The COVID-19 pandemic is still with us, but amusement parks hope to provide all the thrills with a lot of safety thrown in during the upcoming summer season.
After a year of closures across the United States, amusement parks are beginning to release their reopening guidelines.
Six Flags, Universal, and Disney have released their safety instructions to protect employees and visitors, including timed tickets, capacity, and making sure the grounds have sanitation stations.
Here is a list of information for when your favorite theme parks will open and how you can stay safe during the ongoing pandemic.
SIX FLAGS
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Six Flags is planning to open all 26 of its amusement parks and water parks for the 2021 summer season. This includes five parks that were not able to operate last year due to the pandemic.
"Our guests and team members are ready for the return of fun and signature Six Flags thrills in 2021," Bonnie Weber, senior vice president of Park Operations, said in the release.
"Last year, we set the standard for operating our parks safely, and entertained millions of guests in adherence to government, and CDC health guidelines at 21 of our 26 parks. We offered a local and outdoor entertainment venue spanning dozens to hundreds of acres where families and friends could safely spend time together."
The company is working with state and local officials to set firm reopening dates for many of its parks.
DISNEYLAND
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Disneyland Resort and Disney's California Adventure Park officially opened its gates to residents of California on April 30.
The Anaheim, California theme park reopened for the first time in some 14 months -- the longest closure for Disneyland in its 65-year history.
On the park's blog, it reminds attendees that the resident policy remains in place and they should be prepared to show proof of their California residency in order to enter the parks. In addition, all Disneyland visitors and staff must wear face masks, get temperature checks, and social distance from other groups.
WALT DISNEY WORLD
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All four Walt Disney World theme parks, as well as Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park, are opened for Disney lovers to enjoy. However, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park still remains closed.
As many Americans receive their COVID-19 vaccine, Walt Disney World is starting to roll back their protocols.
Last week, the Florida theme park announced that it will ease some of its safety measures and will no longer require temperature checks for guests and staff.
According to the park’s website, Walt Disney World “will phase out onsite temperature screenings at Walt Disney World Resort for Cast Members beginning May 8 and Guests on May 16.” The site confirms that the decision was made with support from local health officials and follows guidelines from the CDC.
Other safety requirements like social distancing and a reservation system will remain in place, as will mandatory face mask usage for anyone over the age of two, though last month the park did begin to allow guests to temporarily remove their masks for outdoor photos.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD
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Universal Studios Hollywood reopened on April 16 at 25% capacity. The theme park had been closed since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in March of 2020.
Face coverings are mandatory and temperature checks will be required when people arrive to the gates. There will also be floor markings and social distancing in place. There's other safety measures in place like limiting capacity and following social distancing guidelines throughout all entertainment venues, restaurants and shops throughout the destination.
UNIVERSAL ORLANDO RESORT
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Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, the Volcano Bay water park and Universal CityWalk have released social distancing guidelines and have all reopened with reduced capacity.
The resort in Florida just ended temperature screenings and reduced social distancing rules from six feet to three. However, face masks are still required.
More details about rules can be found on the theme park’s website.
HERSHEYPARK
If you love chocolate, this place is for you!
Hersheypark is now opened with increased sanitation protocols and social distancing guidelines. Season Pass Holders and guests of the Official Resorts of Hersheypark are guaranteed entry without making a reservation.
Still have questions? Hersheypark has detailed information on their website.
SEAWORLD ORLANDO
SeaWorld Orlando is opened with safety and social distancing guidelines. Advanced tickets must be bought before arriving to the park.
SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO
SeaWorld San Diego reopened to residents of California and out-of-state residents with proof of a fully-completed vaccination on April 12.
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