Disney’s California Adventure has a completely different feel than the traditional Disneyland. Those who want a different experience with more of a Coney Island fell with boardwalks and traditional roller coasters will enjoy this option. The park rides also feature many characters from hit films where Disney has teamed up with Pixar, such as Toy Story.
California Adventure Service Guide for People with Disabilities
Some families with special needs children may wonder if this is a place their children will enjoy and what accommodations can be made to make their child's day go much smoother. California Adventure has a good guest services department that can help answer questions and provide the information necessary to have a fun day. Many establishments, including California Adventure, have disability guides, but most of the information covers visual, hearing or mobility issues. However, for children with autism and or developmental disabilities there is no specific key or answer since their issues may range from mild to severe and they may have skin, light and sound sensitivities. This is where speaking to a guest services agent will be helpful to get the specific help and accommodations required.
California Adventure Guest Assistance Card
Upon entering the park, there is a guest services lobby on the left side. This is where parents can speak to a cast member and explain the needs of their child. This is also the place to request a copy of the park’s Service Guide for People With Disabilities as well as a “Guest Assistance Card.” The cards come with a variety of different options to allow each guest to work with the cast member and find the right combination of accommodations. Although not required, it is sometimes helpful if parents bring some sort of verification of the child’s disability. It is also important that parents be prepared to explain the needs of their child, as they may not be apparent to the cast member. After the card is issued, it can be used to accommodate the child and up to five other people in the party so that the group can stay together. The guest card can also be used at Disneyland.
Alternative Entrances to California Adventure Rides
One of the options the card can be used for is to use fast pass or alternative entrances. This can often be helpful for children with developmental disabilities or autism who experience sensory overload when required to wait for long periods of time in large crowds, in tight spaces while experiencing heat. Although the Guest Assistance Card is meant to make the visit more enjoyable, it is not intended to be used as a “No waiting” or “Front of the line” pass, nor should it be used repeatedly on rides. However, cast members do their best in helping families determine how long the wait will be.
The card can be very helpful and can help with accommodations in many ways from using alternate entrances to rides like Toy Story Midway Mania and Grizzly River Run and special reserved seating at popular shows like the new “World of Color.”
Disney’s California Adventure is a great place for families to enjoy an adventure together. Thanks to the park’s efforts to provide accommodations, it can make for a great day for families traveling with a child with disabilities.
Read about Disneyland with a Special Needs Child
Kathleen Curry - As a self-professed travel guru Kathleen Curry has spent many of her days and future retirement savings on travel. She has worked in the ...
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