Illuminations

[tyna]

My 8 year old DS has a sensory integration problem and gets overwhelmed with loud noises. We have been unable to see illumintions because of this and would like to find a place to see it inside. Does anyone have any suggestions for a viewing area? Is there a phone number at WDW that could help me with these types of issues? Thanks in advance. I don't post often but get a lot of comfort reading all the post from other parents dealing with special kids.

 

[teri]

How about a window seat at the Rose and Crown Pub? I would think that would be a great spot.... anyone? I would think that, if you go in there with your GAC and show it to them, and explain the situation, they would be happy to accomodate you.

My son also has auditory defensiveness. Have you ever tried the ear protectors - the kind that they use at airports? Or earplugs? My little guy got over his hypersensitivity to most sounds and loves the fireworks now. But any time he is stressed or hears something new, the fingers go right into the ears. We must have 50 pictures of him with his ears plugged and a huge smile on his face!

 

[SueM in MN]

I've been trying all day to think of a building and all i can think of is the Rose and Crown, too. All the other buildings are on the non-water front side and many don't have windows, so ou wouldn't see much.
The only other thing i could think of was to get a litle farther away from the fireworks. One time, we watched from the area where First Aid is in Epcot (near the walkway that oes between WS and Test Track). It was nearly deserted, but you have a good overview of all the fireworks, just not so close. And if it gets too intense for him, you can duck into the restroom or first aid.

 

[Disney Doll]

Is that restaurant still there upstairs in the France pavillion? I seem to remember there being a restaurant there , but I don't know how long ago I remember it from. If it's still there, that might be a good place, because you'd be 2 stories up ,and get an aerial view!!!!

 

[SandraC]

Where are you staying? We stayed at CBR and saw and hear the fireworks parts of Illuminations from the resort. Prehaps you can ask if you can visit the resort and TEST Illuminations. You can hear the BOOM, but it's not as loud as in Epcot.

 

[tyna]

Sorry I haven't responded sooner but we have had a horrible week and I haven't been able to get a minute to myself. Ear protctors won't work for my DS because he can't stand to have anything near his ears, it's part of the sensory issues he has. Last trip we tried ear plugs and that was the end of that night.
I had thought of going into the restaurant in France but am on a budget and hear that it is quite expensive. Would they let us just order dessert and stay for the show? It may not hurt to ask. I thought I read some where that there was a lounge in Japan that had a lagoon view but don't know for sure. Has anyone ever been there? Can you can the restaurants directly with these questions or is that not an option? Thanks for all your input Tyna

 

[SueM in MN]

There is a restaurnat on the second floor in Japan. It's a sit down, full service restaurant where they cook the food at your table.
You could try calling RESORTS/SPECIAL RESERVATIONS
(407) 939-7807 [voice]
(407) 939-7670 [TTY]
This is the number listed in the Guidebook for Guests with Disabilities. If they can't answer your question, they may know who could.

 

[lisapooh]

Sue,
Only the lounge in Japan has a view of Illuminations, not the restaurants. Get there early and get a seat by the windows. Order a few drinks and some appetizers. Sushi, sashimi, tempura, miso soup, edamame (boiled salted soy bean pods)and a teriaki thing are avaialble. Children are allowed.
It is a wonderful place to sit and relax but the space is somewhat limited so it is difficult to get a wheelchair. I park mine and hobble to a close seat with my sticks.

 

[SueM in MN]

Thanks. I knew you could see from that building, but I was thinking the restaurant was the front part. Been a while since we've been in there.