When your child is diagnosed with a disabling condition or special need of any kind, traveling is likely the farthest thing from your mind. But that doesn’t mean your crew will have to forgo adventurous family vacations. Many destinations offer options for differently-abled individuals to enjoy all of the experiences they offer in an accessible way.
Universal Parks and Resorts in Orlando is one of those destinations, offering the Attraction Assistance Pass (AAP) to guests who have a condition or disability that prevents them from waiting in a typical standby line. Below I’ll share everything you need to know about Universal’s AAP.
First Stop: Guest Services
Before you can enjoy the magical taste of a Butterbeer with your crew of Muggles, your first stop will be at Guest Services. You’ll be greeted by a Team Member who will be able to assist you in obtaining the AAP. Make sure to have your identification on hand and be ready to describe your child or loved one’s limitations.
Get Ready for the Hot Seat
Rather than just handing out a AAP to anyone who asks, you will be asked several questions about your child’s condition. If the disability is not visibly identifiable, this process may feel like you’re being interrogated by the Men in Black. But you can rest assured, this process is in place to make sure you receive the appropriate type of assistance and to keep the program from being abused. Possible questions may be: How long is your loved one able to wait in line? Will your experience in the parks be impacted by the access, or lack of access, to the AAP?
Keep in mind, you should never be asked to identify a condition due to privacy laws. The questions are not intended to prove the existence of a disability, just to make sure your family has access to the appropriate level of assistance for a magical adventure in the parks. There is a second type of accessibility pass, the Guest Assistance Pass (GAP), which is offered on a very limited basis to those who qualify and acts similarly to a Universal Express Pass. Whether an AAP or GAP is issued, you’ll be provided with the pass which will then need to be shown at each ride, usually several times.
UNIVERSAL-ly Accessible in Every Way
Now it’s time to experience everything your heart desires at Universal Studios and Universal Islands of Adventure! (Note: Volcano Bay has a unique Virtual Line system, so the AAP is not needed). The AAP will usually cut your wait time at least in half for longer rides, and access to the Express Pass lane if the wait is under 25 minutes. You may even be surprised with a special experience when you visit some of the more popular rides and encounters!
You’ve stopped by Guest Services, answered the appropriate questions, and have your AAP in hand, ready to ride! Universal Parks truly provide a universally accessible experience. Whether it’s being able to use your Interactive Wand from a wheelchair or utilizing the Ride Swap as a quiet space when your loved one’s sensory issue prevents them from being able to ride with you.
Once your ready unleash your inner superhero and plan a trip to Universal Orlando, you can contact me to make sure you have a universally awesome experience: jessica@teplanners.com
Jessica Sears is a travel advisor with Travel Ease, LLC. She’s a self-proclaimed Harry Potter nerd and travels to Universal Orlando often. She is passionate about making travel easier for families with physical & cognitive disabilities and would love to help you plan your own magical vacation!