Parade viewing and wheelchair?

[scrappinmom]

Hi everyone - We are traveling to WDW in March with friends. Their 9 yr old son will still be in a wheelchair from hip surgery. I've gathered all the ride info, have an accessible room for him at the resort, we won't be renting an ECV as we can push him (there are 5 of us and 1 of him). He won't be riding many of the rides because of the jarring/jolting. However the parades is something he can enjoy. I'm sorry, if this question has been answered somewhere, I did try to search & couldn't find it.

Are there areas for wheelchair viewing at ALL the parades? (MK, DS & AK). I don't mind finding somewhere else for my family to sit, as long as he & his mom can sit together.

Any help would be appreciated.

Also,do we still need to get a GAC card for him? As I said he won't be riding many of the rides, but will need to use the wheelchair access for the ones he is going to ride, he'll be able to transfer if needed.

 

[Matt'sMom]

Yes, there are 'reserved' wheelchair/ECV viewing areas for all of the parades at the different parks. You can request a map from GS when entering the park, or just wing it (the WC viewing areas are clearly marked, and pretty easy to locate).

As for the GAC... if his only 'need' is mobility related, and the WC sufficiently meets that need, then you really would not gain much if anything more by also asking for a GAC. The GAC is more for letting CM's know what additional, 'invisible' needs you may have. We traveled to WDW recently with my DF (who is a stroke survivor, uses assistive mobility devices, and has additional disabilities such as aphasia)... and we never found that we had any need for a GAC during our week-long trip. When the CM's see a person using an WC or ECV, they will provide the appropriate assistance.

 

[scrappinmom]

Thanks so much....I've never traveled needing any kid of assistance & just wasn't sure. I'll have to check with his mom, but I'm pretty sure we'll just need the wheelchair.

 

[BeckyScott]

Silly question, but is the wheelchair area specifically/only for wheelchairs, or is it more a Disabled area?

We only did one parade last year, and that was only because we got trapped in MK and couldn't get out. It was way crowded, of course, and turned pretty unpleasant by the end.

I know with our GAC several times I requested to sit in the back row or on the end of the row for shows, saying that we needed an easy way to get out if DS started to freak. Usually that put us in the disabled areas, but on the benches that were there. We were, of course, very courteous about it, and if someone came in a wheelchair or ECV we scooted down the row or to a different spot nearby.

Would it be helpful at all to find those areas for the parade, or would it not do any good? Are they just as awfully crowded as everyplace else? Or are they strictly for wheelchair/ECV?

 

[livndisney]

Silly question, but is the wheelchair area specifically/only for wheelchairs, or is it more a Disabled area?

We only did one parade last year, and that was only because we got trapped in MK and couldn't get out. It was way crowded, of course, and turned pretty unpleasant by the end.

I know with our GAC several times I requested to sit in the back row or on the end of the row for shows, saying that we needed an easy way to get out if DS started to freak. Usually that put us in the disabled areas, but on the benches that were there. We were, of course, very courteous about it, and if someone came in a wheelchair or ECV we scooted down the row or to a different spot nearby.

Would it be helpful at all to find those areas for the parade, or would it not do any good? Are they just as awfully crowded as everyplace else? Or are they strictly for wheelchair/ECV?

We have been welcomed into the disabled parade viewing(without a wheelchair) areas at the Studios. We don't do a lot of parades so I can't comment on the other parks. I speak with the CM stationed in the area and explain our needs and they have always been very helpful. I always try to stand behind a wheelchair so as not to take up a space. It also helps for when we need to make a quick get away.

 

[mrsksomeday]

If you have a GAC with the needs specified for needing that area you would be allowed, notify a CM.

EDITED TO CLARIFY

 

[McCall]

This is related but not exactly On Topic, I recently went to Disney Land and I was surprised and very disappointed to find they have NO WC viewing area in the parks. Also I asked several CM's from the one's at the entrance to guest services and info booth and none seemed to know, finally the actual parade handlers told me no there was no special areas. Just fend for yourself and hope no one gets in front of you.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

If you have a GAC you can definately get in the disabled parade viewing spots, just talk to the CM stationed there.

I would disagree with this.

As I am currently working at DHS at Indiana Jones and Sounds Dangerous, I am sometimes assigned to Parade Crowd Control. Ve have a disabled viewing area close to Sounds Dangerous. We will have people in wheelchairs/ECVs parked wheel to wheel up in the front and others standing behind them. Sometimes we will add a second row for wheelchairs/ECVs which unfortunately may separate some of the people in chairs from the rest of their pary.

Before we allow a person with a GAC into that area, we will closely look at the GAC and determine if the person's needs will be met in that area. For example a GAC that asks for an alternate, sun-free, waiting area cannot be accommodated there.

 

[Belle1962]

FWIW: We never use the parade viewing areas any more.

We have found:

at MK; the squeeze the chairs in so they are touching. Not even an inch between. Then all of the people with the chairs are piled behind you. VERY CROWDED. VERY TIGHT. And just not magical. Easier to stake a spot like everyone elase along the parade route.

studios: we find it much easier to just pick a nice spot along the parade route and wait it out with other guests. We usually ended up at the hc viewing area that is in direct sunlight--that just didn't work for us.

EPCOT: no parade but be careful at Illuminations--some of the HC areas are under trees--which blocks some of your views.

Animal: Never used the HC areas: just like Studios--easier and more comfortabel to just stake out a spot anywhere aliong the route.

ALOS--be warned they can limit the number of people allowed to accompany the person in the chair--so your group might be asked to split up.

 

[DisneyFreaks]

FWIW: We never use the parade viewing areas any more.
We have found:
at MK; the squeeze the chairs in so they are touching. Not even an inch between. Then all of the people with the chairs are piled behind you. VERY CROWDED. VERY TIGHT. And just not magical. Easier to stake a spot like everyone elase along the parade route.
studios: we find it much easier to just pick a nice spot along the parade route and wait it out with other guests. We usually ended up at the hc viewing area that is in direct sunlight--that just didn't work for us.
EPCOT: no parade but be careful at Illuminations--some of the HC areas are under trees--which blocks some of your views.
Animal: Never used the HC areas: just like Studios--easier and more comfortabel to just stake out a spot anywhere aliong the route.
ALOS--be warned they can limit the number of people allowed to accompany the person in the chair--so your group might be asked to split up.

Thanks for this information. I may need a WC or ECV for this trip and I would not be comfortable this way. Good to know that we can stay together and view the parades and fireworks where we want to be.

 

[jmartinez1895]

We used a stroller as a wheel chair and about an hour before the parades we would find a CM and they would take us to the special locations for the hanicap viewing. When we were there we normally would be the only people in the section, but sometimes there would be a few more. We also got a tip from a CM who told us that at the fireworks show at Epcot, not to use the handicap view because there is a tree that can block your view. If posible go to the waters edge( when you first come in the park keep going strait untill you see it) when they start roping off the ares and you will get a great view.

 

[scrappinmom]

FWIW: We never use the parade viewing areas any more.

We have found:

at MK; the squeeze the chairs in so they are touching. Not even an inch between. Then all of the people with the chairs are piled behind you. VERY CROWDED. VERY TIGHT. And just not magical. Easier to stake a spot like everyone elase along the parade route.

studios: we find it much easier to just pick a nice spot along the parade route and wait it out with other guests. We usually ended up at the hc viewing area that is in direct sunlight--that just didn't work for us.

EPCOT: no parade but be careful at Illuminations--some of the HC areas are under trees--which blocks some of your views.

Animal: Never used the HC areas: just like Studios--easier and more comfortabel to just stake out a spot anywhere aliong the route.

ALOS--be warned they can limit the number of people allowed to accompany the person in the chair--so your group might be asked to split up.

wow that's good information to know...I guess I always assumed it would be the best, and safest spot for a wc. I think with 6 of us we might be better off just staking out our "normal" spot along the routes.....

 

[mrsksomeday]

I would disagree with this.

As I am currently working at DHS at Indiana Jones and Sounds Dangerous, I am sometimes assigned to Parade Crowd Control. Ve have a disabled viewing area close to Sounds Dangerous. We will have people in wheelchairs/ECVs parked wheel to wheel up in the front and others standing behind them. Sometimes we will add a second row for wheelchairs/ECVs which unfortunately may separate some of the people in chairs from the rest of their pary.

Before we allow a person with a GAC into that area, we will closely look at the GAC and determine if the person's needs will be met in that area. For example a GAC that asks for an alternate, sun-free, waiting area cannot be accommodated there.

I will edit my post, I should have said if you have a GAC with the needs specified for needing that area you would be allowed. I just didn't clarify, I was in a hurry. I apologize.

 

[mechurchlady]

wow that's good information to know...I guess I always assumed it would be the best, and safest spot for a wc. I think with 6 of us we might be better off just staking out our "normal" spot along the routes.....

It is far better to use your favourite spots that disabled viewing areas. The only thing that CMs ask is that people do not go past the curbs or block paths. I have seen people and strollers being asked to get behind the line. For me at DL the best spot was on Main Street on the circle near the train station. I could watch the floats head on then pass by me on the right then catch a glimpse of the rear as it exited. I rather camp out for a great spot than be shoulder to shoulder with people.

 

[SueM in MN]

I've gathered all the ride info, have an accessible room for him at the resort, we won't be renting an ECV as we can push him (there are 5 of us and 1 of him).

Just FYI for anyone reading this - ECVs in the parks and at most of the offsite rental places can only be rented by or for use by people over the age of 18. So, a 9yr old would not be able to rent an ECV to use in the parks.
One company will rent ona case-by-case basis for use by older teens who are not yet 18.

Also,do we still need to get a GAC card for him? As I said he won't be riding many of the rides, but will need to use the wheelchair access for the ones he is going to ride, he'll be able to transfer if needed.

There is more information about GACs in post #6 of the disABILITIES FAQs thread, but as was already mentioned, he should not need one. The CMs will see the wheelchair and know where to send him if there needs to be something other that usual done.

Yes, there are 'reserved' wheelchair/ECV viewing areas for all of the parades at the different parks. You can request a map from GS when entering the park, or just wing it (the WC viewing areas are clearly marked, and pretty easy to locate).

The wheelchair/handicapped viewing areas for all the parks are listed on the regular park maps. The areas are well marked on the maps.
You may not see anything in the park until a short time before the parade is to begin. At that point, the CMs set up ropes to define a handicapped viewing area.

Silly question, but is the wheelchair area specifically/only for wheelchairs, or is it more a Disabled area?

As was already mentioned, they can be used by people with other disabilities, depending on what their needs are and what the GAC lists.

FWIW: We never use the parade viewing areas any more.

We have found:

at MK; the squeeze the chairs in so they are touching. Not even an inch between. Then all of the people with the chairs are piled behind you. VERY CROWDED. VERY TIGHT. And just not magical. Easier to stake a spot like everyone elase along the parade route.

studios: we find it much easier to just pick a nice spot along the parade route and wait it out with other guests. We usually ended up at the hc viewing area that is in direct sunlight--that just didn't work for us.

EPCOT: no parade but be careful at Illuminations--some of the HC areas are under trees--which blocks some of your views.

Animal: Never used the HC areas: just like Studios--easier and more comfortabel to just stake out a spot anywhere aliong the route.

ALOS--be warned they can limit the number of people allowed to accompany the person in the chair--so your group might be asked to split up.

I would agree with Belle1962.
The handicapped viewing areas tend to be quite crowded and we found that you often need to be there an hour before the parade is beginning. That does not work well with DD since she doesn't do well close to people - especially close to people whose wheelchairs are parked almost touching hers.

For people without wheelchairs/ECVs, the view may not be very good since they will be positioned behind the row of wheelchairs/ECVs.
We did view Illuminations at Epcot recently from the second row of wheelchairs. So, DD was behind an ECV and had a pretty obstucted view. I was able to sit on the ground and got a view between people, but when they moved, I saw only their backsides. For Epcot, you are much better off (at least in our experience, just staking out a spot. Be aware of which way the wind is blowing, so you don't get smoke from the fireworks blowing at you.

We did use the handicapped viewing spot for AK's afternoon parade. The one we were at was shaded and it was helpful for us since it was not real crowded.

 

[Narnia]

This is kind of odd but my dd used stroller and we found that by staing colse to the garbage cans we were not pushed and shoved during the parades. Also during the parade in HS stay close to the middle of the parade course since the end where we sat pushed forward and we couldn't see the last half of the parade.

 

[Puget Peach]

For the AK Parade if you want to sit and still see the parade, stake out a spot on a bench in front the the shop across the street from the WC viewing area. As I recall, there is one on either side of the shop entrance. You will be waiting in the shade of the building and won't have to stand up the whole time. Try to position yourself behind the trash can and no one can block your view!

 

[Vala]

This is related but not exactly On Topic, I recently went to Disney Land and I was surprised and very disappointed to find they have NO WC viewing area in the parks. Also I asked several CM's from the one's at the entrance to guest services and info booth and none seemed to know, finally the actual parade handlers told me no there was no special areas. Just fend for yourself and hope no one gets in front of you.

You may have been given wrong info there.

If things have not changed since November there's two special viewing areas. One near the Mad hatter where the parade enters/exits and one in front of the Plaza Inn. Both were roped off and marked with a wheelchair sign.
Unfortunately only one evening there was a CM actually looking after the area at Plaza Inn. The area never was very full thankfully, or there may have been more trouble.

I do agree with you that the info given by CMs was horrible - we pretty much found the spots by chance after even City Hall told us they didn't know. Actually we have been told we could just look for a seat, my friend should push me in front and sit next to me on the curb. When we were looking for a spot to do this we found the roped off areas...

 

[mechurchlady]

This is related but not exactly On Topic, I recently went to Disney Land and I was surprised and very disappointed to find they have NO WC viewing area in the parks. Also I asked several CM's from the one's at the entrance to guest services and info booth and none seemed to know, finally the actual parade handlers told me no there was no special areas. Just fend for yourself and hope no one gets in front of you.

I am shocked to hear another story of bad CMs at DL. The disabled viewing areas are supposed to be marked on the park maps. If a CM does not know the answer then ask for a manager. Plaids are supposed to know where the disabled viewing areas are or how to find that info and are specially trained and picked. Not everyone gets to be a plaid. Parade CMs can be someone who is sick or who is tired or is someone who works Foods or Merchandise. CMs sometimes get stuck with parades or they need an extra shift to feed the family so they take the parade. They are there to keep the crowds out of the route, from blocking traffic, keep people moving and keeping the peace.

Next time go to the City Hall in DL and ask where the disabled viewing areas are. The Mad Hatter hat shop viewing area is across from the EMporium and it barely is noticible until they block off the street usually. DL has had disabled viewing areas clear back in 1998.

 

[McCall]

I am shocked to hear another story of bad CMs at DL. The disabled viewing areas are supposed to be marked on the park maps. If a CM does not know the answer then ask for a manager. Plaids are supposed to know where the disabled viewing areas are or how to find that info and are specially trained and picked. Not everyone gets to be a plaid. Parade CMs can be someone who is sick or who is tired or is someone who works Foods or Merchandise. CMs sometimes get stuck with parades or they need an extra shift to feed the family so they take the parade. They are there to keep the crowds out of the route, from blocking traffic, keep people moving and keeping the peace.

Next time go to the City Hall in DL and ask where the disabled viewing areas are. The Mad Hatter hat shop viewing area is across from the EMporium and it barely is noticible until they block off the street usually. DL has had disabled viewing areas clear back in 1998.

Perhaps my problem was that this parade, the Electrical parade was in California Adventure not in Magic Kingdom, but I was told several times that they have NO WC viewing area in that park at least. So if anyone does know different please let me know.
Also I was there this last weekend. and not one attraction had a CM in front of it, so the first contact was once your got to the ride part of the attraction. So if you were not sure how to get in or went in the wrong line in the WC you were pretty much stuck.