Thinking About Visiting Amusement Parks When They Reopen?
By: Andy Huizar
Those who are avid amusement park goers could say that 2020 has not been the year to venture roller coasters and high-priced amusement park food. In March 2020, major amusement parks across the United States shut down indefinitely due to COVID-19.
Health officials had become aware that having large crowds in populated areas was a definite no-go.
Folks with annual passes to parks such as Disneyland were saddened by the news, especially those who frequented the park regularly.
In California, we still await word from the government on whether or not parks can reopen. Water parks such as Raging Waters and Knott's Soak City lost a complete season because of the pandemic.
Many assume parks such as Disney and Universal will follow the guidelines of their sister parks in Florida, which reopened in June.
Below are links to Disney World and Universal Studio Florida's COVID-19 precaution guidelines:
Some are hopeful that themed amusement parks will reopen for the holiday season. On the other hand, many wonder what the amusement park experience will become.
What you can do to stay safe in an amusement park
If eager about visiting amusement parks once they reopen, it is best to take many precautions.
Although most amusement parks are operating at a 25% capacity, if all possible, try to wear gloves when on rides. You’ll most likely be holding onto the safety handle on thrill rides, which will be touched by many people a day.
Wear your mask throughout your entire visit. If bringing small children, have a conversation with them prior to entering the park about why it’s important to mask up. Wearing masks can definitely get annoying after a while (especially in heat); Universal and Disney in Florida have set up relaxation stations where one can take off masks for a few minutes and relax while still practicing social distancing. Amusement parks also have masks for sale if you'd like to be in style. Some queue lines are indoors, so it’s best to stay safe and cover your mouth and nose when there is less of an air flow. All in all, be smart and be safe!
Wash your hands before eating. If you're trying to avoid washing your hands in a restroom, make sure to pack hand sanitizer or hand wipes. A good hand sanitizer to use is Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer, as it contains 70% ethyl alcohol, which is higher than what the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends.
Maintain social distancing at all costs. Follow the six-foot guidelines that are in place. While waiting in line for a ride or at an eatery, make sure to stand above the six-foot markings, which is the recommended social distance.
Take a selfie instead of asking a stranger to take a photo of you. Not knowing where they’ve been and what they’ve touched is something to think about. This is a time when selfie sticks would be ideal, but they’ve been banned from most amusement parks.
Take advantage of mobile ordering; Disney offers mobile ordering for food and clothing. Skip the line and hassle of waiting in line to enter a store or restaurant. There’s less contact with other people and more time for rides.
COVID-19 safety measures in Southern California amusement parks: