Amusement park rides all at Jersey Shore boardwalks were allowed to reopen on Thursday, with many implementing COVID-19 safety protocols ahead of the Fourth of July holiday.

The Ferris Wheel is spinning once again at Casino Pier in Seaside Heights, the swings are back in action and children could be heard screaming as they rode the Hydra roller coaster.

But the experience at Casino Pier will be different than it was last summer. Patrons will be required to wear masks and the park will be operating at reduced capacity.

“I had fun on the rides. The pictures on the roller coaster look funny with the masks on, though,” says Caitlin Hourican of Westchester.

Casino Pier officials say that anyone seen without a mask or anyone who refuses to wear a mask will be turned away. Rides and equipment will be sanitized after each use, and temperature checks will be required to enter the arcade.

“Actually, it’s perfect,” says Elvia Lopez of North Bergen. “Not that many people. Everyone is social distancing, wearing masks. You feel safer.”

While the rules are being enforced at Casino Pier, the boardwalk seemed to be a different situation. The crowd was growing by Thursday evening and many walking around were not wearing masks. Masks are encouraged, but not required for anyone outdoors.

Despite the crowds, Lopez says that it was great to return to some normalcy.

“I really think it’s time to give them the responsibility and allow people to make the money they need to make. Jersey needs to thrive,” Lopez says.

Bowling alleys, indoor batting cages, outdoor water parks, indoor shooting ranges, casinos and playgrounds all also reopened on Thursday.