According to the information Disney has shared, right now Disney World is operating at 35% capacity, but that could change.
Easter Crowds on Main Street
Disney’s CEO Bob Chapek has previously commented on what it would take for Disney to increase capacity, and recent changes made in Orange County, Florida would allow for increases in theme park capacity to take place. So, we took to our Facebook and Instagram to ask you, our readers, whether you would feel comfortable if Disney increased the capacity in the parks. And here’s what you had to say!!
Where Things Stand With Capacity
Just as a quick recap, when Disney World first reopened, we heard that the parks were operating at around 25% capacity. Later, that capacity was increased to 35%.
When asked about increasing capacity this year, Disney’s CEO, Bob Chapek, said that whether Disney will be able to increase capacity is really going to be determined by the rate of vaccinations of the public.
Crowds
Chapek noted that the number of vaccinations of the public is really the biggest lever the company has to increase capacity.
COVID-19 vaccines are in the process of being distributed through the United States, and more individuals are becoming eligible to receive them. Dr. Anthony Fauci has previously indicated that COVID-19 guidelines could loosen by the 4th of July as more Americans get vaccinated.
A Look at Some Crowds
According to CNN, some recent data indicates that about 28.5% of the U.S. population is fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Is that enough of a level to cause Disney to increase its capacity? It’s unclear.
In Orange County, Florida (where part of Disney World is located), some recent changes may also allow for Disney to increase capacity. Recently, the Orange County Mayor changed the distancing policies in the county and specified that social distancing may be reduced from 6 feet to 3 feet immediately.
©Orange County, Florida
If Disney were to reduce distancing from 6 feet to 3 feet, it could potentially allow more guests into the park as it would be able to fit more people in any particular space. The Orange County Mayor has indicated that he thinks these changes will allow theme parks (like Disney World) to increase capacity.
Click here to read more about the Mayor’s statements regarding capacity.
Now, to be clear, we haven’t heard anything from Disney regarding any increases in capacity. At the moment, based on the information Disney has shared, the parks continue to operate at 35% capacity. Also, 6 feet of social distancing continues to be required. Although Universal Studios and SeaWorld now operate with 3 feet social distancing. Disney has not yet made any indication that it will reduce social distancing to 3 feet or that it will increase capacity yet.
But, what if it does? What if tomorrow Disney were to announce that they are reducing social distancing and/or increasing capacity in the parks? How would you feel? We turned to our readers to ask them!
Would You Feel Comfortable if Disney World Increased Capacity?
On our Instagram, we reached out to our readers and asked whether you’d feel comfortable if Disney World increased capacity at the parks. Over 13,000 of you responded! And…54% said YES, they’d feel comfortable if capacity were increased, while 46% said they would NOT feel comfortable.
The Results!
In terms of numbers, it broke down to 7,969 votes for YES and 6,806 votes for NO. That’s a difference of just over 1,000 people.
But, we wanted to hear more of your thoughts, so we threw the question up on our Facebook as well. Let’s see what you had to say.
Some Said “YES” They’d Feel Comfortable with a Capacity Increase
There were some on our Facebook who simply said yes, they’d feel comfortable with a capacity increase, no real reservations or conditions attached.
Some Said “YES…BUT”
A LOT of people, however, were in the “yes…but” category. What we mean by that is that they said they’d feel comfortable with a capacity increase ONLY IF Disney does other things.
For example, many people said they would be okay with a capacity increase IF Disney brings back other things like FastPass+, live entertainment, and outdoor shows. Some mentioned that they’d be okay with the increase IF Disney reopens some of the hotels and restaurants that are currently closed, especially quick-service restaurants. Others mentioned that if capacity increases, park hours should increase too.
Casey’s Corner is Still Closed!
One reader said “it would be a nightmare to increase capacity without any measures to spread out crowds.” Another echoed those sentiments and said “If things stay as is and capacity is increased, lines would go through the entire parks!” We certainly have lines stretching out quite far, although some of that does have to do with social distancing requirements.
Several noted that the lines have been long already due to physical distancing requirements and social distancing requirements. They noted that more things need to reopen to “absorb” the crowds or it will “be chaos.”
Time to Get in Line!
Some emphasized that if more people will be in the parks, they will NEED things to do other than just stand in line, so more things should be made available to help keep fans entertained and disperse the crowds.
Some said they would feel comfortable with capacity increases if more people get vaccinated and masks continue to be required.
Some Said “NOPE!”
Others said they would not feel comfortable or would not want Disney to increase capacity. One said that they wouldn’t want Disney to increase capacity just because they love having less people in the parks as it gives guests the chance to have more personal space.
Others simply said they’re not ready for it to go to full capacity yet and that they’d recommend waiting until more people are vaccinated. Some specifically noted that they would rather Disney wait as they feel like there’s not enough space to socially distance with full capacity. We have seen social distancing go out the window when it rains, so distancing can already be a bit of an issue in those circumstances.
Crowds Can Really Form in Covered Areas When it Rains!
Others said they were there recently and things were PACKED enough as it is, and that increases in capacity should be held off for a while longer. We have seen some days over the past few months with really large crowds in Disney World.
One definitevely said no and that they think Disney should only let them and their family in. Disney all to yourself?! Throw in unlimited snacks and it’s a dream come true. (Although watching guests and Cast Members interact with other guests can really be a special part of the experience).
Low Crowd Days CAN Feel Like You’ve Got the Park to Yourself Sometimes
Another made an interesting point by noting “I don’t understand why people want capacity increased. On a normal year all you hear is ‘it’s too crowded.'” Crowds at Disney World are a common complaint, so that is an interesting point. It’s possible that in a year where so many things have changed, people are yearning for some “normalcy,” even if it’s in the form of crowds.
Others said that Disney should open up more things first (restaurants, hotels, etc.), see how that goes, and THEN increase capacity.
Overall
Overall, it the numbers were pretty close in terms of how many of our readers would and wouldn’t feel comfortable with a capacity increase. Seems the majority of our readers on Instagram did say they’d feel comfortable with an increase in capacity. Many of our readers on Facebook did note that their approvals of increased capacity come with a few conditions, like more dining options, more entertainment options, and other things.
What do you think? Would you feel comfortable if Disney World increased capacity? Tell us in the comments!
We’ll continue to keep an eye out for any updates from Disney about their policies and capacity limits, and we’ll keep you informed.
Disney World will be crowded this summer and the proof is online. Click here to check it out!
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I think they should loosen the mask rules before adding more people. They just look money hungry… more people more money! How about less people no masks and social distancing… is it really about people’s safety! I’m afraid our family is going to pass out due to heat exhaustion in August – in our masks.
As passholders – we are not getting the full benefit – as we are not able to go to the parks without reservations-
There should be some concessions with offering us a discount in price or extension of time we are able to use the passes
This is very frustrating with not being able to use our yearly passes as we would like especially without some compensation
Ty
Phyllis Ferrentino
I’d absolutely be comfortable with it as it’s a reasonable next step towards regular life. I wouldn’t like it as I’ve enjoyed the less crowded theme park!
Was there in November of 2020. Very disappointing trip… with most shows canceled, masked faces, plexiglass obstructions, fewer CMs and dinning options, the “magic” was mostly missing. Will not return until all virus restrictions are lifted.
I would only feel comfortable going if masks were not required.
If they up the capacity then it’s time to add FP+ back. The lines on the “E-ticket” attractions are already getting to be too long.
Yes I would feel comfortable if your worried about it don’t come wait to book your trip. Don’t penalize the ones who are not as worried about it or that have already been vaccinated.
Open up the parks and restaurants no masks needed majority of folks either have immunity or have been vaccinated now it is just down to common sense and personal decision making. Get things back to normal.
We spent the first two weeks of March 2021 in WDW. As Disneyland AP holders, we were thrilled to be in any Disney park. Despite shows, fireworks, etc not going on, Disney found some creative ways to preserve the magic with things like the mini impromptu parades. I’d be ok with increased capacity if the physical distancing were shortened and more space were opened up – restaurants, attractions, etc.
You can’t increase capacity without reopening all the attractions. You’re forcing more numbers into fewer areas of the park. The sooner WDW is back to normal the better…including FP+, live shows and fewer Covid restrictions so long as it’s safe to do so. Get that vaccine in me, get those attractions open, reopen more value resorts and I’m there at the drop of a Mickey ear hat!!
I love the lower capacity limits. Lets make that the new normal capacity.
I was just there with my family for a week. The crowds were manageable, but even at 35% capacity, the most popular rides were still incredibly crowded, with very little attention paid to social distancing in the deepest parts of the lines. Having said that, the lack of social distancing didn’t really bother me and most lines kept moving at a good pace. I’d say that is a reflection on the cast members doing their jobs well at the loading and unloading areas.
I’d support the parks returning to full capacity, but the mask requirements have to go. I can’t imagine being in a nearly-full park in Florida humidity with the mask requirement in place. It was hard enough in late April @ 35% full.
I think the 1st step should be reopening all shows so there are more things for people to do besides stand in line for a ride. 2nd step should be to allow fully vaccinated guests to be maskless.
Capacity shouldn’t increase until more people are vaccinated. There shouldn’t be full capacity until there is herd immunity. Masks should continue to be worn until herd immunity as well.
Open 100% now, like it is the summer 2019! No masks!! Bring back dinning plans, fast pass + and non restricted park hopper. This nonsense has been going on to long.
I would be ok with increasing capacity, but only if fast pass comes back. It would be a nightmare trying to get on rides without them.
Yes I would feel comfortable with more capacity in
Yes I would be comfortable with increased capacity but only if they bring fast pass back. Also our family is fully vaccinated, which I believe everyone should be. Vaccination is the key for everyone’s safety just as we had to be vaccinated for smallpox and other terrible diseases.
Now that anyone who wants to be vaccinated can be vaccinated, open it up fully with no masks and no social distancing. Each person controls their own destiny – if you aren’t comfortable then don’t go; if you don’t want to get the vaccine then take your chances. It is called personal choice.
I don’t think Disney cares one way or another about what people think they are going to do it their way take it or leave it. I agree with Jason. Disney needs to open hotels and restaurants before they raise capacity, where is everyone to go? Maybe give that a try do something to let us know you are trying instead of over charging for limited experiences.
Yes, Disney need to allow more people in and reduced distancing. Also stop temperature checks and wearing mask outside. They need to like sea world and universal studios.They need to do what the governor of Florida tells them to do. Disney is NOT doing what the governor is telling them to do. Increase capacity should be done and should have been done awhile a go. DISNEY IS TOTALLY AND COMPLETELY DRAGGING THERE FEET.
Disney seems to want to hold on to these arbitrary time frames like masks thru the end of the year. Despite CDC guidance that masks outdoors are not needed! But they want to increase capacity of course. We’re supposed to go in August but if Universal dumps masks we will spend our money there.
I agree that if capacity is increased we need fast pass and more restaurants and shows open. The other thing to consider is that this is a family park and the majority of children are not eligible for vaccine. I know the risk is low for them to get seriously sick but what about the trip being ruined by being sick and having to quarantine? I would hate one of my kids to get sick in the first few days of our 10 day trip and have to spend the rest of the time at the hotel. I think it is still too soon to get rid of masks until there is lower numbers or vaccines for children.
I think it’s not time yet. While they may not have reduced social distancing, it does not exist in some places. While in line for a ride some people are very good about watching the markers and others are not! Twice we had to ask groups to back up a little. When they can hit you with their arms while doing some exciting talk within their group, they are not six feet apart. Not even three feet. It is a little frustrating. The groups that gather outside quick service restaurants while waiting for their orders are not socially distanced. They need to open a few shows and dining options before we add more people to the mix.
It would only be ok to increase capacity if Disney opens food options, quick service, table service, and stands. It’s too hard to get meals now as is. Also the room availability stinks and the park hours are way too restrictive for increased crowd levels. Get with it Disney!
Wait. The parks are only at 35% capacity?? I thought they were at about 75%! Where on earth will they put all those people–Covid or no Covid, that is going to be a mass of humanity!!
It’s felt pretty crowded to me on recent visits. The thing is, Disney won’t reveal what FULL capacity numbers are, so when they say 35% you have no real idea what that is. I gotta wonder if they privately raised their full capacity number then said 35% of THAT. Then they’d get the good publicity of the 35% number but actually get more bodies spending dollars inside. I’ve been in the parks and on busier days there’s no way we could fit another 65% in there!
The only way I’d be fine wit increased crowds (and I’m fully vaxxed) is if they restarted the FastPasses. The lines for rides are too long already on busy days. They’d have to open more restaurants too.
I would be fine with increasing capacities but the shows need to come back and the hours need to be extended to accommodate the extra people. You also need to have more restaurants open and bringing fast pass back would be helpful to control the long lines. In other words, if I’m paying full price for tickets, I expect a full park experience.
I think capacity has already increased. We were there for a week in early March and it was crowded! I would love to see them allow vaccinated adults to go without a mask if they chose to ….possibly wearing a special wristband! They definitely don’t need to increase capacity anymore until ALL of the shows and restaurants are open .
It’s Florida, listen to your governor and go back to normal! If you’re scared, why would you be in a theme park to begin with??! Disney did not discount the tickets but yet offering half the experience.
Do away with the masks and let people distance themselves. We’re coming in June and I’m afraid we’ll suffer more from heat stroke than the virus since most people are going to be vaccinated by then. Keep up with sanitation practices.
FASTPASSES please.
FREE YOUR FACE! And one up 100%! Also, get rid of the CRT program for employees.
It’s time to get back to normal! With that said, masks in the Florida heat is dangerous and absolutely ridiculous for everyone, including staff! I am and have always been a germaphobe, but I take care of myself and have enough sense to know that a sweaty, grimey mask presents more danger with bacteria. So many CM’s opened up to us saying it’s unbearable, but they didn’t have a choice. I’m sure there’s a mix, but that comes down to personal belief and choice, which everyone should have. Last Summer when they opened back up, capacity was much, much lower and we had several moments of dizziness, nausea, and hyperventilating. Masks should be optional (at the very least outdoors), vaccines optional, and in no way should capacity be increased unless shows, fireworks, fast passes are back and hours increased. If you feel safer with a mask, wear one. It’s really a simple matter of common sense, and free choice. People need to start living again and enjoying the magic of Disney. They should start asap with outdoor masks optional. Ease the minds of those who are still fearful and keep the masks indoors for time being and remove the plexiglass. Gradually make changes. But freedom needs to make a comeback.
Given the declining vaccinations both in having the second shot and for some even the first, it’s concerning that Disney would increase capacity at this time. If Disney continued strict mask rules to reduce the spread of those who have not been (or choose not to be) vaccinated or fully vaccinated that would help the potential risk to guests, cast members, and healthcare workers (who ultimately have to treat those who come down with COVID). Disney would also need to consider how to phase in, concurrent with any capacity increase, opening what they use to reduce attraction lines – ie scheduled parades, fireworks, and indoor performances – all of which draw crowds for periods of time but then add the challenge of social distancing and those who object to wearing a protective mask. Disney’s first Key is Safety. They need to stick with that.
I am 100% fine with capacity increases, lifting mask mandates, etc. This is just getting ridiculous.
I would prefer that Disney Caps capacity to a more manageable number permanently. Because full capacity is just WAY TO BUSY. And not fun at all.
But they should definitely raise capacity from its current levels.
In the past Disney has sold tickets to the point of gluttony. This past two years has taught me masks work, wash stations work. Extra cleaning work. With that said. They need to bring back all that Disney was before they increase capacity. People need things to do and see for what they pay for. Myself? Vaccinated, enjoyed lower crowds.
Even if you are vaccinated, there are variants of COVID that you may not be protected from. I would be fine if they kept the crowds down, and had social distancing without masks.
Disney should continue with reduced crowds. They should open more of the restaurants and rides before they increase the crowds.
Dawn, it was written yesterday, 5/10. Dates are in the URLs.
Capacity is not really a problem as long as restaurants, shows, hotels, and rides are all open. Lines will also need to be shortened—so go ahead with the 3-foot distancing now too. Also, since most things are outside, it’s probably time to lift the outdoor mask mandate and bring back fast passes. Since we’re talking about opening up the restaurants, the dining plan should reinstated too. Transportation issues should really be addressed as well. More people will definitely overload current Disney transportation modes. I’m not asking too much, am I?
My son and his girlfriend are there now. It’s 95 degrees. They are mask supporters, and both say how hard it’s been. I can only imagine how hard it is all day every day for employees. If you are young, healthy or both the chance you become seriously ill is practically zero! It’s all about protecting the elderly and vulnerable, not shutting down the country for everyone. Open up, let people work and live freely. And DUMP the CRT for Disney employees.
Disney should eliminate mask restrictions, reinstitute FP, open restaurants and hotels before increasing capacity beyond 50%. The true Disney experience needs to return. It would be wonderful if everyone was vaccinated and the parks were safe, but that is never going to happen. Hand washing stations have disappeared, why? That makes no sense. Keep in place some of the less objectionable safety procedures, eliminate masks, raise capacity to 50% and get the Disney show back on the road!
I imagine that it’s tough for Disney to decide on what the best course of action to take. It costs A LOT of money to run the theme parks and resorts to the level they have done in the past. People are still making reservations and plans with the restrictions they have in place, and even at 35%, are experiencing sell out crowds. However, the systems they had designed for handling large crowds cannot be utilized with many of these restrictions.
Personally, I am surprised that Disney has not lifted the restrictions that were eliminated by the local and state governments.
DO NOT INCREASE CAPACITY !!!!!!!!!!!
I would say yes if they brought back fastpass which would.make the lines not so bad, otherwise your going to have crazy lines and people on top of people.