The lives of all have been a bit too void of happiness and cheer since last March, and where else is the best place to fill this void other than Walt Disney World? The time has come, with travel rules and regulations being slowly lifted, to visit the happiest place on Earth. Characters, food, rides, the whole shebang. Even though the parks have been open for almost a year since the pandemic hit, many are now feeling safer to travel and visit different places, and as a result, Disney once again becomes a hot spot for vacations.

For those who may have worries about visiting the parks due to health-related concerns, these fears can be put to rest due to Disney’s careful regulations regarding COVID-19. For one thing, masks are required in the parks, as well as social distancing. They have significantly enhanced cleaning procedures in the hotel rooms and implemented ways to reduce contact in the parks.

Despite these changes, the parks continue to hold the magic they always have! Rides are operational, and character meet and greets are still available! Of course they do not look the same as they always have, and some are on the move, so a video camera may be helpful, but it is still sure to be a memorable experience. These on-the-go character sightings are called cavalcades, and they do not have specified times, so they often surprise Disney guests!

Park hours have made an exciting shift for the end of March and early April. Whereas before they closed much earlier, closing times have been extended! For example, Magic Kingdom is now open until 9 PM, and Epcot is even open until 11 PM! Before, these parks were only open until as early as 6 PM.This allows for even more time to explore the parks, and might even invite a mask break in the middle of the day to come back strong for the nighttime! This is highly recommended for those looking to be the most effective, because contrary to popular belief, trying to get the most done in a short amount of time is often counterproductive. Giving the mind and body a rest is crucial, and now, it’s more important than ever to get a breath of fresh air! Many enjoy taking this time to relax by the pool, or take a nap in the comfort of their air-conditioned hotel room.

Dining reservations in the parks and on Disney property are being taken, and highly recommended! There are also plenty of opportunities to eat outside, such as at The Lunching Pad in Magic Kingdom, the Barefoot Pool Bar at the Polynesian Resort, or Rosie’s All American Cafe in Hollywood Studios. Planning ahead is especially crucial now, with limited capacity at the restaurants. Better to have peace of mind before arriving than scrambling to find a place to eat when the hunger is already overpowering in the parks.

Of course, some shows are closed that are usually running in various parks due to the current situation, such as Fantasmic! and Beauty and the Beast at Hollywood Studios, but that doesn’t mean all of them are closed! The Bands at America Gardens Theatre at Epcot, For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration in Hollywood Studios, and Feathered Friends in Flight in Animal Kingdom are all open for guests’ enjoyment! 

It is so important to focus on the positives of life when so many things can feel overwhelming. Disney World is obviously a very different experience than what it used to be, however that doesn’t mean it can’t be happily experienced and enjoyed!