Walt Disney (DIS 0.18%) will be back in action starting on Wednesday, or at least a small part of its vast U.S. theme park landscape will be. But like most newly opened economic action in the U.S., that comes with a host of rules and restrictions.
Fun for everyone
Disney Springs, a shopping and entertainment complex that is part of the Walt Disney World theme park, will be the first section of the company's U.S. parks to reopen its doors when it welcomes customers on May 20. Only a small selection of its 104 stores and 64 eating establishments will open on the first day, all operated by third parties. The complex also has 23 events and attractions that function during normal times.
Disney plans to open some of its company-owned eateries starting May 27.
Image source: Walt Disney.
Social distancing in a social setting
The company gave a list of six things patrons need to know before entering the complex:
- There will be limited parking
- Customers will have their temperature taken before being allowed in
- All entrants over age three are required to wear a face mask
- Social distancing rules will be enforced
- Normal operations will be modified; hours will be reduced and events will not be held
- There will be increased sanitary policies and hand-washing stations
Disney is also recommending that visitors use forms of contactless payment for any financial transactions.
One step at a time
While there has been no clear word on when Disney World will reopen, the company has started taking reservations on its web site for dates starting in July. In the meantime, visitors can do some park-themed shopping at Disney Springs.
