Greetings, Kris! Welcome to
planDisney. I love that you’re taking your mom to celebrate her 80th birthday at the
Disneyland Resort. If I’m being honest, I plan to celebrate my 80th birthday there, too. That’s over 35 years from now, but a guy can have goals, right? I’m so impressed! She plans on rocking the parks at 80 with no ECV?! Wow!
It’s great that your mother can get around on her own. It will make the day easier in some ways, but just be sure to speak up as you approach the front of the lines. One thing I absolutely love about the Disneyland Resort is the friendly cast members. They are the best! As you approach the front of the attraction queue, simply say that your mom will need a little extra time to get on, and they’ll know exactly what to do. Cast members are trained for each attraction and will know how to accommodate a guest who moves at a slower pace. Have you ever noticed that the doom buggies on
Haunted Mansion slow down or stop from time to time? It probably wasn’t actually playful spooks that interrupted the tour; it was probably just a guest who needed another moment to get on their doooooom buggy.
Some rides have special loading areas for guests who need more time.
Space Mountain, for instance, has a car off the main track that guests can get into at their own pace before being loaded onto the main track. I’ve been placed on that car before, and it’s actually pretty neat, because the entire track slides sideways to load onto the main track - it’s like getting an extra ride!
These are just two examples of the thoughtful ways that Disney has committed to
accommodating guests of all abilities. I’m confident that as long as you let cast members know as early as possible and are willing to be a bit patient as they make the appropriate adjustments, you’ll have a great trip. I would consider purchasing a
Lightning Lane Multi Pass to shorten your wait times in line and allow her to get to more attractions at her own pace. I definitely recommend planning your breaks and
snacks to build in some rest time. Your trip is only a little over a week away, and the weather forecast here in Orange County is pretty hot and doesn’t look to be letting up. You might even consider alternating indoor and outdoor attractions to take a break from the heat.
Be sure to get a complimentary “I’m Celebrating” button at City Hall as you enter the park. Cast members will wish your mother a happy birthday all day long! You’re doing a wonderful thing for her, and I hope you make many magical memories together. Take lots of pictures and enjoy every moment. If you have any other questions,
let me know, and I’ll be happy to help. Or, just come on back to planDisney and one of my pals will help you out.
Have a magical day,
Corey