More Restrictions Easing for Rides at Universal Orlando Resort

While the COVID-19 pandemic brought numerous changes to the Wizarding World theme parks, Universal Orlando Resort has been modifying its operations to resemble a more “normal” experience for its visitors. Among its latest adjustments are modifications related to popular rides at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at both Universal’s Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida.

First up is Harry Potter and the Escape from Gringotts, located in the Diagon Alley section of the Universal Studios Florida park. WDW News Today reports that both of the pre-ride shows have returned, and the 3D glasses are back in their bins (rather than being handed out by Universal’s staff, also known as team members). WDW News Today included photos of the pre-ride shows and the glasses in their bins, though there was no word on if this change has affected wait times for the ride itself.

Over in Hogsmeade in Universal’s Islands of Adventure, meanwhile, WDW News Today reports that the single-rider line has returned to Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. The single-rider option is typically a faster route of getting to experience the popular ride, but that option was temporarily removed. (Although WDW News Today did not elaborate on the reasons for the single-rider line’s removal, Orlando Informer explained that the extra space was used to maintain social distancing in some cases.)

Although some aspects of visiting Universal Orlando Resort have changed over the past year, it is clear that the theme park is hoping to return to how things used to be. For the latest updates on Universal Orlando Resort’s reopening and current safety measures, you can visit its website.

Have you visited Universal Orlando Resort since the pandemic began? Are you planning a trip now that restrictions have eased, or are you going to wait a while? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!