Disney Parks Include Everyone – Magic Knows no Bounds – We wanted to share how the Disney Company takes the business of smiles very seriously. Walt Disney World Resorts are masters at bringing joy to park guest. Every guest. The resorts offer a range of services to accomodate visitors with cognitive disabilities, and, those on the Autism Spectrum.
Here are some details to help in planning –
Advanced Ticket Purchase To avoid the possibility of waiting in line at ticket locations outside of park entrances, we recommend obtaining your tickets in advance. Park Tickets —including Annual Passes—can be purchased online or by calling (407) 939-5277.
Stroller and Wheelchair Rental If necessary, your party can rent a stroller, wheelchair or ECV/motorized scooter for a day or more at Walt Disney World Resort. Designated shops are located near the main entrances of the parks. Several private rental companies are also available.
Strollers As Wheelchairs Guests with disabilities—including those with a cognitive disability—who need to remain in a stroller while in an attraction queue should visit the Guest Relations Lobby at the theme parks in order to obtain the appropriate identifying tag.
Rider Switch Parties with more than 2 Guests may be able to take advantage of the attraction Rider Switch program, which enables you to experience an attraction while another member of your party waits with the Guest who does not ride. You then “swap” to enable the other party member to enjoy the attraction without having to wait in line again.
If in doubt, about a specific attraction please speak with a Cast Member.
Accessing Attractions The theme parks offer a wide variety of great shows and rides for you and your party to experience, and accessing these can be done in several ways including the use of standard queues, Disney FASTPASS Service and a Disability Access Service, as well as other accommodations based on individual service needs.
The Disability Access Service is designed for guests who are unable to tolerate extended waits at attractions. This service allows guests to schedule a return time.
Guest Relations Lobby at each of the theme parks can answer any further questions!
Break Areas Should the Guest with a cognitive disability become over-stimulated or need some downtime, dozens of areas are available throughout the parks where a Guest can “take a break.” To locate the nearest area, please ask a Cast Member for assistance.
Companion Restrooms In addition to men’s and women’s restroom facilities, companion restrooms are also available in select locations. Of note: many of the restrooms use automatic toilet flushing equipment which may be loud.
Walt Disney World Resort can accommodate most food allergies, intolerances, and specific dietary needs. Guests with food allergies or intolerances may bring food items into the parks. Inform the Cast Member at bag check.
Here are 2 VERY helpful guides; General Planning, and Attractions Guide
We are always excited to hear about your visits to Disney Parks. Please share with us some of your memories of a lifetime here at Chip and Co. We will continue to bring you information to help make your vacation the experience of a lifetime!
Information provided by Walt Disney World Resorts
