Matt Simon, Vice President of Disney Springs at Walt Disney World, has released a statement on the phased reopening of the shopping and dining complex.
Wednesday, May 20, will be a great first step in the phased reopening of Walt Disney World Resort, as Disney Springs begins its initial reopening that morning.
The safety and well-being of guests, cast members and third-party operating participants is at the forefront of planning. Disney Springs is eager to begin welcoming guests back to this part of Walt Disney World. While the theme parks and resort hotels remain temporarily closed, the phased reopening of Disney Springs is a welcome milestone as we navigate through this unprecedented time together as responsibly as possible.
Next week, many third-party operating participants will open their doors to Disney Springs guests. On May 27, three Disney-owned and -operated stores and venues will reopen: World of Disney, D-Luxe Burger (mobile order) and the Marketplace Co-Op. You can visit DisneySprings.com/reopening for the most current information on which locations are open.
Based on applicable government requirements, as well as guidance from health authorities such as the CDC and appropriate government agencies, a number of new health and safety measures and operational changes are being implemented. Rest assured, there is plenty of magic at Disney Springs – it just may feel a bit different than before.
Here is what guests need to know prior to arrival:
- Parking and Entrances: During this initial phase, guests will be directed to self-park in the Orange and Lime Garages. All surface lots will be closed. The number of entrances for Disney Springs will be reduced to four locations: Orange and Lime Garages, along with the Hotel Plaza Boulevard pedestrian bridge and ride share location.
- Appropriate Face Coverings: All guests 3 years of age and older, along with cast members and third-party operating-participant employees, will be required to wear an appropriate face covering while visiting Disney Springs. This is an important part of protecting both our guests and our cast. Please be sure to have an ample amount of face coverings for yourself and your party before you arrive, as you’ll need to wear them over your nose and mouth at all times (except when sitting at a dining table).
- Temperature Screenings: Once you arrive at Disney Springs, you and your party will be required to undergo temperature screenings. Based on guidance from health authorities, anyone displaying a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher will be directed to an additional location for rescreening and assistance. Those who again measure 100.4 degrees or higher will not be allowed entry, nor will those in their party. Guests are encouraged to check their temperatures prior to leaving home, as an extra layer of precaution.
- Physical Distancing and Capacity Measures: To maintain appropriate physical distancing throughout Disney Springs during this initial phase, the number of guests visiting the property, as well as within each location, will be limited. In addition, ground markings will help promote proper distancing when queuing is necessary. Physical barriers will also be added in select places where it’s difficult to maintain physical distancing.
- Cleanliness: We’ve increased cleaning and disinfection procedures in high-traffic areas such as elevators and escalators, handrails, benches, tables, handles, restrooms and more. Hand-washing stations and hand sanitizer will be available, and guests are encouraged to use these frequently.
- Cashless Transactions: It is recommended you use cashless payment options whenever possible during your visit to Disney Springs, including debit cards, credit cards, Disney gift cards, etc. You can also opt for contactless payment options or use cash to purchase a Disney gift card at the Welcome Center and select merchandise locations.
Cast members are going through extensive new training as we all learn to adjust to these changing times together. To that end, some cast members will be walking throughout Disney Springs to explain the new procedures and answer any questions guests may have. They will also encourage everyone to follow these measures for the health and safety of us all.
Everything being done during this unprecedented time is in service of our guests, our cast members and our third-party operating participants, who will also be following these new guidelines in their locations. We are constantly monitoring conditions and best practices, and we continue to learn every day from health and government authorities. As a result, operational changes and safety measures may change from time to time as circumstances evolve. We want to deliver all the Disney magic you know and love with safety, as always, being the top priority.
Matt Simon also understands that “this is a great deal of change to absorb, and I speak for all of us at Walt Disney World in thanking you for your cooperation and patience during this initial phase. Today’s world is different, and it’s going to require a shared responsibility, with everyone doing their part.”
As a reminder, please visit DisneySprings.com/reopening for the most up-to-date information on available shopping and dining locations, operating hours, new safety procedures and more.
We’re looking forward to seeing you real soon!
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