A beautiful fountain at Downtown Disney
We Disneylanders have been having a rough 2020. We still don’t know when our beloved Disneyland is going to reopen. Although the parks and resort hotels are still closed, there is something that is open at Disneyland: Downtown Disney.
World of Disney is open for business
The shopping, dining and entertainment district that is located within walking distance of the three resort hotels and two theme parks has always been a fun destination. It’s good to know that it has reopened, but before you head there, you should know about some of the safety measures that have been put in place.
PARKING
Don’t forget where you parked!
Parking is available only at the Simba lot, and you can only enter Downtown Disney through clearly marked entrances. In the past, my family has parked at the Mickey and Friends parking structure and then made the short walk to Downtown Disney. But for now, this is not an option. Make your way to the Simba lot. The good news? The normal parking fee has been waived! However, this is only for a limited time. The parking fee will be $10 beginning on November 19.
HOW CROWDED IS IT?
The short answer? Not very much at all. Crowd levels will still fluctuate depending on the time of day, whether it’s a weekend or a weekday, and the weather. It might very well get more busy as the holiday season approaches. But for now, it is definitely not as bustling as it is under normal circumstances. Disney is limiting capacity at Downtown Disney. Signs will be posted on the streets surrounded the area if the area is closed for capacity.
HEALTH AND SAFETY MEASURES
Prepare to have your temperature taken before you enter Downtown Disney. Everyone I’ve spoken to has reported that it is very fast. And masks are required for any guests 2 years old and older. Make sure that young children are used to wearing a mask before you decide to visit Downtown Disney. You’ll also notice hand-washing and hand sanitizer stations set up throughout the area. Use them!
PHYSICAL DISTANCING
If you’re queuing up for a snack or to get into a shop, pay close attention to any markings and follow Cast Member instructions. Disney is being very strict about guests maintaining a six-foot distance from other guests not in their party. This is also evident when it comes to seating at restaurants. Parties are seated further away from each other than usual. In some areas, clear plexiglass will separate you from the Cast Member who is assisting you. And Disney is encouraging guests to use cashless methods of payment.
The Lego Store is open for business
WHAT IS NOT HAPPENING?
Don’t expect any live entertainment right now. There are also no interactive experiences available, such as the popular bins of Legos outside the Lego Store while under normal circumstances, children can build to their heart’s content. The store itself, however, is open for business.
WHAT IS STILL HAPPENING?
Naples Ristorante e Bar is open for business
A lot! Many dining and shopping locations are open for business. If you’ve got your heart set on a certain restaurant, it is best to call ahead and make a reservation. If the Downtown Disney area is closed because of capacity and you have a reservation, you can speak to a Cast Member at the parking lot entrance, who will make sure you can get a parking space as soon as one becomes available.
If you’re planning on eating a quick-service location, for example, buying a sweet treat at Marceline’s Confectionery, you might be encouraged to use a mobile wait list system so that crowds do not linger in front of that location. This system will also be implemented if a certain shop is full to capacity.
As for shopping, you won’t be allowed to try on that adorable Disney dress or shirt. Dressing rooms are closed for right now. So if you’re going to be buying clothing, make sure you know your size.
In addition, more shopping and dining will soon be available courtesy of Buena Vista Street, which is in Disney California Adventure. The area will serve as an extension of the Downtown Disney District beginning November 19. Details can be found here.
What tips do you have for visiting the Downtown Disney District? Share with us in the comments or on Facebook or Twitter!
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