With travel already restarting following the recent pandemic, Walt Disney World is one of the top destinations that families from around the world are excited to return to. Travel at the moment is a very personal decision, but I am happy to report that Disney has put in place many safety precautions for visitors this year. With so much to look forward to, including upcoming celebrations and attraction openings, 2021 will be a popular time to visit Walt Disney World.
Theme Park Reservations
One of the biggest changes at Walt Disney World since the recent pandemic is the introduction of park reservations. These work to limit the capacity in the four theme parks each day. To visit any of the theme parks, you need to have a valid park reservation, and park hopping is only available after 2 pm each day. With exciting celebrations such as the resort’s 50th Anniversary coming up on October 1st, 2021, this is a way for guests to be able to safely enjoy their favorite attractions and theme parks without overcrowding. The 50th Anniversary celebrations will span over eighteen months, so even if you plan a visit in 2022, you’ll be able to get in on the fun.
Safety Precautions
During a trip to Walt Disney World this year, you will be required to wear a face covering. Disney has just announced these may be removed for photo opportunities, but apart from that, you’ll want to feel comfortable knowing you have to wear a mask all day long. At both the resorts and theme parks, social distancing is encouraged, and you’ll have your temperature checked each day at the parks.
The resorts are also operating at a lower capacity, as are the buses and monorails. For a Walt Disney World trip this year, I highly recommend staying at a resort with walking access to some of the theme parks. The Yacht and Beach Club Resorts would be ideal for the new Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure attraction opening in Epcot this year. We are also hoping the new fireworks show in Epcot, Harmonious, will have an opening date soon. For anyone visiting the parks this year, I recommend downloading the My Disney Experience app. This will offer you contactless payment, contactless entry to the theme parks, and online check-in.
Dining Changes
When planning a trip to Walt Disney World this year, you’ll find dining has also changed quite a bit. A high percentage of restaurants are now open for guests, and they are limiting capacity similar to the parks. Before visiting Walt Disney World this year, always make advanced dining reservations for any must-do restaurants for your family.
My family loves heading to Disney Springs during our trip, where there are many new restaurants and dining locations for visitors to try. Gideon’s Bakehouse is a popular new addition to the area, and they are using a virtual queue to manage the popularity of this location. Also, make sure you try out Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew, which offers hand-crafted donuts at Disney Springs. As far as dining, don’t miss out on the extended Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, which is returning on the much earlier date of July 15th, 2021, and runs through to November.
As you can see, there is still so much to enjoy on a 2021 trip to Walt Disney World. Disney has put a wide variety of safety precautions in place to ease the return to theme parks for their guests. If you are planning a trip to Walt Disney World in 2021 and have any questions about your upcoming vacation, don’t hesitate to contact us here at Fantastical Vacations today.
