Navigating theme parks can be overwhelming for many kids and adults, but present real challenges for those who are physically disabled. Do not be deterred! Theme parks for disabled kids and adults have ADA accessible rides and facilities. And, some of them offer special passes for faster, easier access to rides.
Below are a few theme parks for disabled kids and adults. These stand out as being particularly accommodating for those with physical disabilities. Note that the bigger theme parks, such as Disney, Six Flags, LEGOLAND, etc. also accommodate visitors with disabilities.
You might also be interested in tips for riding a roller coaster as a wheel chair user.
Morgan’s Inspiration Island (Water Park)
This water park is accessible to everyone. All attractions are wheelchair accessible. You can bring your own wheelchair or use one provided for free by the park. These waterproof wheelchairs are designed specifically for the water park. Rides and attractions include five themed splash zones and a twisty-turny river boat ride.
Morgan’s Wonderland
San Antonio, TX
This theme park was built to accommodate and delight visitors of all abilities and optimized for inclusion. Its rides were custom designed were adapted for wheelchair accessibility. The 25-acre theme park features more than 25 rides and attractions as well as live entertainment. Best of all… FREE ADMISSION for individuals with special needs.
Video overview of Morgan’s Wonderland (3:02)
Gatorland
Orlando, FL
This is billed as “The Alligator Capital of the World.” For good reason… You can see thousands of alligators and crocodiles as well as reptiles, birds and other creatures. The park features an accessible zip line to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. Visitors will find the rest of the park very accessible as well.
Video overview of Gatorland (1:00)
Sesame Place
Langhorne, PA
This Sesame Street themed park offers a variety of rides, shows and water attractions designed for young children. A number of the 16 dry and 9 wet rides are accessible (see the Sesame-Place-Accessibility-Guide, which can be completed before visiting the park then given to a staff member at the welcome center who will let you know which rides work best for your kids). Most rides are accessible to guests in wheelchairs. The Rambling River tube float has a chair lift to assist with entry into the water.
Video overview of Sesame Place (4:48)
Holiday World and Splashin’ Safar
Santa Claus, Indiana
This is a combination theme and water park that is designed around four holidays – Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving and the Fourth of July. Each themed section includes rides, live entertainment, games and other attractions. An Holiday-World-&-Splashin-Safari-guide-to-ride helps guests choose rides during their visit. A number of rides are approved for guests who can be transferred from their wheelchair on to the ride. Some of the rides have a transfer device to assist in transferring from a wheelchair and onto the ride. Other rides can accommodate guests in wheelchairs.
Video overview of Holiday World Splashin’ Safari (1:36)
Share Your Favorite Theme Parks for Disabled Kids and Adults
There are many more theme parks for disabled kids and adults. Please share your favorites and we will add them to this post. Just submit your suggestions in the comments box below.
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