Universal Orlando Resort today unveiled its plans for reopening, and as expected, it features a multi-pronged approach that will limit capacity at first and then scale upwards from that. We’ll be updating this post as we learn more, but here’s what has been announced so far. Note: this is only a plan that has been approved by Orange County, and requires final approval from the Governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis.
1. Universal will open for Team Members June 1, scaling up to General Public on June 5, 2020
Universal Orlando Resort has announced that they will open up their theme parks to Team Members only on June 1, 2020 to test new procedures. They will then begin opening up the theme parks to annual passholders only on June 3 and 4th, and then finally, to the general public on June 5, 2020.
Among the new procedures that have been confirmed to be in place for the park are the following:
- No two cars will be parked next to each other in the Universal Orlando Resort parking garage
- Temperature checks for all guests and Team Members. universal has said that they have performed 30,000 successful tests so far and though some were higher than the 100.4 threshold due to the heat, those who did not pass the first time were allowed to sit and “cool” and met the threshold the second time.
- All guests will need masks, (including all children over 2 years old). Guests who do not bring a mask will be directed to purchase them. Masks will need to be worn at all times in the park, except when dining.
- All Interactive play areas at both Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure are closed indefinitely
- Most water and mist elements will be turned off in both rides and queues
- Most attractions will have virtual lines that guests can use
- Parties will be kept together but separated from others in ride vehicles, no single rider lines will be available for any attraction.
- Single use menus and mobile order will be available at all restaurants
- Cash will still be accepted at restaurants and merchandise locations but not encouraged.
Orange County health officials have already been to the parks this morning to inspect the park’s signage and procedures, and have certified that it is ready to open.
In addition to the restriction, social distancing will be placed in queues according to the following guide:
These signs have already been installed throughout the resort and will hopefully keep guests apart according to social distancing measures.
