To mask or not to mask? Your complete guide to the latest theme park regulations.
After the CDC's recent announcement lifting the mask mandate for fully vaccinated guests, many theme parks swiftly adapted their policies. However, these regulations differ across parks.
While some parks have eliminated mask requirements entirely, others still mandate masks for all guests, regardless of vaccination status. This guide will clarify each major theme park's mask policy — from completely mask-free to hybrid and full-mask rules for vaccinated individuals.
No proof of vaccination is necessary at these venues. Theme parks are instead counting on guests to follow CDC recommendations. The landscape is evolving quickly, so if you're planning to visit soon, keep in mind that these rules could change at any moment.
A summary of mask policies for vaccinated guests, categorized by theme park.
| Theme park | Masks required for fully vaccinated? | Updated mask policy | Exceptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Point | Yes, except in certain areas | Everyone (including fully vaccinated individuals) must wear a mask in indoor areas unless you're eating or drinking.
| Guests will no longer have to wear a mask when outdoors "unless it's not possible to maintain social distancing." |
| Dollywood | No | No longer required for fully vaccinated guests or children ages 12 or under. | Unvaccinated individuals ages 12 or older must wear a mask indoors. |
| Disneyland | Yes | Masks required for all guests over 2 years of age. | No exceptions |
| Disney World | No, except in certain areas | No longer required for all guests at outdoor areas or pool decks. | Masks required for everyone (even if you're fully vaccinated) when entering and moving through the park and at all indoor attractions, restaurants and shops. |
| Hersheypark | No | No longer required for fully vaccinated guests. | Unvaccinated individuals or children 2 years or older must wear masks. |
| Knott's Berry Farm | Yes | Masks required for all guests over 2 years of age. | No exceptions |
| SeaWorld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Aquatica Orlando, Discovery Cove, and Adventure Island | No | No longer required for fully vaccinated guests. | All unvaccinated individuals must continue to wear a mask. |
| Universal Orlando | No, except in certain areas | No longer required for all guests when outdoors. | Masks required for everyone (even if you're fully vaccinated) at indoor locations and each attraction. |
Theme parks with no mask requirements for fully vaccinated guests.
Dollywood
(Image by Caitlin Riddell / Dinogo)Guests who are fully vaccinated, as well as children under 12, are no longer required to wear masks or maintain physical distance at Dollywood, whether indoors or outdoors.
Unvaccinated guests aged 12 and older must wear masks indoors, but they are optional in outdoor areas.
Hersheypark
Photo courtesy of HersheyparkHersheypark was among the first amusement parks to eliminate the mask requirement after the CDC's announcement. Fully vaccinated guests no longer need to wear masks, and social distancing measures have also been lifted for them.
However, the situation is different for children aged 2 and older and anyone who isn't fully vaccinated; they are required to wear masks during their visit, except while eating or drinking.
Additionally, the park has removed temperature screenings for all visitors.
Orlando's SeaWorld, Busch Gardens in Tampa Bay, Aquatica in Orlando, Discovery Cove, and Adventure Island.
A snapshot of Seaworld Orlando. (Image by Julien Delaunay via Unsplash)Visitors to Seaworld Orlando, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, Aquatica Orlando, or Discovery Cove can now visit without masks if fully vaccinated. While vaccination proof isn't mandatory, guests are encouraged to adhere to this updated policy.
Theme parks implementing a selective mask policy for vaccinated guests.
Cedar Point amusement park.
Image by Douglas Sacha via Getty ImagesGuests are now free from wearing masks outdoors, except when social distancing isn't feasible.
Masks are required indoors for everyone, including those fully vaccinated, unless you're actively eating or drinking.
Walt Disney World Resort
(Image provided by Curb Free with Cory Lee)Guests at Disney World are no longer required to wear masks in common outdoor areas or by the pool. However, masks must still be worn when entering and navigating through the park, as well as in all indoor attractions, including theaters, transportation, and restaurants unless actively eating or drinking.
These guidelines apply equally to both vaccinated and unvaccinated guests. Note that there are specific rules regarding acceptable face coverings; for instance, gaiters, open-triangle bandanas, and masks with valves or holes are not permitted. Additionally, physical distancing rules remain in effect.
Universal Orlando Resort
(Image courtesy of Universal Orlando.)At Universal Orlando, masks are no longer necessary except in certain situations. Even if fully vaccinated, be sure to carry a mask for indoor venues like shops and restaurants, as well as while waiting in line and when leaving attractions.
Masks are not needed outdoors, but social distancing of at least three feet is still required.
Theme parks where masks are mandatory for all guests
Disneyland Resort
Cast members greeted visitors along the pathways as the park opened. (Photo credit: Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)Disneyland in California welcomed back guests just a few weeks ago. Despite the CDC's announcement, face masks remain mandatory for everyone aged 2 and older, with no additional guidance provided for fully vaccinated guests on the website.
Knott's Berry Farm
Image provided by Knott's Berry FarmKnott's Berry Farm is set to reopen for guests on May 21. Initially, attendance will be capped at three households at a time and is limited to California residents only. All visitors aged 2 and above will be required to wear face masks upon reopening.
What are your options for adjusting your plans?
It's possible that you had plans to visit any of the aforementioned theme parks, only to wake up to a brand new set of rules regarding masks and social distancing. If you're fully vaccinated but still hesitant to visit parks that have lifted mask mandates, you might be considering altering your plans.
Regrettably, your amusement park tickets are probably non-refundable and non-transferable. Depending on the park, you might be able to change the date on your ticket.
In summary
The CDC's mask recommendations align with the widespread availability of COVID-19 vaccines in the U.S. However, for some, this updated guidance may still be surprising, as there’s no reliable way to prove vaccination status in public spaces. If you're planning a visit to a theme park this summer, it's essential to stay informed about the mask policies for your family, especially if you have children who aren't yet eligible for vaccination.
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