There’s been plenty of disappointing news for Disney fans in the last few months. Fortunately, I’ve got something good to report.
The Walt Disney Family Museum located in San Francisco’s Presidio has reopened to guests (with some safety changes)! If you’ve never visited the WDFM, remember that it is not to be compared to Disneyland. There’s plenty of fun stuff to see, but it is very much a museum about the story of Walt Disney. If you’re a devoted Disney fan and appreciate the art of storytelling, this museum will not disappoint.
Because of the worldwide health crisis, there are changes to the museum’s operating hours, new rules for visitors, and safety and cleanliness procedures in place to know about. Here’s a rundown:
NEW OPERATING HOURS
Currently, the WDFM is open from Thursday to Sunday from 10 AM – 5:30 PM (last entry at 4:15 PM). Please note that the hours are subject to change. And in order to control the number of people within the museum at any given time, visitors need to buy their tickets ahead of time and book a reservation time for entry. Head to www.waltdisney.org to find out more.
CHANGES FOR VISITORS
When you get to the museum you’ll be allowed in as long as you’re within the time window you’ve booked when you purchased your tickets prior to arrival. The process of entry is now “touchless.” You’ll head to the Ticket Desk and scan the QR code on your ticket from either a paper print out or on your phone. They will give you a free stylus and a pair of wrapped disposable earbuds for use throughout the galleries where there is audio accompanying a display. You can also download the app and get a guided audio tour.
You’ll notice 6 feet social distancing markers on certain common areas on the ground and on benches throughout the museum, as well as the occasional hand sanitation stations. And of course, face coverings are required.
The museum usually has some fun interactive elements for visitors. Understandably, they are not available for use at this time. Where there are touchscreens, this is where you’ll want to use that stylus you were given when you checked in.
One thing that certainly hasn’t changed is the ease with which visitors can navigate the galleries from room to room. Because of the building’s design, there’s ample room for walking through without ever feeling cramped. Given the restriction on crowd levels, I highly recommend visiting during this time. I went on a weekday afternoon and practically had the facility to myself. And of course, the staff is eager and friendly, ready to help and answer any questions in practically every room of the museum.
I have been a longtime visitor of the WDFM and I am happy to say that despite these changes, the spirit of Walt Disney is still alive and well in the museum. If you’re missing the magic of the Disney Parks, understand that this isn’t an equal comparison. But if you want a dose of hope, inspiration, and joy during these uncertain times, pay them a visit. I left with a renewed sense of hope.
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Let’s Hear From You
Are you a Walt Disney Family Museum fan? Would you consider visiting at this time with one-way traffic and very few guests allowed in the facility at any given time? Let us know your museum tips and what not to miss.
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