The first of the “big” US theme parks to reopen will be the Universal Orlando park next week on June 5! It’s not surprising that Florida parks will reopen before parks here in California. Here is what you need to know…..
Getting Into the Park
In order to be able to enter the theme park, a face mask or face covering is going to be required. If you do not have a mask, you will be able to purchase one on sight. Universal is going to also require a temperature reading for all guests entering the park and require it to be under 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
The requirements are not just in place for the theme parks, but also required for the Universal City Walk shopping area as well. Note that the parking areas of Universal will require that all cars park staggered. All employees will have face coverings and regular temperature checks going forward.
As for park capacity and tickets and hotels, Universal has not released anything official other than stating capacity will be “limited” and that they are still “finalizing” plans as to how all of the COVID-19 measures are going to work. If you are deadset on getting in, I would highly recommend buying your ticket in advance on the official Universal website.
Riding Attractions
As I mentioned with my predictions with Disney Parks, Universal is going to have all families sit staggered on their attractions. They will require each person to use hand sanitizer before they will be allowed on the attraction.
What is new is the use of a virtual queue for Universal on the more popular rides. I believe you will more than likely have to download a Universal app and select a time similar to Disney Fast Pass, but I imagine Universal will have a kiosk on sight that will assist you with being able to select a return time to cut down on waiting in line longer than you need to.
Contactless payments are going to be pushed by having restaurants and quick service locations have mobile food ordering options.
Take Aways
The official information is all available here. I would imagine that June 5 is going to be messy, but the lessons that Universal learns will be applied to Universal Hollywood and Disney Parks and Resorts. Disneyworld will be announcing more information about their reopening plans tomorrow. Stay tuned for updates.
I do want to stress that although Universal is opening, they specifically state on their website that they can NOT guarantee you will not be exposed to COVID-19. Please consider your options carefully as we are still in the midst of a world wide pandemic. I hope you are staying safe out there!