When a knee injury rendered me temporarily unable to walk around Disneyland all day long, it was a good reason to research the issues and options available to any Disneyland visitor who has a mobility challenge. Much of the information on this topic is available within discussion boards of Disneyland fan sites. However, not all of it is accurate, and some may be outdated.

Parking and Service Animals

Parking for guests with disabilities is available throughout the Disneyland Resort, including the Mickey and Friends parking structure and the Toy Story parking area off Harbor Boulevard. A valid disability parking permit is required.

If needed, you can obtain a temporary permit valid for up to six months or longer. For details, visit the DMV website.

A van equipped with a wheelchair lift is available to transport guests between the Mickey & Friends Parking Structure and the Downtown Disney District. Ensure wheelchairs and ECVs fit without being forced onto lifts, ramps, and in designated spaces.

Service Animals

Trained service animals are welcome, but they must be on a leash or harness at all times. Many attractions are accessible to visitors with service animals using the regular lines. Cast Members are unable to handle service animals, so if you need assistance, a companion must accompany you. Park maps indicate where service animals may relieve themselves, and cast members can assist with clean-up after use.

Mobility Challenges in Disneyland and Disney California Adventure

Rides and Attraction Issues

Start by reviewing the list of attractions that require guests to walk, those where you can remain in your chair, and those that require a transfer to the ride vehicle at the Disneyland website.

Consider waiting in line, particularly on busy days when waits for popular rides can exceed two hours.

While some attraction queues can accommodate ECVs, others do not have seating in the queue. If standing presents a challenge, inquire about a Guest Assistance Card to access alternate entrances. Check the details below for obtaining one.

If you can stand but cannot walk far, consider parking your ECV or wheelchair in the stroller parking area and retrieving it upon exit.

Disability Access Services

If you experience mobility issues, stop at City Hall (Disneyland) or Chamber of Commerce (California Adventure) just inside the gates. No doctor’s note is necessary; however, be prepared to share your needs with the assigned cast member.

The cast member can issue a Disability Access Services card or recommend renting a scooter or wheelchair. Display this card to cast members for special assistance. Although specific assistance details can vary, it may include alternate entrance access. Guests traveling with you may also enter but will depend on the issuing cast member’s discretion.

To utilize the card, approach any cast member near the ride entrance and inquire about entering the attraction. For Fastpass attractions, start at the Fastpass return line.

For further assistance regarding mobility challenges, you can visit this page at the Disneyland website and this page about Disability Access Services.

Disneyland Wheelchair or Scooter Rental

If you require assistance getting around Disneyland, you may bring your wheelchair or scooter. If your needs are temporary or if you failed to bring your own conveyance, rentals are available either at Disneyland or through local companies.

While using a scooter may seem advantageous, the experience may not be as enjoyable as expected. If you have a companion who can assist, a wheelchair is often a better choice. Wheelchairs are typically less expensive and easier to maneuver, allowing for a more enjoyable visit without the stress of avoiding other guests.

Renting Wheelchairs and Scooters at Disneyland

A limited number of manual and motorized wheelchairs and ECV scooters are available for rent at Disneyland, but reservations are not accepted in advance. To ensure availability, it is advisable to arrive approximately 30 minutes before the park opens, especially on busy days.

Conveniently located just outside the entrance, the rental facility is a solid option for those able to reach the entry gate without hassle and who would prefer not to manage a rental during their entire stay.

Disney’s ECVs are larger than standard models available for rent, and while they are allowed in Downtown Disney, they cannot be taken off Disney property.

For current Disney rates and policies, be aware that prices might be higher upon arrival due to a refundable deposit that will be returned upon returning the equipment with a photo ID. Furthermore, to rent an ECV scooter, a minimum age of 18 years is required.

At a glance, Disney’s rates may appear higher than local rental outlets; however, once insurance and additional expenses are factored in, the overall costs can be similar.

Renting Wheelchairs and ECV Scooters from Disneyland Area Companies

If you require steady access to a wheelchair or ECV, renting from an external company could be the most suitable choice as these allow for broader usage throughout your stay.

When renting from an outside company, consider the following:

• What is the weight limit for the specific model?
• Some smaller transportable scooters feature removable batteries, which simplifies charging during your stay.
• Will the rental company provide delivery and pickup at your hotel?
• Do they offer on-call support during park hours? Will they have access to assist you inside the park if needed?
• If the scooter is lost or stolen, what are your options for insurance coverage?

Many companies near Disneyland have received positive reviews for ECV and wheelchair rentals, including:

• Deckert, which is frequently praised but does not maintain a website (contact via 714-542-5607).
• Scooter Bug, Disney’s preferred vendor, which has a complex return policy. Make sure to clarify your return time.
• Scooter Village, located across from Disneyland (but not directly adjacent). Prices are not displayed online, so it’s best to call them at 714-956-5633.
• One Stop Mobility, which offers pick-up across from Disneyland entrance and provides discounts from standard rates upon mentioning the website pricing.

Mobility Issues and Your Disneyland Hotel

These essential tips can guide your inquiries when selecting the hotel room nearest Disneyland that best suits your needs:

• If the hotel lacks elevators, contact them directly to make a reservation, ensuring they do not mistakenly assign you to an upper floor.
• Inquire whether the hotel shuttle accommodates wheelchair or scooter users.
• If you need to store your scooter or wheelchair, ask the hotel if they can provide that service, potentially even charging it for you.
• Hotels on the Anaheim Resort Trolley route have lifts for easy loading of scooters and wheelchairs. You can reference this list for trolley route hotels.
• If bringing the scooter into your hotel room, consider packing an extension cord for ease of access to power sources.

Mobility and the Disney-Owned Hotels

While Disney hotels provide a limited number of wheelchairs, they do not offer ECV scooters. If you prefer not to store your vehicle in your hotel room, ask the bellman about the possibility of leaving it with them for charging overnight. Remember to show appreciation by tipping the staff who assist you.