Is Walt Disney World a good place to take handicapped children?

Answer 1

Yes, Walt Disney World is very accommodating toward guests with disabilities. When you arrive at the parks, stop by Guest Services and pick up a Guest Assistance Card. The card will be customized to fit your needs and can provide you with special privileges that will make your visit easier, including being able to keep your child in their stroller while in line or getting assistance when boarding rides.

Many of the rides allow guests to remain in their wheelchair if necessary. A number of rides also allow EVCs to board, though some rides require that you transfer to a standard wheelchair. If you can't get on the ride vehicle in your wheelchair, the cast members are happy to assist you. Check the park map for restrictions on each ride.

Most of the restrooms in the parks have handicapped stalls. Each park also has several companion bathrooms. Each park also has a first aid station where medications can be stored. The first aid stations are also ideal if you need to take a break from the hot Florida sun.

Each park has handicapped parking near the entrance. You will need a handicapped parking permit to access these special spots. If you do not have one, tell the cast member at the parking entrance that you need to drop off a guest. This will allow you to drive up to the front and unload passengers, then find a spot in the regular lot for your car. You can also use the complimentary Disney transportation. Every bus has a wheelchair ramp (though you may need to sit in a regular seat during transport depending on the bus) and the Monorail operators will direct you to specified handicapped areas of the train.

Wheelchairs and EVCs are available for rent at each park. If you need a wheelchair during the rest of your stay, bring your own or rent from a company in the Orlando area.

Some guests have reported issues when it comes to hotel accommodations. Although every Disney hotel offers services for disabled guests, they vary by hotel (most noticeably in room size). If you can afford to splurge, get a room at a deluxe hotel as these have a much larger floor plan. If you can really afford to splurge, upgrade to a club level room; these are the largest hotel rooms. Many club level rooms are suites, making them ideal for large groups. You can use these rooms as a meeting place for your entire party, and have the other members of your family reserve regular rooms.