Tips for People with Disabilities

Central Florida attractions are among the most accessible destinations in the world for people with disabilities, and you'll see many wheelchairs and ECVs (electric convenience vehicles) in the theme parks. The hospitality industry continues to spend millions on barrier-removing renovations. Though some challenges remain, most can be overcome with planning.

The main park information centers can answer specific questions and dispense general information for guests with disabilities. Both Walt Disney World and Universal Studios publish guidebooks for guests with disabilities; allow six weeks for delivery.

Devices

Walt Disney World has several free devices available for the hard of hearing. The reflective captioning device is available at some of the attractions themselves. Assistive listening devices (deposit $25) are available at the Guest Relations window of all theme parks. Stage shows with sign language interpreters are listed in the calendar of events. At all Disney parks, complimentary four-hour guided tours in sign language are available. Reservations must be made at least one week in advance. Call 407/824-4321 or TTY 407/827-5141.

Enjoying the Parks

Attractions in all the Disney parks typically have both a visual element that makes them appealing without sound and an audio element that conveys the charm even without the visuals; many are accessible by guests using wheelchairs, and most are accessible by guests with some mobility. Guide dogs and service animals are permitted, unless a ride or special effect could spook or traumatize the animal.

In some attractions, you may be required to transfer to a wheelchair if you use a scooter. In others, you must be able to leave your own wheelchair to board the ride vehicle and must have a traveling companion assist, as park staff cannot do so. Attractions with emergency evacuation routes that have narrow walkways or steps require additional mobility. Turbulence on other attractions poses a problem for some guests.

The Guidebook for Guests with Disabilities details many specific challenges and identifies the accessible entrances for attractions. In addition, story notes, scripts, and song lyrics are available at attractions -- just ask an attractions host, who will provide a binder with the information you need.

A new standard of access was set at Walt Disney World with the opening of the Animal Kingdom, where nearly all attractions, restaurants, and shops are wheelchair accessible. Disney-MGM Studios comes in a close second, followed by Epcot, where some of the rides have a tailgate that drops down to provide a level entrance to the ride vehicle. Though the Magic Kingdom, now in its third decade, was designed before architects gave consideration to access issues, renovation plans are under way. Even so, the 20 or so accessible attractions combine with the live entertainment around the park to provide a memorable experience.

Getting Around

The Disney transportation system has dozens of lift- and braille-equipped vehicles. In addition, there's ample reserved parking for people with disabilities.