Hiya McCayla!
I’m so happy to hear about your mother/daughter Disney adventure! The magic of Walt Disney World brings out the kid in all of us, no matter our age. Taking your mother to Walt Disney World for her first time will be such a great experience, and using an electric scooter (ECV) will make it easier for her to navigate the parks comfortably.
As a family that travels with a guest in a wheelchair (my husband), we are very familiar with
getting around the parks with a mobility device. Here are some helpful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit for both of you:
• Pick up a park map and an accessibility guide at Guest Relations or near the park entrance. These guides provide information on accessible routes, attraction entrances, and services available for guests with mobility needs.
• Disney parks are well-designed for accessibility, with ramps and wide pathways. Follow the designated ECV paths and accessible entrances, which are clearly marked throughout the parks.
• Many attractions have separate entrances for guests using ECVs or wheelchairs. Look for the accessible entrance sign, or ask a Cast Member for directions. Some attractions allow ECVs to go right up to the boarding area, while others may require a
transfer to a wheelchair provided at the attraction entrance. If members of your group want to ride attractions that your mother may not be comfortable with, use Rider Switch so that one person can wait with her while the others ride, and then switch without waiting in line again.
• If your mother can transfer from her ECV to the ride vehicle, Cast Members are available to assist. Some attractions have ride vehicles that
allow guests to remain in their wheelchairs/ECVs, so she may not need to transfer at all. Cast Members are trained to assist guests with mobility needs. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or clarification about how to board an attraction.
When navigating between the theme parks using Disney Transportation, you’ll find it to be very ECV-friendly!
Disney buses are equipped with lifts and can accommodate ECVs. Simply wait in the designated area at the bus stop, and the driver will assist in loading and securing the ECV. The
Walt Disney World Monorail is also fully accessible, with ramps for ECVs and wheelchairs to board. Some watercraft, like the large ferries from the Transportation and Ticket Center to Magic Kingdom, are accessible. Smaller boats may require a transfer to a wheelchair, so check with a Cast Member for the best option. Want to fly through the sky on the
Disney Skyliner? Yep, also ECV-friendly!
Things to remember: There are designated viewing areas for guests with disabilities for parades and nighttime shows which typically have a great view and are less crowded. Arrive early to secure a spot. Also, most character meet-and-greet locations are accessible, so your mother can enjoy meeting her favorite
Disney characters up close!
The most important tip is to take things at a comfortable pace. Enjoy the details, soak in the atmosphere, and create magical memories together!
Diane W.