Universal Orlando to open theme parks June 5, masks and temperature checks required

Get ready for a wild ride.

Universal Orlando plans to start a phased reopening of its two Florida theme parks, along with its water park, on June 5, the entertainment giant announced Friday.

But visitors can expect “a wide range of new and enhanced best-practice health, safety and hygiene procedures based on guidelines from the CDC and health officials,” the company said in a statement.

Guests and employees will be required to wear face coverings and observe social distancing guidelines, and everyone will have to have their temperature checked before being allowed on site. Those with temperatures of 100.4 or higher will not be allowed to enter.

The resort area had been closed since March 16, following shutdowns due to the coronavirus pandemic sweeping the nation. CityWalk, Universal’s outdoor mall of restaurants and entertainment, began reopening on May 14 with new safety guidelines. The areas set to reopen on June 5 include theme parks Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, along with the water park Volcano Bay.

“We want to invite guests back to our theme parks in a cautious and thoughtful way,” Tom Williams, chairman and CEO of Universal Parks & Resorts, said in a statement. “We have put new health and safety procedures in place for both our team members and guests. And we have worked hard to make sure our guests can enjoy their time with family and friends.

“Doing this the right way will take all of us — and we need everyone’s help,” Williams added. "Guests should follow our guidelines and continue to follow the recommendations of the CDC and health officials.”

There’s no word yet on when Universal’s resort hotels will open, but the company says plans are being finalized and will be shared soon.

Other safety measures being put in place include staggered parking, reduced daily park attendance, and reduced attraction ridership, show attendance and restaurant seating. Some areas and events may remain closed for a while. Also expect more cleaning and disinfection throughout the parks and cashless payments when possible.

Legoland Florida Resort, located in Winter Haven, announced Friday that it will reopen on June 1 with health and safety plans including reduced capacity, cashless payments, social distancing practices and enhanced cleaning schedules.

Disney World, central Florida’s most prominent resort and theme park collection, has yet to announce reopening dates, but the company’s Disney Springs dining and shopping area recently reopened to the public.