Universal Orlando Proposes June 5 Reopening

Universal Orlando has proposed a plan to Florida officials that would see the theme park reopening to the public on June 5, after closing mid-March due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Universal intends to start the phased reopening process on June 1, with only team members entering parks on June 1 and June 2.

On June 3 and June 4, Universal would be open for limited availability to some annual pass holders. When the park does reopen to the general public on June 5, capacity will be limited to ensure social distancing.

“We have taken our industrial engineering team and they have helped lay out social distancing in restaurants and stores. Based upon that we’ve been able to readjust our capacity, ride by ride, food outlet by food outlet,” said John Sprouls, Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer for Universal Parks & Resorts, in the proposal.

The Orange County reopening task force has unanimously approved the plan Thursday, but it still must be approved by Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis.

Sprouls said visitors and workers will be required to wear face masks, which will be available for purchase. Guests and employees will also have their temperature checked upon arrival, and if it’s 100.4 degrees or higher, they won’t be allowed to enter.

Other safety measures include closing interactive play areas, eliminating water and mist elements on attractions, using virtual lines, and transitioning to mobile ordering so food service is contactless. Post-show meet-and-greets with performers, single-rider lines, and valet parking would also be suspended

Universal’s CityWalk shopping and entertainment district reopened with limited operations last week. Universal’s theme parks in Los Angeles, Japan and Singapore remain temporarily closed.

Disney World and SeaWorld are also expected to present their reopening plans at a later date.