One of San Diego’s largest tourist attractions — SeaWorld San Diego — announced Friday it would temporarily close beginning March 16 amid concerns of the coronavirus pandemic.
“During this time, essential personnel, including animal care experts, will continue to look after the health, safety and nutritional needs of the animals in our care. Our animal rescue and rehabilitation operations will also continue to operate. SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment will continue to pay our full-time Ambassadors during this period,” park communications said in a statement.
“We are monitoring this evolving COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation closely and coordinating with public health officials. We look forward to welcoming our valued guests back to our parks soon.”
Other Southland amusement parks have also closed, including Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, Magic Mountain and Knott’s Berry Farm.
Legoland California remained open Friday, but said it was postponing the March 27 grand opening of “The LEGO Movie World,” and was monitoring the situation.
Museums in Balboa Park had postponed events but stayed open, as did the USS Midway Museum. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Parks were open Friday morning.