Ohio Entertainment and Recreation Destinations Closed Through July 1 Per Department of Health Order

Friday's order extends the closure of zoos, amusement parks, museums, music halls and more

Fiona and Bibi at the Cincinnati Zoo - Photo: Kathy Newton
Photo: Kathy Newton
Fiona and Bibi at the Cincinnati Zoo

On Friday, the Ohio Department of Health extended its director's order closing some entertainment and recreation destinations through 11:59 p.m. July 1. 

That includes:

  • Places with amusement rides
  • Carnivals
  • Amusement parks
  • Water parks
  • Aquariums
  • Zoos
  • Museums
  • Arcades
  • Fairs
  • Children's play centers
  • Playgrounds
  • Funplexes
  • Theme parks
  • Concert and music halls
  • Country clubs and social clubs
  • Indoor movie theaters
  • Auditoriums
  • Stadiums
  • Arenas
  • "Skill or chance gaming facilities" for adults and children
  • Plus recreational sports tournaments and organized recreational sports (unless "specifically permitted by separate Director's order)

So, while places like the Cincinnati Zoo have said they are ready and have protocols in place to reopen, looks like they're going to have to wait at least another month. 

Different business sectors that have been given the green-light to reopen have done so under Responsible RestartOhio sector specific health and safety operating guidelines.

As of Saturday, May 30, there were 35,034 total COVID-19 cases in Ohio, 6,011 hospitalizations, 2,149 confirmed/probable deaths. In Cincinnati, as of Friday, May 29, there were 1,094 total cases, 225 hospitalizations, 51 deaths and 627 recoveries. 

There were also 18 new cases reported on May 28, to which Mayor John Cranley responded: