California officials are investigating how and when they will reopen Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood and other theme parks based on COVID-19 health data as tourist destinations prepare for their sixth month of coronavirus closures.
“Theme parks are currently not allowed to open in California, under current public health orders,” California health and human services spokeswoman Kate Folmar said via email. “We will continue to monitor health data to determine when and how theme parks may reconsider at lower risk for staff and visitors.”
Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, Six Flags Magic Mountain, SeaWorld San Diego, Legoland California and other state theme parks will close in mid-March and remain closed until further notice amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
SEE ALSO: Crowds of theme park stay away due to COVID-19 spikes
Knott’s Berry Farm has reopened without driving for a series of events for food, beer and wine. Six Flags Discover Kingdom in Vallejo opened in July the animal-only Marine World Experience in July with reduced capacity. Greater America in California in Santa Clara has canceled plans to reopen and will remain closed for the rest of 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
SEE ALSO: Only 19% would feel comfortable going to a theme park, survey finds
Plans to reopen Universal, Legoland and SeaWorld in June and Disneyland in July were halted indefinitely by a rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in California this summer that forced the state to reopen plans.
California theme parks currently closed by the COVID-19 pandemic may reopen under Gov. Stage 3. Gavin Newsom’s four-stage roadmap for reviving California’s economy, according to state government officials.
California theme parks are among the “higher risk” businesses and meetings that would reopen in Stage 3 with adjustments and limits to the size of meetings. Other Stage 3 close contact companies and meetings include salons, gyms, theaters and sporting events without live audiences.
SEE ALSO: Elders who are not ready to take their children to Disneyland will find poll
The California Department of Public Health will issue detailed guidance with proposed modifications for how to minimize the risk of COVID-19 spread if theme parks reopen, according to state officials. The state will partner with theme parks in California to develop COVID-19 health and safety opening plans, officials said.
Major theme parks in California have announced plans to reopen with additional health and safety measures, including mandatory face masks, temperature controls, reduced capacity, social distance and improved sanitation.
