Hi, Roxanne!
Welcome to
planDisney, and thanks so much for stopping by with your question. I’m happy to hear you’ll be visiting the
Disneyland Resort with your family, and it’s a great idea to map out strategies in advance that can help your step-daughter have the best time possible while exploring the theme parks!
If she becomes overwhelmed by crowds, noise, or heat, or if she just needs some downtime during your day, several spots are available for her to regroup away from the hustle and bustle of the parks. The First Aid locations in both theme parks are good for this, as is the
World of Color – ONE viewing area in
Disney California Adventure Park (when there are no shows being performed). The back of the gazebo under Silly Symphony Swings is a shady place off the beaten path to sit on a bench and enjoy a serene view of the water. If you’re in search of an indoor spot, head over to the Disney Animation Building. The main lobby features mesmerizing images, video clips and music from favorite Disney films in a darkened setting.
At
Disneyland Park, a short raft ride across the Rivers of America will take you to Tom Sawyer Island, where you can explore quiet walking trails or relax on a shaded bench under the trees to enjoy a peaceful view of the riverbanks. A great indoor spot with a few chairs and air conditioning is inside the Sleeping Beauty Castle alternate experience in Fantasyland. To find the break area nearest you at any given time, simply ask a Cast Member for assistance and they will be happy to help.
I’m not sure if you’ve heard of the
Disneyland Resort’s Disability Access Service (DAS) program, Roxanne, but it is one of the available services for
Guests with disabilities. DAS is designed for Guests who aren’t able to wait for attractions in a traditional standby queue due to a disability, injury, or medical condition. It allows them and their party (up to 6 people total, including the person needing DAS) to receive a return time for attractions based on the current wait time. If this sounds like a service that would make your step-daughter’s visit more comfortable, you are welcome to inquire about registering in one of two ways. The first option is to participate in a pre-arrival virtual meeting via live video chat. You can also stop by in person at City Hall in Disneyland Park, the Chamber of Commerce in Disney California Adventure Park, or a Guest Information location once you arrive at the resort. Either way, please be prepared to speak with a Guest Relations Cast Member in detail about her specific needs to see if she qualifies for the program.
I hope this information helps, Roxanne, and that you have a magical experience at the Happiest Place on Earth! Please send us any other planning questions you may have.
Wishing you magic,
Courtney