Disney theme parks are places where dreams come true for millions of guests every year. And while many think of Disney as a world of fantasy and make-believe, Disney has strived to make that world inclusive, where people of all abilities can experience the magic. This is especially evident regarding disability access, inclusive rides, and attractions at Disney parks.

Enhancing Disability Access at Disney Parks

In recent years, Disney has made great strides in improving disability access and services. One significant change has been the introduction of a Disability Access Service (DAS) card which allows guests with disabilities who cannot wait in traditional queues to get return times for rides, eliminating the need for waiting in long lines. Disney has added more handicapped parking and wheelchair/ECV rentals and introduced special accessibility entrances at many major attractions.

Rides and Attractions Designed for Disabled Guests

In addition to improving access, many Disney rides and attractions have been designed or retrofitted to accommodate guests with various disabilities. For instance, rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and It’s a Small World have wheelchair-accessible boats. Other slow-moving rides like Peter Pan’s Flight have cars that accommodate wheelchairs or ECVs as well. For hearing-impaired guests, handheld captioning devices provide ride narration and music lyrics on select attractions.

Thrills for All: Adventurous Rides Made Accessible

More thrilling rides have also been adapted to enable those with disabilities to experience the magic still. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster has special wheelchair-accessible ride vehicles. Vision-impaired guests can ride Soarin’ Around the World with video captioning devices that describe ride scenes and effects. And in the Magic Kingdom, classic rides like Splash Mountain have special seating modified to secure wheelchairs and ECVs.

Immersive, Accessible Experiences Throughout the Parks

The innovations don’t stop with rides, either. Disney has added tactile maps and Braille guides across parks to assist visually impaired guests. New immersive audio and tactile elements have been incorporated into queue areas to entertain waiting guests with hearing or visual disabilities. From high-tech innovations to simple solutions, Disney proves that little thoughtful details can make a magical difference.

Continuing Efforts for an Inclusive Environment

Disney’s efforts to create an inclusive environment will continue as more new rides and lands are added. As a global leader in entertainment, Disney is setting an example for accessibility and enabling every guest to experience that famous Disney magic. While access needs improvement in some areas, Disney strives to live up to its mission: to provide experiences where everyone can laugh, play, and create memories together.

Learn More About Accessibility at Disney

For more information on services and accommodations for guests with disabilities at Disney theme parks, visit their website or speak to a Disney cast member.