Welcome Home, James, and thanks so much for visiting planDisney. It is a treat to meet another
Disney Vacation Club Member, and I'm looking forward to helping you with some tips for your upcoming trip to The Most Magical Place on Earth!
As a nurse, my ever-present Disney lanyard has sparked many conversations with patients and families about navigating
Walt Disney World Resort with disabilities. Perhaps the most magical thing about Walt Disney World for me is its inclusivity and commitment to ensuring that anyone who visits can have a wonderful experience!
James, Walt Disney World does not currently offer partial-day tickets, but I do have some suggestions up my sleeve that may help give your wife (and you!) a practically perfect day.
First and foremost, I recommend looking into whether your wife qualifies for
Disability Access Service, or DAS. DAS is available for Guests who cannot tolerate waiting in a long line for an attraction due to a disability. This includes non-apparent disabilities, including some diagnosed mental health conditions. With DAS, you can schedule a return time for an attraction (it does not give you immediate access to said attraction).
To apply for DAS, you can schedule a live video chat with a Cast Member between 2 and 30 days before your park visit (the Guest with the disability must be present for the video chat), or visit Guest Relations upon arrival at the first park you plan to visit. If approved, DAS is valid for 60 days and applies anywhere in Walt Disney World, not just one specific park.
If you plan to visit the theme parks on multiple days over the year, the
Sorcerer Pass is a Disney Vacation Club-exclusive iteration of the Annual Pass, currently offered at a significant discount to Members. It's a great option to allow you to make shorter visits on many days. If you haven't been a Passholder previously, crunch the numbers to see if the Sorcerer Pass might fit you as perfectly as Cinderella's glass slipper!
As you finalize plans for your February vacation, I recommend taking note of the
Early Theme Park Entry hours offered. If you're staying on-property, you will be able to enter the parks 30 minutes earlier than Guests staying off-site. I often find that if I head in the opposite direction of the most popular attractions on those early arrival days, I can visit a favorite attraction or two and still have time to find a peaceful spot to enjoy a morning coffee and some people-watching before the crowds build up.
The
First Aid centers located in the theme parks and water parks are also a great resource if your wife needs a break or some additional medical assistance. The nurses there are amazing and can help get you back to enjoying your Disney day in a flash.
James, I hope some of these suggestions can help you and your wife have a lovely vacation together. It's been a pleasure to answer your question--please
reach out directly if I can offer any more assistance!
Adventure Awaits!
Susan