Reopening the Bay Area: Spring Is the Time for Amusement

Spring is emerging as the season of new beginnings in the Bay Area, and that goes for some of the region's top amusement parks, zoos and aquariums.

Several venues are set to reopen or expand to full reopening starting in April, May and June. The venues still must adhere to limited capacities, depending on their county's restrictions, as well as mask and distancing requirements. (And some are asking that riders not scream on roller coasters.)

Here's a list of announced reopenings:

Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo (Solano County) will reopen its full complement of rides and animal exhibits for exclusive pass holder previews on April 1 and then to the general public on April 3.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (Santa Cruz County) is set to reopen select rides, including its renowned Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster, on April 1.
Oakland Zoo (Alameda County) is staggering its reopening starting April 12 into early June, according to a spokesperson. On April 12, the playground areas will reopen, followed by Bug House, Conservation Habitarium, Reptile House, indoor dining areas and the Adventure Landing rides area.
Happy Hollow Park & Zoo in San Jose (Santa Clara County) currently is taking reservations for a one-way walking path through both its zoo areas and will expand access to its Redwood Lookout and Adventure Grove play areas April 27. Access to rides and food service will come in later phases.
California's Great America in Santa Clara (Santa Clara County) announced in January an opening day date of May 22. The park says it will honor all 2020 season passes and add-ons through the 2021 season as well as any unused 2020 admission tickets through Sept. 6.
Monterey Bay Aquarium announced it will reopen for members May 1 and for the general public May 15. Members' reserve tickets will be available starting April 26, and general admission tickets for all guests go on sale May 5.
The San Mateo County Fair will return to the San Mateo County Event Center in late spring after being forced to cancel its 2020 event for just the second time in its 87-year history. The fair is scheduled for June 5-13.