Hi there Rob and welcome to planDisney! It sounds like you’re gearing up for a magical visit to
Walt Disney World and I’m so glad you reached out. Navigating the parks with a knee brace definitely takes a little extra planning but with the right information, you can still have an amazing experience. I’d love to help you feel confident about which attractions will be the most comfortable so you can focus on the fun.
If you're wearing a knee brace that limits your knee to only 90 degrees of flexion, some rides at Walt Disney World may be difficult or inaccessible due to the need for deep knee bending, limited legroom, or awkward seating positions.
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Magic Kingdom, Space Mountain may be a challenge because of its low and narrow seating. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train also has tight restraints and limited space for stretching your legs. TRON Lightcycle / Run is particularly problematic, as it requires a motorcycle style straddle position that is nearly impossible with a stiff knee. While a standard upright seat is available on some cycles, these are limited and may involve additional wait times.
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EPCOT, Mission: SPACE (both Orange and Green sides) features narrow, enclosed seats that could be hard to get in and out of. Test Track (re-opening late summer 2025) has low, bucket style seating with minimal legroom, which could make entry and exit uncomfortable or difficult.
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Hollywood Studios, Slinky Dog Dash features tight lap bars and limited space, which may not accommodate your brace comfortably. Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run could be challenging to access due to the narrow interior of the cockpit, although the actual seating is similar to a bench. Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance generally offers more space, but boarding the ride vehicle can be tricky if your leg cannot bend beyond 90 degrees. Cast Members can assist if needed.
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Animal Kingdom, Flight of Passage is usually inaccessible for guests with a stiff leg since the ride requires straddling a bike style seat with your legs tightly positioned. Expedition Everest has limited legroom and tight lap restraints, which could pose an issue. DINOSAUR features jerky movement and can be a challenge to board due to its step-up design and tight seating area.
Most theater style shows, boat rides, and slow moving attractions across all four parks are typically fine. These include Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, "it's a small world," Living with the Land, Soarin’ (which has more legroom), Toy Story Mania, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and Na'vi River Journey. These attractions either have bench style seating or vehicles you can step into more easily.
Let Cast Members know about your mobility limitations when boarding rides. Many attractions have alternate entrances or loading platforms for guests with limited mobility. If standing for long periods or walking is also an issue, consider renting a wheelchair or ECV.
Rob, I hope this helps you feel more prepared and excited for your upcoming visit. With a little planning and some support from the amazing Cast Members, there’s still so much magic waiting for you around every corner. If you have any more questions as your trip gets closer, we’re always here to help. Wishing you a comfortable and unforgettable adventure at Walt Disney World!
Kay