In May, Orlando’s world-famous theme parks took the first steps toward a safe, phased return to normalcy with the reopening of Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort and Universal CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort. Here’s a look at what to expect during your next visit to these unique dining and entertainment districts, including which businesses are open and their current safety regulations!
New Safety Measures at Disney Springs
For the safety of guests and Cast Members, the following measures have been enacted at Disney Springs in Orlando:
Limited Parking and Reduced Entrances
During this initial phase, guests will be directed to self-park in the Orange and Lime garages; all surface parking lots will be closed. Additionally, guest entryways have been reduced to four locations: Orange and Lime garages, along with the Hotel Plaza Boulevard Pedestrian Bridge and the rideshare location. Guest access to Disney Springs from the Grapefruit garage will be restricted.
Increased Disinfecting and Sanitation
Cleaning and disinfection have been increased in high-traffic areas such as public elevators and escalators, handrails, benches, tables, handles, restrooms and more. Additionally, guests are highly encouraged to use Disney Springs’ hand sanitizer and hand-washing locations.
Temperature Screenings Prior to Entry
All guests are required to undergo temperature screenings upon arrival at Disney Springs, with screenings taking place at the second-floor exits of Orange and Lime parking garages and the Marketplace Entrance. Anyone displaying a temperature of 100.4 F or above will be directed to an additional location for rescreening and assistance. Those with temperatures 100.4 F or above will not be allowed entry; those in their party will not be allowed entry, either.
Cast Members and Operating Participant employees will be required to complete a health screening and temperature check at home prior to coming to work.
Face Coverings Required for Guests Ages 3 and Up
All Guests ages 3 and older are required to wear face coverings when visiting Walt Disney World Resort, except while dining. Guests must provide their own disposable or reusable face covering. All face coverings should:
- Fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth and allow the guest to remain hands-free
- Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- Be secured with ties or ear loops
- Be made of breathable material, either disposable or reusable
Please note that costume masks are not considered appropriate and are prohibited from being worn. Furthermore, the use of face coverings should not be seen as a substitute for physical distancing.
Physical Distancing Practices
Physical barriers have been added in select places where it is difficult to maintain strict physical distancing guidelines, including areas around cash registers or at Guest Relations.
Temporary Operation Modifications
These changes include reduced hours at select locations and no scheduled entertainment offerings or high-touch interactive areas. Disney also recommends that all guests use cashless payment options whenever possible during their visit to Disney Springs, including debit cards, credit cards, Disney gift cards, etc. You can also opt for contactless payment options, such as mobile wallets, or use cash to purchase a Disney Gift Card at the Welcome Center (Guest Relations) and select merchandise locations. Guests are further encouraged to use the mobile order service in the My Disney Experience app at participating locations.
What’s Open at Disney Springs Click HERE!
Universal CityWalk at Universal Orlando Resort reopened for limited operations on May 14, with Universal Orlando’s theme parks set to follow on June 5.
New Safety Measures at Universal CityWalk
Universal Orlando Resort’s carefully managed reopening comes with stringent new health, safety and hygiene procedures to help protect guests and Team Members, including the following measures:
Reduced Capacity
Universal CityWalk’s guest capacity is currently reduced, as is the availability of onsite parking. Self-parking is free, but valet parking is unavailable.
Increased Sanitation
All guests and Team Members are asked to wash their hands often. Furthermore, guests will be required to use hand sanitizer at select locations. Universal Orlando has also increased their already-aggressive cleaning and disinfection procedures and is frequently cleaning all high-touch surfaces.
Temperature Check Required
Temperature checks will be required upon arrival, and guests with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or greater will not be admitted. All Team Members will also undergo temperature checks.
Face Covering Required
Everyone is required to wear a face covering during their visit, except while dining, including guests and Team Members.
Social Distancing
Practice social distancing and keep at least 6 feet between your travel party and others.
Follow Floor Markings & Team Member Directions
When present, please stand on the floor markings until the group in front of you moves forward. Guests are also asked to follow all directions from Team Members.
What’s Open at Universal CityWalk CLICK HERE
With safer-at-home restrictions lifted throughout the state of Florida, Orlando attractions have begun to reopen with new safety and sanitization procedures in place to help protect you and your family. Here’s a look at which attractions are up and running throughout the area.
The following Orlando attractions are open now or will open on their specified date. When available, links to attractions’ new safety regulations are also provided. In some cases, these attractions are offering modified hours or services; please check with your preferred attractions for specifics ahead of your visit.
Indoor & Outdoor Attractions CLICK HERE!