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!
I think it important to note that it’s looking more and more that the virus got here earlier than first thought. There are a lot of people who were told they had the flu, despite testing negative for it, and there are many who never have any symptoms.
I came done with something in mid-February, tested negative for the flu, but was told I had the flu. I never had a really bad cough or difficulty breathing, except that I couldn’t shake a fever for about 4 days. I’ve had the flu before, and this felt “different” than any flu I’ve had before. I want to know with an anti-body test if I had it.
OTOH, my brother has a friend who’s just finishing quarantine. He tested positive and has had no symptoms…but the friend’s brother ended up on a respirator.
My brother-in-law has it, with all the classic signs of it, even getting pneumonia. He’s just not gotten bad enough for hospital admittance, and we hope he won’t.
There’s plenty of other stories I could tell, but this virus affects people in vastly different ways. I think testing is going to be the key; Once we have enough testing ability, we need to test everyone for antibodies to find out if they had it. With such testing, businesses can reopen to normal operating parameters without having to worry that their employees, customers, clients, and/or guests are going to get sick, possibly die, and then sue their tushies off.
I hope your family members recover safely and you all keep safe.
Peoples lives come first
Interesting that you say that Paul because I had a very similar experience in mid- February. I couldn’t shake the cough and had a slight fever. The doctor tested me for the flu and I came back negative. Interestingly though my wife who suffers from asthma never got sick and neither, to my knowledge, did anyone in my office. Like you, I would love to be tested for the antibodies just to find out.
My whole family and especially my grandkids want to return to Disneyworld and we also want the full experience. Please reopen soon as we have booked two trips there this year. Every Disney park does not have to open at the same time. Every state is not opening at the same time. Disneyworld can reopen without reopening Disneyland.
Disney should roll back price structure for Florida residents. If they open first to Florida residents while using us to work out any glitches, we should be compensated for being their guinea pigs. Would also serve to increase public relations with their loyal customers. Also roll back price on Mickey Ears. My favorite.
I rebooked my spring break trip for my niece and I to end of October. I figure by then it should be good to go. If you are sick or high risk, STAY HOME.
We have a trip booked for May 11 and got an email from Disney reservations that said if we didn’t re-book for June 1 or later it would automatically be cancelled. I called Disney to rebook did June 1 because I don’t know when during the summer her high school is going to have graduation and she leaves for college in Mid August. So I wanted to rebook for the earliest date. Anyway, I told by reservations that if I had to cancel the trip after May 1, I would lose my deposit. So if I keep the reservation for June and not everything is open, not gonna be happy – so the question is when will we find out what the plan is since Disney is pushing people to make reservations starting June 1 and not refunding deposits?
I think your comments and observations are pretty realistic (which probably means they are nowhere near what will be adopted) except for one thing. You suggest that the return order might be: Florida residents, then national visitors, followed by international guests. I would suggest another category stuck at the end: New Yorkers. Usually, this would just be a joke, but in this case, I think there is a very real justification for discriminating against them. Part of managing this effectively is recognizing the realities and acting accordingly. Clearly, New York has had more cases than anyone else and there is ample justification for not wanting them to infect everyone else. I would probably put New Jersey and Michigan in the same grouping.
Im a Florida resident and I’m not going to any crowded theme part until this virus is over or at least new cases are down. I worked at Disney for 18 years I support them and I get that businesses have to reopen but I think it’s too soon. If we get a repeat of cases then it will be a lockdown all over. Waiting another month or so would be better.
If they want to test out new stuff on Floridians then they should drastically reduce the price
I am long time DVC member and my family visits your State 2 times a year. We are from the WNY area and a county where there are less than 40 total cases. Don’t lump me in with your “Ban NY” statement. It’s offensive as much as it is STUPID. Comparing where I live to NYC and Downstate ia like saying the epicenter of Miami and the rural area near Sandestin are the same.
If whole groups of people have to be discriminated against, maybe it’s too early to open. Walt would roll over in his grave. Not to mention the logistical, ethical and legal nightmare that would be. That would also mean banning people from certain countries as well.
New York City does have more cases, but I live in upstate NY and we have about the same number of cases as Orlando has. The city is 5 1/2 hours from here.
We are a state of 21 million, we have 28,000 confirmed cases. The deaths have just reached 800 this week. The Miami, West Palm area is hardest hit. Thanks to all the New Yorkers and Jersey people who fled down here. We had so many private jets backed up it was like 95 at rush hour. That went on for about two weeks in March at the same time we had your kids down here for Springbreak. Just as people including Dr. Fauci realized how contagious it was!! We think that our Governor is handling pretty well. Our numbers aren’t as bad as they could’ve been. We have many counties with less than 50 cases and few if any deaths. Miami area has over 20,000 of the confirmed cases and the bulk of the mortalities. I have two sisters in upper state New York and your governor has done little for them!!!
Opening to Florida residents is a great way to see what works and what doesn’t for social distancing. We would also appreciate it if you would allow annual pass holders to come from outside FL (I am from Minnesota) to come at the same time as Florida residents. We annual pass holders LOVE Disney and will come back and support Disney always. I have been going to Disney World since it opened in 1971 and watched all the clever ways Disney has adapted to the ever changing world and they do a wonderful job! We miss you Disney World! Open soon, please! We all need a Disney vacation to plan and look forward to during this difficult time. We know you will figure something out! Just know, your Disney fans will never give up coming to Disney World and loving the Wonderful World Of Disney!!
If you let annual pass holders in from states other than Florida, that makes the slow opening totally pointless. The point is to let LOCALS in first. And by the way, just because you are an annual pass holder, that does NOT mean you love Disney more than other people who may not be able to afford APs.
Hello! Thank you for the opportunity to provide input. We have a fully-paid reservation which originally was scheduled for this month (April) and now has been rescheduled for October. We have planned this trip for our granddaughter (age 9), who lives very remotely on a ranch in Nebraska and has never been to any Disney park. She is viewing this trip as a dream come true! We want her to have the FULL EXPERIENCE. Even the queuing for the rides is a part of that whole experience, as are the stage shows (“Lion King”, “Beauty and the Beast”, etc.). A more sterile approach to the parks just would not be “Disney”! We fully recognize and appreciate that safety is paramount…but PLEASE stay true to the excellence that has so differentiated Disney from “any other theme park”!
Im a Florida resident and I’m not going to any crowded theme part until this virus is over or at least new cases are down. I worked at Disney for 18 years I support them and I get that businesses have to reopen but I think it’s too soon. If we get a repeat of cases then it will be a lockdown all over. Waiting another month or so would be better.
The huge crowds at both Disneyland CA & Walt Disney World were not as enjoyable to experience as in the 20th Century which saw much less type of herding of guests & entertainments.
I would pay more $ to have more space & opportunity to enjoy the rides more, like more than one time per visit.
If I had to go to Disney: I would have an antibody blood test. If it tests positive there is a good chance you’ve had covid-19 or you have been exposed. You could be immune. You should do this at home and get a certificate to give Disney. Those are the people they should let in first and for a while. It’s the safest way. No temps no masks no six feet distancing.
This is part of a much longer opinion that was posted this week. It seems to go along with the thinking that we are all on the same journey but we are all NOT in the same boat. “All of us need to calm down. Quit telling people who are financially struggling that they don’t care about human lives. Quit telling people who are truly at risk of dying from this virus that they are cowering in fear. Remember that until you’ve walked in someone else’s shoes, you should probably be careful in your judgments and subsequent harsh words.” As a long time annual passholder who will probably continue to be one in the future I would be more than willing to let folks who have reservations for specific times get their time in the parks once it is safe to go. I get that for many these are once in a lifetime opportunities or tied to special events and I am blessed that I can go pretty much whenever (of course since GA opened up today who knows what that is going to mean for my state). By the time this is over I will be more than ready for a break from the frontline but want to do it safely.
@Vickie A. Gross
First, thank you for your frontline service. I’ve been there myself. It’s exhausting, dangerous at times, heartbreaking at others but ultimately one of the most rewarding things a human being can do.
As for walking in others shoes, I’ve faced death many times, both in my military and civilian lives. Literally been a whisker away AND fully conscious and cognizant of what was happening. I guess God wasn’t ready to put up with me yet.
Finally, I’m not stupid. I will no more infect anyone than you will because I know what precautions are needed. As for me, I have no desire to die but if it happens I’m ready for it. After all, it’s the one thing that will happen to us all.
Be well, be safe and God bless!
You are right Sunshine
For all the people that are dying to go to Disney, I understand this get on with life and accept the risk. I’m sure most if not all have someone over the age of 60 that they love, or someone that is obese, with diabetes, heart disease. Are you not going to see them at all? Or if you infect them, are you going to say the line from Rocky IV, “if he dies, he dies”.
I live in Florida and am an annual pass ho!der. We are currently in Stage 1 of this pandemic. It is ludicrous to think it will vanish by summer. I appreciate the fact that so many are affected because the parks remain closed. But in order to fully enjoy them without worry it would be best to stay closed for the remainder of 2020. While this is an inconvenience to thousands, it is the responsible thing to do. Profits should not be placed before human beings. More stages of this terrible disease are c coming and then we will face the regular flu season. Putting lives at risk because of profit or fan base is NOT the way to go. Finish the renovations. Have a grand re-opening in January with a creative theme. Extend passholders ‘ accounts and we ‘ll see ya real soon!
Dvc member. From canada.
This virus has been blown way out of proportion w propaganda. The numbers are that of the annual flu.
Open the parks. As it is my kid has to lose grad bc of this b.s. now her grad trip. Who knows when we can do it again. Her and her sisters have different schedules once college and life take over.
It’s not flu it will surpass flu deaths in about half the time: 3 months vs 6 month flu season. And we reduced the death toll only after shutting down the country. The evidence for this not being flu is discussed as nauseum
I hear people saying this all the time as if it’s just about money. What about the thousands of employees who, if your way became reality, would have to figure out how to pay for their mortgage, bills, food and other things because it’s in the best interest to stay closed indefinitely. Almost no one who wants things open is being greedy or selfish. They want to work and they want to NOT lose everything they own because certain people think it’s a bad idea. At some point, the financial ruin will overshadow the damage the virus will do.
Your point is well taken. And while unemployment pay ( when available in Florida’s screwed up system) is available, it will not suffice. I was speaking more of the greed of the corporations, not the average Joe. Disney can and should be paying their employees while this is going on. But then again it comes down to corporate greed. Just my opinion
If you have read anything about Disney they are paying their employees.
Jen, Disney stopped paying cast members as of April 19th. However, they are continuing to pay for their benefits, like health insurance. They will also help them apply for unemployment, if the cast member desires. Most will collect more money from unemployment than if Disney continued paying their salary.
@DP
Actually there is factual and real time data that shows the shutdowns had almost no effect on total sicknesses, deaths and load on medical facilities. Try doing a bit of research on the subject. It’s very interesting.
as the mother of a wdw resort employee I am very skeptical of opening up the parks wether it’s to fla residents first or not. My child works in food and beverage, which includes alcohol, and people get stupid when they celebrate and drink. Unfortunately we don’t know we are sick and contagious so it is a scary situation to be in when your handling people’s glasses and cutlery. Financially it’s a great plan but I’d sooner wait it out for the sakes of all the employees.
Testing it on Floridians what a great idea.
Let’s get them their unemployment payments for the weeks many have not received first, better idea.
What idiots are going to an amusement park during a pandemic.
@Barbara
You know what is important to you. Others have other priorities. What you have is your opinion. Nothing wrong with that except when you try to dictate others’actions.
Sunshine, what you do affects me and others. What I do isn’t affecting anyone but me. That will remain my priority.
Rumors have it that Disney World may not open until January 2021. I hope these are horrible rumors. USA TODAY, The Hill, Penn Live all posted.
Horrible as it may seem, analysts have said this is a possibility. From reading the hundreds of comments here, I have come to one conclusion, people’s priorities are really messed up.
I’m a huge Disney fan and have been there hundreds of times, but I know what is important. And Disney, much as I love the place, does not head the list.
People are also concerned about losing money on banked flights, etc. You know that money should never trump one’s health, right? I understand getting back out there, but ‘out there’ shouldn’t be a theme park. Not yet. (I quess I can expect backlash now).
i like the idea of WDW finishing all that construction first, (hire the people to get it done quickly) let this virus threat pass in the meantime verses using Floridians as guinea pigs to see how this will work. I sure don’t want to be the first one there to SEE how this will all go . I am a resident who had held a pass and it’s never not packed anymore. There used to be times we could go and the crowds would be less, but no more. So why not spiff up the place, finish construction, let the virus emergency pass somewhat, THEN open to Floridians first.
I don’t mind opening a “soft opening” for FL residents early on. But in my situation, I had a spring break trip that was cancelled due to the parks closing. I have to use my plane tickets before September (have rescheduled for August), so I’m concerned about the potential capacity limits in the parks. Could priority be given to those that have already booked lodging on-property? To a point already made, we have spent a lot of money on airfare and hotel for the vacation. It would be disappointing if we couldn’t go to the parks every day.
Disney is and has been in the middle of a major reconstruction phase. They want to have their cake and eat it too – remaining open while half of the experiences are closed. Why not be a leader? Close it all down for construction. Hire more construction workers, designers, artists, musicians, dancers. Work on building the new park and rehearse new shows. Set a grand reopening date a year from now. Instead of people all cancelling their upcoming plans, Disneyworld will instead make more money by booking future reservations for the park’s eventual grand reopening in July 2021.
@Bruce
Two simple reasons why not:
1) No income
2) Cast member unemployment.
That’s a ridiculous idea
We have reservations for December 6th-11th. We are just gonna chill for a bit and see what happens. I don’t want to go if there are a bunch of restrictions. We picked the resort because it offered more than one mode of transportation to and from the parks. We have time to see how things shake out.
Open the parks June 1 to Florida residents. Limit the number in each park to let’s say 50%. I like the no parades nor fireworks. Some rides might not be open, and cleaning will be higher. But the chances of enjoying a day with low crowds would be worth it.
July 15 add guests staying at the parks along with Florida residents. Raise the attendance by the amount of guests staying on property. Have the parks open early for these guests.
Sept 1 open 100%. Parades and fireworks Oct 1.
Your ideas sound perfect!!!
That sounds like a good plan to limit the number of visitors and stager the opening dates whenever they feel it is safe enough to. We are huge fans and have plans to visit this summer but realize that everyone’s health and safety comes first.
Getting all the construction completed is a great idea as well since every year we go something is closed for renovations.