The wait is over.
Four months after closing because of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus commonly known as novel coronavirus pandemic, Walt Disney World Resort in Florida has officially reopened.
Disney confirmed to CNN Travel that the Magic Kingdom and the Animal Kingdom opened their gates this morning.
Epcot and Hollywood Studios are set to welcome guests on Wednesday.
This is not the first Disney resort to reopen. Three parks in Asia have already taken those honors. But it’s the first Disney park in the United States to reopen.
Want to know what’s going on? CNN Travel will be posting updates from inside the Magic Kingdom periodically during the day.
A Big Deal
Disney World is the biggest of big deals in the theme park universe. And the eyes of the theme park world will be on it this weekend.Josh D'Amaro, the chairman of Disney Park, Experiences and Products, made an Instagram post of an “amazing morning” with cast members before the reopening.
Here are some of the things to expect today:
1. Reservations and Capacity
Disney has a new way for guests to gain entry, developed in the midst of the pandemic. It’s called the Disney Park Pass. And it’s a bit complicated.And capacity will be limited.
2. Temperature Checks and Safety Measures
Every guest must have a temperature check before entry. Those who register 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher must submit to a second reading. If she or he registers 100.4 or higher again, that person and their party can’t enter.The opening comes during a recent spike in Covid-19 cases. CNN reported Saturday morning that Orange County, where Disney World is located, has 475 patients in the hospital with Covid-19.
3. Dining
Like restaurants anywhere else, Disney has had to upend its normal dining experience and find new ways to deliver food and drinks to hungry and thirsty guests.4. Rides and Attractions
In its news release, Disney said it expects to open up very popular attractions on Saturday such as Space Mountain, The Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train.The CNN Wire contributed to this report.
