Disabilities and DLR/DCA

[kandeebunny]

We're WDW locals and vets, we know how everything works here. Can someone tell me about accommodations at DLR/DCA? Kidlet (4) is in a wheelchair, has issues with sun due to new skin from a drug reaction, SPD. She can walk (with AFO assistance) and can transfer. Our biggest concerns are things like WOC, PTN, DLF, Fant!, Soundsational and Pixar Play Parade (and then the Nemo Subs.) When I called the disabilities number they e-mailed me it was for WDW (gee that was so not helpful lol!) then when I finally got a human at DLR was told only the person in the wheelchair could be in the viewing area...like...she's 4 so no? I'd love any and all tips. We go in less than 2 weeks and I am beyond stressing.

 

[anonymousegirl]

Was the human you got for DLR a call center general number person, or was it someone from disabilities? I think the person you spoke to is incorrect. I think that the wheelchair user and ONE attendant may use the special viewing area. Be aware that these areas or first-come, first served, so plan to be there early, otherwise the area may be completely full.
As for the Nemo Subs, the accessible room is large enough to accommodate multiple wheelchairs and families. I have used it in the past, I much prefer it to the musty, humid, warm interior of the subs themselves. If the temps are high, this room is usually VERY air conditioned!

 

[Mrsjvb]

the WC/ECV viewing areas for parades is for the WC/ECV and ONE companion. they are all very small( maybe 1-3 mobility devices) and they fill up fast. the rest of the group will need to find someplace else nearby.

the Nemo room is HUGE. when I last used it it was just me and DH, but I would say.. at least 4 chairs/ecv plus a typical family of 4 per could easily fit. IIRC there was bench seating across the wall but a lot of floor space to crouch/kneel/sit on

for shows, there can be multiple slots up high and/or down low( right in front of the stage) usually one seat/bench adjacent to the slot with the entire row in front of ( up high) or behind( down low) also set aside for the family members

 

[SMD]

If she can be accommodated in a stroller instead of a wheelchair you might want to get a stroller as wheelchair tag. There aren't a lot of shaded areas on parade routes, so with a stroller canopy you can find your own spot and get shade that way. Usually in the wheelchair viewing areas a single companion is allowed to stand immediately behind the guest in the wheelchair. If there's seating, it's reserved for disabled guests with their companion standing behind them. Once it's full, they don't make more space available. On busy days, if the show/parade is a priority it may be more convenient to stake out a spot that works for you early, rather than wait for the small roped off area. I think for Fantasmic if you do a premium meal with an FP you end up in the regular wheelchair area anyway, so that might be the one exception where just getting a regular FP will have the same result.

 

[Nicolette11785]

The easiest thing should be the Pixar parade. It's a pretty long route and there is always plenty of space. Pick a spot that doesn't have a ton of people and there is no need to wait ahead of time.