To ensure we are equipping our readers with all the information they need, we will continue to report on all travel, safety, and COVID-related news that could impact a Disney Parks visit.
There has been a lot of uncertainty surrounding traveling due to the COVID pandemic.
Mask Sign
Disney World has put several health and safety measures in place, but many people have expressed that they are not ready to head back in and face the crowds. We asked our readers what it would take for them to feel comfortable in Disney World again — here’s what you said!
As you can probably imagine, we got a lot of different responses to the question “What would it take for you to feel comfortable in Disney World again?” Everyone’s input and perspective is greatly appreciated! While we won’t be able to list every response, we took the most frequently occurring responses and have compiled them here.
Lower COVID-19 Rates in Florida
Back in late August of 2021, Florida reported record-breaking COVID-19 case numbers. And, at the time we posted the question to our readers about what would make them feel safe, Florida’s COVID-19 case rates was one area where many expressed concern. One reader said they’re waiting for “Florida Covid numbers to decrease significantly.” Another stated that “Lower case counts in Florida” was what they needed to feel good about traveling to Disney again.
Indoor Mask Sign
Florida’s cases spiked again over the summer, and some readers reported they canceled their summer or fall trip in order to avoid the hotspot. Other readers mentioned that “Disney’s doing great, but Florida needs to get it under control.” We read that the concern was less about Disney World itself, and more about the surrounding issues in Florida “I feel safe in Disney, but the travel is the issue.”
Lately, things have been changing in Florida when it comes to COVID-19. Recently, Florida’s COVID-19 numbers have started to decline. In fact, in mid-October, Florida’s weekly average of new cases was just over 2,800. That was actually the first time the numbers have dropped below 3,000 since July 7th, 2021.
COVID-19 Health and Safety Sign
In mid-October, the Orlando Sentinel shared that “Florida still ranks near the top in deaths per capita.” But, it has been dropping in the list of COVID-19 cases per capita.
Of course, COVID-19 case rates continue to change, so this is something to keep an eye on.
Click here to read more about the October updates about Florida’s COVID-19 case rates.
Mask Mandates (Or Lack Thereof)
Disney World re-introduced their mask mandate for indoor locations this summer after an increase in COVID-19 cases in Florida. For some, this mandate isn’t enough to help them feel comfortable. One reader is hoping for “MUCH higher vaccination numbers, better mask habits and mandates,” and several readers mentioned a stricter mask policy and for masks to be required outdoors as well.
Face Mask Sign
On the flip side of this, other readers said they’ll feel more comfortable in Disney World when the mask mandate is gone. According to one reader, “My kids refuse masks, so we will go when all the mandates lift.” Another said they canceled their trip “because you have to wear a mask. Florida is tooooo hot for all that…”
More Distancing and Safety Policies
Our readers had several different requests when it came to Disney’s policies. One mentioned a need for more visible cleaning in the parks: “I need to see more disinfecting.”
Physical Distancing Markers
Another requested a return of the physical distancing in ride lines: “6-foot distancing in lines…it sucks but I don’t want people close to me.”
Lower Capacity
Disney has been increasing capacity gradually, and we’ve seen some big crowds. Although the crowd levels dropped off significantly in mid-August (maybe due to school starting in Florida), we did see some BIG crowds in select spots when Disney World’s 50th Anniversary Celebrations kicked off on October 1st. Some places weren’t quite as packed though. We’ve seen some fairly big crowds recently, but we’ve also seen emptier spots.
Crowds at EPCOT Entrance
Some readers mentioned that they’re looking for lower crowds before they return to Disney World: “Limited capacity – it’s getting waaay too crowded at the moment.”
Main Street, U.S.A. crowds
Some readers suggested specific numbers, like “Maybe smaller capacity numbers but realistic. Even 10-15% less” or “It needs to be 40% of what it is now.” In general, many of our readers are hoping for limited capacity in the parks, for both safety and comfort reasons.
Vaccines
There were several suggestions about vaccines and vaccination requirements in Disney World, ranging from “NOT having vaccine mandate anywhere” to “Requiring proof of vaccination.” Currently, Disney World does not require proof of vaccination. All guests however — whether or not they’re vaccinated — are required to abide by the indoors mask mandate.
Another major concern for several readers was that kids can’t be vaccinated yet. One reader shared “Vaccines being available for my kids. We had planned to go this fall, but not with all the new info & numbers.” As of writing, there is no vaccine available for kids under 12 years old. But, some sources have indicated that COVID-19 vaccines for kids under 12 years old could be authorized by this winter. Many parents are waiting for a kids’ vaccine before heading to Disney World.
Return to Normal
One reader responded to our question simply with “everything opening.” Other readers mentioned that they’re waiting for “the Disney Dining Plan to come back” or “staff numbers [to] increase again.” Disney has been reopening restaurants, hotels, and attractions, and we’ve seen a lot of normal things returning to the parks, but not everything is back yet.
Closed sign
One big thing that we haven’t seen return to Disney World yet is close-up character meet and greets. Although you can see many of your favorite characters and even interact with them, you still can’t hug them or take photos right next to them. Disney has announced that meet-and-greets will be returning soon, but they will be modified and hugs as well as autographs still won’t be allowed. One reader said they’re waiting for “Characters back to normal” before they return.
Hey Snow!
Some readers also noticed that the staff numbers are low, and it’s affected their experiences in Disney World: “The customer service has lacked our past two trips. That’s why we’re on a break now.”
Less Expensive
On a different topic, many readers said they’ll feel more comfortable in Disney World when there are “lower prices.” One reader said “Feeling pretty unsettled about the new Genie platform and $$$$$.” We heard a lot of feedback that the new Genie system was making people upset with Disney: “cancel Genie and return to FastPass.”
Genie+ ©Disney
Other readers mentioned that they’re waiting “for all the best perks to come back,” specifically citing the Disney Dining Plan (which is set to return to Disney World in the future, though a set date has not yet been shared) and FastPasses (which are not returning, but instead will be replaced by the paid Genie+ system). Another mentioned, “When I can get more for my money in the parks.” One reader simply wants “one free dessert,” which we wouldn’t say “no” to!
Nothing
Another comment we saw a lot in the responses was that people already feel safe in the Disney parks. One reader said “I think they do an amazing job. I was there last November.” We saw more comments that expressed approval for how Disney has handled the pandemic. Others shared that they just really wanted to return to normalcy: “I’m over it. I will go anywhere.”
Cast Member Cleaning at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Disney World
In general, we saw a lot of different perspectives with these comments! Some people want more restrictions while others simply want the parks to go back to how they were before the closures. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with us!
Currently, Disney World’s indoors mask mandate remains in place, along with other health and safety measures like requiring park pass reservations for limited capacity. Of course, rules and regulations in the parks are subject to change, so we’ll be sure to look for any updates.
Keep following DFB for more information about Disney World’s policies and mandates.
Click Here to Find Out How Our Readers Feel About Bringing Their Kids Under 12 to Disney World.
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How do you feel about returning to Disney World? Let us know in the comments.
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Agree with cancel Genie and return to Fast Pass… We spend enough as it is and it is getting out of control
for the average family…
Very interesting to read the feedback and hear different perspectives. Thank you!
I think they should require covid tests or vaccinations before allowing people in. We were recently in France. We had to show proof of a negative test before flying even if we’re vaccinated. To go to any restaurant, museum, etc., you have to show a vaccination card or the French Health Pass. Even if we sat outside in a cafe we had to show our card. They checked everywhere. So smart. They’re trying to get their numbers down and that’s one great way to do it. In some places, you even had to wear a mask while walking down a street. I guess France is smarter than us. Yes, people are protesting but they’re still enforcing it.
Would feel more comfortable if there were no masks requirements at all. Is this not a free country. When you give up freedom for security you end up with neither. The six foot requirement did not bother me as a lot of people do not respect personal space.
As for Genie I mentioned before it is another money grab and also makes it more difficult for Seniors to navigate the parks as they may not be as tech savvy as younger people.
I would return to any Disney property, if they get rid of Bob Chapek. (Put a Disney person in charge).
Kudo’s to Helen ! I could not agree more with you. ! Disney is going rogue and unfortunately it’s on us. Walt would be so disgusted with the way things are going at WDW
I agree with the return to normal.
-no mask requirements.
-bring back the dining plan.
-allow park hopping anytime.
-no capacity restrictions.
-no requirements to make a park reservation after buying a ticket in order to visit a park.
You get the idea, return to normal.
I agree with all the above but Disney is not helping themselves with the increase n “ALL” pricing that has occurred with the change to the new CEO. Prices to book a trip are now $500 to $1000 higher than a year ago based on 4 nights for 2 people. Forget it f you have kids.
I’d like to see decreased capacity & more social distancing. My biggest complaint at Disney is that people in line get right on top of you. I’d happily pay more if there were fewer people there, that’s why Genie+ isn’t a problem for me
The reason Disney cannot ask or require vaccination is that Florida’s governor issued an Executive Order blocking any “vaccine passport.” The legislature then passed a bill and turning into a law. Given Disney’s penchant for safety, it is likely they would implement something like that to ensure their staff and guest are in a safe environment.
I would like the physical distancing markers to come back, stop increasing capacity for now.
To feel comfortable: Return three ride/attraction passes a day. Some sort of queue process for the Rise of the Resistance that does allow out of state travelers with one day at HS an opportunity to ride. I would also include luggae pick-up at home airport and transportation via busses to the resort hotels. And maybe free basic color arm bands to facilitate park entry etc. Hmmmmm? Have those ships sailed??? Well, maybe a decrease on room prices since these things are not included or returning. Good ole Covid sure set the stage.
And a PRINTED menu would also be so nice.
The mask policy needs to be revoked from all parks, make it optional and the food package should be reinstated which I heard it maybe coming back in October! We have made a deposit for May of 2021to visit for a 7 day stay, in the newly redone Riverside New Orleans $$$$. So if Disney can’t provide these things we’ll take our vacation elsewhere!!!
Sorry!!
I hope they never require proof of vaccination. I can’t get the vaccine due to medical reasons (and I know there are many other people in the same situation), and I don’t think it would be fair, especially for those who don’t have a choice. Disney World is my home and I don’t think I could live without ever being able to go back.
As a long time passholder I’m thinking that I would be more comfortable right now with lower capacity. I live here in Florida and we still have covid issues and are not out of the woods yet. Also, I would say get rid of Genie and bring back free fast passes!!
If Disney required vaccinations (once vaccines are available for all), I’d have no objection.
1. Genie+ is ridiculous. Bring back the fast passes. Disney is swiftly pricing themselves out of business.
2. This trip, we have found merchandise very sub-standard in design. Very ugly stuff! Bring back good product designers.
3. Crowds this week are too high. Hate to see when Oct 1 arrives.
Get rid of mask 100% , open up 100% , NO VACCINE REQUIRED, bring back fastpass, get rid of park reservations, unrestricted park hopper, in other words go back to the summer of 2019 and get on with life! I’m canceling our trip tomorrow for next June, this new management has ruined our favorite place to go.
I am a firm believer in masks. Just spent 12 days at WDW. buIf not for the Disney mask and social distancing mandates, I would not have gone. Home five days, and we have quarantined, but we are fine. I would go again in a heartbeat. BUT WE RARELY VENTURED OUT OF DISNEY PROPERTY!!
I was just there the week of 9/4-9/11 with my family. Flushed 400 on boo bash. Very oversold, 30 minute waits on some rides and the place was PACKED!! Bob Chapek needs to go yesterday. Everything that makes Disney special is disappearing. Skyrocketing prices, no fast pass, no magical express, no magic bands. Where is the incentive to stay on property? Oh wait, the 30 minute head start. The magic is gone. This was truly my last Disney trip unless things dramatically. It’s being run like a Six Flags. We always stay at Yacht Club and do all the extras. My money can go many other places on dreamy vacations.
EVERYONE needs to be vaccinated before being allowed in the parks, kids included! If someone has a MEDICAL reason for not being vaccinated, they need to stay away until COVID is gone. I have a plethora of medical issues, but none restricting my ability to get vaccinated luckily. If I were one of the rare cases that couldn’t, I wouldn’t want to be around a potentially deadly disease anyway! It’s simple..just isolate if you’re not vaccinated!
Go back to what it was 2 years ago. No masks, no distancing, no genie, no increased prices. STOP the vaccine coercion for employees. Just stop caving into the fear.
We have reservations in February, but will cancel depending on disney’s actions.