Hi Marie!
Thanks so much for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question.
When it comes to choosing footwear for my Walt Disney World Resort vacations, it all comes down to one thing: COMFORT. The amount of walking I do through Walt Disney World's four theme parks (Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, Animal Kingdom Park, and Disney's Hollywood Studios) is enough to burn off most of the calories in the yummy Disney snacks I enjoy along the way! Comfortable, broken-in shoes are a MUST - your feet will thank you!
The good news is, there are no restrictions or rules about closed-toe shoes on any of Walt Disney World's
rides and attractions at this time. While you may be required to wear certain kinds of protective footwear if participating in any kind of
backstage tour, you're good to go with open-toed shoes for a typical day in the parks! The only ride I can think of that may require you to remove your shoes if they're loose-fitting (like flip-flops) is
Soarin' Around the World in Epcot. The seats lift off the ground, and guests with loose-fitting shoes (that could possibly slip off their feet) are asked to place them in the bins under the seats.
Fanny packs and cross-body bags are more than welcome on rides and attractions. If you need to remove the bags to buckle into your seat (such as on roller coasters/thrill rides), there is always a small storage pouch where you can place your bag during the ride. I typically carry a small backpack, and either place it at my feet or in the storage pouch in the ride vehicle - no worries!
I hope this helps with your planning. Have a magical day! - Diane W.