Disneyland: What to Know On Your First Visit Back
If you have been one of the ones patiently waiting for Disneyland to open, there’s finally a light at the end of the waiting game tunnel. Disneyland will open for out-of-state residents on June 15, 2021. For California residents, the park has been open exclusively to them only so unless you’re a Californian this may be old news.
However, if you’re not a California resident and are hoping to make a trip back to the magical resort, there are a few things you should know ahead of time. Some of these tips you may already know, others you may want to write into your plans for your big visit back.
Purchase tickets online and in advance
Tickets to the amusement park are being sold online only. When you arrive at the parking lot, you will be asked if you have your tickets. This will be your entry to the park and to the parking lot. Each visitor must have their ticket and a separate reservation booked which must be done on the Disneyland website only.
Once you’ve booked your reservation, be aware that you’ll need to do this for every guest visiting with you and for each day that you will be visiting. Upon entry, you will need to show the QR code for your tickets and another separate QR code for the reservation for each person.
Pack face coverings and other essentials
Although Disneyland is not requiring its visitors to show proof of vaccination, face coverings are required for kids two years old and up when walking through the park. For those vaccinated, the mask mandate will be lifted when walking through the resort outdoors but will be required indoors such as restaurants, shops, and rides.
Therefore, be sure to pack masks that loop around the ears because bandanas and other such face coverings will not be allowed. We know how easy it is to lose a mask, especially with kids so be sure to bring a pack of disposable ones so that you can replace them should something happen. Along with your masks, it’s important to pack other essentials such as hand sanitizers and snacks since only a few dining options will be available.
Since the lockers will be closed, each family member should bring a backpack with snacks and water to keep them hydrated throughout the day. If you’re bringing a stroller, be sure to pack one of your good size diaper bags in the storage compartment and follow the stroller guidelines to keep you and your family safe and comfortable throughout the day.
Dining
As of now, there are enforced designated eating areas where you can take your mask off to enjoy your favorite Disneyland snacks. The majority of indoor dining has remained closed, however, the carts with snacks such as churros, ice cream, and pretzels can be found open throughout the park.
Another thing you’ll want to look for is that a lot of the quick-service restaurants are only taking orders via mobile orders and since order times tend to fill up quickly, you’ll want to be sure to order ahead of time so that your meal can be ready by the time you get to the pickup window.
Shopping
To minimize high traffic areas and keep social distance, some shops will only allow a few guests at a time. Therefore, to cut on time, you may want to shop for souvenirs online prior to your trip to take with you. For example, mouse ears at Presley Couture come in a variety of Disney-themed movies and characters that won’t only save you some money it will also save you some time from waiting in line to grab a pair for your and your little one.
Don’t be surprised if they ask for you to purchase online while at the store since mobile checkout is currently being tested for all stores including downtown Disney.
Characters
Gone are the days where you can run up to Mickey and ask for a picture. You will now find your favorite Disney characters socially distanced behind a rope you are not allowed to cross. You can still take pictures near them, just not as close as before. Another attraction that will not be open is the princess makeover station, although the shop will still be open for all of your princess’s needs.
For those of us used to endless Disneyland visits prior to the pandemic it will seem like a big change. However, if you’re ready for the adjustments you’ll find Disneyland to be as magical as ever, especially with fewer wait times in line.
