Post COVID Theme Parks
Posted on 06/29/2020 | About Florida State
We WILL travel again
MICKEY is waiting for us!!
Theme parks are a popular destination for many travellers, especially families and extended families. Multi-generational travel has increased tremendously in the past 5 years.Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Disneyland …….today theme parks are so much more than Mickey, Minnie and friends, some travellers return year after year. There is always something new to discover and explore. Toy Story, Avatar, Harry Potter, Star Wars, Transformers….which one is your favourite?
Today, times have changed and we are faced with a new reality that has affected theme parks significantly. The world was shocked when Disney closed its doors………
So what will the theme park experience look like going forward?
As travel begins again, it is exciting to know that on June 5th Universal Studios (Orlando), which includes Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay, opened again, albeit with limited hours. However, there are some changes that visitors need to be aware of so they are prepared.
A local Florida travel advisor recently toured the parks to evaluate the new normal. Although it was different, overall she found it to be a good experience.
Here are some insights.
Face masks are required for all guests and employees in Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure.If you don’t have one with you, they are available to purchase. There are no exceptions. The usual safety protocols are required before and during the park experience (see below).Social distancing and attending to floor markings are strongly encouraged. There are designated rest areas where guests can sit and remove their face coverings as required.
At Volcano Bay Water Park, procedures are a bit different.Face coverings are only recommended when physical distancing is not possible. They are not permitted on slides or in pools, so guests are not wearing them in lines or while walking to and from water park attractions.Universal City Walk is open for shopping and dining.Restaurants have arranged tables to facilitate social distancing so masks can be removed while dining.
Reservations are not required/available for Universal Studios which initially led to some concerns over being denied entry with limited attendance in place. So far there have been no issues. The parks are still very quiet, line-ups for favourite attractions are short. Virtual line-ups are aiding guests in avoiding line-ups completely. Guests can visit almost all attractions without running out of time in the day. You can finally ride Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure without waiting for 2 hours!! For more Universal Studios information visit https://www.universalorlando.com . Universal Studios (Hollywood) remains closed.
Disney World (Florida) is planning a phased reopening starting July 11th. Not all parks and attractions will be opening at the same time or in full operation, so visit www.disneyworld.ca for all the information you might need. There will be very similar procedures in place during this phased re-opening. Unlike Universal Studios, Disney World will require reservations.Disneyland Resorts (California) are planning a phased reopening staring July 9th, with theme parks opening July 17th. (These dates are subject to changes and updates as the date approaches.) New procedures will be in place and reservations will also be required. Please visit www.Disneyland.ca for details.
It is exciting to think that things are opening again and travel will resume. We also know it is stressful to worry about all the changes. Let us help you navigate the travel world when you are ready to go!