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Disney Parks

PHOTOS: Disney World’s NEW Health Measures — Face Coverings, Distancing Signs, and MORE

We’re back in Disney Springs today for the first time since the historic closure of Disney World began in March.

Disney Springs

Perhaps unsurprisingly, things look a little different in Disney’s dining, retail, and entertainment district. Prior to the reopening, Disney detailed that guests could expect to see some logistical changes with limited parking, temperature screenings, required face coverings, physical distancing, and more. Let’s take a look at what it’s like to be back in Disney Springs with all of these new protocols!

Arrival and Parking

Hours in Disney Springs, upon reopening, are currently set from 10AM to 10PM. To help limit capacity in the district, Disney has limited parking options at Disney Springs. Of the garages, only the Lime and Orange Parking Garages will be open in the initial phase, with no surface parking available.

Orange Parking Garage

We arrived early and found that only the Orange Parking lot was open at that time. Cast Members informed us that the Orange Garage was being filled first, and that Lime would be opened to guests later.

Parking Garage direction signs

As always, helpful signs direct guests as to which lots are open and closed upon arrival, so you won’t wonder about where you’re able to park.

Entering Orange Garage

Something unexpected was that we were allowed to self-park. Though we would find Cast Members in the area, none were dedicated to directing guests for parking.

Inside Orange Parking Garage

We’ll be taking a closer look throughout the day — and in the sections below — at all the individual new measures. But the presence of signage in the parking garage — reminding guests of safety warnings and new procedures — are noticed immediately upon arrival within the garage.

Warning Sign

6ft apart pole

This Way to Temperature Screening

Cast Members were available to help direct guests through the new procedures.

Cast Member

Again, we’ll be taking a closer look throughout the day at various measures, but we’d like to share an overview here of what the new look and procedures are like at Disney Springs.

Face Coverings

Face masks or appropriate coverings are required for all Cast Members and guests in Disney Springs.

Cast Member with required face mask

These masks, covering the nose and mouth, are mandatory at all times unless a guest is seated at a dining table or under 3 years of age. Guests of the complex must bring their own masks and be wearing them to be admitted.

Signage

Note that there is a VERY limited number of disposable masks at the temperature check areas. However, these are used as a last resort and because they are limited, there are no guarantees that any disposable face coverings will be available. Cast Members have been provided with three washable and reusable face masks. Cast members may also bring their own, with stipulations.

Temperature Screenings

As we’ve discussed for the recently reopened Disneyland Shanghai and experienced in CityWalk at Universal Orlando, temperature screenings are a new piece of preventative measures for many tourist destinations.

Advent Health Signage

Disney has partnered with AdventHealth to provide temperature screenings using touchless thermometers.

Advent Health Representative

Screening points are set up at four locations — Orange (pictured here) and Lime garages, along with the Hotel Plaza Boulevard Pedestrian Bridge and the rideshare location.

Temperature Screening

Temperature checks are required for all guests entering the complex. Anyone with a temperature above 100.4 degrees will be turned away.

Temperature Check

Additionally, Cast Members and Operating Participant employees are required to complete a temperature check and health screening at home before heading to work.

Physical Distancing

Disney Springs has also taken measures to encourage and increase physical distancing as health officials maintain that people should keep a 6-feet distance between themselves and others.

Ground markers outside of Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill

To accomplish this, we noticed that Disney has implemented markings on the ground, physical barriers, signage, and reminders from Cast Members.

Distancing signage

We are encountering distancing reminders all along the way, from the moment of arrival throughout all areas of the district.

Cleanliness and Sanitization

Disney has stated that there will be increased cleaning and disinfecting of high-traffic public areas.

Hand sanitizer station

Additionally, guests are encouraged to make use of hand sanitizer and hand-washing stations placed throughout Disney Springs.

Hand-washing station

Signs remind to clean hands often with soap and water or with an alcohol-based sanitizer.

Additional Health Measures

Finally, there are a few other health measures that we noticed in Disney Springs today. One interesting measure… well, we can’t show you a picture, because it’s SOUND-related! Guests will hear occasional announcements via the loudspeakers. “Thanks for being our guest today,” precedes audio reminders regarding distancing, hand-washing, and more.

Welcome Back to Disney Springs

“Thank you for your understanding and cooperation,” follows the message.

As you are out and about shopping and dining, cashless forms of payment are encouraged.

Free People reopening today

And, as a reminder, Disney Springs is currently operating under limited hours (10 AM – 10 PM, at press time).

Overall, there are some serious logistical changes to the way that Disney Springs works as of today. While our day has only begun (and we hope you’ll join us for the rest of it), so far we are finding clear information presented in a large variety of ways for implementation on behalf of Cast Members and guests in Disney Springs. Follow along with DFB as we continue our coverage of the first part of a reopened Disney World!

Were you at the reopening of Disney Springs? Have thoughts on the new safety measures? Let us know in the comments!

Related posts:

  1. 3 Things We Hope We DON’T See At The Disney Springs Reopening This Week
  2. Before You Go To Disney Springs, You Need To Know These 10 Things We Experienced At CityWalk Last Week
  3. We Asked Our Readers: “Should Disney World Give out Free Masks for Guests?” Here’s What They Said.

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com

Filed Under: Disney Springs, Featured, Walt Disney World, disney springs, Disney Springs health measures, Disney Springs Parking, disney springs reopening, disney world closure, Disney World reopening, face coverings, face masks, Global health crisis, health and safety measures, Operational Changes, Parking limitations, Physical Distancing, sanitation, social distancing, temperature checks, temperature screenings

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Disney Parks

Everything You NEED to Know About Temperature Checks in Disney World

Disney Springs reopened today, becoming the first part of Disney World to do so as the parks remain closed.

Disney Springs

Still, things aren’t quite how they used to be in the dining, retail, and entertainment complex as we’re seeing a good amount of added health and safety measures. One such measure is that all guests and Cast Members are required to undergo temperature screenings. Here was our team’s experience with the temperature checks today!

May 20th marks the day that many Disney Springs locations have reopened for the first time, many with limited hours and modifications to their offerings. To be safely admitted into the complex, guests have to have their temperature taken by a no-touch thermometer. Anyone with a temperature above 100.4 degrees is not allowed to enter Disney Springs.

©Disney

Today, we visited Disney Springs to see what some of these new health measures look like. The first step to entering Disney Springs is to get your temperature checked. Here’s how the temperature check process worked.

Temperatures are being checked at 4 locations: Orange and Lime garages, along with the Hotel Plaza Boulevard Pedestrian Bridge, and the rideshare location. We arrived at Disney Springs bright and early and the Orange Garage was the only one that was open. After we parked, we headed towards the temperature check station.

Temperature Checks

Temperature checks are being conducted by AdventHealth, thus meaning health professionals are at these health screenings — not just Cast Members.

Advent Health Signage

As we approached the temperature check stations there were signs reminding us of what is required for entry into the complex: face coverings, temperature screening, and physical distancing.

Signage

Plus, similar to the opening at Universal Orlando CityWalk, there are markings on the ground to keep guests distanced as they wait for their turn on the temperature checks.

Temperature Screening Queue

We also noticed a few hand sanitizer stations before and after the screening.

Hand Sanitizer

Temperature Screening

When it’s your turn, the AdventHealth employee will take your temperature using a handheld infrared thermometer.

Temperature Screening

Remember, hats off for this part! The thermometers have to be pointed directly at your forehead so anything that covers that part of your face will have to come off.

Hats Off!

As long as you pass your temperature check (that’s below 100.4 degrees), you’re good to enter the complex! If you don’t pass, you will head to a rescreening tent where you can sit and cool off. If your temperature is still 100.4F  when they test you again, you and the rest of your party will not be allowed into Disney Springs.

Temperature Screening

Overall

Overall, the process was very quick. We found it to be even quicker than some of our experiences with bag checks when entering the parks. While this is a new and different experience to undergo at Disney World, the Advent Health employee helped us feel comfortable. We even saw a little boy even got a round of applause when he passed!

Temperature Checks

Then it was on to Disney Springs!

To Disney Springs!

Keep following along with us today as we continue our exploration of a reopened Disney Springs! And if you have any questions about the screening, please ask us and we will do our best to get the answers you need.

What do you think about the temperature check process at Disney Springs? Tell us in the comments!

Related posts:

  1. We’re LIVE From Reopening Day at Disney Springs in Disney World!
  2. THIS IS The Baby Yoda Valentine’s Day Gift You’ve Been Looking For in Disney World!
  3. NEWS: STK Orlando Joins the List of Disney Springs Locations Reopening on May 20th

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Disney News, Disney+, Featured, Walt Disney World, disney springs, disney springs reopening, Disney Springs temperature checks, temperature checks, temperature screening

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Disney Parks Other

We’re LIVE From Reopening Day at Disney Springs in Disney World!

Last week Universal Studios CityWalk reopened with new health and safety procedures in place.

Disney Springs

Now, Disney Springs is officially reopening. And we’re here live to report on all of the restaurant, retail, and new procedures.

We will be updating this post throughout the day, so be sure to check back for new information and details. And if you have any questions about the opening of Disney Springs or the new procedures, please let us know and we will do our best to pass the information along.

Disney Springs

Today, select third-party locations are opening. You can see a complete list of the restaurants opening today — here. And you can check out the full list of retail locations reopening today — here.

It is important to note that Disney-owned locations will be opening May 27th. You can read all of the details about those locations — here. We will be reporting live from Disney Springs that day as well, so be sure to check the blog for all the need-to-know news.

Now, let’s get into the reopening of Disney Springs!

©Disney

Parking

Guests are able to self-park in the Orange and Lime garages and all surface parking lots are closed at this time. Valet parking is unavailable at this time as well.

Orange Lot

This morning we were told that Orange garage would be filled first. When we arrived it was self-park, meaning we weren’t directed by a Cast Member and we could park anywhere.

Parking Lot

Markers are located throughout the garage to remind people to stay 6ft apart.

6ft apart pole

Warning signs are spread out throughout the garage as well.

Warning Sign

Hand sanitizer locations are also available throughout the garage.

Hand Sanitizer

Due to capacity restrictions at Disney Springs, once the parking garages are full, guests will no longer be able to park and visit Disney Springs. This includes guests who have booked a dining reservation. If a guest is unable to make their reservation because Disney Springs is closed due to capacity, the dining guarantee charge will be waived.

Rideshare drop-offs are allowed and take place in the Marketplace lot.

Masks and Temperature Checks

When guests arrive at Disney Springs, they undergo a temperature check at one of the four open entrances. Temperatures are being checked at 4 locations: Orange and Lime garages, along with the Hotel Plaza Boulevard Pedestrian Bridge and the rideshare location.

Advent Health Signage

Markers have been placed on the ground to assist with social distancing.

Temperature Check

Advent Health employees use a touchless forehead thermometer for each guest. If you are wearing a hat, you will be asked to remove it.

Temperature Screening

Those with a temperature above 100.4 F or above are directed to an additional location (which is a large white tent) for rescreening and assistance. Guests can go here to sit and cool off. After cooling off, they can try to screen their temp one more time. After the additional screening, those with a temp that is still 100.4 F or higher will not be allowed into Disney Springs and their party is not allowed entry either.

Signage

These temperature checks are required for anyone going to Disney Springs, including guests, Cast Members, vendors, and other employees.

Temperature Screening

Face coverings are required for everyone (except for guests 3 and under). The only time guests are permitted to remove their face coverings is when they are dining.

Advent Health Cast Member

Disney has also shared that they may have a few disposable masks available for those who have arrived without a mask. However, these are not guaranteed, so come prepared!

Entering Disney Springs

Entering Disney Springs

There were a few guests, but crowds this morning have been pretty low.

Orange Garage

The official Springs hours are 10AM – 10PM for the time being.

Disney Springs

As we said earlier, we will be updating this post throughout the day, so be sure to check back for more information. 

Are you planning to visit Disney Springs soon? Let us know in the comments below. 

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Disney News, Disney Springs, Featured, Walt Disney World, disney news, disney springs, disney springs reopening, masks, temperature checks, temperature checks at Disney Springs

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Disney News Disney Parks Other

Disney Springs Reopens today at 10am

Disney Springs Reopening

Disney Springs has begun a phased reopening today! The hours of operation are 10 am to 10 pm.

Matt Simon Vice President of Disney Springs talks about the new safety measures at Disney Springs.

To get an idea of what they will look like check out this video.

Here is more information on what to expect at Disney Springs.

For Cast Members, Operating Participant employees and Guests, there are 6 key things to know before arriving at Disney Springs, and they include:

  • Limited parking and reduced entrances
  • Temperature screenings prior to entry
  • Face coverings required for Guests ages 3 and up
  • Physical distancing practices including physically-distanced queues and physical barriers
  • Temporary operation modifications, including reduced hours at select locations and no scheduled entertainment offerings or high-touch interactive areas
  • An increased focus on disinfecting and sanitation, including the addition of hand-washing stations and hand sanitizers in key areas

Since many of these measures will be new, and may evolve, we want to be sure Guests, Cast Members and Operating Participant employees are aware of all these changes.

  COVID-19 Warning

We have taken enhanced health and safety measures—for you, our other Guests, and Cast Members. You must follow all posted instructions while visiting Disney Springs.

An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any public place where people are present. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, senior citizens and Guests with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable.

By visiting Disney Springs you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.

Help keep each other healthy.

Guest Parking and Entrances

During this initial phase, Guests will be directed to self-park in the Orange and Lime garages; all surface parking lots will be closed. At opening, we have also reduced Guest entryways to 4 locations: Orange and Lime garages, along with the Hotel Plaza Boulevard Pedestrian Bridge and the rideshare location. Guest access to Disney Springs from the Grapefruit garage will be restricted.

Temperature Screening

All Guests are required to undergo temperature screenings upon arrival at Disney Springs.

  • Guest Screening: During this initial period, Guests will undergo temperature screening in these locations: the second-floor exits of Orange and Lime parking garages and the Marketplace Entrance (to serve Guests from the Hotel Plaza Boulevard Pedestrian Bridge and the rideshare drop-off lot). Based on guidance from health authorities, anyone displaying a temperature of 100.4 F or above will be directed to an additional location for rescreening and assistance. Those with temperatures above 100.4 will not be allowed entry; those in their party will not be allowed entry either.
  • Employee Screening: Cast Members and Operating Participant employees will be required to complete a health screening and temperature check at home, prior to coming to work.

Limited Contact

Following guidance from the government and the medical community regarding enhanced screening procedures and prevention measures, we have made some temporary adjustments that include limited-contact Guest Services to ensure a responsible and enjoyable environment for everyone.

  • Face Coverings: All Guests ages 3 and older are required to wear face coverings when visiting Walt Disney World Resort.All face coverings should:
    • Fully cover an individual’s nose and mouth and allow the Guest to remain hands-free
    • Fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face
    • Be secured with ties or ear loops
    • Be made of breathable cloth material, either disposable or reusable

    Costume masks are not considered appropriate and are prohibited from being worn, in alignment with our existing rules.

    Guests are required to wear face coverings at all times, except while dining or swimming. The use of face coverings should not be seen as a substitute for physical distancing. Guests must provide their own disposable or reusable face covering.

  • Physical Barriers: Physical barriers have been added in select places where it is difficult to maintain strict physical distancing guidelines. These may be visible in areas around cash registers or at Guest Relations, for example, to help ensure proper distances between people.
  • Cashless Transactions: At this time, it is recommended all Guests use cashless or contactless payment options, such as credit cards, debit cards, Disney Gift Cards, Disney Rewards Redemption Cards and mobile wallets—including Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay. Guests may purchase a Disney Gift Card at select Merchandise locations and Welcome Center (Guest Relations) to pay without cash.

Physical Distancing and Capacity Measures

Managing the number of Guests visiting Disney Springs has been a major consideration as we implement physical distancing guidelines based on recommendations from health authorities and government officials. One of the ways to do that is to limit the number of Guests and Cast Members at any given time for each location. Additional measures include:

  • Signage: Directional signage has been installed to assist Guests to responsibly move throughout the property. Additionally, ground markings will help promote proper physical distancing when queuing is needed at a location.
  • Training: We are also training Cast Members to engage with Guests and promote physical distancing guidelines in common areas and queues.

Cleanliness and Sanitation

We’ve increased cleaning and disinfection in high-traffic areas such as public elevators and escalators, handrails, benches, tables, handles, restrooms and more. Additionally, Disney Springs will open with hand sanitizer and hand-washing locations, and Guests are highly encouraged to use these while visiting.

Cast Training

We’re further emphasizing our strong culture of health and safety among Cast Members and Operating Participant employees, and will continue to provide new training and reinforcement as we navigate through the reopening phases.

About These Measures

As part of these efforts, Guests may see other changes to our retail and dining offerings, as well as other experiences. Though it may be different from the last time you visited, these new measures are designed to offer a magical Disney experience in a responsible way.

We understand that these times are challenging, and we appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding as we navigate as responsibly as we can. Together, we can find new ways to have fun while being diligent to maintain proper physical distancing.

Frequently Asked Questions

View frequently asked questions about the phased reopening of Disney Springs—as well as related updates.

What’s Open?

The following locations will open on May 20. Hours of operation vary. Please contact the store or restaurant directly for hours of operation.

More Information

In addition to the information shared here, please see the Walt Disney World Resort Property Rules for more details.

Upon reopening, theme parks, Disney Resort hotels, restaurants, attractions, experiences and other offerings may be modified and will be limited in capacity and subject to limited availability or closure, based on direction from health experts and government officials to promote physical distancing.

Additionally, attractions, experiences, services and amenities may have limited availability or may remain closed. We will provide more information as it becomes available. We reserve the right to cancel any reservations, admission media or purchases and provide applicable refunds. Please also see our policies regarding cancellations by Guests.

From our friends at chipandco.com

Filed Under: Disney Springs, Parks & Resorts, Walt Disney World, COVID-19, Disney Springs Reopening, Disney World, Disney World Reopening

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Disney Business Disney News Disney Parks

News! Earl of Sandwich, Chicken Guy!, and Planet Hollywood in Disney Springs Share New Safety Protocols

Disney Springs is planning to start Disney World’s phased re-opening tomorrow, May 20th.

Chicken Guy!

We’ve been keeping you updated with all of the restaurants that plan to re-open tomorrow, but Earl of Sandwich, Chicken Guy!, and Planet Hollywood just released more information on how they plan to protect guests at the re-opening.

Earlier today, we got a sneak peek of what Disney Springs’ new health and safety protocols look like in practice, but now we know more about how Earl of Sandwich, Chicken Guy!, and Planet Hollywood will adapt their restaurants with extra safety procedures.

Planet Hollywood

These restaurants will first protect guests by enforcing extra safety measures with their employees.

All employees will be required to undergo health checks each day, wash their hands every 20 minutes for 20 seconds, wear personal protective equipment (where appropriate), undergo enhanced training on sanitation and social distancing.

Chicken Guy!

The restaurants will also work with their vendors to ensure they are following similar precautions and will remind employees of these standards at the beginning of each shift.

The restaurants have modified the guest experience by transitioning to single-use menus, installing sanitizer dispensers, and updating the dining room floor plans to promote social distancing. They will sanitize and disinfect tables after each party and will sanitize throughout the restaurant frequently.

Guy’s Favorite Sauces

You can read more about Earl of Sandwich’s opening here, Chicken Guy’s here, and Planet Hollywood’s here. We will continue to keep you updated with the latest and be sure to tune in tomorrow for our live coverage from Disney Springs!

Which of these three restaurants is your favorite and why? Let us know in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Counter-Service, Disney Springs, Featured, Table-Service, Walt Disney World, advance dining reservation, Chicken Guy!, dining, Disney, disney dining, disney reservations, disney restaurant, disney springs, disney springs dining, disney springs reopening, disney springs restaurant, Disney World, Disney World reopening, disney world resort, Earl of Sandwich, Planet Hollywood, reopening, table service dining, walt disney world resort