Visiting Islands of Adventure with Special Needs
Islands of Adventure, the most technologically advanced theme park in the world, exceeds modern ADA requirements. Walkways and public areas are wide and easy to navigate. The themeing is spectacular, and the park is best explored at a leisurely pace.
Begin your day by proceeding to Rentals to take care of upgrading your wheelchair. Then stop by Guest Services. Universal offers a wide array of adaptive devices and accommodations for every disability. Simply describe your disability and necessary accommodations to the Guest Services team member, and he or she will be happy to provide whatever assistance you require.
Islands of Adventure is primarily an outdoor park, so be sure to take the weather into consideration. The park is divided into six distinct islands connected by foot bridges. Watch for the transitions between islands, the seamlessness is truly amazing. The islands are as follows: Port of Entry, Marvel Super Hero Island, Toon Lagoon, Jurassic Park, The Lost Continent, and Seuss Landing. Here is a list of attractions at Islands of Adventure to assist you in your planning.
Port of Entry
This is where you begin your adventure. Designed as a transition from the real world to the spectacles that follow, Port of Entry offers a number of shopping and dining options.
Marvel Super Hero Island
Where your favorite Marvel Super Heroes and Villains come to life. The rides in this area are big on thrills, and all carry health restrictions. The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man was the most technologically advanced theme park ride in the world at its opening, and is still considered by many to be the gold standard. Blending simulator and track layout effects with 3-D film, this attraction is a must-see if you meet the health requirements.
Even if you choose to not participate in the rides, Marvel Super Hero Island is a must-see for all comic book lovers. The buildings are spectacular, and there is plenty of shopping and dining to keep you entertained while the thrill seekers experience the rides.
Toon Lagoon
This very wet area takes you inside the classic Sunday comics. Dudley Do-Right’s Ripsaw Falls and Popeye and Bluto’s Bilge Rat Barges are soaking water rides that are great fun for the whole family. Health restrictions do apply.
The other attractions in this area are fully accessible, and the décor is not to be missed.
Jurassic Park
Even if you choose to not participate in the rides, Marvel Super Hero Island is a must-see for all comic book lovers. The buildings are spectacular, and there is plenty of shopping and dining to keep you entertained while the thrill seekers experience the rides.
For the Pteranodon Flyers, you must be accompanied by a child between 36 and 56 inches tall, and must be able to transfer to the ride vehicle. This 65 foot high ride through Jurassic Park is well worth the extremely long wait.
The other attractions in this area are fully accessible. Plan to spend some time exploring.
The Lost Continent
Straight from the realm of high fantasy, this Renaissance Faire styled land is full of mythical creatures and surprises.
Dueling Dragons consists of two separate inverted roller coasters, Fire and Ice, which intertwine and as the name implies “duel” in mid-air. Health restrictions do apply, and riders must be able to transfer into the ride seating.
*Tip* Ride the front of Ice, which is a smoother coaster that gives you the feeling of flight. Then ride the back of Fire, a rougher coaster that pulls more G-forces.
The Flying Unicorn is a surprisingly intense kiddie coaster. Health restrictions apply, and the rider must be able to transfer to the ride seating. If you are able to ride, I highly recommend this one.
The other attractions in this area are fully accessible and should pose no particular problems for guests with special needs.
Although not included on the Universal Meal Deal, Mythos restaurant is located in the Lost Continent. It has been named the Number One Theme Park Restaurant in the World for many years, and the combination of theming and décor with a world-class menu definitely earns it the title. Be sure to look around even if you decide not to dine. Mythos is open limited hours.
Seuss Landing
This area takes you inside the writings of the famous Dr. Seuss. All attractions are accessible (some through transfer), and you can even remain in a standard wheelchair on the Caro-Seuss-el.
Seuss Landing is highly recommended for the young and young at heart.
Although often commonly referred to as a thrill park, Islands of Adventure provides a variety of rides and shows that are appropriate for the entire family. Friendly, helpful employees, amazing attention to detail, and a plethora of shopping and dining options make Islands of Adventure a must-do for every guest, regardless of disability.
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