Coronavirus closes Walt Disney World, Disneyland Paris, Universal Orlando Resort
Orlando’s Disney World, Disneyland Paris and Disney Cruise lines will shut down temporarily in the wake of growing concerns over the global coronavirus pandemic. The Universal Orlando Resort announced its theme park closure Thursday as well.
The Walt Disney Company announced the shutdown Thursday with a statement, hours after announcing the closure of Disneyland.
“In an abundance of caution and in the best interest of our guests and employees, we are proceeding with the closure of our theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and Disneyland Paris Resort,” the corporate statement said.
Closures begin at the close of business on March 15, and remain through the end of the month.
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Cast member employees from each location will get paid during the closure. The hotels and retail complexes at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Paris will remain open until further notice.
The statement said Disney Cruise Line will suspend all new departures beginning March 14, through the end of the month.
Universal Orlando Resort announced its closure Thursday, effective close of business March 15 and potentially lasting through March 31.
“Out of an abundance of caution and to assist with our nation’s preventive efforts, Universal Orlando Resort will temporarily close its theme parks,” a statement on the resort’s website read. “We anticipate remaining closed through the end of March, but will continue to evaluate the situation.”
Universal Orlando’s hotels and CityWalk will remain open. Universal Studios Hollywood announced closure for the same period Thursday.
California’s Disneyland announced earlier Thursday it would close Saturday through the end of March.
“While there have been no reported cases of COVID-19 at Disneyland Resort, after carefully reviewing the guidelines of the Governor of California’s executive order and in the best interest of our guests and employees, we are proceeding with the closure of Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park,” the theme park said in a statement.
The Hotels of Disneyland Resort will remain open until Monday, March 16, to give guests the ability to make necessary travel arrangements. Likewise downtown Disney will remain open.
“We will monitor the ongoing situation and follow the advice and guidance of federal and state officials and health agencies. Disney will continue to pay cast members during this time,” the statement continued.
Museums and attractions across the country, from the New York City’s Met to Washington D.C.’s Smithsonian and shows on Broadway have closed as well.
