Universal Studios/IOA/SeaWorld/Kennedy Space Center?

[BillSears]

Sorry if I posted this in the wrong spot but I thought it might be correct to post here since it is Theme Park related.

I'm heading down next week for my first non-Disney trip to Orlando and I'm looking for any advice you guys have concerning Universal Studios/IOA/SeaWorld/Kennedy Space Center. I've looked at the FAQ here and read the various accessibility guides but first hand knowledge is almost always better then the guides. So any advice for a paraplegic visiting these places?

One question I have is reguarding SeaWorld tickets. I've heard about half price tickets for wheelchair users, do they still have these? I'm currently planning on visiting SeaWorld for 2 days would getting 2 half priced tickets be my best bet or is there some other deal out there that might be better. I already have my USF/IOA tickets, I bought that nice 7 day pass.

 

[lovetoscrap]

I didn't post here about my experience in SeaWorld. I used an ECV there 2 weeks ago and there isn't much specific that I can tell you except that I had a very hard time seeing at some of the attractions from a seated position. Because of the walls to the tanks in some places like the Dolphin Nursery and the Stingray Area I just couldn't see in. Probably others too, but I can't remember. It was disappointing. Many aquariums and zoos have raised platforms at places like that so we can at least see in but they were only in a few places at SeaWorld.


Also, the main theaters have several entrances and they will lead to different HC viewing areas. Some are much better than others. Some of them were way off to one side or the other which was not a great view.

 

[SueM in MN]

Regarding the SeaWorld tickets, I think someone posted about 6 months ago that they were able to get them. It is necessary to get them at the gate, they don't sell them until you get there.

 

[eyeore]

we have been to seaworld and found it ok. there is good seating areas in the stadiums(shamu, clyde and seymore show) both must sees. there are slight inclines up to some of the stadiums if i remember but nothing to worry about. universal/ioa again we found it fine. ioa has great companion rooms in there first aid area just to the right of the park as you enter. both parks are great. kennedy space centre was a lot of on and off buses to get to each different area. we felt like most of the time we were waiting for a bus. bus drivers were great though. it is worth doing but just wanted to warn you. happy holiday

 

[Figaro]

Bill, I believe that your representative to Congress can get you free tickets to the Kennedy Space Center. At least that is what our representative told me. He said to just contact his office, as that is something that they do for their constituents all of the time.

 

[BillSears]

Thanks Eyeore, that's good info.

Bill, I believe that your representative to Congress can get you free tickets to the Kennedy Space Center. At least that is what our representative told me. He said to just contact his office, as that is something that they do for their constituents all of the time.

I'm heading down next week so it's probably too late for this. Since it's a solo trip the cost wont be outrageous for one ticket plus I think I'll feel good knowing I'm pitching in however slighty towards the space program.

 

[eternaldisneyfan]

I am not sure if a person who is disabled and traveling alone can get a discount ticket at Sea World. My understanding of the policy was that if you are unable to visit the park on your own and need a companion both you and the companion get half off tickets. You can try though. I found Sea World very wheelchair friendly. Every show has wheelchair seats-usually in two locations one in the soak zone and one above the first set of bleachers. All the restrooms have wheelchair stalls that are generally good and there are companion restrooms. People are friendly. The Shamu and Dolphin shows are must sees as is the Shark exhibit. I also enjoyed the acrobatic/interpretation show. Don't see the 'stunt' show on the open lake-it's boring. Feeding the dolphins is fun and you get to touch them. My trip report has info on our latest trip.

Universal Studios is pretty good for people who use manual chairs as far as some rides being wheelchair accessible. No idea about transferring. Off the top of my head Earthquake, King Kong, ET, and Jaws have wheelchair slots. I rode the first three on my wish trip before the electric wheelchair ban. Terminator 3D is good. Getting a caricature drawing is cool. And the Hard Rock Cafe is really close I think within walking distance.

Never been to IOA or the Space center...

Have fun!