1. Summary
This article serves as a comprehensive guide for guests with limited mobility visiting Disneyland. It outlines essential information regarding parking, service animals, rides, disability access services, renting mobility equipment, and suitable hotel accommodations.
Parking
Parking is available for guests with disabilities throughout the Disneyland Resort, including the Mickey and Friends parking structure and the Toy Story parking area off of Harbor Boulevard. A valid disability parking permit is required. Temporary permits, valid for up to six months, can be obtained through the DMV website.
A van equipped with a wheelchair lift transports guests between the Mickey & Friends Parking Structure and the Downtown Disney District. Wheelchairs and electronic convenience vehicles (ECVs) must fit without force on lifts, ramps, and designated wheelchair spaces.
Service Animals
Trained service animals are permitted but must be on a leash or harness at all times. Many attractions welcome visitors and their service animals through the normal lines. As cast members cannot handle service animals, having a companion to assist while enjoying rides is advisable.
The park maps indicate designated areas for service animals to relieve themselves. After use, any cast member can arrange clean-up services.
Rides and Attractions
Refer to the official Disneyland website for a detailed list of attractions based on mobility requirements. Understanding the level of accessibility for the rides you wish to experience is crucial.
Consider the time you may spend waiting in line. On busy days, some of the most popular rides may have wait times exceeding two hours.
While some attraction queues can accommodate your scooter, others might not have seating available. Using a Guest Assistance Card can grant access through alternative entrances, facilitating easier access to rides.
If you can stand but have difficulty walking long distances, it’s pragmatic to park your ECV or wheelchair in the stroller parking area outside a ride and retrieve it afterward.
Disability Access Services
Upon entering the park, initiate your visit by stopping at City Hall (Disneyland) or the Chamber of Commerce (California Adventure). No doctor’s note or proof of disability is required, but you may need to discuss your needs with a cast member.
Cast members may suggest renting a scooter or wheelchair or issue a Disability Access Services card that allows special assistance at attractions. This card may enable your group to accompany you through alternative entrances.
For further guidance regarding accessibility, consider visiting the official Disneyland website.
Renting Wheelchairs or ECVs at Disneyland
Guests can bring their own wheelchair or ECV, or opt to rent one at Disneyland or local area companies. A limited number of manual and motorized wheelchairs and ECVs are available on a first-come, first-served basis; reservations are not possible. Arriving 30 minutes early is advisable on busy days.
The rental location is conveniently situated just outside the entrance, and renting is beneficial if you prefer not to transport your equipment daily. Disney’s ECVs are larger and can only be used within the parks and plaza areas.
Visit the official Disneyland website for current rates and policies regarding rentals. A refundable deposit and photo ID are required for rental, and renters must be at least 18 years old.
Renting Wheelchairs and ECVs from Disneyland Area Companies
For continuous mobility assistance, renting from an outside company may be the best option.
Important factors to consider when renting include:
- Weight limit of the desired model.
- Transportable scooters with removable batteries for in-room charging.
- Delivery and pickup services.
- Availability of on-call support during park hours.
- Insurance options against theft or damage.
Consider reaching out to these companies for ECV and wheelchair rentals:
- Deckert does not have a website, but the contact number is 714-542-5607.
- One Stop Mobility offers pickup at the Camelot Inn across from Disneyland, with discounts available.
Staying at Hotels
When selecting a hotel near Disneyland, keep these considerations in mind:
- Inquire about elevator availability if the hotel has multiple floors.
- Check if the hotel shuttle accommodates wheelchairs or scooters.
- Ask whether the hotel can store your mobility equipment and charge it if needed.
- For hotels along the Anaheim Resort Trolley route, confirm lift accessibility for your scooter.
- Bringing an extension cord for flexibility in charging your scooter is advisable.
Disney operates three hotels at the Disneyland Resort, which have limited wheelchair availability and no ECVs. It’s advisable to ask if you can temporarily leave your equipment with the bellman.
In summary, planning ahead and knowing your resources can greatly enhance your Disneyland experience, especially for guests with mobility challenges.
