Islands of Adventure with Special Needs

Orlando Vacation - Islands of Adventure with Special Needs

Universal Orlando has developed a reputation for thrills and chills. From the menace of Jaws to the heart-stopping terror of Halloween Horror Nights, Universal has become known as the must-see Orlando destination for active and fearless families. But for those families dealing with a special need, some doubts may come into play. What is there for me if I am not able to ride thrill rides? How will we deal with the crowds? I have to eat on an unusual schedule, how can that be accommodated?

Fortunately, all these concerns and more can be easily addressed at Universal Orlando. While best-known for its thrills, Universal offers a surprisingly large array of attractions suitable for all ages and all physical conditions. The Team Members are well-trained and able to provide whatever assistance your family may require. Friendly, helpful service, and ride designs that surpass ADA requirements make Universal an excellent destination for every family.

Guests with diabetes or other dietary concerns will love the flexibility of the Universal Meal Deal. For approximately per person for one park or per person for both (half price for kids), you can eat all day long at selected counter service restaurants. You will receive a wristband which allows you to order an entrée, side dish, and dessert (one of each at a time), as many times as you like. Add on a Universal sipper cup for plus tax, which provides you with unlimited beverages throughout the day.

I have had the opportunity to experience Universal with a special needs family member on many occasions. I am the primary caregiver for my now-disabled father. We have been regular patrons and sometimes-employees since the park was built, and continue to visit quite regularly.

Parking for both parks is in a huge central parking garage. Moving sidewalks allow easy access to the rotunda where the first Wheelchair Rental is located. Only manual wheelchairs are available here, but may be upgraded (at additional charge) to an ECV at Rentals once you enter the park. It is a long walk from the garage through Citywalk to get the park gate, so renting the manual wheelchair here is highly recommended.

Islands of Adventure is considered to be the most technologically advanced theme park in the world. Opened in 1999, the park exceeds modern ADA requirements. Walkways and public areas are wide and easy to navigate. The theming is spectacular, and the park is best explored at a leisurely pace.

Begin your day by proceeding to Rentals to take care of upgrading your wheelchair. Then stop by Guest Services. Universal offers a wide array of adaptive devices and accommodations for every disability. Simply describe your disability and necessary accommodations to the Guest Services team member, and he or she will be happy to provide whatever assistance you require.

Islands of Adventure is primarily an outdoor park, so be sure to take the weather into consideration. The park is divided into six distinct islands connected by foot bridges. Watch for the transitions between islands, the seamlessness is truly amazing. The islands are as follows: Port of Entry, Marvel Super Hero Island, Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, The Lost Continent, and Seuss Landing.

Port of Entry

This is where you begin your adventure. Designed as a transition from the real world to the spectacles that follow, Port of Entry offers a number of shopping and dining options.

Marvel Super Hero Island

Where your favorite Marvel Super Heroes and Villains come to life. The rides in this area are big on thrills, and all carry health restrictions. The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man was the most technologically advanced theme park ride in the world at its opening, and is still considered by many to be the gold standard. Blending simulator and track layout effects with 3-D film, this attraction is a must-see if you meet the health requirements.

Even if you choose to not participate in the rides, Marvel Super Hero Island is a must-see for all comic book lovers. The buildings are spectacular, and there is plenty of shopping and dining to keep you entertained while the thrill seekers experience the rides.

Toon Lagoon

This very wet area takes you inside the classic Sunday comics. Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls and Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges are soaking water rides that are great fun for the whole family. Health restrictions do apply.

The other attractions in this area are fully accessible, and the décor is not to be missed.

Jurassic Park

From the familiar entry gates bearing the logo, to the signature boat ride attraction, this land is straight out of the book and movie. The Jurassic Park River Adventure has health restrictions, and will get you soaked, but is relatively mild in its movements. The big drop at the end may cause concerns for some guests.

For the Pteranodon Flyers, you must be accompanied by a child between 36 and 56 inches tall, and must be able to transfer to the ride vehicle. This 65 foot high ride through Jurassic Park is well worth the extremely long wait.

The other attractions in this area are fully accessible. Plan to spend some time exploring.

The Lost Continent

Straight from the realm of high fantasy, this Renaissance Faire styled land is full of mythical creatures and surprises.

Dueling Dragons consists of two separate inverted roller coasters, Fire and Ice, which intertwine and as the name implies “duel” in mid-air. Health restrictions do apply, and riders must be able to transfer into the ride seating.

*Tip* Ride the front of Ice, which is a smoother coaster that gives you the feeling of flight. Then ride the back of Fire, a rougher coaster that pulls more G-forces.

The Flying Unicorn is a surprisingly intense kiddie coaster. Health restrictions apply, and the rider must be able to transfer to the ride seating. If you are able to ride, I highly recommend this one.

The other attractions in this area are fully accessible and should pose no particular problems for guests with special needs.

Although not included on the Universal Meal Deal, Mythos restaurant is located in the Lost Continent. It has been named the Number One Theme Park Restaurant in the World for many years, and the combination of theming and décor with a world-class menu definitely earns it the title. Be sure to look around even if you decide not to dine. Mythos is open limited hours.

Seuss Landing

This area takes you inside the writings of the famous Dr. Seuss. All attractions are accessible (some through transfer), and you can even remain in a standard wheelchair on the Caro-Seuss-el.

Seuss Landing is highly recommended for the young and young at heart.

Although often commonly referred to as a thrill park, Islands of Adventure provides a variety of rides and shows that are appropriate for the entire family. Friendly, helpful employees, amazing attention to detail, and a plethora of shopping and dining options make Islands of Adventure a must-do for every guest, regardless of disability.