Our Guide to Walt Disney World for Beginners has now been running for several years. In regular years we complete three significant updates to the guide plus make minor changes throughout the year. 2021 is a little different at Walt Disney World, and there are a significant number of changes. We have decided to create a brand new 2021 Guide to Walt Disney World for Beginners to ensure all the latest information is in one place.
Our 2021 Ultimate Guide to Walt Disney World is a great starting point to plan your vacation if you are a newbie to Walt Disney World or an experienced Mouseketeer. Remember, even if you have visited Walt Disney World before, there are many changes to how you plan your vacation in 2021. Our guide contains all the essential Walt Disney World information you need to know, including the latest tips, hints & hacks.
A lot changed when the Walt Disney World parks reopened in July 2020. Many of our regular tips and tricks on how to plan your Walt Disney World Vacation were no longer valid and still aren’t. However, one thing that still has not have changed is the need to plan your vacation.
The creation of this guide has been a big challenge. It is likely we will have provided some information that is either incorrect or soon out of date. If you feel there are any corrections, please leave a comment.
If you are looking for specific information to help plan your Walt Disney World Vacation, click on these handy jumps to take you straight to the advice:
- Walt Disney World Reopening The Basics all the key information about the reopening of Walt Disney World
- Walt Disney World The Basics including the history of Walt Disney World & New Attractions Coming Soon to Walt Disney World. Plus, what we know about Walt Disney World’s 50th-anniversary celebrations.
- Initial Research & Reserving your Walt Disney World Vacation things might be different, but you will still need to plan your vacation
- Essential Walt Disney World Knowledge FastPass+ might be suspended but there is new knowledge you have to learn.
- Where to Stay When Visiting Walt Disney World
- The Walt Disney World Theme Parks All about the big 4 theme parks at Walt Disney World: The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios & Animal Kingdom.
- Other Venues at Walt Disney World
- Walt Disney World Transport how to get around the resort
- Dining at Walt Disney World Disney has plenty of dining options but there will be changes during the reopening period
- Special Events & Festivities at Walt Disney World in 2021
- Walt Disney World News & Rumors. How to keep up to date with the latest changes
In 2021 some of the traditional Walt Disney World Experiences may return. To learn more about what Walt Disney World was like before the resort closure, visit our 2020 Guide to Walt Disney World.
Walt Disney World Reopening The Basics
On March 16th Walt Disney World Parks closed due to COVID-19. However, the resort is now open and welcoming guests.
There are some significant changes to experiences at Walt Disney World parks. All changes are subject to change and might be relaxed in the coming months. While there might sound like a lot of changes, you can still have a great time at Walt Disney World. However, the following restrictions are in place:
- All parks will be subject to limited capacity.
- You will need to reserve a place to visit any of the parks. Park attendance will be managed through a new park reservation system. To access the park, you must have a valid ticket and reservation.
- All Guests ages two and up, and Cast Members, are required to wear face coverings. Neck gaiters and open-chin triangle bandanas are not acceptable face coverings. Costume masks are also not considered appropriate and are prohibited from being worn
- Temperature screening will occur. Any guest with a temperature of 100.4 F or above, including their party, will not be allowed entry.
- Physical distancing and limited contact will be in place throughout the resort.
- Cashless transactions will be encouraged, including mobile food ordering.
Also, you should note that the following facilities and experiences are not available at Walt Disney World:
- FastPass
- Single Rider Lines
- Extra Magic Hours(it has been confirmed that this will not be returning)
- Disney Dining Plan
- Character meet and greets
- Playgrounds
- Fireworks and parades
- The majority of tours and special experiences
We will explain these changes later in this guide and how you can still plan to have a fantastic vacation.
Walt Disney World The Basics
Most first-time visitors are not aware of the size of Walt Disney World. The resort is similar in size to San Francisco! In standard years, it is the most visited vacation resort in the world, with 52 million guests. However, the number of guests in 2021 will be significantly less.
The resort opened on the 1st of October 1971 and will be celebrating its 50th birthday this year. Today, Walt Disney World has four theme parks, two water parks, several golf courses, numerous hotels, Disney Vacation Club Resorts, a camping resort, and various other entertainment venues.
- Visit our Brief History of Walt Disney World if you want to learn more about the developments at the resort.
- Did you know that Walt Disney World has more than 200 restaurants, more than any other single-site vacation destination in the world? If you want to learn, more Walt Disney World Facts visit our dedicated page.
New Attractions in 2021 at Walt Disney World
2019 was a busy year at Walt Disney World with a large number of new attractions.
Initially, there were planned to be two big new attractions opening at Walt Disney World in 2020. Unfortunately, only Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway opened at Hollywood Studios due to the resort closure.
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is a new Ratatouille Attraction in the France Pavilion at Epcot, which was due to open in 2020. However, the opening has been delayed and is now confirmed to be 2021, but an exact date has not been provided. Guests will wear 3D glasses, and the attraction will use a trackless ride system. During the ride, you will shrink to the size of a rat and cause mayhem in Gustav’s kitchen.
There have also been some initial announcements about the celebrations planned for Walt Disney’s World 50th Anniversary. We expect there are likely to be further new additions during 2021, but nothing has yet been confirmed. We have attempted to summarise what we think might open in Walt Disney World in 2021 in this guide.
Click on our post on Walt Disney Worlds 50th Anniversary to learn more about the announced celebrations.
Inevitably the 2020 crisis has led to some constriction projects at Walt Disney World being canceled. Learn about the attractions that will now join Neverland instead of Walt Disney World.
Initial Research & Reserving your Walt Disney World Vacation
Booking a Walt Disney World Vacation in 2021 will be different than in previous years. Traditionally, the first steps of arranging any Walt Disney World Vacation is doing your research, setting your budgets & making your initial reservations. While much of this will not have changed, there will be travel restrictions and park reservations to consider.
However, you should still continue to follow these initial steps:
- Set what your maximum budget is. There will be additional expenses as you come closer to your departure date, make sure you can still pay for them. We have created a free Walt Disney World Budget Planner among our selection of Walt Disney World Planning tools. If you have a strict budget, print out our budget tool, and start filling it in as you start your initial planning. Remember, there will be additional expenses when you arrive in Orlando, e.g., gratuities and souvenirs.
- Consider where you would like to stay. There are plenty of accommodation options at Walt Disney World, but there are other more affordable options offsite.
- Research flights. Prices for flights do vary, and the best time to book does differ from country to country. Have a look at travel forums to find out when the best time to book is.
- Are you going to book the vacation yourself or use a Disney Vacation Planner/Travel Agent?
- Research Walt Disney World via online media(including this site!), guidebooks, etc. Look into when historically offers are released for Disney World Vacations.
- Do you want to visit Universal Orlando or other Orlando parks?
- Pick your dates & get any annual leave requests arranged.
The above is only the starting point of planning your Walt Disney World vacation. Remember, at this time everything is subject to change and you may need more flexibility than usual.
Important information Foreign Visitors to Walt Disney World
Currently, there is a restricted entry for many international guests visiting the United States. Make sure you check the latest guidance before booking any vacation. While entry requirements might change in the coming months, make sure all reservations can be canceled without penalty.
The majority of Foreign Visitors must obtain a Visa before entry to the United States. However, certain International visitors may be entitled to enter via the Visa Waiver Program, but they must first obtain an ESTA.
All guests are recommended to apply for visas and ESTAs well in advance of their travel plans. You can find out more about Visas to the United States here.
How long do I need at Walt Disney World?
Before answering this question, it is worth reflecting that the new park restrictions make this question even more difficult to answer. Currently, some park attractions and report experiences are not available. Also, park opening hours are shorter than normal.
Usually, we recommend that most first-time visitors consider allocating a minimum of 2 days for all parks. However, you can have a great time at Walt Disney World even if you only visit for a weekend.
We have created a guide on how to decide the length of your Walt Disney World Vacation. However, this guide was created before current changes and you should read the advice with caution.
Should I use a Disney Vacation Planner or Travel Agent?
Authorized Disney Vacation Planner Agencies are specialist authorized Disney Travel Agents. They operate in the United States only and can plan every aspect of your vacation. There is no charge for their services, and the income they earn is a commission from sales.
Usually, we can’t see the benefit of using a Disney Vacation Planner. However, we think they might be of great benefit during this reopening period. It is likely they will have access to all the latest information and rumors.
When should I visit Walt Disney World?
We previously created a guide to help you decide when you should visit Walt Disney World in 2020. This advice would usually be fairly consistent for the following years.
At this time, deciding whether you even want to visit Walt Disney World is a complex decision. We recommend you consider carefully before visiting during 2021. You will have a fantastic time, but it will be a different experience. We have created a Guide Highlighting Reasons to Visit Walt Disney World in 2021 and Reasons Against.
Walt Disney World Tickets
When Walt Disney World initially reopened, there were significant restrictions on the availability of tickets. However, tickets are now widely available, and park hopping has restarted. Also, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park will reopen on March 7, 2021.
One change that appears to be remaining for the foreseeable future is the Disney Park Pass Reservation System. To enter any park you must have a reservation in addition to a ticket. We strongly recommend checking the availability of reservations before buying your ticket.
We have created a guide that explains everything you need to know when buying Walt Disney World Tickets.
Walt Disney World Weather
While it is implausible you can visit Orlando and not encounter a fair measure of sunshine; it can undoubtedly be offset with plenty of rain and the occasional storm. Hurricanes are something that worries many first-time visitors, but it would be unusual for them to ruin your vacation.
We have created a Guide to Orlando Weather which has further information.
Planning Sheets
After your initial research, you will want to start putting down your vacation plans in writing. Our Free Walt Disney World Planners are a great resource that can help create a perfect Walt Disney World Vacation Plan.
We have just redesigned these planners for 2021 and they include:-
- A vacation overview
- A Disney World budgeting planning sheet
- A weekly Walt Disney World planning sheet
- Park Pass Reservation planner
- A dining planner
- Daily planners
Make sure you download this free resource.
Essential Walt Disney World 2021 Knowledge
Planning your Walt Disney World Vacation is an essential activity. Planning your vacation is still essential in 2021, but there are significant changes in how you do this. Traditional key booking windows at Walt Disney World including how you make dining and ride reservations have now changed.
We will guide you through all the Essential Disney World Knowledge you need to plan & enjoy your vacation. Keep checking this guide as the information is likely to change regularly.
Keeping Guests safe at Walt Disney World
At the moment visiting any theme park is not without some degree of risk to your health. Disney has made clear that “By visiting Walt Disney World Resort you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.”
However, there are 3 guiding principles Disney have introduced to keep guests safe:
- Enhanced Cleaning Cleaning procedures are enhanced throughout Walt Disney World Resort.
- Physical Distancing Temporary adjustments are in place to promote physical distancing.
- Reduced Contact Experiences may be modified in order to reduce contact.
Currently not available at Walt Disney World
Several changes have been announced during the initial period of Walt Disney World reopening. During the reopening period the following have been suspended:
- FastPass
- Single Rider Lines
- Extra Magic Hours(it has been confirmed that this will not be returning)
- Disney Dining Plan
- Character meet and greets
- Playgrounds
- Fireworks and parades
- The majority of tours and special experiences
It is possible these activities may return at a later in 2021.
New Entry Requirements
Face coverings are now required by all guests aged 2 and over. This will be required in all public areas, including resorts. The only exception is when swimming or dining.
All face coverings should:
- Be made with at least 2 layers of breathable material
- Fully cover the nose and mouth and secure under the chin
- Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
- Be secured with ties or ear loops and allow the Guest to remain hands-free
- Neck gaiters and open-chin triangle bandanas are not acceptable face coverings. Costume masks are also not considered appropriate and are prohibited from being worn
Temperature screening will be required to enter some locations. Initially, all guests will be screened by a no-touch thermometer. Guests who record a temperature of 100.4 F or above will not be allowed entry; those in their party will not be permitted entry either.
Park Reservation System
Just turning up at a Walt Disney World is no longer possible. In its place will be a new park reservation system.
Disney Park Pass was introduced during the reopening of Walt Disney World. During the reopening period, Park Pass allowed Disney to strictly control the number of guests entering a park each day. Since the reopening period, the number of guests has gradually increased, but Disney Park Pass remains.
To access a park at Walt Disney World, you need to prebook a reservation through the new Disney Park Pass System. To access any park, guests have to present both their park reservation and a valid park ticket. Guests who do not have either of these will be refused entry.
A limited Park Hopping option, which we describe below has now been introduced. However, your first park entry each day must be confirmed through a Disney Park Pass Reservation.
To learn more about the Disney Park Pass System visit our dedicated guide.
Park Hopping
Park Hopper tickets allow guests to visit more than 1 park at Walt Disney World each day. Park Hopping allows increased variation and spontaneity in your vacation, but tickets do cost a little extra.
When Walt Disney World reopened, Park Hopping was suspended. Guests were restricted to visiting just one Walt Disney World Park a day. However, Park Hopping has now been reintroduced.
Guests will still need to make a Disney Park Pass Reservation for their first park each day, and they must enter this park before trying to enter another. Guests will then be able to enter a second park during Park Hopper Hours. Park Hopping Hours are subject to change, but initially, they will be between 2 pm to close at all parks. Park Hopping will be subject to park capacity, and Disney advises you to check My Disney Experience for the latest information.
Visit our Guide to Park Hopping to learn more.
Walt Disney World Park Hours & Closures
Park hours usually get released around 6 months in advance. However, they often change as you come closer to the actual date! Unfortunately, hours are currently reduced in all parks but have slowly been increasing. Click the link to get all the latest Walt Disney World Park Hours.
Walt Disney World is constantly changing, and it is almost inevitable there will be some attraction refurbishments & closures whenever you visit. During the initial reopening of Walt Disney World, you may find more attractions than usual are not open. Visit My Disney Experience for the latest information.
Early Theme Park Entry
It has been confirmed that Extra Magic Hours will not be returning to Walt Disney World. In its place, Early Theme Park Entry will be introduced later in 2021. Disney Resort hotel guests and guests of other select hotels will be able to gain 30-minute early entry to any theme park every day. Unlike Extra Magic Hours, this will be at all 4 theme parks.
To gain access to a park, you will still need a Disney Park Pass. Disney has suggested the new service will allow better guest spread across all four theme parks. However, for guests staying off-site, it isn’t great news. Instead of one park being busy before you arrived, Disney Resort guests will now have priority access to all four parks.
Visit our Guide to Early Theme Park Entry to learn more.
My Disney Experience
My Disney Experience is a free online guide to Walt Disney World that allows guests to plan their vacation. Through this free service you can:
- Keep track of your plans & reservations, including those of your family & friends.
- Make FastPass+, Dining & Ticket Reservations
- Order in advance and pay for your food at select Quick Service Locations
- Access maps, wait times, showtimes, park hours, and much more essential information via the app.
- Grab a spot in the virtual queue for Rise of the Resistance.
Walt Disney World encourages all guests to have downloaded the latest version of My Disney Experience on their mobile device before entering parks during the reopening period. Also, they recommend having location services and notifications enabled.
During the reopening of Walt Disney World, My Disney Experience will be providing several new enhancements to promote social distancing and reduced contact.
Our Guide to My Disney Experience provides more information including how to get the App.
Play Disney Parks App
Available through both the App Store and Google Play is the Play Disney Parks App. The App makes waiting in line fun, with a list of challenges the whole family can play.
Rider Switch & Height Restrictions
While Disney World appeals to families of all ages, some attractions are not suitable for young children. Many of the attractions have height restrictions for safety purposes, and they are enforced strictly.
However, if the kids are too small to ride, it does not mean adults and older siblings can’t. Rider Switch, also sometimes known as child swap, allows guests with small children to take turns riding while another adult stays with the child.
To see all the Disney World Height Restrictions and learn more about Rider Switch, read our guides.
PhotoPass & Memory Maker
PhotoPass allows you to keep the highlights from your Walt Disney World Vacation. There is no charge to have pictures taken at Walt Disney World or to see them online, but there is if you want to download them.
Memory Maker is a package that allows you to download and keep all the pictures you have taken in a 30-day window including ride photographs.
Currently there are some minor changes to PhotoPass:
- Photographers will no longer handle your camera or cellphone
- Any props used will be thoroughly cleaned between guests.
- Cast members will scan MagicBands or Cards without touching them. You are encouraged to have them out for easy scanning.
You can learn more about PhotoPass & Memory Maker in our guide
MagicBands
These rubber bracelets act as your park tickets, room key, room charge card, your Fastpasses are linked with them, they store your photographs, and manage your dining reservations. Our Guide to MagicBands has further information.
MagicBands have become a key part of the guest’s Walt Disney World Vacation in recent years. However, this might change in 2021 as resort guests no longer receive a complimentary MagicBand. Many of the interactions are now available through the My Disney Experience App on your mobile phone. We have created a blog on what we think will be the future of MagicBands at Walt Disney World.
Finding characters during the reopening period
Walt Disney World wouldn’t be Walt Disney World without characters. Unfortunately, during the reopening period, there will be no official meets, parades and limited character dining. However, there will still be plenty of opportunities to see the famous Disney Stars.
If you’re hoping to see some familiar friends or take in the tunes of treasured performers, you’re in luck! Just as you may have seen recently at Disney Springs, our characters will appear in new and different ways that bring a smile to your face while also being mindful of physical distancing. From special cavalcades down the Magic Kingdom Park parade route and friends sailing the waterways of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, to processions along the World Showcase promenade at EPCOT and motorcades on Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Hollywood Boulevard, each area will come to life throughout the day. You never know when a party of your pals may come by, so be prepared for plenty of surprises!
For example, after rocketing through space in Tomorrowland you might see that famous Space Ranger, Buzz Lightyear; or discover a captive Captain Jack Sparrow as you traverse the Castillo del Morro on your way to Pirates of the Caribbean. You could cross paths with Queen Anna and Elsa as they venture “into the unknown” on a journey around World Showcase at EPCOT or spy members of the Resistance hiding out from the First Order throughout Black Spire Outpost on the planet Batuu.
Disney Parks Blog
Character Dining is currently modified and only available at Garden Grill Restaurant, Hollywood & Vine, Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera and Chef Mickey’s.
Disabilities at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World provides extensive facilities for all forms of disability. We have created a Guide to Disabilities at Walt Disney World which has further information on the adaptions & services available in every park.
Our guide also includes details on the Disability Access Service which assists guests who are unable to tolerate longs waits in lines.
Hidden Mickeys
Want to play a game when visiting Walt Disney World? See who can spot the most Hidden Mickeys.
There are thousands of Hidden Mickeys throughout the resort and more are added with each change. A Hidden Mickey is a representation of Mickey Mouse that has been inserted subtly into the design of a ride, attraction or another site.
Finding Hidden Mickeys is not easy, but they are everywhere throughout Walt Disney World.
Walt Disney World Tips & Tricks
Planning your visit to Walt Disney World is an essential activity although it can initially feel overwhelming for the first-time visitor. We have created numerous guides here on Modern Life is Good, which provides tips on how to plan the perfect Walt Disney World Vacation.
If you are visiting in 2021 you might find the following guides particularly useful:
- Our Top 10 Walt Disney World Tips for 2021 & A Few New Ones
- All-New Walt Disney World Mistakes to Avoid in 2021
- Disney World Park Bag What You Really Need
- Guide to Planning a 2021 Vacation
Additional Walt Disney World Useful Information
Sometimes it is difficult to find the answers to all your questions prior to your Walt Disney World Vacation. You will find many of the answers in our Walt Disney World Information section. We will shortly be updating this guide with all the latest information.
Where to Stay When Visiting Walt Disney World
There are numerous accommodation options throughout Orlando. Accommodation options include luxurious villas, budget motels & 5-star hotels. Many hotels include free transport to Walt Disney World.
However, do you want to stay near the action? Nothing beats being in the heart of the action by staying in a Walt Disney World Resort. Walt Disney World Resorts provide unique theming, accommodation to suit a range of budgets, several perks & the opportunity to stay in the middle of the action. No matter who you are traveling with there will be an accommodation option that will suit you.
Unfortunately, many of the Walt Disney World Resorts remain closed. Also, many of the additional resort perks, are not be available. Due to this loss of benefits, the appeal of staying onsite will be reduced. The reduction in perks has made us question whether is it still worth staying in a Walt Disney World Resort?
We have created 2 guides which will help you decide which, if any, Walt Disney World Resort you want to stay in:
- Our 2021 Reopening Guide to Walt Disney World Resorts has all the information.
- If you want to learn more about a specific resort, Our Guide to Walt Disney World Resorts has information on all the resorts at Walt Disney World.
The Walt Disney World Theme Parks
There are 4 theme parks in Walt Disney World, each with its unique ambiance. All 4 theme parks are large and have traditionally taken a minimum of 2 days to complete.
During the reopening period, some attractions will be closed, and availability will be subject to change. Also, parades, fireworks, and characters are currently unavailable.
Admission to all parks is with a park reservation and a valid ticket. You will not be allowed access without both of these in place. Currently, a limited park hopping option is available after 2 pm.
It is essential you download and have access to the My Disney Experience App where you will find park maps and up-to-date information.
The Magic Kingdom
The Magic Kingdom was the very first theme park to open in Walt Disney World on the 1st of October 1971. Today it is the most popular theme park in the World. Visit our Guide to the Magic Kingdom for further information.
Epcot
Epcot opened on October 1st, 1982. It covers 300 acres and is more than twice the size of the Magic Kingdom. It was the 2nd Theme Park to open in Walt Disney World.
Epcot was undergoing a multi-year enhancement project before resort closure. The project includes many new attractions but also the closure of some historic attractions. There have been several changes to these planned including delayed or canceled construction projects. However, you will encounter significant building work when you visit.
You can learn more about Epcot in our Beginners Guide.
Hollywood Studios
Dedicated to Show Business, the park opened on 1 May 1989. The theme park was launched by Disney in response to Universal Studios opening in Orlando.
Hollywood Studios has been undergoing massive renovations in recent years and now has some of the best attractions in Orlando. Don’t miss Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge.
FastPass will not be available during the reopening of Walt Disney World, but you will need a virtual queue reservation to rides Star Wars: Ride of the Resistance.
Read more about the park including tips and tricks in our Guide to Hollywood Studios.
Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom was the 4th park to open at Walt Disney World on April 22, 1998. It is the largest park in Walt Disney World covering more than 400 acres.
Read more about the park, including tips and tricks in our Guide to the Animal Kingdom.
Other Venues at Walt Disney World
Water Parks at Walt Disney World
There are two water parks in Walt Disney World; Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.
Blizzard Beach will be the first park to reopen on March 7, 2021. A park reservation will not be required, but this might be subject to change.
Face coverings will be required, including but not limited to, at the park entrance and exit, retail areas, and food and beverage ordering areas. Face coverings will not be permitted while experiencing water slides or in the water.
Entertainment Districts at Walt Disney World
There are 2 main entertainment districts to discover at Walt Disney World: Disney Springs & Disney’s Boardwalk.
Disney Springs consists of over 150 stores, restaurants, and entertainment locations. Previously known as Downtown Disney the conversion to Disney Springs was completed in Spring 2016.
You can learn more in our Disney Springs dedicated guide.
The Boardwalk is a quarter-mile promenade containing dining, shopping, and nightlife options. It is also the home of the Boardwalk Inn & Villas. It is designed to look like a Mid-Atlantic seaside village from the early 1900s.
Some of the attractions at The Boardwalk are now open.
Golf at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World is the home to 3 Championship Golf Courses and a smaller nine-hole walking course. Arnold Palmer Golf Management manages the Disney golf courses. Golf and FootGolf are open and available on a regular schedule at Walt Disney World golf courses.
There are also two themed miniature golf complexes called Fantasia Gardens and Winter Summerland. Each compound has two separate courses. Currently, only Fantasia Gardens is open.
ESPN Wide World of Sports
The ESPN Wide World of Sports opened in 1997 and is a 220-acre athletic complex. This state-of-the-art facility houses over 60 sports and holds thousands of events every year. The 2022 Special Olympics USA will be held at the Wide World of Sports. The complex was used by both the NBA & MLS during this time.
Additional activities at Walt Disney World
Unfortunately, during the reopening of Walt Disney World, there will be significant changes to events, tours, recreation, and other experiences. Some events have been modified, but a number temporarily postponed or canceled.
We recommend checking My Disney Experience for the latest information.
Walt Disney World Transport Options
Getting around Disney World is easy. Walt Disney World has its own fantastic internal travel network, although there will be some changes during 2021 to maintain social distancing.
The changes are intended to keep you safe and this might mean, due to reduced capacity, waits will be longer than normal. Face coverings will be required when riding all transport.
To learn more about transportation options when visiting Walt Disney World visit our Guide to Walt Disney World Transport. To check on current availability visit My Disney Experience.
Driving at Walt Disney World
Many guests choose to hire a car when in Orlando, and if you are staying in a villa, this is your only realistic option. Orlando roads are good and well signposted. The quality of roads extends when you are in Walt Disney World which has an extensive well-maintained network.
Parking is not free at Walt Disney World unless you have a select annual pass or are a Disney Vacation Club Member. Resort guests also have to pay a nightly fee. Currently, valet parking is not available.
Visiting Walt Disney World Without a Car
In my opinion, you don’t need a car when visiting Walt Disney World. We have created a guide to navigating Walt Disney World Without a Car which shows just how easy it is
Dining at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World serves a lot of food, an awful lot of food. There are over 6,000 food items available at more than 475 different locations. Since the resort reopened there have been a number of significant changes to dining.
Perhaps the most significant changes are the suspension of the Disney Dining Plan and a new 60-day Advanced Dining Reservation window. Also, not all locations are currently open, and venues will be subject to reduced capacity.
Disney will also be encouraging distancing and reduced contact while dining. Changes will include mobile check-in, promoting mobile ordering, digital menus, and encouraging contactless payments.
We have created a Guide to Dining at Walt Disney World in 2021, with all the latest information.
We also have two historical guides which contain additional useful information for the reopening period:
- Mobile Ordering at Walt Disney World. Perhaps the greatest time-saver at Walt Disney World, order your food in advance at quick-service restaurants. Disney is encouraging all guests to use this during the reopening period.
- Food Allergies and Intolerances when visiting Walt Disney World.
Special Events & Festivities at Walt Disney World in 2021
Usually, throughout the year, regular Special Events & Festivities are scheduled at Walt Disney World. These special events help make every Disney Vacation extra special.
Unfortunately, many of these events were canceled or postponed in 2020. Disney is currently only releasing limited advance details of 2021 Events.
In Epcot the following festivals are currently scheduled:
- Taste of Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival running March 3 – July 5
- Taste of Epcot International Festival of the Arts running January 8 – February 22
No details have been released on whether we can expect a full or abbreviated Food & Wine Festival in 2021. It is also unknown whether the popular Christmas and Halloween parties will return this year to the Magic Kingdom.
There have also been some initial announcements about the celebrations planned for Walt Disney’s World 50th Anniversary. The celebrations start on October 1 and will run for 18 months. You can learn more about “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” in our recent post.
Walt Disney World News & Rumors
Walt Disney World is constantly changing, and every month there are announcements of new developments or rumors of changes to the resort. The rate of change is likely to be higher than ever before in 2021.
Visit our Walt Disney World News Section for all the latest news & rumors.
Read More about Walt Disney World
We plan to keep Modern Life is Good updated with the latest information on Walt Disney World during. We would suggest visiting our home page to get the newest information from the resort.
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