Disney World has made some HUGE changes over the past several months, and each day seems to bring a new update.
Social Distancing Reminder
We’ve already seen Disney World beginning to load riders on every row of many attractions, and Disney has officially announced it will be phasing out temperature checks at the parks soon. Some popular live entertainment is coming back to the parks, and quite a few other things are returning to “normal.” Now, we’ve got a BIG update from Disney World when it comes to physical distancing.
As the COVID-19 vaccine continues to roll out, and the situation with the pandemic continues to develop, we’ve seen a number of changes and developments announced. One study has suggested that theme parks can reduce their social distancing guidelines. And we have seen some amusement parks change their rules and regulations regarding distancing recently.
Distancing Markers
In Orange County, Florida (where part of Disney World is located), Mayor Demings previously provided an update regarding the social distancing and mask guidance there. He stated that social distancing may be reduced in Orange County from 6 feet to 3 feet immediately. While all local COVID-19 requirements (including, based on our understanding, the regulations in Orange County) were later suspended via Executive Order from the Florida governor, Mayor Demings did indicate that the theme parks in the area had said they thought it was “good business” to continue following the Orange County guidance.
Phase 3 of the Plan for Florida’s Recovery took effect in the fall of last year. Under Phase 3, the plan specifies that “Theme parks may return to normal operations with limited social distancing protocols.”
Physical Distancing Signs
Now, Disney has announced some changes coming to its Orlando parks regarding physical distancing. Previously, Disney World’s reopening website contained an image regarding physical distancing with two individuals and the words “6ft 2m” between them.
©Disney
Disney World’s website still contains that image but the “6ft 2m” wording between the individuals has now been removed.
©Disney
Disney’s specific language regarding physical distancing has also changed. For reference, the image below is what the physical distancing notification looked like on the Disney World website back in late January.
The Old Language ©Disney
And the image below is what it looks like now. The updated language notes that “Temporary adjustments are still in place to promote physical distancing.” But, it also specifies that Disney “will reduce physical distancing measures for Guests across many areas with a gradual, phased approach.” Disney notes, however, that “six-feet distancing measures will continue in all dining locations, merchandise stores and in areas where Guests can temporarily remove their masks. “
Take a look at the full language below.
©Disney
Missing from Disney’s updated guidance is also the previous language that noted cars would be parked in every other parking space.
Distancing Sign
Keep in mind that face coverings continue to be required in Disney World.
We’ll continue to monitor the situation and keep you updated as we learn more.
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These changes are more than overdue!!
Hopefully this means they will let more guests into restaurants… especially Oga’s.
“Keep in mind that face coverings continue to be required in Disney World.” — Disney Mask Blog
Just couldn’t help yourselves, could you?
GREAT!!! CDC has said for months 3 feet is enough. Progress -slow but appreciated.
I dont care about distancing.
GET RID OF ALL MASK REQUIREMENTS!!!!!
Did anyone ever tell you that in the first paragraph who what when where and why are supposed to reflect the headline? Not the 4398th paragraph
No moderation forthcoming! Go take a journalism class
Now follow the science and stop requiring mask outdoors. Every credibility health agency says mask are not needed outside. Wake up Disney.
When will the new distancing rule start?
This will shorten the physical distance of the lines outdoors, but otherwise does it really change anything from a guest experience perspective? Until enough people get vaccinated and we have population/herd immunity, Disney’s probably not going to allow a lot of the pre-shows to attractions, more dense indoor dining, more indoor shows, and at reasonable density, etc.
This is great news. Now lets get more guests into the nice sit down restaurants that have been impossible to get a reservation for because half the available seating had been removed.
And lets get those parking lot trams running again. It is miserable walking back to your car after walking around the parks all day long!
CDC lift masks for all who are vaccinated inside and out. How long before Disney updates their masking guideline…6 months/1 year/2 years?
Sadly, I will miss having to keep 6 feet between parties. LOL
Yeah, this is progress. Three feet is just fine. Actually, I really do not enjoy anyone standing within arm’s reach no matter what year or circumstances.
Now it is time to remove those ridiculous plastic barriers from all of the rides. They totally ruin the experience and do ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!
In pretty much the entire state of Florida masking, even indoors, is in the minority. Disney truly is in a “bubble” right now. A giant plastic wrapped bubble of paranoia.
CDC just released – no masks even inside if you’re vaccinated
What’s the deal with this blog? You MUST agree with every line they write and my goodness never, ever challenge! I agree, a journalism course is strongly recommended. Why a joke!
I agree with Marlene as to the length of this article and the writing style to say mtdan (much to do about nothing). The headline is misleading and the facts to long in presenting. I have noticed for about a year or so the writing of content is shifting. I do not see this as a blame to the writer it should be handled by AJ in regards to content arrangements. Love the blog and newsletter but I am starting to read it less often. I miss the old style.
Marlene Kardamitchis why don’t you just unsubscribe. It’s as easy as that!
So when are the parking lot trams going to start running again????
Mike, Disney hasn’t said yet, but we will update when they do.
Cruising Engineer, I’m with you on that one!
Mimi, there’s something to be said for personal space, right? 🙂
Rebecca, it’s starting to roll out already.
Get rid of the masks, keep hand washing and sanitizing stations, keep a 3 feet distancing.
I hope they keep parking cars in every other space. This is such a great safety factor. I’m always terrified someone’s child is going to hop out in front of my car as I pull in or someone’s going to rip my car door off as they pull in. Can we please continue parking every other space Disney, PLEASE.