Returning to Walt Disney World – Know Before You Go

The Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks are set to reopen in July after a four-month closure. While this is very exciting news, there will be some operational changes and guidelines that all Guests and Cast Members will be required to follow. This will definitely change how you visit and see the Parks, but Disney’s number one priority has always been safety.

The following updates are provided to keep you informed of the changes being made. The magic will still be there, but it may look slightly different. (Remember that it is okay to visit the Parks when you feel it is safe and comfortable to do so.) These updates can be found on a new page on the Walt Disney World Resort website titled “Returning to a World of Magic.”

Welcoming Guests Back to Walt Disney World Resort

As Walt Disney World prepares for a phased reopening, we’ve made updates based on guidance from health authorities, such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and appropriate government agencies. These measures are designed to promote:

  • Cleanliness
  • Physical distancing
  • Reduced contact

It may be different from the last time you visited. But together, we can find new ways to create magical moments—and memories to treasure.

Reopening With a New Park Reservation System

Pending approval from government agencies, Magic Kingdom park and Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park will begin a phased reopening on July 11—with Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios reopening on July 15.

The parks will reopen with some important updates to promote physical distancing, including:

  • Park Reservations: Initially, park attendance will be managed through a new park reservation system. To enter a park, both a park reservation and valid admission for the same park on the same date is required.
  • New Ticket Sales: At this time, new ticket sales are temporarily paused. Existing ticket holders and Annual Passholders will be able to make reservation requests in phases before new tickets are sold. Additional details will be shared with these Guests soon. New ticket sales will resume after that period of time.
  • New Disney Resort Hotel Reservations: At this time, new reservations at Disney Resort hotels are temporarily paused so we can focus on Guests with existing reservations (Disney Vacation Club Members can still make new reservations). Reservations will resume after that period of time.

Upon reopening, theme parks, Disney Resort hotels, restaurants, attractions, experiences and other offerings may be modified and will be limited in capacity and subject to limited availability or closure, based on direction from health experts and government officials to promote physical distancing.

Additionally, attractions, experiences (such as shows, parades and fireworks), services and amenities may have limited availability or may remain closed. We will provide more information as it becomes available. We reserve the right to cancel any reservations, admission media or purchases and provide applicable refunds.

Top Things You Should Know

Here are the top things to know as you prepare to visit:

  • To enter a park, both a park reservation and valid admission for the same park on the same date is required
  • Face coverings are required for all Guests (ages 3 and up) and Cast Members; temperature screenings are required in some locations
  • Some experiences—including theme parks—may be modified or unavailable to allow for physical distancing and limited contact
  • Helpful technology and the My Disney Experience app will help you make the most of the magic

Some details may evolve, so be sure to check this page often.

COVID-19 Warning

We have taken enhanced health and safety measures—for you, our other Guests, and Cast Members. You must follow all posted instructions while visiting Walt Disney World Resort.

An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and Guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable.

By visiting Walt Disney World Resort you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.

Help keep each other healthy.

DAPS MAGIC will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available.