Welcome to planDisney, Meagan!
I am so happy that you stopped by today. First, I want to tell you to take a moment and breathe, then get ready to experience your dream vacation. We will be with you every step of the way.
I can tell you from my own first-hand experience that Walt Disney World Resort is wonderful when it comes to accommodating guests who have
mobility issues. If walking for extended distances would be a strain for your father, I suggest that you go ahead and
rent a scooter or ECV. If you are just visiting for the day, you can rent one inside each theme park, but these ECVs must be returned each day and may not leave the park.
If you are going to be staying at an off-site location, I recommend that you rent an ECV through a third-party vendor. If you will be using Walt Disney World Resort transportation to get around, you can be assured that your scooter will be able to be accommodated.
Another great thing is that the vast majority of queues are also ECV friendly, so while your father may feel up for standing in some lines, he always has the option to bring his scooter if he chooses.
Now, Meagan moving on to traveling with your one-year-old! This is such a wonderful time to visit. Your little one will have their eyes light up when they see Mickey and Minnie in person!
Each of the four theme parks has a
Baby Care Center that I can not recommend enough. Take advantage of them!
I am relatively sure that I have changed a diaper in almost every bathroom in Walt Disney World Resort, and I can honestly say that I will go out of my way to visit the Baby Care Center for their changing tables. You will also find a little shop filled with anything you may need in a pinch like extra wipes, pacifiers, or diaper rash cream.
Know that you can bring your own food and drink to the parks. With little ones I find that it is so much easier to always have a snack on hand that I pull from the cooler that I keep under our stroller. Just remember that
loose ice is not permitted, so opt for an ice pack instead.
Since you are traveling as a group, be sure to take advantage of the
Rider Switch Service. Rider Switch will allow one party to wait in line for a ride that your little one may not go on while the rest of your party stays back with the little Mouseketeer. When the first party finishes riding the second party can head on through the Lightning Lane, free of charge. Be sure you visit the cast member outside of the attraction to set this up before your party enters the queue.
Speaking of attractions, your little one will be able to ride anything without a height requirement. At one, both of my kids loved The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh and Dumbo.
I just know you will have a magical time, Meagan. Remember, when traveling with a party with such different needs, the most important thing is to go with the flow and spend time in a magical place with those you love.
See you real soon!
Sarah B.