Mask Up at Universal Orlando!

Maggie Ballantyne
12.15.20

I traveled to Universal Orlando over the week of Fourth of July and came back with first-hand experience regarding the new safety procedures and guidelines implemented since the reopening of the parks. Universal Orlando had been closed due to Covid for five months, and when it was time to open, Universal had a stellar plan in place to make sure everyone could have fun while remaining safe. I am so happy I experienced it. Here are some of my thoughts and observations on masking up at Universal.

☀️ YES IT IS HOT. But, YES it is DOABLE!

☀️There are ways to manage the heat with a mask including areas for mask breaks, top AC spots, pools and water parks, staying hydrated, etc.

☀️Different types of masks work better for certain parts of the parks over others. For example, you need to wear your mask on rides. Your super cute etsy mask that could fly off is not going to be the best option for the Incredible Hulk Coaster. I would suggest a gaiter-type mask for intense rides.

☀️Different types of masks work for different types of people. Please bring what makes you the most comfortable.

☀️Masks MUST cover the nose and mouth. Bandanas are not allowed.

☀️There are rules and they are STRICTLY enforced. I loved this!! I honestly felt safer at Universal than I do at my home grocery store. There are rules and people follow them. Someone will say something to you if you try to get around them. This is for everyone’s safety and I appreciated it.

☀️I strategically chose what to bring in the parks with me to help deal with the masks and heat. I am happy to provide clients with packing tips!

☀️Masks are for sale if you forget one and they are very comfortable! I think it’s a great souvenir and investment! Check out different stores for different designs.

☀️Face Characters will be wearing masks that will be incorporated into their costume. I loved the creativity put into these mask designs. Face characters are characters who are in costume, but you can still see their faces like Fred and Shaggy from Scooby Doo. Other characters in full costume will still be available to meet, but from a safe 6ft away!

One frequently asked question I received after returning from my trip: “Do I have to wear my mask in pictures?” You ARE allowed to remove your mask for a photo at Universal Orlando! However, before you leave the photo spot a team member will be there to remind you to cover your face! I opted for some pictures with masks and others without!

When you are sitting down at a table in a restaurant, sitting at a bar, or sitting by the pool, you do not need a mask. You do not need a mask in the pools at your resort OR on the water at Volcano Bay. However, if you are at your resort and go up to order food or drinks at a quick service stand, the mask needs to be on. Your mask must be on in the lobby of the hotels.

Here are some great places to get a break from the heat and get some AC. Being in the AC makes it much easier to wear a mask!

⭐️ MIB:Alien Attack

⭐️ Kings Cross Station

⭐️ Cat in the Hat

❄️ Poseidon’s Fury

❄️The Bourne Stuntacular... a NEW show that just opened at Universal Studios! I highly recommend going to see it!

❄️Transformers

❄️ET... great classic ride for all ages

❄️Horror Make Up Show

❄️Monsters Cafe

❄️ Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon

❄️ Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts

❄️ Ollivanders (Diagon Alley)

I mentioned above that masks are required on rides. I thought I was going to hate it and I really didn't mind at all! For thrill rides, I highly recommend a gaiter. Masks have been known to blow off of people’s faces during the rides. If you have a mask that you love and don't want to lose, then don't wear it on the thrill or intense attractions.

Water rides: once you are on a water ride at Islands of Adventure, you are allowed to lower your mask or take it off. Here is the thing, my mask still got soaked and it made breathing very difficult. I suggest disposable masks on water rides so you can just get rid of it as soon as you walk off. Or have a back up mask. Either way, walking around with a wet mask does not cool you off, it is miserable!

I have heard numerous people say something along the lines of "I will just buy a drink and walk around with it so I don't have to wear a mask." This is not allowed. Yes, you can remove the mask to take a sip of your drink. But if you start taking advantage of that and you are walking around just holding a drink, a team member will come up to you and tell you to put on your mask. The same with snacks. Holding food and drinks does not excuse you from wearing the masks.

In the hotel lobby, you must have the mask on at all times. When going up to order food you must have the mask on at all times. In the elevator you should wear a mask. Only one party is allowed in an elevator at a time, but it is still encouraged. On resort transportation, masks are required as well. I highly suggest taking a boat when you can. The cool breeze and fresh air/open air circulation are not only good for you, but a great way to stay cool with the masks on.

I sincerely hope everyone has the opportunity to travel soon. These opportunities will only be available to us if people follow protocol. Protocol is set to keep everyone safe including yourself, your family and friends, other guests, and team members. If you are planning a trip to Universal, get ready to MASK UP! If you are interested in taking a safe and socially distant trip to Universal Orlando, contact me today! I can be reached at maggie@wishesfamilytravel.com or www.facebook.com/wishesfamilytravelmaggie