Is Disney World Going to Be Disappointing Now?

Disney World recently announced its reopening plans, and while that’s exciting for many guests who can’t wait to get back into the parks, it does have its concerning aspects.

Magic Kingdom

The global health crisis has caused some major changes to the offerings in the parks. We’re sure a lot of you are worried that Disney World is going to be disappointing once it reopens. Let’s take a look at some of the things that are concerning guests.

What is Disney World losing?

First, let’s talk about what Disney World is losing from the last time we were there. For one, to keep guests and Cast Members safe, traditional character meet and greets aren’t going to be a thing. And you can count out most character dining too. Instead, characters will be meeting from a distance, but that means no close-up pictures and no hugs. Um…bummer.

Disney World

Character meet and greets aren’t the only offerings that have been removed in the name of physical distancing. Fireworks, parades, and shows are all going to be suspended when the parks reopen and FastPass+ and Disney Dining Plans are not being offered so that more space can be made in queue areas and restaurants.

Magic Kingdom

So, yeah. Needless to say, a lot of quintessential Disney experiences aren’t going to be available when the parks reopen. Who would have thought one day we’d be going to a Disney World where we can’t hug Mickey or watch fireworks over Cinderella Castle at the end of the night?

Want to learn more about the changes to entertainment? Click here!

But there is a bright side.

We know what you’re thinking. What could possibly be the bright side of all these changes in response to the global health crisis? Well, Disney CEO Bob Chapek has mentioned that we can expect VERY short wait times for attractions — the majority of which will be open. Well, hey, that sounds pretty good actually. We’d LOVE to waltz right on to Seven Dwarfs Mine Train! Wouldn’t you?! Whether this is the case or not won’t be known until the parks actually reopen.

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in Magic Kingdom

But Disney is significantly lowering capacity, and that will probably make for a pleasant day sans the sea of crowds. Not only will there be lower waits, but you’ll also be able to snag some GREAT Disney pictures with fewer people in them. Disney might seem a little bit more like it did years ago before crowds started getting so pervasive — that sounds like a silver lining to us.

Click here to learn more about Bob Chapek’s comments on reopening!

So, is Disney World going to be disappointing?

Ok, so now we know the good and the bad — does that mean Disney is going to be disappointing? It really depends on your expectations. If you’re looking to get back to the same old Disney you remember, you might want to hold off on visiting for a little while.

Magic Kingdom

The same is true if one of your priorities is fireworks, character meet and greets, or parades. Since these offerings aren’t going to be available at first, you might be super disappointed with what is left to do. If this is your family’s FIRST trip to Disney World, it might be a major letdown to not get the full experience. Still, if you’ve been many times before and had your chance to see the fireworks, parades, and more, it might make for a really nice Disney day. 

For more on health measures we can expect, click here!

Here’s what to consider to decide if Disney’s worth it right now.

So, it really can go either way depending on your party and your expectations. If you’re wondering if you should take your first-ever Disney trip right now, as we said before, the changes will be a huge consideration and possibly a big deterrent. You’ll miss out on a few iconic pieces of the Disney experience, but Disney IS still a standout when it comes to the theming, rides, and restaurants that WILL be open. The choice is uniquely yours.

Tower of Terror

It really all comes down to if the trip is worth the money and time for you. If one of these cancellations or health measures sounds like it could make your Disney day not worth it, hold off on the trip. Offerings are set to return at some point in the future, and Disney will feel a lot more like it used to.

Magic Kingdom

But if you are itching to get back, this will certainly make for a memorable trip you’ll likely speak of for years to come!

But of course, it goes without saying that the world is still in the midst of a global health crisis, and may continue to be for months to come. So please make your decisions carefully, especially if you have people in your traveling party who may be more susceptible to complications from this illness.

We hope this is helpful when you’re figuring out what to expect in a reopened Disney World! We’ll be reporting on all new developments and what the resort is like in the coming weeks so stick around for ALL the latest updates.

Click here for ALL the details on Disney World’s reopening plan!

Do you think Disney World will be disappointing? Share your thoughts in the comments!