Walt Disney World Resorts
Walt Disney World Resorts works hard to make sure all guests are able to enjoy its parks. There is an extensive online guide online, as well. Read More
Mobility Disabilities
Disney offers many options for transportation that are accessible to all guests. In addition to inter-park options, guests may also rent a wheelchair or ECV at each park. Access to rides is available through special auxillary access entrances or through the mainstream entrance. Some attractions require guests to transfer from their wheelchair or ECV to the ride; however, Disney employees are not permitted to assist guests in transferring to a ride. When viewing parades or shows, designated seating areas are provided.
For more information, read Walt Disney World’s online guide. Click here
Visual Disabilities
For guests with visual disabilities, Braille guides are available at Guest Relations at all four parks. Additionally, there are stationary Braille maps that are also equipped with large print and raised areas to indicate major attractions. Audiotape Guides and Tours, and Audio Descriptions are available for a refundable fee.
For more information, read Walt Disney World’s online guide. Click here
Hearing Disabilities
Each park offers assistive listening systems, handheld and reflective captioning systems, and video captioning (at select rides). Sign language interpretation is available at select theme parks on a rotational basis and by special reservation at some of the dinner shows. Additionally, specially equipped telephones are located through the property, and writing aids are accessible for cast members to communicate with guests. Cast members with sign language ability are indicated with a special language pin.
For more information, read Walt Disney World’s online guide. Click here
Disney’s Guest Assistance Card
For guests who need alternate access to rides or who have other special needs, Disney offers the use of their Guest Assistance Card. This card, good for a limited time, allows guests to use the alternate access ramps and to sit in designated seating if necessary. Speak to your concierge about this handy tool, or visit Disney’s Guest Services at any of their parks.
Universal Studios & Islands of Adventure
Guests who need special accommodations should visit Universal Studios Orlando’s official website. The company also provides a downloadable document with additional information.
Visit Universal Studios’ website. Click Here
The Rider’s Guide
Download Universal Studios Orlando’s Rider’s Guide for important information pertaining to guests with special needs. Download Rider’s Guide
Hearing Disabilities
Many of the shows have regularly-scheduled sign language interpretation; however, the shows times may vary, so guests should check the park map upon entering in order to plan appropriately (or consult with you concierge). Closed captioning and assistive listening devices, guidebooks for guests with disabilities, and attraction scripts are also available at Guest Services in each theme park. Specially equipped public telephones are available through the parks, as well.
For more information, visit Universal Studios’ online guide. Click here
Physical Disabilities
All areas of the parks are wheelchair accessible through regular entrances, with the exception of a few specific rides. There are specific requirements and accommodations for each ride (see Rider’s Guide above). Most rides require guests to transfer themselves (alone or with the assistance of another person in the party), although there are certain attractions that allow guests to remain in their wheelchair (this option is not available for ECVs or electric wheelchairs).
For more information, visit Universal Studios’ online guide. Click here
Prosthetic Limbs
Guests with prosthetic limbs should read this section of the online guide for ride requirements specific to their particularly case. Click here
Service Animals
Guests who require the use of service animals should consult this section of the online guide for more information. Click here
Oxygen Tanks
Oxygen tanks are only permitted on a limited number of rides. Guests who require the use of an oxygen tank should consult this section of the online guide for more information. Click here
Sea World, Discovery Cove & Aquatica
Sea World
Sea World is completely accessible by wheelchair. Guests may reserve a wheelchair or ECV on their website. Click here
Accessibility Guide
Guests may also download Sea World’s Accessibility Guide (from 2009) for more information. Click here
Discovery Cove
Guests with disabilities must be able to maneuver themselves with limited assistance (or with the aid of a personal assistant) during their dolphin experience and in the various wading locations. Discovery Cove does offer specially-designed outdoor wheelchairs with oversized tires for easy maneuvering on the beach; however,the wheelchairs are not self-maneuverable and guests will need assistance operating them. Wheelchairs can be reserved by calling 1-877-557-7404. You may also contact your concierge who can help with all reservations and requests.
Aquatica
According to Aquatica’s official website: Aquatica is committed to providing a comfortable experience for all of our guests. The wave pool beaches are sand; however, the remainder of the park has paved pathways. All rivers and family attractions have beach entries (no steps). The park has five attractions designed with towers that do require stair climbing. The stairs are accessible by current ADA guidelines. Wheelchairs will be available for rental (first-come, first-served). Guests may reserve wheelchairs on-line prior to their visit.
You can reserve a wheelchair online. Click here
