Thinking of taking autistic son to Universal

[AJKMOM]

Going with DS, autistic, for his 21 birthday. We are taking advantage of free admission on this birthday at WDW, but also thinking about going to Universal. With his autism, should we consider changing resorts to USF from the Boardwalk, or will we be able to get a GAC similar to WDW? He can't wait in long lines (going mid November), so at WDW we FastPass and use the GAC.

Honestly, the one time we went to USF before, we weren't impressed with the help they gave to special needs people.

 

[JohnnySharp2]

Hi,

Universal do a version of the GAC too, the only difference being you have to renew each visit whereas at WDW they are good for the duration of your stay.

We have takem our son to Universal many times, there can be an inconsistency in the way the CM's treat people with special needs, but that's just an education thing I guess, plus we have had comments made to us by CM's at Disney too so it's hard to really be accurate.

The Universal hotels are fabulous, especially Hard Rock Hotel - personally I wouldn't hesitate to book there.

 

[Nie0214]

I'd also check on the Universal forum here on the DIS. There are some very helpful people there who should be able to help you!

 

[blondietink]

My DS, now age 16 has classic Autism and he loves Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, mostly because he loves movies. He really believes he is riding the movies! Anyway, the thing I don't like about Universal is that we have found it is MUCH LOUDER than WDW. My DS wears the hearing protector headphones, so it really doesn't seem to bother him too much, but it sure does bother the rest of us!

 

[mechurchlady]

November is the slow season until Thanksgiving so the crowds should not be a problem. Getting there early and their version of a GAC will help you with the lines. Yes, that is not Disney so you will not be spoiled like at Disney. Disney does so much more than the bare bones ADA minimum requirements. I suggest taking him as you probably will have lots of fun there with him. There are shows, characters, rides and nonrides to keep him entertained.
Good luck on the trip.

 

[SueM in MN]

If you look in the disABILITIES FAQs thread near the top of this board, there is information about Universal, including some information from a Universal Guest Relations CM about their version of the GAC.