What is it like at Disney World right now?

A short trip report from 2020.

Magic Kingdom on re-opening day was all that I wanted it to be and more. The Cast Members were lined up along Main St waving and smiling (under their masks), with many saying how happy they were to see us and how they had been preparing for our visit. 

I am all for responsible travel, and Disney is doing a great job keeping guests safe. 

There were social distancing markers throughout the park, and as it was opening day some were added if the line got to be longer than there were markers for. There were Cast Members monitoring spaces and reminding guests to wear their masks properly.

Is the Magic still there?

In a word: yes. 

As a Disney fan and one who's job revolves around the parks, I am so happy when I get to visit.

Why is Disney so special?

It isn't just one thing, but a beautiful combination of music, the immersive-like quality of the "Disney Bubble", the food, the Cast Members, feeling as excited as a kid when you see your favorite characters, screaming like a wild person as you plummet down Splash Mountain, staying in a resort, not having to drive, memorable smells that tie you to your happy place, and many other little things that stack up to make Disney a unique and wonderful vacation - especially if you have a travel professional to take care of every detail leading up to and during your trip!

It is special for many reasons, and yours may be different than my list above!

There are many changes to the park this year, some temporary and some are permanent, like the updated paint job for the castle.

All ride queues have social distancing markers and plexiglass dividers (if needed) to keep groups apart.

Hours have been adjusted for all the parks and as of this writing there are no evening shows.

Transportation has been modified to reflect new opening and closing hours, with some options like the Friendship Boats reactivating on November 1.

Disney is still using the DAS pass for those who need it. You will go through the interview process on your first day, just as before, and then utilize the Fastpass queue when it is time for you to ride. It's almost like a VIP tour!

Most restaurants are using mobile ordering or mobile check-in through the MyDisneyExperience app.

How's the food? I'm so glad you asked! 

I'm happy to report that the waffles are as delicious as ever. And the ice cream?

DELICIOUS.

Character interaction is adjusted to over-the-shoulder selfies.

And you can see characters throughout the day during spontaneous cavalcades. We even saw Merida ride through on her horse, which was pretty spectacular. 

If you'd like to see more videos and other first-hand experiences, check out my story highlights on Instagram under the re-opening heading.

You can connect with me on Instagram here travel_bug_company, and on Facebook Travel Bug Company.

When you're ready to plan your trip to the Most Magical Place On Earth, I'd be delighted to chat! Click the button below to choose a time that works for you. Or send me an email at amy@travelbugcompany.com

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