If you’re one of the tens of millions of people who have been stuck inside through multiple lockdowns, had to cancel vacations, trips and family gatherings or are just sick of Zoom calls, one thing that might help you is a bit of Disney magic.
Now, while a number of Disney parks are still closed due to the pandemic, some have partially reopened, including Walt Disney World, as it continues to prepare for its 50th anniversary coming in 2021.
Despite a COVID vaccine that is gaining in distribution, it will still be a while until health restrictions and CDC guidelines are fully lifted and we can get back to the sense of normalcy we’ve been missing over the past year. So, what can you expect if you and your family make the pilgrimage to the “Happiest Place On Earth” on its half-century birthday? Read on and find out.
Modified Hours…
It may not be the most exciting thing to start with, but it’s important to remember that a COVID-19 vaccine does not mean the virus immediately goes away. It’ll take time, most likely months, and theme parks like Disney World will most likely keep many of their precautions in place (in one form or another) for the foreseeable future. Different parks may have different hours, so be sure to check closer to your trip for the most up to date information.
…And Modified Experiences
These precautions don’t just apply to what time parks open or close. Once you’re inside the magical kingdom, be prepared for an experience that isn’t quite like what you may have seen before. During the pandemic, Disney has suspended some of its entertainment and nighttime shows, changed character greetings to mini parades throughout the day and done away with dining plans. Some of those things may still be in place during the 50th anniversary, while others may be relaxed or lifted entirely. Again, be sure to check park information closer to your trip.
A Revamped EPCOT
In 2019, Disney announced major renovations for the iconic Experimental Prototype Community Of Tomorrow, and those updates should bear fruit in 2021. Among the changes:
– Future World is being replaced by three new neighborhoods, called World Celebration, World Nature and World Discovery.
– Fans of Pixar’s Ratatouille will be delighted to see Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, a new ride originally planned for 2020, but now pushed into 2021. Ride-goers will “shrink down” to the size of Remy and go on a culinary journey through Gusteau’s kitchen.
– A new TRON attraction is slated to debut in 2021, and the rumor is that it’s a ride built around the movie’s lightcycle vehicles.
– Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is a new type of roller coaster, with vehicles able to rotate 360 degrees while the tracks continue to propel you forward. This story-based ride was originally announced for 2021, but could see its debut pushed to later in the year or possibly 2022.
Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser
This Star Wars-themed luxury hotel is set to open in 2021 and will go hand in hand with the recently completed Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge themed area of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The hotel promises to be an immersive Star Wars experience that should appeal to fans young and old.
And Much More!
Disney has remained relatively tight lipped about its plans for the 50th anniversary, including when it will even begin. There’s no doubt they’ll have some surprises in store, but Disney may also be being careful about what they want to announce while the pandemic continues. As immunizations rise, expect those announcements to come into focus.
But before you jump in the car and travel across the country to visit the House of Mouse in person, check to see if your car insurance is ready for the trip. A car accident can easily turn a dream vacation into a nightmare, so make sure you’re covered for whatever you may encounter on the road. If you’re finding your current insurance a little lacking, consider Freeway Insurance Reviews and level-up your coverage.
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