August 19, 2020
SeaWorld was cleared to open its outdoor areas today, though indoor aquariums must stay closed. The attraction’s rides will also remain closed. Theme parks still do not have approval to operate in California, but the state has issued guidance for zoos to reopen and the county has confirmed SeaWorld falls under the exception. The San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park reopened for the general public on June 20 after hosting a preview week for members and health care workers.
SeaWorld San Diego, which is the company’s original theme park that first opened in 1964, has been closed since March due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related state and locally imposed restrictions. Although rides remain closed, Orange County's Knott's Berry Farm has been creative and opened part time for weekend food festivals under authorization for outdoor dining within the state. That same clearance may allow SeaWorld to host some version of its Seven Seas food festival, which was set to begin this past March. Under the zoo guidance, SeaWorld will have to post a Safe Reopening Plan like other businesses. There is no timeline for when the park will officially reopen and at what the cost of admission will be.
