Potential Plans for Disney World Phased Reopening
Leaders from Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, and other Orlando area theme parks met today as part of a subcommittee within the Reopen Florida Task Force to determine how and when to reopen parks and other attractions in the Sunshine State. In this post, we’ll share some ideas discussed, what this could mean for Walt Disney World, and potential impediments to these plans.
The subcommittee that met has been dubbed the “Industry Working Group on Tourism, Construction, Real Estate, Recreation, Retail and Transportation,” and includes executive leadership from a wide range of businesses from theme parks to airlines to retirement communities (yes, really). Of relevance for this blog are two group members: Walt Disney World President Josh D’Amaro and Universal Orlando CEO John Sprouls.
This meeting comes a few days after Florida beaches began to reopen and 24 hours after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis claimed that Walt Disney World is “so far ahead of the curve” on reopening and will be “leading the way” in Florida’s plans to begin opening in the coming weeks under the federal government’s Guidelines for Opening Up America Again, a three-phased approach based on the advice of public health experts…
During the tourism portion of the Reopen Florida Task Force meeting, Walt Disney World President Josh D’Amaro did not speak. However, Universal Orlando CEO John Sprouls did, and he outlined some of plans to reopen Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure.
This is significant because, as with security, the health protocol plans here are certain to be collaborative in nature. While some diehard fans of both Disney and Universal project their own aspersions and view the companies in an oddly adversarial light, that doesn’t reflect reality.
While competitors, it’s also true that Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando both exist in the same community, and to some degree, indirectly benefit from one another. In the past, we’ve seen identical changes and policies rolled out simultaneously at the two resort complexes, including 5 years ago when both (plus SeaWorld) installed enhanced security infrastructure overnight.
There have been some diverging approaches between the two on the security screening measures (most notably, Universal uses baggage scanners–something we’d love to see Walt Disney World adopt), but there are a lot of practices that are consistent between the two. This is not coincidence. It’s a foregone that Universal and Disney will likewise adopt nearly identical health procedures and protocol for reopening.
Sprouls outlined a number of possibilities, including increased sanitation throughout the parks, increased use of virtual queue systems, encouraging guests to wear face masks, added social-distancing measures, disinfecting attractions throughout the day, increased use of mobile ordering and contactless payment transactions, staggered seating for shows, screening employees daily, and more.
Much of what was mentioned mirrors the possibilities outlined in a Universal Orlando survey sent out over the weekend. Notably, that survey also mentioned suspending parades and nighttime shows, limiting attendance to half of park capacity, and removing 3D glasses from attractions. (Anything that accelerates the abandonment of 3D is welcome in our book!)
He additionally stated that multiple teams are working on a number of different scenarios for reopening protocol. Moreover, that the theme parks will be guided by state and local officials, as well as health officials with the overarching goal to be keeping employees and guests safe.
This all mirrors recent comments from Disney Executive Chairman Bob Iger–along with health safety measures that have been floated for Walt Disney World and Disneyland, and what’s currently being rolled out ahead of Shanghai Disneyland’s imminent reopening. (All as previously discussed in our What Operational & Health Safety Changes Will Walt Disney World Make to Reopen? post.)
For both Universal and Disney, there’s the complicating factor of their theme park operations on the West Coast. While Florida is overzealous about reopening its businesses, California Governor Gavin Newsom is striking a much more tentative tone. The two governors are essentially at opposite ends of the spectrum on this, which is noteworthy here.
California’s more cautious approach to resuming normalcy could end up shaping big business behavior nationwide, as has happened with auto emissions and other things. It’ll be interesting to see what California’s economic task force–which counts Disney’s Bob Iger as a member–determines is the best course of action for that state in the coming weeks.
There’s also the potential matter of trepidation on Disney’s part. The state of Florida is offering some degree of cover with this task force and its official recommendations, which could encourage Walt Disney World to resume operations sooner. However, there’s still the reality that “safety” is part of the Disney brand, and reopening prematurely would damage that.
On balance, it’s tough to predict how this will play out and Disney’s position here is unenviable. It’s somewhat difficult to envision Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando reopening while Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood remain closed. Suffice to say, just because DeSantis wants to reopen the state ASAP doesn’t mean that’s the route Disney and Universal will take.
Florida’s eagerness here comes as the local economy has already been decimated by the shutdown. The bulk of Central Florida’s businesses and employees are dependent upon tourism, and the impacts have already been catastrophic. This is not to say that Florida’s plans (whatever they might end up being) are right–just that the state is in a tough spot.
Visit Florida CEO Dana Young stated that hotels in the state have seen a $1.6 billion drop in revenue over the past six weeks, per Spectrum News 13. In order to get tourism numbers back up, people will need to feel that it’s safe to travel. Visit Florida is thus working on a multi-phase campaign, with the first part focused on Florida residents, encouraging them to visit state attractions.
Part of Visit Florida’s push will involve encouraging Floridians to support local businesses by taking an in-state vacation. This should mesh with the Reopen Florida Task Force’s plans for a gradual and careful reopening that will entail first reopening to Florida residents, then national visitors, followed by international guests.
While this phased approach to reopening the Walt Disney World theme parks has not yet been cemented (far from it), it certainly makes sense. Moreover, it would offer more latitude in a slower rollout of rides, shows, and other offerings (even potentially a phased opening of the parks themselves).
Once in a lifetime or other infrequent Walt Disney World guests are less forgiving (we’re trying to put that diplomatically), but the stakes are lower with Floridians. There’s less of a cost for locals in visiting Walt Disney World. Many are Annual Passholders and those who aren’t don’t have to book airfare, stay in a hotel, etc–many will be happy just to get out of the house and have a public space to walk around.
By contrast, tourists are spending thousands of dollars for their vacations, and may be less receptive to parades, fireworks, attractions, etc., not happening. We’ve already heard from a ton of readers who have expressed similar sentiment. We can’t blame them given the cost of a Walt Disney World vacation, but we all also have to accept the reality that things are going to be a bit different (mild understatement) for a while.
Reopening to locals first with all of the modified health safety procedures would allow Walt Disney World something of a “soft opening” period for the resort complex as a whole. During that time, Disney could test and adjust its new protocol, see what works and doesn’t, and slowly ramp up operations.
When and how long such a “soft opening” would last before welcoming out of state tourists to Walt Disney World is anyone’s guess at this point. However, we likely won’t have to speculate for too long, as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis wants a plan submitted to him by the end of this week. We’ll keep you posted as to how the reopening plan shapes up at that point (for a heads up when that happens, subscribe to our free email newsletter).
Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews. To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!
YOUR THOUGHTS
What do you think of Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort reopening to Floridians before out of state or international tourists? Which of the health security screenings and protocol do you think will come to fruition when the parks reopen? Are you anticipating modified operations—including the elimination of entertainment and reduced ride capacity? Do you expect a phased opening of the parks & resorts? Will you immediately book a trip, or wait until everything is back up and running, and things have returned to normal? Do you agree or disagree with our commentary? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing your feedback–even when you disagree with us–is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!
It will be interesting to see if DVC members are also included in a “soft opening”. Maybe second phase since many are not residents of Florida. Disney is in a bit of a pickle with DVC right now with many members losing points for the year.
I have a trip in late October and waiting to see if I will cancel or not but it’s tough to imagine WDW without fireworks, parades or indoor theater shows,it’s Disney minus half the magic and it kinda sounds depressing. I wonder if WDW wants half full parks with dissatisfied customers in them,its not good for the brand and I highly doubt they will give me some $$$ back if half of what the usually offer is on the shelf I am not shelling out a lot of money to be let diwn.
When the theme parks open, I would like to see cloth masks offered to guests that are somewhat breathable. Limiting the number of guests is necessary to help keep the crowds down & distance guests. I like what I saw at overseas Disney where everyone has a decorated square in which to stand. I would feel safer if health screenings were given upon entry. Limiting entrance to Florida residents only is an excellent idea. Parking fees & tickets need to reflect limited entertainment offerings. We need to go slow.
I think a phased re-opening and being super cautious is how it has to be. It would be terrible on all levels for people and the parks if they just opened the doors and said “we’re open for business again…” My question is how long will the restrictions be in place. We were always planning a trip for early March 2021 but now are unsure if we should wait until 2022 because so many things may not be happening or restricted still in 2021 and the crowds might be crazy because of the rebookings. As someone above said – if you are traveling for a one-time trip – its hard to spend all that money and get half the access. I’m curious what others think about 2021.
@Stacey-one thought might be if construction currently is delayed and won’t restart until later, then maybe 2022 is a better choice. Seems like there would be more “new” stuff in 2022 that was supposed to be but didn’t get finished in 2021. Just a thought..
I also had the same thought of “will it be crazy” with rebooking since things were already shutting down in places this year in March. Some of that may already be spilling over in to March 2021 from this year, from people hesitant to go even before the closures….
We have Weekday Annual Passes with entire summer as blocked out dates. I would hope Disney would ease up on that restriction, at least for month of June, and only allow FL residents to attend. That would help give them the attendance numbers needed to test out their new procedures.
As always, we appreciate all the information you give us, Tom. We are eager to get DW back open!
I would be curious as to out of state annual pass holders options. Would they receive additional days on their pass as they would not be allowed to come but Park is open?
THAT is a very good question. I called the other day about my AP as it is set to expire in May. This wasn’t on the table at that point though so I didn’t ask about it. Cast Members are very helpful and pleasant to speak with though.
We have had a vacation planned and paid for . The dates are 5/25 through 5/31. Holding onto hope that they would open by then. It looks like we need to reschedule for 2021. It would be a bummer but that’s life with this virus. Taking my sister who has never been and it wouldn’t be the same without the parades and all the experience of Disney. We are booked to stay at a Disney property . I guess waiting on someone to say absolutely this is happening. The only thing is what if the virus doesn’t go away and comes back . Are we going to be in the same predicament next spring. No one knows.
Just a suggestion-since you are right at about 30 days out right now-check if you have a package or restrictions to see if 30 days out is the cancellation without penalties/fees. Today could be a critical day for you!
Safe money says no one really knows, and maybe you would be wise to change your dates if you are about to enter fees/penalties territory. Read the rules/fine print of your booking immediately
WDW has temporarily changed its change/cancellation policy and is waiving any Disney-imposed change or cancellation fees for guests checking into a WDW resort up until the day of check-in through June 30. Donna isn’t at risk of losing any money toward a WDW resort reservation right now.
@henrietta
Not everyone books through Disney…just better to be safe than sorry
Some book through Southwest and Delta vacations, marriott, etc
always best to read the booking details through whoever one uses to book
and they all have different rules
There are many older individuals with a number of medical conditions that visit Disney’ World. Are they to be exempt from visiting Disney because they are not in perfect health? Trying to get in to see a Doctor is difficult and poses challenges especially now.. Having 24 hour medical clearance is next to impossible. Temperature checks are not a true indicator of Covid. Heat, humidity can raise a persons core body temperature. A Covid test is most accurate. These tests are not readily available to everyone. Also, there are many people who exhibit no symptoms , test negative and still have the disease. Challenging times for sure.
Given the high and constantly rising cost of of vacationing at WDW; it is all or nothing for my family. Anything short of a full opening is DOA.
I agree. We have a vacation booked for July and plan to cancel. I’m just so bummed about it, I haven’t been able to actually do it yet!
I didn’t think it would be a huge deal for me to cancel our 10th anniversary trip in May and a post- work convention visit in August, but was surprised to find myself very emotional making that phone call. So much goes into planning these trips (including waking up at 3 or 4 am to make advance dining and Fastpass reservations) that it feels like a huge loss. Not to mention the travel insurance costs (thank goodness we bought the insurance though) for our DVC rental that we booked. We have our fingers crossed for a visit in December instead. Gotta find a time to use the darn annual passes we bought for our upcoming trips.
Totally agree! Have vacation booked for September, for 20 family members. We are anxiously watching and waiting. Would be our first MNSSHP! Anything less than full opening will result in cancelling our trip.
I really hope our June vacation isn’t ruined! Was originally in May now June we have no other time we can make it there and have saved for this for several years :(! If that isn’t the case I sincerely hope the rumors about Disney not refunding the money isn’t true as we can’t go any other time in the next 12 months!
We had a trip planned for June 6-17. I finally went online and canceled our trip last week. It killed me but I knew it just wasn’t going to happen. I got all our money refunded with no problem. However you paid it, that’s how it will be refunded. We got $300 back on a Disney gift card and the rest on the credit card we used.
I haven’t heard that rumor? Our vacation was booked through Disney, and it’s all refundable.
I think they’ve been pretty good about it. I was able to get our non-refundable special event tickets refunded when our upcoming trips had to be cancelled since we don’t know when we will be able to come back. I just told them we would be lucky to still have jobs later this year so I can’t make plans for another vacation yet. It’s still wait & see for everyone right now.
I think the key to a successful and safe opening is in testing. If people can be tested at the entrance and they test negative, then they can enter the park. I know it will be a crazy, slow process but I think testing is the answer.
I also think that’s the answer for the cruise industry. Testing at port before boarding. A negative test means you can board.
For onsite guests, they should test at the bus stops, so while waiting for a bus, you’re getting tested, then they add something either on your magic band or another wristband to show you’ve been tested and are good to enter the park. maybe separate people coming in from buses vs cars so that those coming from cars can be tested before coming in contact with those from the buses.
Interesting comments that certainly show the polarity on issues regarding opening businesses. I look forward to reading the article shared in an earlier post, but the title “Health vs. Wealth….” evoked an immediate response in me that I’m not looking for a full appreciation of social determinants of health to be reflected. I wish it were as simple as health concerns related to the virus versus “wealth” of opening businesses, but that’s far from the reality. I teach population and public health nursing. There are MANY factors influencing health that must be considered. We’re already seeing worsening of anxiety/depression issues, dementia in seniors (we have a family member who we’ve watched steadily decline as she experiences more anxiety and paranoia), people losing their livelihood, domestic violence & other crimes…and the list goes on. It will take a long time, for instance, for us to figure out just how detrimental this has been on families…especially children.
We have to explore ways to open businesses and get people back to work while doing what we can to mitigate risks and monitor hot spots. If we don’t, the consequences and long-term impact will be so much worse than the virus.
Models and predictions have been way off. We don’t have all the data to properly calculate the full reality. A recent Stanford study in Santa Clara using antibody testing is indicating what many of us expect we’ll find….many more people have had COVID and recovered than we realize: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/17/antibody-study-suggests-coronavirus-is-far-more-widespread-than-previously-thought
I believe we have a responsibility to do all we can to open safely, but open we must. And, ultimately individuals and families need to evaluate their own circumstances and decide what level of risk is appropriate for them. Trust me, you are getting exposed to infectious diseases on a regular basis when out in public…especially in large crowds….tuberculosis, Hepatitis A, influenza, pertussis…just to name a few. You have to decide the risk you’re willing to take and also bear responsibility to mitigate that for yourself (WASH HANDS, handsanitizer, don’t touch your face, stay home when sick, and keep your distance as needed).
I agree with this 100 percent we’re doing more damage with lockdown than the virus is causing.
Thank you for attempting to inject some logic into this discussion. Not that it will be generally appreciated.
And luckily there are vaccines for those diseases. Once there is sufficient testing and, eventually, a vaccine for this one we’ll all feel much better. Unfortunately for now this is an unknown and so highly contagious that I’m comfortable listening to the health experts and scientists.
I just read that the top medical authority in the United Kingdom said there’s a very small chance that a vaccine will be available within the next year. I wouldn’t put all my hopes and a vaccine; there still is no vaccine for the HIV virus, and they’ve been working on that one for 30 years.
There is still no vaccine for HIV, SARS, or the common cold. As hard as everyone is working on a vaccine, we can’t hang all our hopes on a one that may well never come. What are the options then, stay home until we finally die at home, alone? Or go out, live life and die having had some fun? I don’t want to die alone, at home, years from now because a vaccine was never discovered, no one got herd immunity and we are never allowed outdoors again.
After all – didn’t “flatten the curve” mean that we should assume most the population will get this, and we just need to space out the infections? I’m not sure when “flatten the curve” changed to “stay at home indefinitely in case they have a working vaccine one day”
The cliff notes version of the article I referenced is that (by my count) the authors incorporated 17 epidemiological factors and 14 economic factors into a model. Their goal was to weigh the impacts of the current mitigation techniques to both economic activity and public health.
Is it perfect? Of course not. That being said, they did a much better job than I ever could during their analysis. All the details (i.e. math) are included for the reader, allowing the reader to form their own opinions regarding their approach.
The authors optimize to find a point that maximizes the net good for society. That is, finding the point at which the cost of losing human life recedes and the economic cost of the shutdown is no longer serving the greater good.
The authors recognize that the shutdown does not harm nor benefit all Americans equally. This may contribute to the divergent views regarding the effectiveness of the current policies our Government has enacted.
Perhaps most interestingly the results suggest the current practices in place are too extreme, while likewise asserting that immediately lifting all restrictions is too extreme. It’s almost like the math suggests compromise is in order.
I guess that’s why I am biased towards it.
Drew, I looked for the link but couldn’t find it. Did it get nuked?
Keep the info coming. Enjoy all your articles. Maybe annual pass holders would be guinea pigs, but I will wait and see what happens. Missed flower & Garden show this year, but have been disappointed past few years, no Festival bldg. and speakers. Hope that returns after all the construction mess at Epcot. Doubt Disney will give any money incentive to AP
I love the idea of opening to Florida residents first. We haven’t been to any of the parks in probably 12 years and only live 30 minutes away. Always too crowded . I would love to do a Florida vacation go to the parks and stay at a hotel because I don’t have any interest in flying anywhere for a long time. I would probably buy a yearly pass . You are better off trying it out on locals first before tourists spend hundreds of dollars to fly here and are disappointed because everything isnt open.
This it’s the most crazy idea in this moment other countries barely has cases and the whole country it’s close .. if we don’t stay home until the new cases drops significantly . It’s Disney open soon Florida will be in the next months worse than New York We have to wait until the case are gone . I understand the economy it’s important but life it’s more important son people don’t care that’s the reason we have the reallis in the streets.. god protect us
The officials are inflating the numbers to make them agree with the models, which were totally wrong in their predictions. An example of this: the numbers of all other causes of death have dropped, as Covid 19 deaths have increased. Also the CDC has stopped reporting simple flu deaths. Is that because they are now counted under the Covid 19 death category? Don’t believe the tv, or “ data” that clearly has been manipulated.
Then what should we believe?
@Anthony
Believe people and organizations that have nothing to gain, especially financially, from the information they impart. There is a great USC study and three doctors, Dr David Katz
Dr john ioannidis and Dr.Isaac Ben-Israel (also known as Yitzhak Ben Israel) you might research.
We have already decided we would go even if the only thing open was the resort and Disney Springs. We are DVC and annual pass holders so we go fairly often. Right now we just want to be in our happy place!
Hey Tom,
Thanks for the update.
Honestly, I completely understand there should be some things taken away to slowly get the parks open, but the “price” needs to reflect it as well. I’m sorry, it’s not inexpensive to fly down and book a vacation at Disney, which we understand, but with all the amenities.
Then, I really think some medical clearance should also be put in place , if visiting you need to be cleared by your physician, in writing to be within 24hours of arriving presented to the airline and to Disney. I then hope they install check points, at the entrance and at different areas of the parks that can read your bodies temperature, so we all could feel comfortable once again. The one thing I can’t imagine, is wearing is a mask in the Florida heat and humidity ??
Phyllis, I completely agree with your comment about the masks. Mandatory masks (especially when the efficacy of non-medical grade masks falls on a big spectrum) would be a deal-killer for any of our Disney trips.
Tom and Sarah,
Amidst all of the commentary and opinions of folks here on how, when and why Disney should open their parks, as well as this comment board turning into a sounding board for people’s personal feelings, I would like to send out a huge THANK YOU to you both for continuing to feed us diehard Disney fans any Disney news! Your passion for providing the most accurate and up-to-date information has truly been a light for my family during this trying time.
I’ve been meaning to send you both a “fan message” for quite some time, and being stuck at home has given me the opportunity to do just that! No matter the subject being addressed, your well-rounded views and reiteration of the facts has made you guys my go-to for any and all Disney news. Also, as a fellow Muppet fan, it is refreshing to find we are still out there!!
As Disney moves forward, no matter how this pans out for the resort or park-goers, I know I can trust you to deliver the straight-forward news. At the end of the day, even if parades and fireworks and “Disney Life” as we’ve known it changes, I think it’s important to reflect on all the memories we’ve already made at the parks over the years. From here on, we will have new experiences ahead and, knowing Disney, they will not disappoint.
Cheers to you both and know you are appreciated!!
Thanks for this! I agree with the staggered approach and allow Florida residents first and then Nationally after. We are supposed to visit in October this year. We drive in and would still be ok with additional safety measures at that point but I am hopeful cases drop off in the summer months as well as we continue proper hygiene to keep us all healthy. Time will tell but we should be much more prepared for the winter season next year. Right now, Disney is the only vacation in 2020 I have not altered and hopefully I don’t have to. Excited to see what is determined and hope for a very positive outcome. Florida has done exceptional at this so far.
Great article and “interestng” comments….We are annual passholder and somewhat local. We look forward to the reopening. However, we stay offsite and frequently eat offsite. Will the rest of the Orlando tourist infrastructure be ready?
I don’t see this as financially viable for Disney. If the reason to open up is to stop the bleeding and get people back to work than Disney is going to put a plan into place where they are going to lose money by getting rid of their main income stream in pre-booked vacationers staying on property in favor of potential visitors in state who aren’t guaranteed?
With regard to safety. I agree with a few on here. The so-called experts haven’t gotten much right. The models haven’t been right yet. Many studies are being done that point to this virus being at or below the danger level of the seasonal flu. The numbers and data so far seem to point in that direction as well. Any safety measures Disney takes will merely be for looks. I am personally tired of the fearmongering by the media and the outright disrespect from people who think their opinion is more important and thus gives them the right to name call and demean others who don’t agree with them.
Amen!
The flu killed 34,200 for the 2018-2019 flu year On March 20, the death toll in the United States was 225. By April 20, the coronavirus had killed more than 42,000 Americans. Many states have already had more Covid19 deaths in one month than an entire year of the flu. Not sure which models you are looking at, but as a firefighter/paramedic I can tell you this is not like the flu. And we cannot treat it as such. I do agree that we should not panic, but we cannot dismiss it as the flu as well. Hopefully this all passes soon. Stay safe and well everyone!
Glad to see not everybody thinks this virus is fake ,we all need to do as much we can this isn’t fun for any of us we will b living a different life for sometime , and I thank all the key workers all over the world for trying their hardest to cope with this pandemic
I’m personally tired of people telling me that this virus isn’t like the flu. No one said it was. Since the only standard, we have for a virus is the flu that’s why people use those numbers as a comparison. This virus hasn’t reached flu numbers yet Just for reference last year was 80,000 deaths and this year to date it’s roughly 50-60,000. (CDC numbers)
So when people say it’s not reached flu numbers it’s a reference to its lack of lethality as compared to a knowable number in a virus death count. I thought this would be common sense.
100% correct. Thank you!
JANIS, just because someone doesn’t agree with your opinion doesn’t make them stupid or foolish.