A Guide to Theme Park Accessibility for Visitors with Disabilities

Planning a visit to Central Florida's renowned theme parks? Whether you're traveling with someone who has a disability or have accessibility needs yourself, you'll find that these parks are committed to providing inclusive experiences for all visitors. From specialized assistance passes to tailored services, each park offers resources to ensure everyone can enjoy the magic and thrills to the fullest.

In this guide, we'll explore the accessibility accommodations available at Walt Disney World_®, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld^® Orlando, and LEGOLAND^® Florida. You'll discover how to request these services, understand what each pass entails, and learn tips to make your visit as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

Accessibility Services at Walt Disney World_® Resort

Walt Disney World_® Resort is committed to providing an inclusive and enjoyable experience for all guests. Here's an overview of the accessibility services available:

Disability Access Service (DAS)

Walt Disney World® Accessibility Services

At Walt Disney World® Resort, inclusivity is key to making every guest’s experience magical. Here’s a quick look at the accessibility services offered to ensure everyone can enjoy their visit.

Disability Access Service (DAS)

For guests who can’t wait in long lines due to their disability, the Disability Access Service (DAS) offers a solution. Rather than waiting in a regular queue, DAS provides a return time based on the standby wait. You can enjoy other park activities while waiting for your turn to experience the attraction.

What to Expect:

• Pre-Registration: Guests must pre-register for DAS via a live video chat 2 to 30 days before their visit. In-person registration is no longer available.
• Eligibility: DAS is for guests who can’t wait in a conventional line. You’ll discuss your needs with a Cast Member to determine eligibility.
• Return Time: Once registered, request return times for attractions through the My Disney Experience app or at Guest Relations. Return times are comparable to the standby wait.
• Validity: DAS is valid for the length of your ticket or up to 120 days.

Mobility Accommodations

Walt Disney World_® Resort also offers a range of services for guests with mobility needs:

• Wheelchair and ECV Rentals: Wheelchairs and Electric Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs) are available for rent at all theme parks and Disney Springs.
• Attraction Accessibility: Most attractions are wheelchair- and ECV-accessible. For others, Cast Members will provide alternative access methods, often including a return time.
• Transportation: All Disney transportation options, including buses, monorails, and the Disney Skyliner, accommodate guests with mobility devices.

Visit the Walt Disney World_® website for complete, updated accessibility policies and procedures. 

Accessibility Services at Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort offers the Attraction Assistance Pass (AAP) for guests with disabilities who need extra accommodations for enjoying attractions. To get started, you'll need to register for the Individual Accessibility Card (IAC) at least 48 hours before your visit by visiting AccessibilityCard.org. This card is valid for one year and allows you to access the AAP when visiting the parks.

Here’s how it works:

1. Register Online: Apply for the IAC on AccessibilityCard.org.
2. Submit Documentation: Provide any necessary documentation from a healthcare professional to confirm your need for accommodations.
3. Get Approved: Once approved, you’ll be contacted by Universal Orlando Resort to finalize your accommodations.

On the day of your visit, head to Guest Services at either Universal Studios Florida® or Islands of Adventure®. Present your IAC, and you'll be issued an AAP for the duration of your visit.

For each attraction, you'll receive a return time based on the current standby wait time (for wait times of 30 minutes or more). You’ll also be directed to an alternate entrance when necessary.

Key Things to Know:

• The AAP covers the guest and up to five companions.
• One return time per attraction at a time.
• For some attractions, you may be directed to alternate entrances.

Find the latest information on Universal's accessibility policies on their website. 

SeaWorld® Orlando Accessibility Services

SeaWorld® Orlando is proud to be an inclusive destination, offering the Ride Accessibility Program (RAP) to help guests with disabilities enjoy the park with ease. Guests can register for the Individual Accessibility Card (IAC) at AccessibilityCard.org before visiting. Once at the park, simply stop by Guest Services to receive your RAP, which provides return times for attractions with longer wait times or alternate access for shorter queues.

As a Certified Autism Center™, SeaWorld Orlando also offers thoughtful amenities like quiet rooms, noise-reducing headphones, and companion restrooms to make your day as smooth as possible.

At nearby Discovery Cove, accessibility meets paradise. Guests can explore the tropical oasis using specially designed wheelchairs that navigate sand and wet areas with ease. Discovery Cove is also a Certified Autism Center™, with trained staff ready to support guests with sensory needs and designated quiet spaces for a peaceful retreat.

Learn more about SeaWorld's accessibility policy on their website. 

Accessibility Services at LEGOLAND® Florida

At LEGOLAND® Florida Resort, inclusivity is part of the adventure. Guests with disabilities can request the Hero Access Pass (HAP) at Guest Services, allowing them to skip standby lines and enjoy easier access to rides. The HAP provides immediate boarding with one helper and reservation times for later rides, covering groups of up to six. Please note: the pass is not available at waterpark attractions.

Right next door, Peppa Pig Theme Park is a Certified Autism Center™, ensuring families have a supportive and joyful experience. The park offers sensory guides to help families plan their day, staff trained in autism sensitivity, and its own Hero Access Pass to make the fun accessible to all.

For more details on accessibility services, visit the LEGOLAND Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park websites to plan a smooth and unforgettable day.

Visit LEGOLAND® Florida's website for more on accessibility information.

Accessibility at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex invites everyone to reach for the stars — and they mean everyone. As a Certified Autism Center™, the complex offers thoughtful accommodations to make space exploration accessible and enjoyable for all guests, including those with autism and sensory sensitivities.

What to Expect:
Trained staff are ready to assist with compassion, and a detailed sensory guide helps families plan their visit with confidence. You’ll also find quiet zones for a break from the excitement, noise-reducing headphones available at Guest Services, and clear signage to help navigate sensory-friendly attractions.

Accessibility Highlights:

• Wheelchair and ECV rentals for easy mobility
• Accessible tour buses with lifts
• American Sign Language interpreters (with advance notice)
• Guest Accessibility Pass (GAP) for additional assistance

For details and tips on planning your visit, explore their Accessibility Information page.

Accessibility at Gatorland

Gatorland is home to a wheelchair-accessible zip line, the Gator Gauntlet, an attraction accessible to park patrons with mobility challenges or other disabilities. The ride allows participants to travel 350 feet down a zip line, soaring over the park and its lake of giant alligators.

Interested Gator Gauntlet riders must meet certain strength, coordination, and size requirements to ride the accessible zip line.

From flying over alligator-infested waters to riding on an enchanted broomstick while being chased by a fire breathing dragon to up-close encounters with penguins, Kissimmee-area theme parks and attractions make visiting accessible to everyone.