Hi Susan!
I used to be a Florida resident myself and sorely miss the day trips that I would take to the Most Magical Place on Earth.
Susan, I have a few family members with mobility disabilities and I am happy to share with you some of the insight that I have gathered over our previous trips.
First, Walt Disney World Resort does have a reserved disability parking lot for each of the four theme parks. Access to these parking spots is reserved solely for those who have a valid handicapped parking permit.
If you do not have a parking permit, but your husband has difficulties with walking long distances, I recommend that you pay for
preferred parking. This lot is located adjacent to the disability lot and is a much shorter walk to the theme park entrance.
Each of the parking lots also comes equipped with a fleet of courtesy wheelchairs for use to get into the theme park. If you do not see one at the end of your row, simply flag down a parking attendant and they will bring one to you.
Now Susan, while my family members do have mobility issues, they do not have their own wheelchair, scooter, or ECV. When we arrive at the theme parks, we snag one of those complimentary wheelchairs and bring it to the front of the theme park, where we are able to rent a
wheelchair or
ECV for the day. Currently, the price for a daily rental is $12 for a wheelchair and $50 for an ECV, but prices are subject to change. For our family, we almost always feel that the ECV is worth the extra cost.
Susan, one thing that I love about visiting Walt Disney World Resort is how inclusive it is for everyone. Almost all ride queues are wheelchair or ECV friendly, and
on many rides, you may even stay in your wheelchair to ride! Additionally, any shows that you may wish to see have dedicated accessibility seating options. You will also find accessible seating and ramps at the vast majority of shops and restaurants.
If waiting in lines in the scooter or wheelchair is still going to be a problem for your husband, you may be eligible for something called a
Disability Access Service (DAS) card. When you wish to ride an attraction, simply present your card to the Cast Member at the front of the ride and they will issue you a return time (that is the same as the estimated standby line) and you will be fast-tracked to the front of the line. You can get a DAS card at Guest Services inside the theme park.
I hope that this gave you a bit of guidance, Susan. Please come back here to planDisney if we can help as you plan your day in the magic!
See you real soon!
Sarah B.