Theme parks across the state of Florida have been shut down for months and yesterday, officials from two theme parks met with the Orange County officials to discuss plans for reopening.  Walt Disney World and SeaWorld Orlando are planning to open in the upcoming weeks.

Walt Disney World presented its plans and several new safety measures for park goers and cast members. Disney is requiring that cast members and guests have their temperatures check at the park entrances and wear a mask. Disney is also allowing visitors to make an advanced reservation for park entry to keep the numbers down. There will be no parades, fireworks or any activity that creates a large crowd at Disney World for a while.

Disney plans to reopen Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom on Saturday, July 11^th and Hollywood Studios and Epcot on Wednesday, July 15^th. The parks will have social distancing guidelines, Plexiglas at cashier stations, cleaning stations and markings to keep your distance. Last Friday, Disney Springs, the outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment facility opened its doors for guests.

SeaWorld Orlando is planning something similar to Disney World. Guests will have their temperatures checked at entrances and those over the age of 2 are required to wear a mask and the park will provide one for you if you do not have one.  SeaWorld Orlando is hoping to reopen to guests on Wednesday, June 10^th.

Orange County officials have approved both Disney World’s and SeaWorld’s plan to reopen and sent a letter to the Governor as part of the next step. Once the governor approves the plan, both theme parks will be approved to open.

Universal Orlando has gotten the approval from both the county and the governor and are planning on opening to guests on Friday, June 5^th.  Face masks are required, temperature checks at park entrances, frequent hand washing, and social distancing must be followed.