Disney Remains Open Amidst Rising COVID-19 Cases in Florida
A COVID-19 warning sign at Disney Springs. | Photo by Brittany Bhulai
For the past month, Florida has been one of the leading states in the U.S. for soaring cases of the novel Coronavirus. It’s been nearly two months since Orlando, FL Disney Springs reopened their doors to the public after COVID-19 forced its closing in March.
All of the Disney parks now operate at limited capacity with several precautions put in place in order to ensure the safety of guests and staff. This includes wearing a mask at all times, remaining at least six feet apart from others, body temperature screenings, and limited parking and entrances.
EST’s Brittany Bhulai made it to the park to see what it‘s like to be on the premises.
The opinions reflected in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of staff, faculty and students of The King's College.
Before my move to New York, I was a Florida resident. I lived in Orlando for 18 years and had my fair share of visits to Disney Springs, (Disney's outdoor entertainment and shopping center). It was one of the popular spots to catch a movie with friends, hangout with family visiting from out of town and have fun. No matter the time of year, Disney Springs has always been swamped with people. It has been an attraction not only to Florida residents but to people from out of the state and country, helping to contribute to Orlando's consistent tourist attraction.
A deserted Disney Spring’s during usual peak season | Photo by Brittany Bhulai
Last Sunday was the first time I visited since COVID-19. I had my doubts about going to Disney considering Florida was a high risk state, but I was curious to see what measures Disney had taken in order to control the spread of the virus through their facilities.
Adults and children being screened for COVID-19 before entering the Disney parks | Photo by Brittany Bhulai
It was quite a peculiar experience. As I arrived, I noticed some entries to parking garages were shut off and vehicles were being directed to specific parking areas. Upon entering, we were asked to put our face masks on, (if they weren’t already), and our temperatures were taken. I was surprised by how empty it was especially considering it was the weekend.
Families wearing face masks walk through the empty park | Photo by Brittany Bhulai
There were signs everywhere reminding people to social distance. I also noticed more security guards than usual who were patrolling the area to make sure that everyone was wearing a mask.
A hand sanitizer station surrounded by signs reminding park-goers to remain safe | Photo by Brittany Bhulai
All in all, it was nice to not have to deal with the crowds of people that Disney usually attracts in the summertime, but having to wear a mask in near 100 degree weather definitely made the experience difficult.
A COVID-19 warning is displayed on the electric park directory | Photo by Brittany Bhulai
The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, plans to keep Disney open regardless of the surging cases in the state.
"I think that where you start to see the spread is just in social situations where people let their guard down. Usually like a private party or something like that," DeSantis said. “Disney, I have no doubt is going to be a safe environment.”