Both Disneyland and Disney California opened in April after more than a year of closure. However, it was initially offered to California residents only. This time around, theme parks in California can start to welcome guests from outside the state. Out-of-state guests are going to be allowed to visit Disneyland and Disneyland California Adventure starting June 15.Disney Paradise Pier Hotel will also open on June 15 followed by Disneyland Hotel on July 2.
California suggests that guests are fully vaccinated but this is not required. Also, there is no need to present a negative COVID19 test before visiting. However, guests will have to wear masks.
Economic Impact
The move to allow out-of-state guests will have a positive economic impact on California. California residents tend to go home after visiting the park. But with out-of-state guests, expect them to book hotel rooms, rent cars, and even stay for a couple of more days in the state.
The California Attractions and Park Association, which is a lobbying group for California’s state theme parks said that parks will decide on their reopening plans. It only needs to be “in accordance with state and local public health regulations”.
Disneyland wasn’t the first to accept out-of-state visitors. SeaWorld in San Diego was the first to do it followed by Universal Studios Hollywood. However, there are still some parks such as Six Flags Magic Mountain and Knott’s Berry Farm that will limit entry to California residents.
Reopening Guidelines
The current reopening guidelines want theme parks to limit guest capacity according to the four-tier, color-coded blueprint. By next month, this four-tier, color-coded blueprint is set to expire. It is expected to get scrapped by June 15 as long as the COVID numbers remain low and the vaccine supply becomes stable. And once this happens, some protocols from the last year will no longer be required by June 15. The state will no longer limit attendance at theme parks. Also, there will be no need to maintain six feet distance from each other when on queue. And lastly, indoor rides can be longer than 15 minutes.