![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.themagicforless.com\/tmflblog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Visiting-Walt-Disney-World-with-a-Wheelchair-2-409x550.jpg\" "\\"Visiting")
<\/em><\/p>\nResearching and Planning<\/strong><\/h3>\nEquipment\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\nWhat equipment will you need when visiting Walt Disney World with a wheelchair?<\/p>\n
\n- If you have essential equipment, consider how you will get these devices to your resort.<\/li>\n
- If renting\u00a0 or using a different wheelchair than you are used to, see if you can try it out a bit before spending hours using it.<\/li>\n
- This could avoid a great deal of discomfort.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Resort\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- Research your resort and ask for an accessible room if you need a roll in shower or grab bars.<\/li>\n
- There are a couple of resorts that do not have elevators, so make sure to request a first floor room if stairs are a challenge.<\/li>\n
- All pools and spas have lifts to easily get in and out of pools.<\/li>\n
- Your travel agent can request the specific type of room that will best suit your needs.<\/li>\n
- Look at resort maps so you know how to best get around and to transportation, pools, and dining.<\/li>\n
- Check out this blog<\/a> for more information on which resort might fit your needs best.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Weather <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- Keep an eye on the weather.<\/li>\n
- People confined to wheelchairs and scooters can often become hot, particularly on their back if they are not getting air flow.<\/li>\n
- Consider spending time indoors during the hottest part of the day and using cooling towels, misters, and plenty of breaks and water.<\/li>\n
- Also watch for rain as a foam seat or battery can quickly become waterlogged.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.themagicforless.com\/tmflblog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/The-Most-Accessible-Place-On-Earth-367x550.png\" "\\"The")
<\/p>\n
Transportation<\/strong><\/h3>\nFlying <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- If you are flying with a\u00a0 power wheelchair, be aware that damage frequently occurs.<\/li>\n
- It is good to find a mobility specialist in the Orlando area that will work within your insurance and chair model before flying.<\/li>\n
- Be sure to call the airline in advance so they know you will be bringing your chair and ask for priority boarding.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Magical Express\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- If you are using Magical Express, call ahead and let them know you have a wheelchair and they can get a coach with a lift reserved for your party.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Driving\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- If you are driving, consider how long your loved one can ride if long road trips are not typical for your family.\u00a0 Our family used to be able to power through 12-hour car trips, but now we need frequent stops so that Noah can have a break, stretch, and reposition.<\/li>\n
- When driving or renting a car, make sure to bring your handicap placard<\/strong>.\u00a0 This makes transportation and parking so much easier.\u00a0 It also helps avoid the extra step of having to board a tram as most handicap parking spaces are in easy walking distance to park entrances. In the case of the Magic Kingdom, the handicap parking is close to the ferry boat and monorail loading area.\u00a0 Be sure to stop at the front desk and mention you have a placard so that your parking fees are waived.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.themagicforless.com\/tmflblog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Visiting-Walt-Disney-World-with-a-Wheelchair-3-491x550.jpg\" "\\"Visiting")
<\/p>\n
Buses\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- Disney buses are fantastic in terms of accessibility.\u00a0 There is a special place for wheelchairs and scooters to wait in beside the bus lines.\u00a0 The driver always loads wheelchairs and scooters first and then everyone else.\u00a0 The passenger can either sit in their chair if it has tie downs, or transfer to a seat.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Boats\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- Some Disney boats are accessible and others are not. The rule of thumb is generally the bigger the boat, the more likely it can accommodate chairs and scooters.\u00a0 This is important to remember if you are staying at a resort where smaller boats are a main means of transportation like Disney\u2019s Wilderness Lodge.\u00a0 Taking a bus may be a better option in these situations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Disney Skyliner <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- The Skyliner can accommodate wheelchairs and scooters, but your party may be split due to space limitations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Monorail <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- The monorail is perhaps the easiest option of all to get on and off as Cast Members simply pull a ramp up when you board.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.themagicforless.com\/tmflblog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Disney-in-a-Wheelchair.png\" "\\"Disney")
<\/em><\/p>\nParks<\/strong><\/h3>\nDisability Access Service (DAS) System\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- At any park\u2019s Guest Services, Cast Members may add DAS pass on your Magic Band or ticket.<\/li>\n
- Each person with a DAS pass can have up to six guests use the system with them.<\/li>\n
- The DAS system can be used in conjunction with Fast Passes when available.<\/li>\n
- The DAS system allows you to check in at an attraction and return with the standby line wait time would be up.\u00a0 Note: DAS is not generally given to guests with strictly mobility needs, Guest Services will talk to you to discuss what your accommodation needs are.<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.themagicforless.com\/tmflblog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Visiting-Walt-Disney-World-with-a-Wheelchair-1.jpg\" "\\"Visiting")
<\/p>\n
General Accessibility <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- Be aware of your surroundings.<\/li>\n
- Look for elevators and lowered curbs.<\/li>\n
- Places like the railroad tracks on main street, bumpy brick pavement, and bottleneck traffic spots can make getting around difficult.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Viewing\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- Find the special accessible viewing areas for fireworks, parades, and shows to help ensure everyone in your group can see.<\/li>\n
- Think about exiting before or after a show lets out to avoid navigating through a large crowd.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"Walt](\"https:\/\/www.themagicforless.com\/tmflblog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Wheelchair-Fireworks-Viewing-1-367x550.png\" "\\"Walt")
<\/p>\n
Restrooms <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- Look for restrooms that have more space or offer companion bathrooms\u00a0<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Attractions <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- Some attractions are just not wheelchair accessible (like the People Mover), however, others are super disability friendly (like most slow boat\/dark\u00a0 rides) and they can even load your chair onto a special boat if you cannot transfer.<\/li>\n
- Some attractions have alternate entrances like Spaceship Earth.<\/li>\n
- In every situation, Cast Members are happy to assist you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Stamina\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- If you are visiting Walt Disney World with a wheelchair and pushing the chair, lifting someone, or helping someone transfer all day it can be exhausting.<\/li>\n
- Make sure caregivers are prepared and do not injure themselves.<\/li>\n
- Do not hesitate to ask for help when needed.<\/li>\n
- Most parties with mobility issues have a hard time touring 8-12 hours a day.\u00a0 It may make the trip much more fun to take a slower pace and frequent breaks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Touring <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n- The best rule is to know the limitations of your loved one.<\/li>\n
- Every situation and person is different.<\/li>\n
- You can research online\u00a0 or look here<\/a> to see park maps that will help you plan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Dining\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
What equipment will you need when visiting Walt Disney World with a wheelchair?<\/p>\n
- \n
- If you have essential equipment, consider how you will get these devices to your resort.<\/li>\n
- If renting\u00a0 or using a different wheelchair than you are used to, see if you can try it out a bit before spending hours using it.<\/li>\n
- This could avoid a great deal of discomfort.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Resort\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- Research your resort and ask for an accessible room if you need a roll in shower or grab bars.<\/li>\n
- There are a couple of resorts that do not have elevators, so make sure to request a first floor room if stairs are a challenge.<\/li>\n
- All pools and spas have lifts to easily get in and out of pools.<\/li>\n
- Your travel agent can request the specific type of room that will best suit your needs.<\/li>\n
- Look at resort maps so you know how to best get around and to transportation, pools, and dining.<\/li>\n
- Check out this blog<\/a> for more information on which resort might fit your needs best.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Weather <\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- Keep an eye on the weather.<\/li>\n
- People confined to wheelchairs and scooters can often become hot, particularly on their back if they are not getting air flow.<\/li>\n
- Consider spending time indoors during the hottest part of the day and using cooling towels, misters, and plenty of breaks and water.<\/li>\n
- Also watch for rain as a foam seat or battery can quickly become waterlogged.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/p>\n
Transportation<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Flying <\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- If you are flying with a\u00a0 power wheelchair, be aware that damage frequently occurs.<\/li>\n
- It is good to find a mobility specialist in the Orlando area that will work within your insurance and chair model before flying.<\/li>\n
- Be sure to call the airline in advance so they know you will be bringing your chair and ask for priority boarding.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Magical Express\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- If you are using Magical Express, call ahead and let them know you have a wheelchair and they can get a coach with a lift reserved for your party.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Driving\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- If you are driving, consider how long your loved one can ride if long road trips are not typical for your family.\u00a0 Our family used to be able to power through 12-hour car trips, but now we need frequent stops so that Noah can have a break, stretch, and reposition.<\/li>\n
- When driving or renting a car, make sure to bring your handicap placard<\/strong>.\u00a0 This makes transportation and parking so much easier.\u00a0 It also helps avoid the extra step of having to board a tram as most handicap parking spaces are in easy walking distance to park entrances. In the case of the Magic Kingdom, the handicap parking is close to the ferry boat and monorail loading area.\u00a0 Be sure to stop at the front desk and mention you have a placard so that your parking fees are waived.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/p>\n
Buses\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- Disney buses are fantastic in terms of accessibility.\u00a0 There is a special place for wheelchairs and scooters to wait in beside the bus lines.\u00a0 The driver always loads wheelchairs and scooters first and then everyone else.\u00a0 The passenger can either sit in their chair if it has tie downs, or transfer to a seat.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Boats\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- Some Disney boats are accessible and others are not. The rule of thumb is generally the bigger the boat, the more likely it can accommodate chairs and scooters.\u00a0 This is important to remember if you are staying at a resort where smaller boats are a main means of transportation like Disney\u2019s Wilderness Lodge.\u00a0 Taking a bus may be a better option in these situations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Disney Skyliner <\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- The Skyliner can accommodate wheelchairs and scooters, but your party may be split due to space limitations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Monorail <\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- The monorail is perhaps the easiest option of all to get on and off as Cast Members simply pull a ramp up when you board.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/em><\/p>\n
Parks<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Disability Access Service (DAS) System\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- At any park\u2019s Guest Services, Cast Members may add DAS pass on your Magic Band or ticket.<\/li>\n
- Each person with a DAS pass can have up to six guests use the system with them.<\/li>\n
- The DAS system can be used in conjunction with Fast Passes when available.<\/li>\n
- The DAS system allows you to check in at an attraction and return with the standby line wait time would be up.\u00a0 Note: DAS is not generally given to guests with strictly mobility needs, Guest Services will talk to you to discuss what your accommodation needs are.<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/p>\n
General Accessibility <\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- Be aware of your surroundings.<\/li>\n
- Look for elevators and lowered curbs.<\/li>\n
- Places like the railroad tracks on main street, bumpy brick pavement, and bottleneck traffic spots can make getting around difficult.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Viewing\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- Find the special accessible viewing areas for fireworks, parades, and shows to help ensure everyone in your group can see.<\/li>\n
- Think about exiting before or after a show lets out to avoid navigating through a large crowd.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/p>\n
Restrooms <\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- Look for restrooms that have more space or offer companion bathrooms\u00a0<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Attractions <\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- Some attractions are just not wheelchair accessible (like the People Mover), however, others are super disability friendly (like most slow boat\/dark\u00a0 rides) and they can even load your chair onto a special boat if you cannot transfer.<\/li>\n
- Some attractions have alternate entrances like Spaceship Earth.<\/li>\n
- In every situation, Cast Members are happy to assist you.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Stamina\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- If you are visiting Walt Disney World with a wheelchair and pushing the chair, lifting someone, or helping someone transfer all day it can be exhausting.<\/li>\n
- Make sure caregivers are prepared and do not injure themselves.<\/li>\n
- Do not hesitate to ask for help when needed.<\/li>\n
- Most parties with mobility issues have a hard time touring 8-12 hours a day.\u00a0 It may make the trip much more fun to take a slower pace and frequent breaks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Touring <\/strong><\/h4>\n
- \n
- The best rule is to know the limitations of your loved one.<\/li>\n
- Every situation and person is different.<\/li>\n
- You can research online\u00a0 or look here<\/a> to see park maps that will help you plan.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Dining\u00a0<\/strong><\/h4>\n
- Look for restrooms that have more space or offer companion bathrooms\u00a0<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- The monorail is perhaps the easiest option of all to get on and off as Cast Members simply pull a ramp up when you board.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- The Skyliner can accommodate wheelchairs and scooters, but your party may be split due to space limitations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Some Disney boats are accessible and others are not. The rule of thumb is generally the bigger the boat, the more likely it can accommodate chairs and scooters.\u00a0 This is important to remember if you are staying at a resort where smaller boats are a main means of transportation like Disney\u2019s Wilderness Lodge.\u00a0 Taking a bus may be a better option in these situations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Disney buses are fantastic in terms of accessibility.\u00a0 There is a special place for wheelchairs and scooters to wait in beside the bus lines.\u00a0 The driver always loads wheelchairs and scooters first and then everyone else.\u00a0 The passenger can either sit in their chair if it has tie downs, or transfer to a seat.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- If you are using Magical Express, call ahead and let them know you have a wheelchair and they can get a coach with a lift reserved for your party.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"Walt](\"https:\/\/www.themagicforless.com\/tmflblog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Droid-Depot-550x550.png\" "\\"Walt")
<\/p>\n![\"Walt](\"https:\/\/www.themagicforless.com\/tmflblog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/Walt-Disney-World-with-a-Wheelchair-367x550.png\" "\\"Walt")
<\/div>\n