5 recently announced ways that Disney and Universal are gradually returning to a sense of normalcy.

California and Florida may be miles apart geographically, but both states have faced unique challenges in managing the pandemic and their reopening strategies. Home to the nation’s largest theme parks, the differences and similarities have led to significantly varied approaches in the reopening of Disneyland and Disney World over the past year.

Despite their differences, both states and their theme parks are making strides towards a more comprehensive reopening, adapting their policies and announcements incrementally.

In Florida, the momentum is strong with reduced physical distancing measures and the end of temperature checks.

On the other hand, California has only recently begun reopening its theme parks, still adhering to most restrictions. Nevertheless, after a week of operations, Disneyland is already enhancing some guest offerings and amenities.

Here are five additional ways that theme parks are gradually moving towards a state of "normalcy."

The end of temperature checks at Disney World and Universal Orlando.

Yesterday, Disney announced that mandatory temperature checks for cast members will conclude on May 8, followed by guests on May 16.

According to Disney's website:

"Since our reopening, we have taken into account recommendations from public health officials, government bodies, and our own health and safety team as we evaluate and revise our health measures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19."

As guidance evolves and with the backing of local health and government authorities, we are implementing further changes. Following the CDC's recommendations and advice from our local health officials, we will start phasing out onsite temperature checks at Walt Disney World Resort for Cast Members on May 8 and for Guests on May 16.

We will continue to adhere to the recommendations of health and safety experts in the future and, most importantly, encourage everyone to get vaccinated."

Recently, Disney has also eased face mask regulations by allowing guests to briefly remove them for photos. Additionally, capacity for certain attractions has been gradually increased over the last few months.

Decreased social distancing measures at Universal Orlando.

Disney World wasn't the only theme park in Florida updating its health measures this week. Its neighbor, Universal Orlando, is also relaxing some restrictions. In a statement to Click Orlando, Universal Orlando announced:

"The safety and health of our guests and team members remain our highest priority. We continually assess CDC guidelines and collaborate with local health officials to refine our health and safety measures," stated a Universal spokesperson. "As of Thursday, May 6, we will implement three feet of social distancing across our venue and will no longer carry out temperature checks. All other current health protocols will stay in effect."

The website has been updated to reflect the new three-foot social distancing rule, reduced from six feet, marking the end of temperature checks at Universal Orlando as part of its pandemic history.

A second hotel at Disneyland is set to reopen soon.

Disneyland features three of its own hotels: Disney's Grand Californian (which has recently reopened), the iconic Disneyland Hotel (currently without a reopening date), and Disney's Paradise Pier Hotel. Paradise Pier, the most budget-friendly option, has just announced its reopening for June 15.

The hotel will reopen with limited capacity and no onsite dining available, but reservations can be made for stays starting in mid-June. Coincidentally, June 15 is also anticipated to be the date when California will more fully reopen, potentially welcoming out-of-state visitors eager for some theme park enjoyment.

More amenities are returning to Disneyland's Grand Californian Hotel.

As the most luxurious of the three Disneyland hotels, featuring its own exclusive entrance to Disney California Adventure Park, this hotel is gradually moving back towards normal operations.

Disney's Grand Californian Hotel will reopen its private access to Disney California Adventure Park on May 28, just weeks before the debut of Avengers Campus.

Additionally, the hotel will resume dining services at Napa Rose and Storytellers Cafe starting on May 28. Reservations will be available for both hotel guests and visitors not staying at the hotel.

Another character dining experience is making its way back to Disney World.

Since its reopening in July 2020, Disney World has offered some modified character dining experiences.

The variety of character dining options has gradually expanded, now featuring breakfast at Topolino's Terrace atop the Riviera Resort, lunch or dinner at the Garden Grill in Epcot (a surprise favorite with characters in farm attire), Hollywood and Vine in Disney's Hollywood Studios (serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and Ravello's Saturday brunch at the Four Seasons Orlando.

There are also semi-character meals where a single character makes a short appearance, such as Cinderella at Cinderella's Royal Table and the Beast at Be Our Guest.

In late 2020, character dining with Mickey and friends returned to Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary Resort, initially available for breakfast only. However, as of May 16, Disney is expanding this to include dinner with characters ($55 for adults and $36 for kids). This family-style dinner features unlimited options like prime rib, roasted salmon, turkey breast, baby shrimp, potato gnocchi, and more.