Some big tourist names, like New York City, have had a mandate for months. But with the highly contagious Omicron strain of the coronavirus spreading rapidly across the country, more U.S. cities are imposing restrictions.
It’s a good thing to keep in mind, especially if you’re traveling from a part of the country that isn’t as strict on masks, testing, and vaccines.
As of December 21, here are some of the top travel destinations in America that are already restricting unvaccinated and untested people or have announced plans to do so soon:
Boston
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu announced Monday, Dec. 20, that her city would require proof of Covid-19 vaccination for indoor restaurants, fitness venues, theaters and arenas.
The authorization will apply to clients and employees and will be online in phases.
Chicago
Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced Tuesday, Dec. 21 that the country’s third-largest city requires proof of vaccination for most businesses serving food or drink.
The new requirement is in effect for anyone age 6 and older in restaurants, gyms, theaters, bars and other entertainment and sports venues that serve food and drinks, she said at a news conference.
All customers must be fully vaccinated to enter these establishments, she said, and there will be no testing option. Unvaccinated employees of these locations will have a testing opportunity, according to Lightfoot.
Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, all customers who will be served in the covered area of a food or beverage outlet and other types of indoor locations must present proof of full vaccination prior to entry. Enforcement began on November 29.
New Orleans
Want a drink at a New Orleans French Quarter bar? You must have proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter.
Mario Tama/Getty Images
In the Gulf region, foodie and party favorite New Orleans also has a mandate.
New York City
The ‘Key to NYC’ mandate has been in effect since September 13 and will be further tightened in December.
Restaurants, movie theaters and other locations are open – but their indoor spaces are only open to vaccinated customers ages 12 and older who have had at least one dose of vaccine. From Tuesday 14 December, children aged 5 to 12 must show proof of at least one dose of vaccine.
Philadelphia
Philadelphia has announced that it requires proof of full Covid-19 vaccination for access to indoor restaurants, theaters and entertainment venues serving food or drink.
The mandate will take effect from January 3. During the first two weeks of the mandate, from January 3 to 17, companies will be allowed to accept proof of a negative Covid-19 test result in lieu of proof of vaccination within 24 hours of entry. From January 18, only fully vaccinated people will be allowed in.
San Francisco
The Golden Gate Bridge is the iconic symbol of San Francisco, one of the top tourist destinations in the United States with a vaccine mandate for many indoor activities.
Ezra Shaw/Getty Images
West coast traveler San Francisco needs proof of full vaccination to visit bars, restaurants, gyms and other indoor entertainment venues.