Changes since 2014

[Nikki71]

I have not been to WDW since 2014 and planning a trip in early 2022.

Can’t believe it has been 8 years. My BBF will be coming with me, it will be her first trip. No kids in our party

What all has changed and what are some must do’s?

TIA

 

[Disney Fool]

whew, your question would take forever to answer! Your best bet would be to get a current 2021 guidebook and read all the changes. But, for a start, here goes: Downtown Disney is now Disney Springs, Star Wars Galaxy's Edge and Toy Story Land are new areas of Hollywood Studios, Epcot's futureworld is undergoing a massive reconstruction, Tron Lightcycle ride is being built next to Space Mountain, Guardians of the Galaxy ride is being constructed at Epcot, there are new resorts since you last visited also.

 

[happiestpoe]

Everything. Everything is different.

Some of that is due to Covid procedures (which may still be in effect in 2022???) and some of that is due to construction/expansion in the parks. As Disney Fool says, get a guidebook or dive into vloggers like AllEars and DFB who will walk you through the parks in their current state.

Arguably the most important thing to mind is park reservations are now a thing. Purchasing your tickets does not guarantee admission-- you need to link your tickets to a park pass reservation in the My Disney Experience (MDE) App. Good luck and happy planning!

 

[MyTwoPrincesses]

The more accurate question is "What hasn't changed"? And things are still changing. Follow various YouTubers (AllEars, Disney Food Blog especially) and the Dis podcasts to keep track of changes. As of right now, in addition to new attractions and lands, the biggest changes are park reservations, 60 days booking window for dining reservations (this might change, this was a COVID update), update to Extra Magic Hours (after Oct 1, 2021, only Deluxe resorts get evening EMH), no Magical Express after Jan 1, 2022, and no dining plan (currently, but it might come back). Plus, the COVID situation is constantly changing - right now, masks are required indoors and on attractions but that can change. Also, not all attractions and restaurants are open, but things are opening back up. There are also no character meet and greets right now and character dining is limited.

 

[Obi-J Kenobi]

I have not been to WDW since 2014 and planning a trip in early 2022.

Can’t believe it has been 8 years. My BBF will be coming with me, it will be her first trip. No kids in our party

What all has changed and what are some must do’s?

TIA

The popcorn buckets are different. Just having fun with you. I would recommend you watch some of the touring park walk throughs and shopping videos that Craig and Ryno have posted on the Youtube. Those would be good starting points gain a better understanding of attractions, crowds, queues, merchandise, etc.

I strongly recommend Rise of the Resistance. It's a great ride. I thought Mickey and Minnie's Railway was enjoyable. Both are in DHS. Ratatouille, in EP, is opening October 1, 2021. Rats are something we can all enjoy.