disney reopening
Credit: Disney

While many are over the moon about the official April 30 reopening, some Disney fans are still nervous about going to a theme park while COVID-19 cases are still spreading.  Inside the Magic Instagram follower Chris has mixed emotions, saying:

Both excited and nervous will it be a fun day or a super spreader day??

A fellow Inside the Magic reader Elizabeth also chimed in, feeling anxious that Disneyland is opening back up too soon:

I think it’s too soon.  More people need to be vaccinated and following the rules before we can reopen.

These feelings were also shared by Melinda, who said:

I am hoping you will require vaccines eventually! So you can let more people in!

Haunted Mansion
Credit: Disney

There are also some readers who say that they won’t go to the parks until Disney lifts their current mask requirements, with reader Stephanie, saying:

I’m so happy it’s opening but we won’t be going until all the masks restrictions are lifted!

Aside from the vaccine requirements some people are hoping for, many Guests are disappointed that, due to the current COVID-19 guidelines in the state of California, only California residents will be able to buy tickets and get into Disneyland.

Instagram user Lauren is one of those people, saying:

I’m so excited for it to reopen, but sad that it’s only for locals at this time.

galaxy's edge
Credit: ITM Rebekah Barton

Inside the Magic reader Leah shared that sentiment:

Can’t wait for out of state peeps to the able to visit!

Some readers feel that Disneyland will be able to do a great job because Walt Disney World resort reopened in July 2020 and has done a good job of putting Guest and Cast Member safety first with a number of new health and safety protocols, including mandatory face masks for Guests age 2 and up, social distancing regulations, and the suspension of certain experiences, such as fireworks shows.

Inside the Magic follower, Mikeis glad Disneyland is also following a phased reopening process:

I’m glad they’re doing it slowly.  Disney world did very well though!

disney world
Credit: Disney

Overall, Disneyland reopening reactions have been very positive and Guests are excited to visit The Happiest Place on Earth once again!

Inside the Magic follower Amanda used multiple exclamation points to voice her excitement;

Cannot wait!!  Hope they announce how to get reservations soon!!

Another user, Quintorez, shared the excitement, writing:

IT’S GOING TO BE SPECTACULAR AND SAFE!!!

Whether Guests choose to visit Disneyland on opening day or wait until they feel things are safer, there sure is a lot of chatter about the much-anticipated reopening — and the excitement is palpable!

Don Muchow
Credit: Don Muchow

Are you planning on visiting Disneyland resort when it opens or will you wait?  Let us know in the comments below!

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