Small Changes That Are Making a HUGE Difference in Disney World

Things are starting to return to normal in Disney World, which means that there are a lot of changes happening!

Face masks are now optional for some guests.

We’ve seen big updates like new face mask policies and fireworks returning, but there are some small changes as well. Today, we’re sharing the list of small changes that are making a huge difference in Disney World!

Plexiglass is Being Removed

All around Walt Disney World, physical distancing is being reduced, and that means that plexiglass is starting to disappear around the parks. The rides that previously had plexiglass between each row have now gone back to normal, with many seating every row as well.

Plexiglass removed from the seats on Soarin’

Even though this may seem like a small update, it could make a big difference with your ride experience. The plexiglass got fogged up easily and sometimes blocked your view of the ride — now you’ll have a full 360 again!

Pre-Shows Are Coming Back

Now that guests can stand together in a room without having to be spaced out, pre-shows are starting to come back across the parks. We first saw the Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway show return after having been closed since March 2020. (It only ran for two weeks before the parks closed for the pandemic!)

Mickey and Minnie are back on the big screen!

Pre-shows returning can definitely affect your ride experience as well! In the case of Runaway Railway, the pre-show gives important background information for the ride so that you better understand what’s going on.

Temperature Checks Removed

In mid-May, temperature checks were removed from the park entrances and the entrance to Disney Springs. Previously, guests had to have their temperature screened prior to entry and could be turned away if it was above 100.4 degrees.

Empty Temperature Check Booths

Now that temperature checks are gone, your park entry experience will likely be much smoother. Add in the new security scanners and easier park entry options (thanks to MagicMobile and the removal of finger scans), getting into the parks is faster than ever!

Self-Serve Drink Stations Are Back

At Quick Service restaurants all over, you may notice that self-serve drink stations are coming back! Previously, Cast Members were stationed at every drink machine to serve up your beverage of choice.

Self-serve drink stations have reopened in many Disney World Resorts

Now, you likely won’t have to wait in long lines to get your drink before eating your meal. These areas could get pretty backed up during peak meal times, so that’s just one way that you can save a few minutes in your day.

Gift Shops Have Changed

If you’re planning on doing some shopping during your next Disney visit, then you may notice some big differences from the “pandemic procedures” for shopping. Since physical distancing has been reduced, shop capacities have started to increase, so you’ll definitely see more people in the stores during busy times and fewer lines out the door.

Guests shopping without masks!

Also, face masks are no longer required indoors for fully vaccinated guests, so that may be a sight that takes some getting used to. And on top of those things, dressing rooms have begun reopening, so you may once again be able to try on clothes before you buy them!

Legends of Hollywood dressing rooms have reopened.

Those five things may seem like small changes, but it’s the little things that make a big difference on your Disney vacation. We’ll keep watching the parks daily to see if anything else is different, so stay tuned to AllEars!