Take a Closer Look at How to Navigate Universal Studios with Disabilities

Traveling with disabilities of any kind can be a challenge. But, with a little planning, it can be done and make for a fun, anxiety-free vacation. Learn my tips and tricks for how to navigate Universal Studios with disabilities.

UNIVERSAL STUDIOS WITH AMBULATORY DISABILITIES

Getting around with ambulatory disabilities can be challenging. But Universal Studios incorporates the line queue into most of their attractions storylines, so all line queues, except for Pteranodon Flyers at Islands of Adventure, can accommodate manual wheelchairs. For the full list of requirements and accommodations for Universal’s attractions, visit the Universal Orlando Resort Guide for Rider Safety and Accessibility. It is important to note that no attractions can fit ECVs or motorized wheelchairs EXCEPT the Hogwarts Express.

All shopping and dining locations are wheelchair accessible, and parades and shows all have designated viewing areas. Guest room accessible features include 36″ doors, accessible peepholes, closets with rods at 48″, toilets with grab bars, accessible showers, including roll in showers, adjustable or combination shower head, and/or tub with with seat and hand bar. They have certainly done a lot to help those with ambulatory disabilities navigate Universal Studios.

UNIVERSAL WITH HEARING DISABILITIES

Universal Studios offers American Sign Language Interpreters by request at least 14 days in advance by emailing  SignLanguageServices@universalorlando.com. There is also Open Captioning on many attractions.

UNIVERSAL WITH VISUAL DISABILITIES

For guests with visual disabilities, large print and braille scripts are available upon request.

Universal Studios with Cognitive Disabilities

To help guests with cognitive disabilities better navigate the parks, Universal Studios Florida offers a Quiet Room. It can be found at the front of the park next to the Studio Audience Center. This room provides a safe, quiet, low-stimulation space that allows guests to take a break. The sensory-friendly room comes equipped with rubber floor tiles, activity wall panel, dimming lights, and two different hiding tunnels. You’re not required to reserve the room, but you must wait until it is vacant to use it. For this reason, guests are encouraged to adhere to the 30 minute time limit.

Attraction Assistance Pass

For those guests of Universal Studios who struggle with waiting in line, be sure to visit Guest Services when you arrive, and explain accommodation needs if required. If Guest Services determines you are eligible, you will be issued an Attraction Assistance Pass (AAP). Generally, this service is reserved for guests with cognitive disabilities who do not have the abilitiy to wait in a traditional line. This card contains a barcode for scanning at rides. It folds to fit into the pocket of a lanyard, but be sure to secure your lanyard on wild rides, like the Velocicoaster! Just like at Disney, the return time is not necessarily IMMEDIATE. So if you are looking for immediate access, I recommend staying at a Premier Resort, which includes the Express Pass Unlimited, or just purchase the Express Pass Unlimited.

Universal’s goal is to ensure that everyone is able to make well-informed decisions about their ability to safely, comfortably, and conveniently experience each of their attractions, regardless of disability. If you have any questions, please stop by Guest Services inside the main entrance for assistance. Guest Services Coordinators are also available by email and phone seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. until park closing, and make every effort to respond to messages within 24 to 48 hours. If you require an immediate response, please call 407-224-4233, option 4.

Ready to book your Universal Studios vacation? Contact me today!!