Reservations, temperature checks & virtual lines: What theme park visits could look like after reopening

ORLANDO, Fla. — Central Florida’s theme parks are days and weeks from reopening following months-long closures due to the coronavirus pandemic.

But when the gates do open, what will a visit to Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando or Universal Orlando look like compared to pre-pandemic?

Channel 9 looked at the reopening plans that have been approved by Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings from each theme park to breakdown what people can expect when they head to the parks.

Read: NBA in talks with Disney to restart season at Wide World of Sports complex

Temperature checks. Officials at local theme parks have included temperature checks for workers and guests when the parks reopen.

Reservations. Walt Disney World officials said theme park capacity will be significantly limited and a new theme park reservation system will require guests to obtain a reservation for park entry in advance

Masks. Guests and theme park workers are being asked to wear masks when they enter Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.

READ: Some passholders invited to get early look at Universal’s reopening

Virtual lines. Instead of standing in long lines in close quarters waiting to board a ride, the theme parks have announced plans for virtual lines to allow guests to spread out across the park before reporting to board the ride at a specific time. Universal Orlando officials said there will also be new ride queue configurations for social distancing.

Cashless payments. Disney officials said cashless payments will be encouraged, along with mobile food orders to limit contact between workers and guests.

More signs. Universal Studios officials said signs and announcements with the new rules throughout the park will also remind guests of the new policies in multiple languages.

READ: 'Getting our soul back’: Disney, SeaWorld given green light to reopen by Orange County officials

VIDEO: 'Getting our soul back': Disney World, SeaWorld reveal planned reopening dates All of Central Florida?s major theme parks have been given the green light to reopen by Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings.

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