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Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

As the Walt Disney World theme parks prepare to welcome guests again, it’s only natural that there are questions GALORE!

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Early Morning at Cinderella Castle

There are a LOT of new guidelines and policies to keep up with. Don’t worry if you’re still super confused, because we’ve got ya covered…literally!

Wearing a face covering is going to be one of the BIGGEST adjustments guests will have to make when visiting the Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom when they reopen on July 11th and Epcot and Hollywood Studios when they reopen on July 15th.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Disney-themed Cloth Face Masks ©Disney

But before you go, you may be wondering: Who has to wear a face covering? When do you have to wear a face covering? What even IS a face covering?!

Who has to wear a face covering?

A recent update confirmed that Cast Members and ALL guests ages TWO and up will be required to wear a face covering while at the Walt Disney World Resort.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

American Threads Face Masks at Disney Springs

According to Disney, you need to bring your own face mask.

Where do you have to wear a face mask?

We already know you need to wear a face mask while visiting Disney Springs, and you’ll have to wear them all around the theme parks. Additionally, hotel guests will have to wear face masks while in common areas of the resort, according to a Disney rep.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Disney will require guests to wear face masks unless eating or swimming while at a resort hotel

As previously reported, you will NOT have to wear your face covering when dining and swimming! Guests also will not be required to wear a mask while in their own rooms.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Luna Park Pool

In the proposal Disney offered to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force, it was mentioned they may be offering “relaxation zones.”

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Guests with Face Coverings in Disney Springs

These are spots “in and around and off the property” where folks can remove their face coverings for a while and breathe in that fresh Florida air. Universal Studios introduced similar locations when they reopened, called URest areas. 

What counts as a face covering?

That’s two big questions out of the way! But you might still be wondering… what counts as a face covering at Disney World?

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Cast Member with required face mask

The CDC has great information regarding face coverings! But since we’re here for Disney World, it’s important to note that the Disney World website currently states the following in regard to face coverings. They must:

  1. Fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth and allow the guest to remain hands-free
  2. Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
  3. Be secured with ties or ear loops
  4. Be made of breathable material, either disposable or reusable

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

© Amazon

So, what constitutes as a face mask?!  Scarves tied snugly around your face, gaiters, buffs, disposable or reusable masks (including bandanas), and handmade or homemade masks are all examples of what is allowed Disney World.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Monsters Inc. Bandanas

When it comes to religious coverings, the most important thing to note is that your face and nose MUST be covered and your covering should fit snugly against the side of your face. If you are unsure whether or not your religious covering will be approved as a face mask, it’s best to bring an alternative with you JUST IN CASE! And it’s important to note that Disney can change its face covering policy at any time!

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Face Masks at American Threads

One quick note here to remember is that the rules regarding costumes and masks still apply! Sorry to those who thought they would be able to get away wearing their Darth Vader masks as face coverings! Costume helmets/masks, ski masks, or anything else that covers the entire face (excluding religious coverings) are also BIG no-nos at Walt Disney World.

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Disney Springs Planet Hollywood Server

A Cast Member we spoke with said face shields are also an acceptable face covering since they cover the nose and mouth. They haven’t seen many folks wearing face shields, but they’re allowed.

While it’s been reported that Disney Springs has a very limited amount of disposable masks for those who show up without one, it’s SUPER important to note that you shouldn’t rely on them! Definitely bring your own!

What will happen if you refuse to wear a face covering?

Face coverings will be required…but what will happen if you refuse to wear one? With increased security and social distancing squads on the lookout for face coverings, it’s HIGHLY likely that those without proper face coverings or those disobeying the guidelines will be quickly addressed! So be sure to cover up!

Here’s What Qualifies — and Doesn’t Qualify — as a Mask in Disney World!

Guest Relations Cast Member in Disney Springs

In compliance with Osceola County law, you WILL be required to wear face masks at Disney World once it reopens. Don’t let that get you down, though! Use your mask as just another Disney accessory! If you’re stuck picking a fun mask and need a little inspiration, check out these ADORABLE face coverings!

Are there other questions you have about face masks in Disney World? Let us know!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Disney News, disney parks, disney resorts, Disney Springs, Featured, Walt Disney World, 2020 magic kingdom pin, Animal Kingdom, coronavirus, coronavirus disney parks, coronavirus disney world, Disney Face Masks, disney hotels, disney parks reopen, disney parks reopening, Disney World, Disney World health measures, Epcot, face coverings, face masks, face masks at Disney World, health and safety measures, health and safety procedures, Hollywood Studios, mandatory face masks, relaxation zones, social distancing

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The ULTIMATE GUIDE to the Reopened Disney Springs in Disney World!

On May 20th, Disney Springs began a phased reopening. And we’ve been there every step of the way to see how each business has been adapting to the changes.

Disney Springs

In fact, we’ve been visiting every day so we can report back on all the dining, shopping, and safety info you need.

Since we’ve written A LOT on the subject, we wanted to provide you with the “ultimate guide” to navigating the newly reopened Disney Springs! We have the scoop on all of the health and safety measures taking place as well as where to eat, drink, and shop and how eating, drinking, and shopping will look! Here’s EVERYTHING you need to know!

Entering Disney Springs

In order to help enforce the new health and safety precautions in place, the process for entering Disney Springs is a bit different than we’ve seen in the past.

Temperature Screening

There are differences in parking, where you can enter, and what you need to know and do before you go.

Operating Hours

Disney Springs is officially operating with reduced hours (10AM to 10PM).

Disney Springs

However, those hours are subject to change. To align with Orange County’s temporarily enacted curfew, Disney Springs is operating only until 7PM until further notice.

Parking

Surface parking lots and valet are unavailable. Currently, parking is only available in the Lime and Orange Parking Garages to help reduce capacity, and once these garages are full, guests won’t be able to park there and visit Disney Springs.

Orange Parking Garage

We have seen that the Orange Parking Garage has been opening well before 9AM most days. Of course, this is always subject to change.

Entrances

At this time, there are only five entrances open to Disney Springs, all of which have temperature screening checkpoints.

This Way to Temperature Screening

The entrances are at the Orange and Lime garages, the Marketplace Entrance, the bus loop near Town Center, and the rideshare drop off area.

All your questions about the reopened Disney Springs, ANSWERED!

Health and Safety Initiatives

Guests will notice a number of health and safety precautions throughout Disney Springs, some of which they’ll experience before they even have the chance to enter.

AdventHealth Signage

From what face coverings to wear to what temperature you cannot exceed to what social distancing you’ll see, we’re going to cover all of the protocols Disney has implemented below.

Face Coverings

All guests aged 2 and older are required to wear a proper face covering while visiting Disney Springs — guests without masks will not be admitted.

Advent Health Cast Member at Temperature Screening

These face coverings should cover your nose and mouth, fit snugly, be secured with ties or ear loops, and be made of a breathable material. The face coverings can either be a reusable fabric mask or disposable.

Required Measures Sign

It’s important to keep in mind you must wear your face mask for the entire duration of your visit. The only times you’re allowed to take it off are when you’re seated in a restaurant or walking around with a food or drink in hand, in which case you’re allowed to lower your mask.

Click here to learn when you will and won’t have to wear a mask in Disney World

Temperature Screenings

In addition to mandatory face masks, all guests are required to have their temperature checked before entering Disney Springs. Health care workers from AdventHeath are providing temperature screenings for guests to help ensure accuracy.

Disney Springs

Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees and above will not be allowed to enter.

Temperature Check

If a guest does test with an elevated temperature, they’re allowed to attempt a second screening a few minutes later after waiting in a tented “cool down” area. But if they still test above the maximum temperature, they will be asked to leave along with their entire party.

Rescreening Tent

Though there is a temperature check, there is no bag check to enter Disney Springs.

Click here to learn more about temperature checks in Disney World

Increased Sanitation

Guests will find hand sanitizer stations throughout Disney Springs.

Hand sanitizer station

Portable handwashing stations are also located throughout Disney Springs. They’re highly visible and easy to locate, but if you need to use one and can’t find it on your own, ask a friendly Cast Member, and they’ll be happy to direct you!

Click here to see the handwashing stations in Disney Springs

Social Distancing Squads

Speaking of wonderful Cast Members, we’ve had our first chance encounter with the Social Distancing Squad at Disney Springs!

Cast Member

These Cast Members are on hand to provide guests with additional support while ensuring nobody is breaking any rules.

Click here to learn more about these Cast Members

Social Distancing

In order to reduce contact between guests, there are social distancing markers placed throughout Disney Springs.

World of Disney Social Distancing Stickers

While Disney has its own standard set of social distancing markers, other third-party businesses are using their own signage. For instance, Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company is using coffee bean floor decals to show guests where to stand and keep them at a six-foot distance.

Joffrey’s Coffee Bean Distancing Markers

Click here to learn more about the social distancing markers in Disney Springs

Dining in Disney Springs

While not all dining locations have reopened in Disney Springs, guests will find a wide variety of options to choose from, with new locations continuing to open.

George Miliotes at Wine Bar George’s Reopening

From new utensil dispensers to contactless menus, and mobile order payment updates, we’ve seen a bunch of new procedures at some of our favorite places to dine in Disney World.

Table Service Dining

Since May 20th, we’ve eaten at STK, The Boathouse, Wine Bar George, Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, T-Rex, Frontera Cocina, and more table service spots to see what changes they’ve implemented.

Sever at The Boathouse

Changes at table service locations include, but are not limited to: lower capacity, socially distanced tables, and single-use paper menus. We’ve also noticed some locations providing disposable bags to store our masks, and using contactless payment methods.

digital Checkout at STK

Note that at this time, reservations for Table-Service restaurants can NOT be made through the My Disney Experience app, but certain locations are currently bookable on Open Table or directly through the restaurants.

See what it’s like to dine at several Disney Springs restaurants that have just reopened here!

Quick Service Dining

We’ve also visited Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, Chicken Guy!, D-Luxe Burger, B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co., Pizza Ponte, Morimoto Asia Street Food, The Polite Pig, Earl of Sandwich, Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC, The Basket, 4 Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck, and The Daily Poutine. Yep — we’ve been STUFFED lately!

Pork Rinds at The Polite Pig

In addition to single-use menus, quick service spots are also spacing out their tables, putting up plexiglass in front of cash registers, and limiting capacity in addition to other health and safety measures.

Check out our answers to ALL your questions about the reopening of Disney Springs here!

Snacking at Disney Springs

If you’re feeling thirsty or need a small snack, you’re in luck — plenty of outdoor pop-up bar and snack carts are now fully operational!

Disney Springs Pop-Up Bar Cart

Beyond alcoholic beverages, there are carts selling Mickey Pretzels and Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars! And if you’re jonesing for some Pineapple Dole Whip — the snack you voted as your most-loved Disney foodyou can find it in Disney Springs right now too!

Dole Whip in Disney Springs

And for you folks at home with refillable popcorn buckets, you CAN still get ’em refilled at Disney Springs right now! If you forgot yours at home, Disney is selling some basic popcorn buckets so you can fill up on the good stuff!

Click here to see what it’s like snacking around reopened Disney Springs

Shopping in Disney Springs

World of Disney

As of May 27th, World of Disney is open daily from 10AM to close.

World of Disney

While the first day was CRAZY with over a three-hour wait and a new virtual queue system just to step foot in the store, the crowds have mostly calmed down since then.

Ears Section of World of Disney

Another thing we’ve noticed is the store has been opening earlier on certain days than its posted operating hours.

World of Disney

When we spoke with a Cast Member about why the store was already open (well before 10 AM) she told us they are trying to get a better handle on things and are taking it day-by-day. But your mileage may vary, so don’t count on getting in before the designated opening time!

Click here to learn more about the very busy reopening of World of Disney!

Store Capacity

Both Disney-owned stores and third party shops are limiting the number of guests allowed in a store at any given time. Shops such as Sephora, Under Armour, and World of Disney have reached capacity over the recent week, for example.

Virtual Queue

World of Disney has initiated a virtual queue for busy days, while other shops have guests wait outside in lines.

Click here to see our experience when Under Armour when hit capacity

Social Distancing at Stores

In addition to limiting the number of shoppers, plexiglass shields have been installed at most stores’ cash registers, and queues have been outfitted with social distancing markers.

Please Stand Here Markers at Checkout

Although contactless forms of payment are highly encouraged, most businesses are still accepting cash.

Contactless Payment Sign

We’ve seen signage asking guests to limit the handling of products and we’ve also seen that many larger stores have defined entrances and exits.

What About Samples?

Smelling spices at The Spice Tea & Exchange, playing with Legos at the Lego Store, or trying on a little makeup at Sephora is half the fun of shopping! But what about samples and trying out new products right now?

Sephora

Upon entering The Spice & Tea Exchange, we were offered hand sanitizer. However, we were still able to open jars to get a sense of the 140-plus spice blends! The jars and displays were being regularly wiped down by Cast Members.

The Spice & Tea Exchange

As for Sephora, it’s offering freshly sanitized shopping baskets and wiping down counters, but testers are for display only and all Beauty Bar services are temporarily suspended.

Safety Measures at Sephora

We also recently stopped by the newly reopened Lego Store to get ourselves equipped for Legoland Florida’s June 1st reopening.

LEGO Store employee shows a product to guests

In addition to having just one working entrance, the shop’s interactive touch screen computers have been turned off and bins with build-your-own parts were unavailable.

Computers are shut down in the LEGO Store

Store associates were also on hand to give guests products — we were NOT allowed to grab items ourselves — and guests stood to the side of cashiers when purchasing items instead of in front of them.

Click here to see more of our experience at the Lego Store!

Where to Buy Face Masks at Disney Springs

While we haven’t seen any face masks for sale yet at Disney-owned locations, we have spotted some at American Threads, Vera Bradley, and The Polite Pig.

Vera Bradley Face Masks

The stock at stores is always changing, so you never know what you’ll find at Disney Springs!

Read about our shopping experience at Disney Springs here!

Disney Springs Attractions

The new Cirque du Soliel show, Drawn to Life, has been postponed and other Disney Springs attractions such as the NBA Experience and The VOID are closed.

The Void ©Disney

But there is one attraction you can still enjoy at Disney Springs!

Soar in the Sky on the Aerophile

The Aerophile, also known as the hot air balloon at Disney Springs, IS operating right now!

Disney Springs

Aerophile flights are available for $20 per person. The attraction is enforcing social distancing both in the line and in the balloon. Whereas you could wander the balloon before, now you need to stay in a designated spot while in flight.

The queue area for Aerophile

Cast members also told us they are wiping down the carriage area between parties to keep guests as safe as possible.

Click here to learn more about riding the Aerophile in reopened Disney Springs

Atmosphere

Normally, when you walk around Disney Springs, there are bands playing music and street performers entertaining crowds. But right now, those performances are on pause.

Stormtroopers

But not ALL is lost. In fact, we spotted some particularly intimidating guys enforcing social distancing! That’s right…STORMTROOPERS were patrolling above Uno de 50 recently! They’ve since relocated to the balcony above AMC!

Yes, there are STORMTROOPERS in Disney Springs today!

While it’s a far cry from Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, we’ll still take it!

Click here to learn more about these unique security guards in Disney Springs!

As you can see, we’ve been pounding the pavement at Disney Springs to bring you all the details you need for your next visit as well as spotting as much new stuff as we can find!

Be sure to plan ahead for the dining and shopping experiences you want to visit, and you’ll set yourself up for a fantastic day at Disney Springs — even if it does look a little different than your last visit.

What Will It Take For You to Feel Safe at Disney World? Here’s What Our Readers Said!

Have you visited Disney Springs since it has reopened? Share your story with us in the comments!

Related posts:

  1. PHOTOS and TIPS: Our FULL Experience From Reopening Day at Disney Springs
  2. PHOTOS: Disney World’s NEW Health Measures — Face Coverings, Distancing Signs, and MORE
  3. Updated! We’re Answering ALL Your Questions About the Reopening of Disney Springs!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Counter-Service, Disney Springs, Featured, Snacks, Table-Service, Walt Disney World, AdventHealth, aerophile, dining in disney springs, Disney Springs Counter Service, Disney Springs entertainment, Disney Springs health measures, Disney Springs Parking, disney springs quick service, disney springs reopen, disney springs reopening, disney springs reopening faq, disney springs restaurants, disney springs shopping, disney springs table service, Disney Springs temperature checks, do I have to wear a face mask?, eating, entertainment, face coverings, face masks, hand sanititzer stations, hand sanitizer, Hand Sanitizer Station, health checkpoints, lego store, lime garage, mandatory face masks, orange garage, Parking, sanitation, shopping, social distancing, stormtroppers, Table Service Restaurants, temperature checks, temperature screenings, wearing face masks, where to buy face masks, World of Disney

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News: Select Universal Orlando Hotels Will Reopening June 2nd

The Universal Studios universe seems to be exploding with news right now!

Universal Studios

Only moments ago we told you Universal Studios Annual Passholders were officially  invited to attend an early preview before the theme parks open to the general public on June 5th!

And now we finally have confirmation on when several of the Universal Studios Resort hotels are reopening. The following hotels will reopen on June 2nd:

  • Hard Rock Hotel
  • Loews Royal Pacific Resort
  • Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
  • Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort
  • Universal’s Aventura Hotel
  • Universal’s Endless Summer Resort — Surfside Inn and Suites.

Plans for Loews Portofino Bay Hotel and Universal’s Endless Summer Resort — Dockside Inn and Suites will be announced at a later time.

And while guests may start arriving at Universal Studios Resort hotels as early as June 2nd, they won’t be allowed access to the theme parks until June 3rd. “Hotel guests must have valid theme park admission in order to access the theme parks on June 3 and 4. Guests can visit the Vacation Planning desk in their hotel to purchase or pick-up tickets,” Universal’s website states.

Hollywood Drive-In Golf

Universal Studios Resort hotels will also be enhancing their health and safety measures as well as increasing sanitation practices. Guests and employees will be required to wear face masks in all public areas at the hotels.

CityWalk Reopening

As with its theme parks, all employees and vendors will be screened daily while Universal is asking guests to self-screen before arriving at their hotel.

According to Universal’s website, “Guests will have temperature checks upon arrival and return unless previously checked at the hotel that day prior to boarding our resort transportation system. Anyone with a temperature of 100.4 degrees or greater after three checks, including one with a new thermometer, will be asked to seek medical attention and obtain medical clearance prior to being permitted to enter. We understand some guests may feel they have special conditions, which we will consider upon request.”

Universal Studios

Check out our experience with Universal’s temperature screenings here!

And according to Universal, “If a guest registers a temperature of 100.4 degrees or greater upon check-in, they will not be allowed to check-in until they receive medical clearance to do so. The rest of the guest’s party will be allowed to check in. We understand some guests may feel they have special conditions, which we will consider upon request.”

Universal Orlando Resort

Also, if a guest registers a temperature of 100.4 degrees or greater anytime following the check-in screening, they will be required to self-quarantine and seek medical attention.

“The hotel will follow medical professional’s recommendations as to whether the guest can safely remain on hotel property. An additional guest room may be provided for other members of their party and they will still be able to move about the resort as they continue to successfully undergo temperature screenings,” Universal states.

Voodoo Doughnut

Universal also stated, “When possible, guest rooms will be left vacant for 24-48 hours upon checkout, before thoroughly cleaning and checking in a new guest.”

Universal Orlando

Hotels will be reopening with several contactless experiences for guests, including hotel texting-services, express checkout, and contactless room deliveries. Express passes and early morning hours will also still be happening. We’ll continue to provide more information as soon as it becomes available!

Please note: Universal Orlando’s theme parks officially reopen to the general public June 5th. Team Member and Annual Passholder previews will take place a few days prior.

Are you planning on booking a room at Universal Studios now that the hotels are reopening? Let us know in the comments below!

Related posts:

  1. Updated! Legoland in Central Florida Announced Reopening Date Before Governor’s Approval
  2. BREAKING NEWS: Universal Orlando Is Officially Opening June 5th
  3. Universal Orlando Is Reopening June 5th and We’ve Got ALL the Details!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Featured, News, hotel reservations, june 2nd, mandatory face masks, safety measures, temperature screenings, Universal, Universal Hotels, universal hotels reopening, Universal reopening

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News: Disney World Will NOT Require Guests to Wear Face Masks While Swimming

Now that Disney World is planning on reopening some of its hotels as early as next month while its theme parks will be opening later in July, we have SO MANY questions!

Guest Relations Cast Member in Disney Springs

And while we already know Disney World Resort will be requiring guests and Cast Members to wear face masks at all times except when dining, will we have to wear one at the pool?

According to Disney World’s website, all guests ages three and up must wear face coverings when visiting Disney World Resort and guests must supply their own masks. But rather interestingly, their website is now stating face covers can be removed when dining or swimming.

Walt Disney World’s Website

Keep in mind Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach are expected to remain closed even after the Disney World theme parks reopen, but this will be good information to keep in mind in case you want to visit the pool at your Disney World Resort.

Click here to read everything you need to know about wearing a face mask at Disney World!

Luna Park Pool at Disney’s Boardwalk

Not requiring face coverings to be worn while swimming is in keeping with CDC guidelines. According to the CDC, they “advise those wearing face coverings to not wear them in the water. Cloth face coverings can be difficult to breathe through when they’re wet.”

Disney hasn’t shared much information on the reopening of their pools. We will continue to keep you posted on face coverings and information regarding the hotel’s public pools as it is released.

Check out 16 of the cutest Disney face masks we’ve seen so far here!

Will you feel comfortable swimming in a Disney World resort pool when the hotels reopen? Let us know in the comments below!

Related posts:

  1. What Will Happen if You Refuse To Wear A Mask In Disney World?
  2. Everything You NEED to Know to Get Your RED Nutcracker Tiki Mug in Disney World!
  3. What an Empty Magic Kingdom Looks Like On Its First Day of Closure Due to Coronavirus

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Disney News, Featured, Walt Disney World, Disney World, disney world resort, disney world resort hotel pools, face coverings, face masks, guests, health and safety measures, inside the pool, mandatory face masks, not required to wear masks while swimming, pools, swimming, water parks