Hiya Melissa!
Your visit is right around the corner! January is one of my favorite times to visit the 'World. The weather is perfect (not too hot, but definitely not cold - especially for you), and the holiday crowds have returned home. My family visited Animal Kingdom at the end of January last year, and the kiddos rode Avatar Flight of Passage four times in one day. Between that and eating our favorite snacks - make sure to try the grilled corn at
Harambe Fruit Market, and don't leave without a
Dole Whip - the day was practically perfect in every way.
Face masks are no longer required at any Disney location, including Disney Springs or the theme parks. Feel free to wear one if you desire, but there is no requirement. If you do choose to wear a mask, be aware that the cast members will ask you to remove it if you are riding the
water slides or swimming in the pool.
If you're looking for a fun place to shop at Disney Springs, stop by Disney Ever After. They are the only place at Walt Disney World to sell
custom character headbands; I've been eyeing the Daisy and Donald pairing!
ChEARs to a magical vacation!
Rayna