Universal Orlando Requests to Reopen on June 1; Public Opening on June 5

UPDATE 5/22/20: According to a new press release sent out today by Universal Orlando Resort, “If a guest doesn’t have a face covering, we’ll have them available for purchase” which is not what was stated during their reopening presentation on Thursday. Their reopening plans originally stated that “If a guest arrives without a mask, we will provide a free disposable mask for them.”

We’ll share more information regarding this as it becomes available.

UPDATE – Mayor Jerry Demings has endorsed Universal Orlando’s approach to opening the parks and has sent the plan off to Governor Ron DeSantis.

Universal Orlando presented their reopening plans today to the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force led by Mayor Jerry Demings, and part of the plan includes their projected opening date of JUNE 1 and a public opening on JUNE 5 along with other safety measures like mandatory temperature checks and required masks. The Orange County Task Force voted unanimously in support of the adoption of reopening plans, so now the plans need to be approved by the mayor before they can be sent to governor Ron DeSantis for final approval. Universal was represented in the meeting by Rich Costales, Executive Vice President of Resort Operations, and John Sprouls, Chief Administration Officer.

Starting on June 1st and June 2nd, Universal plans on reopening for team members. On June 3rd and 4th, invited guests and possibly annual passholders will be a part of the reopening plans. The official public opening would be set for June 5th.

As for changes that guests can expect, Universal will begin using virtual queues like what they are currently utilizing at Volcano Bay. Along with virtual queues, Universal Orlando will be eliminating single rider lines for the time being as well as reducing capacity in queues to promote distancing. Post show meet and greets were also mentioned as being eliminated. Interactive playgrounds around the parks along with all water elements will be closed. Water mist in attractions will be shut off.

Hand sanitizer will be available at all locations around the parks, including attractions, shops, and restaurants. Free, disposable face masks will be provided to guests who do not bring their own. Valet parking will continue to not be offered.

All restaurant menus will be single use and properly disposed of after use with mobile order being set up for all venues that can accommodate the feature. Touchless payment will be suggested, but not mandatory based on what was said in the plan.

As for team members, their training will begin this weekend. They’ll have increased breaks in order to be able to wash their hands more often. They’ll also see changes to their wardrobe policy for their safety.

As for capacity, Universal said that they will reopen at reduced capacity, but there were no specific numbers given during the meeting.

The entire presentation of the Orange County Economic Recovery Task Force can be watched below:

Below are the full reopening plans for Universal Orlando Resort that were presented in today’s meeting.

Please check back for new updates on the reopening of Universal Orlando.