Hi there, Rachel! Welcome to planDisney!
The Happiest Place on Earth is the perfect spot for celebrations of all kinds and will surely make your graduation feel extra magical. It is also a place that prioritizes accessibility and where everyone is welcome. The Disneyland Resort has many services available to Guests who made need some extra support to be able to fully enjoy their visit, including those with cognitive disabilities. The first that comes to mind is the
Disability Access Service (DAS), which is a wonderful program that provides Guests with return time windows instead of having to stand in traditional queues for many of the attractions throughout the resort.
While you can register in person at Guest Relations once you arrive in the parks, I highly recommend pre-registering with DAS Advance.
Pre-registration is done via a live chat with a Cast Member between 2 and 30 days before your arrival. Live chat is available from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. PST, and the Guest requesting DAS will need to be present. During your chat, you can pre-select two one-hour return windows from a selection of attractions to already have in your pocket for your park day! This means that you will avoid standing in the queue and be able to head straight to those attractions during those return time windows. You will be able to manage your selections directly within the Disneyland Mobile App once you are in the parks, and also be able to select a third return window upon your arrival. Once a return time is redeemed, you can make an additional selection as you move through your day. The Guest requesting DAS will need to be present to redeem any of the return time windows. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to the Disability Services Team directly at (407) 560-2547 or disability.services@disneyland.com.
Additionally, the Disneyland Resort website has a full list of resources and suggestions to help
prepare Guests for their visit, including a
complete planning guide for Guests with cognitive disabilities with tips on how to prepare, what to bring, what to expect, and what services will be available to you on the ground. Another helpful resource may be the
guide of attraction details. This guide lays out exactly what to expect on each ride from scents to lighting effects to elements of surprise to speed and more. I have a lot of faith and trust, and I'm sending you a sprinkling of pixie dust that by reading through these materials, you will be ready to experience all the magic of the Disneyland Resort!
Rachel, I hope this was helpful in your planning! Since you're celebrating your graduation, be sure to stop by City Hall on your way into Disneyland Park and request a complimentary "I'm Celebrating...". You'll be greeted with many wishes of congratulations and encouragement throughout your day! If you have any more questions, we are always here for you at
planDisney!
Magic awaits!
Tara