Universal Orlando’s reopening: 10 tips for your next trip

I have been looking forward for the theme parks in Orlando to reopen with some trepidation. I wanted to get out and enjoy myself, but fearful of what I know will be a mass of humanity trying to navigate through a variety of constricted areas.

Our Annual Passholder visit preview was cut short due to the torrential downpours that took place. So we didn’t get to experience everything we wanted, but we did experience enough to be better prepared for our next visit. (And if you want the added experience of feeling like bees are attacking you while riding Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, make sure you ride it during a downpour).

Here are 10 lessons we learned for how to go to Universal Orlando (and can be applied to most other theme parks) under the current COVID-19 rules. And remember, as the months progress there will be modifications, but if you are going now, here are things to consider:

1. Get the Universal app and log in: Download the app, set up an account and put in a payment method. It’s easy and takes about 3 minutes. This will let you move faster to get into virtual lines and allow you to pay through mobile ordering without having to take out a wallet. It also provides a lot of information. It does save time. Also, make sure you have a phone charger in you daypack since you will be using your phone more.

2. Virtual lines: As soon as you get into the park (and you might even try it if you are just outside the gate waiting to get through the turnstile, wink, wink) find the ride(s) you want and get in the virtual lines. Don’t wait until later. This way, you are assured what you will get on that ride, as long as the system is working and if there are times available.

3. Bring a backup face covering or buy another in the park: You need a face covering to enter the parks and when we went 99.5% of the people were wearing one in line or as we were walking around, when not taking a sip from a cup. There are two key factors for the backup mask, the heat and water. Perspiration and your breathing might dampen the face mask, it would be good to rotate. Yes, when you walk into an air-conditioned area it will dry out, but if you are sensitive, you will want a backup. Rain is the biggest enemy of facemasks, especially if you are stuck on an outdoor ride going 50 mph when the rain comes.

4. Bring breath mints: Let’s keep the jokes to a minimum. Yes, we all brush our teeth before leaving the house for the day, but you are going to be out for an extended period of time and will still be eating and drinking. If you like the smell of your coffee or spicy food, you might be smelling them longer than you think with a mask on.

5. Social distancing will not always be taking place: Everyone tries to social distance. The markers on the ground area very helpful, but when there are no markers, when there is rain or when there are areas blocked off and people need to walk around, you will not be physically able to social distance. This even happens as people move toward the temperature check line.

6. Virtual lines are still long lines for popular rides: For those who already have experience with Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, just because you are in a virtual line does not mean you are going to be running through the queue. The idea is to help manage the flow, but you will still be standing for some time. And, while the actual queues have social distancing indicators the backup to get into the actual line does not and you will not be 6-feet apart. Most people were respectful of keeping a distance, but it was about 3-feet to 4-feet apart.

7. Use the U-Rest Area: Universal has set up various locations throughout the park where you can social distance and take off your mask for a little bit. These are large areas, mostly closed outdoor theaters, with plenty of places to sit for a little bit and relax. Team members do go in periodically to make sure there is enough distance between parties. This can be a lifesaver.

8. Be patient when entering shops: Like retail establishments outside the theme park, the places inside have capacity limits. So there might be times when you will need to wait outside at the store until there is room.

9. Keep on the lookout for social-distance interactions: So there are no parades and you won’t be able to actually get close to characters, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to see them. Universal has done a very good on bringing out some parade floats for single walks up and down streets and putting characters on platforms where you can stand at a distance to take a selfie.

10. Your theme park daypack should include: In addition to what you might normally bring to the theme park, ponchos, sunscreen, sunglasses, tissues etc. Make sure you also bring the previously mentioned extra face mask and breath mints, as well as hand sanitizer and wipes. Yes, you will be given hand sanitizer before getting on rides, you will also see team members constantly wiping things down, but these are useful and may help you feel a bit better yourself. Also, remember to wipe down your phone once in a while.