Top 5 Things You Must Know About Walt Disney World Before Your Visit

Visiting Walt Disney World is always a magical experience, but right now, it requires a little extra planning and patience to make the most of your trip. While some things have changed, there’s still plenty of pixie dust to brighten your visit!

Whether it’s your first time or you’re a Disney pro, here are 10 things you need to know before your upcoming trip to Walt Disney World Resort.

1. Some Resort Guest Perks Are Limited

Staying at a Disney resort is a top recommendation for convenience and exclusive perks. However, not all perks have fully returned. Disney’s Magical Express is still available until the end of 2021, but keep in mind that luggage pickup from the airport is not offered right now, so you’ll need to grab your bags yourself. Extra Magic Hours haven’t come back yet, and package pickup (both to the front of the parks and your resort) isn’t available at this time.

Stay tuned for updates on when these perks might return.

2. Park Pass Reservations Are Required

Along with your valid park admission, park pass reservations are now a must! You can easily make your reservations through the My Disney Experience app once you have your tickets. Be sure to book your park passes as early as possible, especially since park capacity is still limited. Without a parking pass, you won’t be able to enter, so this step is crucial.

3. FastPass+ Has Not Returned

Missing FastPass+? You’re not alone. For now, all guests will use the standby lines for attractions, except for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, which still requires a boarding pass. The good news? Without FastPass+, the standby lines have been moving a little faster, thanks to limited capacity in the parks.

4. Not All Restaurants Are Open

Many beloved Disney dining locations have reopened, but some still remain closed. If there’s a specific restaurant you’re hoping to enjoy, keep an eye on the My Disney Experience app for reopening updates. Summer usually brings more changes, so it’s worth checking regularly!

5. Reservations Aren’t Always Necessary

Even for open restaurants, not all are taking advanced reservations. While booking ahead has always been a big part of Disney trip planning, now it’s easier than ever to join a walk-up list via the My Disney Experience app. Just check availability, and you may find a spot without a reservation!

6. Mobile Ordering Is the Way to Go

Mobile ordering is a game changer! Most quick-service dining locations now encourage or require mobile ordering, making it a fast and contactless way to grab your meal. You can browse the menu, customize your order, and pick your preferred time to get your food—all through the app! It’s the easiest way to avoid long lines and enjoy your day.

7. Character Meet and Greets Have Been Modified

While traditional character meet and greets are paused, you can still see your favorite Disney pals in character cavalcades that roll through the parks daily. Characters wave and interact from a distance, offering a fun, magical experience without the wait. You can also catch some character dining at places like Chef Mickey’s and Topolino’s Terrace, with distanced character interactions.

8. Park Hopping Is Back—With a Twist

Park hopping is available again, but it looks a little different now. You’ll need a reservation for the first park you plan to visit, but after 2:00 pm, you’re free to hop to another park without a second reservation! Just be sure to check for availability when you hop.

9. Updated Mask Policies

Disney’s face mask policy has been updated frequently. Currently, masks are not required in outdoor common areas, but they are still required indoors and at attractions. Be prepared to wear your mask as soon as you enter the queue for any ride or show, even if part of the line is outdoors.

10. Fireworks and Parades Are Still on Pause

While fireworks and parades haven’t returned just yet, you can still get a taste of Disney magic with the character cavalcades. These mini-parades are a great way to catch your favorite characters throughout the day. Keep your eyes on the My Disney Experience app and our site for updates—fireworks are rumored to be coming back soon!

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Visiting Walt Disney World is always magical, but a little extra preparation can go a long way to making your trip smooth and stress-free. With these 10 tips in mind, you’ll be ready to navigate the parks and enjoy all the magic Disney has to offer!