Universal Studios Hollywood to Reopen April 16

Universal Studios Hollywood is ready to get back to business.

The California theme park, which has been closed for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, said it plans to welcome guests again on April 16, as well as provide an early preview for season pass holders on April 15. Tickets are set to go on sale on April 8, but there's a catch: You'll have to be a California resident to visit.

"Universal Studios Hollywood continues to work in partnership with health and government officials to implement new health and safety procedures," the company said, citing California guidelines for its decision to limit entry to state residents. Capacity is also being restricted to allow for physical distancing, and temperature checks and face masks are required.

Californians willing to comply with those rules will get to be among the first to check out Universal Studios Hollywood's Jurassic World ride, which introduces a realistic 22-foot-tall Indominus rex dinosaur capable of blinking her eyes and flexing her arms. The Los Angeles Times describes Indominus rex as "a fictional hybrid dinosaur that combines the traits of various species."

Early visitors to Universal Studios Hollywood will also be among the first to experience an animated ride based on The Secret Life of Pets. The attraction combines projection mapping and animation to introduce audiences to illuminated versions of their favorite characters from the films.

California residents can purchase admission tickets to Universal Studios Hollywood online beginning April 8. Season pass holders can reserve early access to the park and other bonus days online starting on April 5.

California is allowing amusement parks to reopen with limited capacity as early as April 1, though many have set later reopening dates in order to give themselves more time to prepare.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a Travel + Leisure contributor who has visited 50 countries on six continents and 47 U.S. states. She loves historic plaques, wandering new streets and walking on beaches. Find her on Twitter and Instagram.

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