Florida is opening back up, little by little. And it seems we are testing the waters for the rest of the country. Although there are a lot of differing opinions about whether people should go to theme parks or even to stores. But Florida, and first of all, Universal Orlando is opening their theme parks for guests again on Friday, June 5! So what can you expect when social distancing at Universal Orlando? If you’ve read my post about social distancing at Disney Springs, there are quite a few things that might seem familiar. It’s getting to be the “new normal.” And although we don’t know how long it will last, it’s good to be prepared if you plan to visit Universal Orlando anytime soon.
Social Distancing at Universal Orlando Overview
We are all coming to understand what’s expected with social distancing guidelines. And Universal Orlando is not unique. Guests will be required to wear face masks, and even parking will be socially distanced. Check out this full guide of what to expect from Fox 35 News:
AT THE ENTRANCE AND THROUGHOUT THE PARKS
- Mandatory face coverings for all guests and team members. But unlike most other Central Florida locations so far, those without a mask will be offered one for free. Stores will also sell reusable face coverings.
- Social distancing guidelines must be observed. Audio messages and signage will remind guests to follow social distancing and other safety protocols.
- Park guests and team members will be required to have a temperature check before coming on-site. And those with temperatures of 100.4 or greater will be denied entry.
- Staggered parking will be in place, leaving one to two spaces between vehicles. Also, valet options are closed.
- Managed and reduced daily park attendance.
- Increased cleaning disinfection of restrooms and other frequently touched locations that go beyond Universal’s existing cleaning procedures.
- Social distancing enforced throughout the parks.
ATTRACTIONS
- Managed and reduced attraction ridership.
- Increased cleaning disinfection of ride vehicles and other frequently touched spots that go beyond Universal’s existing cleaning procedures.
- Social distancing practices within attractions and queues.
- Virtual lines will be used at select attractions.
- Single rider lines will be eliminated.
- Water elements on attractions are reduced or closed entirely.
- Interactive play areas will be closed.
- Post-show meet-and-greets will be closed but performers can remain on stage for photos.
- Every other locker will be disabled and guests will be pulled into locker areas by team members.
RESTAURANTS AND STORES
- Managed and reduced show attendance and restaurant seating.
- Increased cleaning disinfection of food locations and other frequently touched locations that go beyond Universal’s existing cleaning procedures.
- Social distancing practices at restaurants and stores.
- Cashless payment options and “no-touch” policies when possible. Mobile food ordering will also be available.
- Menus at restaurants will be single-use only. There will be no buffet or self-serving options and only individually packaged condiments will be offered.
What is a Virtual Line?
It’s not clear yet to whether a virtual line will totally replace a regular line. However, from the Universal Orlando Frequently Asked Questions, this is the explanation of what you can expect:
The Virtual Line experience allows guests to select a time to experience an attraction via the Official Universal Orlando Resort App so they’re minimizing the time they’re actually waiting in the queue line. Guests can make Virtual Line selections while they’re onsite at the parks on the day of their visit, and it will be available for select attractions.
So far, these are the attractions that have a Virtual Line available:
- Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
- Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey
- Despicable Me Minion Mayhem
- Fast & Furious- Supercharged
- Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
- Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon
- Revenge of the Mummy
What are the Must Do’s at Universal Orlando?
Our family are huge Harry Potter fans! In fact, while I’m writing this, my older kids are watching two Harry Potter movies in a row. So it just makes sense that one of our favorite part of Universal Orlando is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. This whole part of the park is so incredibly immersive and just makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into the movie. If you haven’t seen it yet, you need to visit!
I’m also a huge fan of the classic rides at Universal Orlando. Riding E.T. will always remind me of my childhood. And it was so wonderful to take my kids there and have them experience that nostalgia as well. Be sure to leave a comment and let me know your favorite part of Universal Orlando! And as we enter a new era of social distancing at Universal Orlando, hopefully we can all make the most of the new normal.