Walt Disney World has reopened for its Annual Passholder preview days! Starting today, WDW Annual Passholders who managed to snag a coveted reservation have the opportunity to experience the Florida Disney theme park for the first time since it closed on March 20.
Much has happened since then, including the implementation of a number of a new health and safety protocols that are designed to keep both Disney World Guests and Cast Members safe as concerns surrounding the pandemic are not yet eliminated in the United States.
Here, we take a look at what APs and their guests experienced this morning when Walt Disney World Resort reopened. Note that we will continue to update this article throughout our day at Magic Kingdom.
Click here for more official information on the reopening of Disney World.
Inside the Magic is following along with all of the safety protocols put in place by Disney in order to remain safe during this unprecedented time.
Temperature Screening Stations
Before entering any Disney Park in the world, Guests are now required to undergo temperature screenings. Disney World is no exception. Guests who have fevers will not be permitted entry.
As Annual Passholders entered the theme parks this morning, this is what the temperature check stations looked like at Magic Kingdom:
Face Mask Enforcement
Disney Parks officials, including CEO Bob Chapek, have made clear that the Walt Disney Company is serious about enforcing its new mandatory face mask policy for Guests and Cast Members.
If you have plans to visit Disney World during its phased reopening, make sure you follow all face mask guidelines, including only bringing masks that have ear loops or ties.
Social Distancing in Queues
While there were originally rumors that more virtual queues, such as the boarding groups for Rise of the Resistance, would be implemented when Disney’s theme parks reopened, that is not actually the case.
Instead, Guests are being asked to practice physical distancing while they wait in line for various lines and attractions. Remember, FastPass+ service is not available at this time.
Disney has added plexiglass barriers to some queues that wind around indoor spaces. Outdoor ride queues have ground markings telling Guests where to stand while they wait to board rides.
Social distancing measures are also being taken at the park gates, as seen here outside of Magic Kingdom this morning:
Hand Sanitizing Stations
The importance of hand washing and hand sanitizing cannot be overstated at this time, as pandemic concerns in Florida continue to mount.
Although Disney is encouraging contactless payment and interaction whenever possible, they have still provided numerous hand sanitizing stations and hand washing stations throughout the four Walt Disney World theme parks.
Hand sanitizing stations are also available throughout Magic Kingdom park, including near Country Bear Jamboree in Frontierland and by the Haunted Mansion attraction. Guests are asked to practice social distancing while in line.
Overall
What do you think about Walt Disney World health and safety measures during the AP reopening preview?
If you are planning a trip to Walt Disney World Resort during the phased reopening process, make sure you contact the expert team at Academy Travel for help with everything from dining reservations to choosing the right onsite Disney Resort Hotel. They will make sure you have a dream Disney vacation even with the current restrictions!