Disney Vacation Tips During this Pandemic

Have you visited Disney parks during this pandemic? I have and it’s a much different process booking your Disney vacation during Covid-19.

We are a Disney family and annual pass holders. We love Disney and visit the parks often. Since the reopening, we have been to Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios. We felt very safe being at the parks and enjoyed riding a lot of the attractions with smaller crowds.

Disney has made several new changes in booking your magical vacation and added new precautions due to Covid-19. I wanted to share some tips with you if you are planning an upcoming Disney vacation.

Top Disney Vacation Tips:

• Download the My Disney Experience App and visit their website. The app is great for ride times, ordering food at the park and viewing your vacation itinerary.
• Book a room at a Disney Resort. This is the easiest way to get availability into any of the popular theme parks such as Magic Kingdom.
• Go to the Disney Park Pass System to make a reservation for the theme park. NOTE: After making the room reservation, book the park you want to attend and the specific days. You can only attend one park each day.
• There are no fast passes available during this time and magic hours may be limited or unavailable.
• Some of the requirements for entering the Disney parks include:
  • Temperature checks before entering any Disney property
  • Everyone (ages 2+) needs to wear a two-layered mask secured with ties or ear loops. More details about appropriate masks are available here. 
  • No gators or masks with filters are allowed
• If you want to make dining reservations, call Disney directly to book those experiences.
• Always remember to bring a poncho because it often rains in the afternoon.

• Park hours are limited. I recommend checking out the interactive park hour calendar before planning your trip. See below for the current theme park hours:
  • Magic Kingdom: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  • Epcot: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
  • Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 9 a.m.– 7 p.m.
  • Disney’s Animal Kingdom: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  • Disney Springs: 10 a.m. –11 p.m.
  • Disney Boardwalk: 6:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.

So now that you’ve booked your Disney trip, what should you expect when you get there? There will be temperature and bag checks before entering the parks. Cast members will also make sure you’re wearing your masks at all times–except when eating. You might notice more social distancing signage and stickers to keep guests safe. Character appearances and parades are at a distance. You will notice less crowds in the park, which is a plus since you can ride more attractions. Some rides and restaurants may be closed during this time. My best advice is “be patient” and have fun when you go to the Disney parks. It will be a magical experience for you and your family!