Universal Orlando Resort Back Open, But Is It Too Soon?

Today is a magical day for Orlando. Universal Orlando Resort officially reopens its gates to patrons. With new guidelines set in place, they are ready to start again after COVID-19 halted operations for several weeks.

But is it too soon to open? I think so.

Amusement parks are exciting for all ages, and Universal Orlando is the mecca for movie buffs and thrill-seekers alike. The park made its big announcement this morning that patrons can now experience the excitement with a few new guidelines. A video on the official Facebook states that face coverings are required, temperature checks are a must, you have to wash your hands often with soap and water, and keep six feet between your party and other guests. The video also emphasizes Universal's cleaning policies throughout the park. Will these guidelines be enough to keep families safe?

I don’t think so.

There are plans to reduce the park attendance and stagger parking in the garages, but how will the park keep up with sanitation of rides, railings, etc.? Picture the last time you stood in line for a rollercoaster. Your hands grip the rails on the way to the coaster. You sit in a seat that hundreds of other people have sat in. You grab the handlebar to brace for the ride, and then you leave behind a sweat mark on the seat due to the heat and adrenaline. How will team members be able to keep those populated areas clean all day long? I also don’t expect people to stay six feet away from me in the wait lines.

After visiting the Universal Orlando website, it looks like they will still be serving food. Red flag right there. Even if the park plans on reducing attendees, all I can picture is long lines of hungry patrons touching all of the same surfaces.

There are too many gray areas for me to fully enjoy an amusement park experience right now. Do you agree or disagree?