Many amusement parks were shut down once the pandemic consumed the whole world. Disneyland and Seaworld are some of the most popular amusement parks in California that were affected by the pandemic. Recently, reopening plans have been released, allowing the parks to welcome their guests once again.

First opening on Jul. 17, 1955, Disneyland has only shut down three times. First was after the assasination of John F. Kennedy in 1963, second was after the Twin Towers Attack in 2001, and the COVID-19 pandemic was Disneyland’s third time closing in 2020. On Apr. 30, 2021, Disneyland announced that they were reopening. Senior Luke Levinson stated, “I am excited to high five Mickey Mouse again… I gotta see my boy Mickey. I am also excited to swim with the dolphins at Seaworld San Diego. ” 

Seaworld San Diego, opened 1964, also was affected by the pandemic, closing its gates in March 2020. Seaworld had reopened a few months back; however, there were many restrictions due to the pandemic, making the park less entertaining and popular. Seaworld announced that most of the rides are now open, including “Electric Eel” and “Manta” with limited capacity. Sophomore Kaiya Adams states, “I think it’s great that both Disney and Seaworld San Diego are reopening because everyone will be having fun again.”  Reopening amusement parks is one step closer for a return to normalcy.