Disneyland and Downtown Disney Aim to Reopen in July

Earlier today, Disneyland announced a phased plan to reopen its major Southern California properties over a two-week period starting in mid-July. The plan, which still needs to be approved by state and local government, would reopen the Downtown Disney District on July 9, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure on July 17, and Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel on July 23. If the July 17 date holds, it would be 65 years to the date of the park’s original opening.

Assuming all goes to plan, guests who aim to visit the newly reopened properties can expect some changes to their experience. For starters, there will be fewer people.

Theme park capacity will be limited to comply with government requirements and allow for physical distancing. To do this, Disneyland will roll out a new theme park reservation system that will require all guests, including Annual Passholders, to obtain a reservation in advance. 

There will also be enhanced health and safety measures, including a Guest Experience Team that roams the park to assist guests and answer questions.

Some of Disneyland’s signature experiences—such as parades and nighttime spectaculars—will not be part of the initial reopening experience. And if you’re planning to have your little ones snap a photo with Mickey or Goofy, think again. Character meet and greets will be temporarily unavailable, though costumed performers will still be there.

As stated above, the plan still needs government approval. But theme parks are a part of the state’s stage 3 reopenings, which is the stage we’re in right now. To keep up-to-date on the latest Disney happenings, you can check out the Disney Parks Blog.