MK - post what you know about attractions here

[SueM in MN]

This thread will be about Magic Kingdom.

We are trying to get as much info about rides/attractions so that we can make a helpful guidebook about the MK attractions.

These are the questions we are hoping to be able to answer. It's a long list and if each person can add a few pieces, we will have a lot more information than we have now - so don't feel like you have to answer every question by yourself
Please post whatever information about MK you can add on this thread.
Please only post park information here. If you want to discuss the idea of making a guidebook, Click here to get to the MASTER INDEX THREAD that gives information about the idea.http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=21012175#post21012175

On another thread, people had the good idea of copying the questions and responding to them.
I have one request though. To make it easier to go thru and compile information, I would like people to delete any of the questions not being answered or those that you would answer "I don't know".

That will make it much easier to pull the information out later.

Thanks.


Disney Ride Questionnaire

Information about you (or the person you assisted)

1. What type of needs for accomodation did you have?
2. Were you using any assistive device, such as a manual wheelchair, power wheelchair, ECV, walker, special needs stroller, etc?
3. If so, how large (approximate) is your device?
4. Did you use assistive listening devices, captioning, interpretation, etc.

Approach to the Ride

1. Is the approach to the building/attraction uphill?
2. Is there a handicapped entrance in a different location?
3. Do you need to go to a special area/use an elevator to access the ride entrance?
4. Where is wheelchair/ECV/stroller parking for those who choose to walk through the line?
5. Is it possible to view a ride vehicle before getting into the queue?
6. Any other information?

The Queue

1. Did you use the regular entrance, Fastpass or Exit to get to the ride?
2. Is the queue indoors or outdoors? Shaded or not?
3. Did you have any problems with navigating the queue? What type of problem?
4. How wide is the queue (approximation)?
5. Are there sharp turns/U-turns in the queue?
6. Are there turnstiles anywhere in the queue?
7. Is the queue uphill or downhill?
8. Is it indoors (very smooth surface) or is the surface rough?
9. About how long is the queue (distance, not wait time)?
10. Is the queue area noisy?
11. Is the queue dark or bright?
12. Does the queue wind around so that your area of the queue is close to other parts of the queue?
13. Anything else about the queue that you want to mention? (Scary, Claustrophobic, etc).

The Preshow:

1. Is there any preshow or is it just a waiting area?
2. Where is the preshow located? (on TVs overhead? in front of you?)
3. Is the preshow captioned or otherwise accessible for people with hearing disabilities?
4. Is it accessible to people using wheelchair/scooters, or do you bypass it?
5. Where are wheelchairs/ECVs parked during the preshow and can you see from there?
6. Is there any seating in the preshow area? if so, what is it like?
7. How long is the pre-show?
8. How crowded is the preshow area (such as, do they keep telling people to go all the way to the front?)
9. Is the preshow and/or boarding area dark, bright? noisy? any other information to share?

The Ride Vehicle and Boarding:

1. Can you see the boarding area before actually getting on (to help with planning)?
2. How many people can sit per row/ride vehicle?
3. Did you have to sit with any people not in your party?
4. Did you use the regular boarding area or another boarding area?
5. If you board at the exit, were people getting off in your path to get on?
6. Is there a moving walkway? About how wide is it?
7. Was the moving walkway slowed or stopped for you? Did you have to ask for this? Did you feel the speed was appropriate for you?
8. Did you have a limited time period to board? If so, aproximately how long did you have to get on? Did you feel like it was enough time?
9. How do you get into the vehicle? (Examples would be stepping down into a boat like POTC; step up into a ride vehicle such as Mission:Space; or across to a seat/bench?
   How far down, up or across do you have to maneuver?
10. How stable is the ride vehicle while boarding? Are there any bars or supports or parts of the ride car you could grab when transferring?
11. Is there a particular seat or row that is best to transfer to? Why did you think that row/seat was better (more room, better ability to grab something, etc?)
12. Was there a specific ride vehicle that was made for easier transfers?
13. How much back/head/neck support is there? Is there any trunk support?
14. Can you reach other members of your party while riding? (hold hands, support, etc)
15. Does the ride have an restraint? What type? Does it touch you? Do you have to fasten and unfasten the restraint yourself?
16. Is it possible for someone to help you get in and out of the vehicle?
    If someone helped transfer, what type of transfer was done (sliding board, stand and pivot, lift, etc.)?
17. If you had a wheelchair or ECV where was it during the transfer?
18. What side do you enter the vehicle from? Do you exit from this same side?
19. Where was your wheelchair, ECV, cane, etc while you were on the ride? Was it brought back to you at the exit?
    
20. Did you use a wheelchair accessible ride vehicle? How do you enter this vehicle? How well did your wheelchair fit?
    How much of an extra wait did you have for this vehicle?
    How many wheelchairs can fit in one vehicle? Is there room for someone to accompany the wheelchair user?
    Where did they sit and how close are they to the wheelchair user? Could more than one person sit there?

Theatres:

1. How much wheelchair/ECV seating is there?
2. Are there individual seats or bench seats? Padded or not padded?
3. If it is an individual seat, do you have to fold down the seat first?
4. Do the bench seats have backs?
5. Did you sit in the front or the rear of the theatre?
6. Where does the rest of your party sit?
7. Any other information?

The Exit:

1. What do you exit into? through a store? into another building? outside? If outside, is it shaded or directly into the sun?
2. Where was the exit compared to where you enter? Compared to the stroller parking?
3. Is the exit uphill, downhill or flat?

 

[KPeveler]

Here is a list of the attractions in MK. We will graduate to the storea and restaurants later (when we see how this goes).

So even if you don't know all the answers to questions, just post what you know!

Main Street, USA
• Main Street Vehicles (Fire Engine, Horse Drawn Trolley, Jitney, Antique Car)
• Town Square Exposition Hall
• Walt Disney World Railroad – Main Street Station

Tomorrowland
• Astro Orbiter
• Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
• Carousel of Progress
• Stitch's Great Escape - Experiment 626
• Galaxy Palace Theater
• Space Mountain
• Monster Inc Laugh Floor
• Tomorrowland Indy Speedway
• Tomorrowland Transit Authority

Mickey’s Toontown Fair
• The Barnstormer at Goofy's Wiseacre Farm
• Donald's Boat
• Judge's Tent
• Mickey's Country House
• Minnie's Country House
• Toontown Hall of Fame Tent
• Walt Disney World Railroad – Toontown Station

Fantasyland
• Ariel's Grotto
• Cinderella Castle
• Cinderella's Golden Carrousel
• Dream Along with Mickey
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant
• Fairytale Garden/ Storytime with Belle.
• "it's a small world"
• Mad Tea Party
• Mickey's PhilharMagic
• The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
• Peter Pan's Flight
• Pooh's Playful Spot
• Snow White's Scary Adventures

Liberty Square
• The Hall of Presidents
• The Haunted Mansion
• Liberty Square Riverboat

Frontierland
• Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
• Country Bear Jamboree
• Frontierland Shootin' Arcade
• Diamond Horseshoe -- Meet and greet Woody, Jessie, Bullseye
• Splash Mountain
• Tom Sawyer Island
• Walt Disney World Railroad – Frontierland Station

Adventureland
• Enchanted Tiki Room Under New Management
• Jungle Cruise
• Magic Carpets of Aladdin
• Pirates of the Caribbean
• Swiss Family Treehouse
• Shrunken Ned's Junior Jungle Boats (remote control boats)

 

[LisaBi]

Disney Ride Questionnaire
This is for Space Mountain.

Information about you (or the person you assisted)
Travel party is me and DS, 14, has Down Syndrome and uses a wheelchair in the parks.

1. What type of needs for accomodation did you have?
2. Were you using any assistive device, such as a manual wheelchair, power wheelchair, ECV, walker, special needs stroller, etc? Wheelchair
3. If so, how large (approximate) is your device? Standard
   
   Approach to the Ride
   1. Is the approach to the building/attraction uphill? No.
   2. Is there a handicapped entrance in a different location? Must use the fast pass entrance, as the stand by entrance has stairs.
   3. Is it possible to view a ride vehicle before getting into the queue? No
   4. Any other information?
   The approach to the ride, once you enter the building is a long ramp. It has a downhill section, then flat, then uphill, then flat, then short, but steep up hill again. This a very tough walk for the one pushing a manual chair.
   
   The Queue
   1. Did you use the regular entrance, Fastpass or Exit to get to the ride? Fastpass only
   2. Is the queue indoors or outdoors? Shaded or not? Except in very busy times, all indoors.
   3. Did you have any problems with navigating the queue? What type of problem? The uphill ramps.
   4. How wide is the queue (approximation)? 40 inches minimum? It seems very wide - no problems at all navigating with standard chair.
   5. Are there sharp turns/U-turns in the queue? no
   6. Are there turnstiles anywhere in the queue? yes - but they have wheelchair "rope" right next to them.
   7. Is the queue uphill or downhill? Both
   8. Is it indoors (very smooth surface) or is the surface rough? smooth indoor
   9. About how long is the queue (distance, not wait time)? LONG - maybe 2 or 3 minute walk for able bodied person
   10. Is the queue area noisy? Not particularly
   11. Is the queue dark or bright? dark - I have to remove sunglasses before entering or can't see at all
   12. Does the queue wind around so that your area of the queue is close to other parts of the queue? The two lines are next to each other (FP and standby), but the lines them selves are straight. I do think there is a small section at the end that winds, but you bypass that section to go to the wheelchair waiting area.
       
       
       The Preshow:
       1. Is there any preshow or is it just a waiting area? No - just pictures in the line.
          
          The Ride Vehicle and Boarding:
          1. Can you see the boarding area before actually getting on (to help with planning)? no
          2. How many people can sit per row/ride vehicle? 1 per row/3 seats to a "ship", two "ships" to a train
          3. Did you have to sit with any people not in your party? sometimes
          4. Did you use the regular boarding area or another boarding area? alternate. As you are near the boarding area, wheelchairs go thru a separate gate instead of the end of the queue. You wait there for an attendant. There is only one wheelchair/scooter party on a time you. You board, then they take your wheelchair/scooter to the exit and wait for you. Once you are off the ride, the attendant goes back up and loads the next party.
          5. Is there a moving walkway? No
          6. Did you have a limited time period to board? yes If so, aproximately how long did you have to get on? Minute or so? Did you feel like it was enough time? Yes. It does also seem that they can control it to allow as much time as necessary
          7. How do you get into the vehicle? (Examples would be stepping down into a boat like POTC; step up into a ride vehicle such as Mission:Space; or across to a seat/bench? Step down
             How far down, up or across do you have to maneuver? maybe a foot or so
          8. How stable is the ride vehicle while boarding? Are there any bars or supports or parts of the ride car you could grab when transferring? completely stable; you can grab the side of the car; it is somewhat difficult to get in and out even for a completely able-bodied person.
          9. Is there a particular seat or row that is best to transfer to? Why did you think that row/seat was better (more room, better ability to grab something, etc?) There is more legroom in the front seat of each 3-seat "ship."
          10. Was there a specific ride vehicle that was made for easier transfers? No
          11. Can you reach other members of your party while riding? (hold hands, support, etc) No. Someone riding behind could touch the shoulders of the person in front.
          12. Does the ride have an restraint? Yes What type? Lap bar. Does it touch you? Yes. Do you have to fasten and unfasten the restraint yourself? No
          13. Is it possible for someone to help you get in and out of the vehicle? Yes
          14. If you had a wheelchair or ECV where was it during the transfer? Right there - but you can't transfer directly. You have to stand up first.
          15. What side do you enter the vehicle from? the right. Do you exit from this same side? Yes
          16. Where was your wheelchair, ECV, cane, etc while you were on the ride? Was it brought back to you at the exit? See above. It is taken to the exit while you are riding. The CM stays with it until you are off the ride.
              
          17. Did you use a wheelchair accessible ride vehicle? How do you enter this vehicle? How well did your wheelchair fit? Not applicable
              How much of an extra wait did you have for this vehicle? Not applicable, but the extra wait to be loaded can be 20 minutes or more if there are other wheelchair parties ahead of you.
              How many wheelchairs can fit in one vehicle? Is there room for someone to accompany the wheelchair user? N/A
              
              
              The Exit:
              1. What do you exit into? A lobby type area, then up a moving walkway. Wheelchair brakes must be on thru at least some parts, but you can push the chair thru other parts. through a store? At the end of the long moving walkway, you empty into a store/arcade. But the door is right there - you don't have to walk thru the store/arecade. into another building? outside? If outside, is it shaded or directly into the sun? The sun is bright coming out of the ride.
              2. Where was the exit compared to where you enter? Just a few feet - the other side of the FP machines.
              3. Is the exit uphill, downhill or flat?
              [/QUOTE] Flat outside the building.

 

[eternaldisneyfan]

Mickey's Philharmagic

Information about you (or the person you assisted):

What type of needs for accomodation did you have?

4 people

Me (Christamae): Severe Muscular Dystrophy: heat and sun sensitivity, fatigue issues, pain issues, severe generalized muscle weakness, no balance, orthopedic problems, feeding tube, trach, and vent. Breathing treatments, medication, and specialized gtube formula needed throughout the day.

Sister (Danielle): Moderately severe Muscular Dystrophy, fatigue issues, pain issues, severe generalized muscle weakness, very limited balance, orthopedic problems, impaired breathing.

Mom (Christine) Mild/moderate Muscular Dystrophy, fatigue issues, generalized muscle weakness, impaired balance, orthopedic problems, impaired breathing. Can walk short distances on smooth, level surface.

Grandma (June): severe arthritis, heart bypass, diabetes, wet macular degeneration (legally blind in one eye), impaired hearing. Normally walks on regular outings but uses a wheelchair at extended outings ie zoo, Muir Woods, etc

Were you using any assistive device, such as a manual wheelchair, power wheelchair, ECV, walker, special needs stroller, etc?

Me: customized Invacare electric wheelchair with head rest, many supports, custom foot plates, and midline control and homemade vent tray, Flexiflo feeding pump, Mic-Key GJ tube, Bivona trach, Newport HT50 Ventilator

Danielle: customized Invacare electric wheelchair with head rest, many supports, custom tray, and midline control

Mom: standard Invacare electric wheelchair

Grandma: rented ECV from Randy’s

If so, how large (approximate) is your device?

Me: 44-46 inches
Danielle: 42-44 inches
Mom: 38-40 inches

Approach to the Ride:

Is the approach to the building/attraction uphill?No
Is there a handicapped entrance in a different location? No
Do you need to go to a special area/use an elevator to access the ride entrance? No
Is it possible to view a ride vehicle before getting into the queue? No


The Queue:

Did you use the regular entrance, Fastpass or Exit to get to the ride? FP
Is the queue indoors or outdoors? Shaded or not? Partly indoors, partly outdoors and shaded
Did you have any problems with navigating the queue? No
How wide is the queue (approximation)? Easily wide enough for a wheelchair and person
Are there sharp turns/U-turns in the queue? Yes
Are there turnstiles anywhere in the queue? Yes
Is it indoors (very smooth surface) or is the surface rough? Mostly indoors, all smooth
About how long is the queue (distance, not wait time)? Long but once the theatre opens moves quickly
Is the queue area noisy? Moderately
Is the queue dark or bright? a little dark
Does the queue wind around so that your area of the queue is close to other parts of the queue? yes


The Preshow:
Is there any preshow or is it just a waiting area? very short pre-show just before entering
Where is the preshow located? I think it was all audio
Is it accessible to people using wheelchair/scooters, or do you bypass it?
Accessible
Is there any seating in the preshow area? if so, what is it like? No
How long is the pre-show? Less then 5 minutes
How crowded is the preshow area? People in wheelchairs are in a separate area...Everyone is told to move in/forward, get closer, etc
Is the preshow and/or boarding area dark, bright? noisy? any other information to share? After you get through the line, people in wheelchairs are directed to the doors that open to the wheelchair seats

Theatres:
How much wheelchair/ECV seating is there? I believe 12 spots
Are there individual seats or bench seats? Padded or not padded? Individual, padded
If it is an individual seat, do you have to fold down the seat first? Yes
Did you sit in the front or the rear of the theatre? Where does the rest of your party sit?Rear, Danielle and I together, Dad next to me, Grandma transferred next to Dad, Mom sat in her wheelchair next to Grandma
Any other information? You can feel all the shows special effects from your wheelchair. Excellent seating, excellent show

The Exit:
What do you exit into? Outside shaded area, adjacent to a store
Is the exit uphill, downhill or flat? Flat

 

[eternaldisneyfan]

Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Information about you (or the person you assisted):

What type of needs for accomodation did you have?

4 people

Me (Christamae): Severe Muscular Dystrophy: heat and sun sensitivity, fatigue issues, pain issues, severe generalized muscle weakness, no balance, orthopedic problems, feeding tube, trach, and vent. Breathing treatments, medication, and specialized gtube formula needed throughout the day.

Sister (Danielle): Moderately severe Muscular Dystrophy, fatigue issues, pain issues, severe generalized muscle weakness, very limited balance, orthopedic problems, impaired breathing.

Mom (Christine) Mild/moderate Muscular Dystrophy, fatigue issues, generalized muscle weakness, impaired balance, orthopedic problems, impaired breathing. Can walk short distances on smooth, level surface.

Grandma (June): severe arthritis, heart bypass, diabetes, wet macular degeneration (legally blind in one eye), impaired hearing. Normally walks on regular outings but uses a wheelchair at extended outings ie zoo, Muir Woods, etc

Were you using any assistive device, such as a manual wheelchair, power wheelchair, ECV, walker, special needs stroller, etc?

Me: customized Invacare electric wheelchair with head rest, many supports, custom foot plates, and midline control and homemade vent tray, Flexiflo feeding pump, Mic-Key GJ tube, Bivona trach, Newport HT50 Ventilator

Danielle: customized Invacare electric wheelchair with head rest, many supports, custom tray, and midline control

Mom: standard Invacare electric wheelchair

Grandma: rented ECV from Randy’s

If so, how large (approximate) is your device?

Me: 44-46 inches
Danielle: 42-44 inches
Mom: 38-40 inches


Approach to the Ride:
Is the approach to the building/attraction uphill? No
Is there a handicapped entrance in a different location? No
Do you need to go to a special area/use an elevator to access the ride entrance? No
Where is wheelchair/ECV/stroller parking for those who choose to walk through the line? Relatively close to the regular queue
Is it possible to view a ride vehicle before getting into the queue? No

The Queue:
Did you use the regular entrance, Fastpass or Exit to get to the ride? Fastpass
Is the queue indoors or outdoors? Shaded or not? Outdoors. Extends into the sun but much is shaded. As you get closer to the ride there is air conditioning.
Did you have any problems with navigating the queue? What type of problem? Little children kept dashing in and out and swinging the chain link
How wide is the queue (approximation)? Wide enough for a wheelchair and companion
Are there sharp turns/U-turns in the queue? Yes
Are there turnstiles anywhere in the queue? Yes, but not by the wheelchair loading
Is the queue uphill or downhill? No
Is it indoors (very smooth surface) or is the surface rough? Smooth
About how long is the queue (distance, not wait time)? Moderately long
Is the queue area noisy? A bit
Is the queue dark or bright? A little dark at the loading area
Does the queue wind around so that your area of the queue is close to other parts of the queue? Yes

The Preshow:
Is there any preshow or is it just a waiting area? Waiting area

The Ride Vehicle and Boarding:
Can you see the boarding area before actually getting on (to help with planning)? No
How many people can sit per row/ride vehicle? 2 or 3
Did you have to sit with any people not in your party? No
Did you use the regular boarding area or another boarding area? If you choose to use the wheelchair accessible vehicle, you are pulled to a special boarding area by the exit as you near the front of the line
If you board at the exit, were people getting off in your path to get on? Yes
Is there a moving walkway? About how wide is it? No
Did you have a limited time period to board? Maybe. They stopped the ride to load but the guy had some difficulty getting the strap around my chair-then they had problems starting the ride and may have had to reboot it
How do you get into the vehicle? The standard vehicle you step across
How far down, up or across do you have to maneuver? Very little
How much back/head/neck support is there? Just a back
Can you reach other members of your party while riding? (hold hands, support, etc) Yes and ride on laps
Does the ride have an restraint? The standard vehicle has a lap bar
Is it possible for someone to help you get in and out of the vehicle? Yes
What side do you enter the vehicle from? Do you exit from this same side? Left, yes
Did you use a wheelchair accessible ride vehicle? How do you enter this vehicle? How well did your wheelchair fit? There is a slightly sloped ramp that extends from the side of the vehicle. I backed in and did a tight turn. Some wheelchairs can drive in straight and maneuver. You maneuver until you are by tie downs that grab and lock. There is also a seatbelt to further stabilize your chair
How much of an extra wait did you have for this vehicle? Less than 5 minutes
How many wheelchairs can fit in one vehicle? Is there room for someone to accompany the wheelchair user? One wheelchair, one companion

In order to get the full affects of the ride, you must ask for the bounce button or bounce to be turned on

The Exit:
What do you exit into? You make a tight turn off the wheelchair vehicle, go down a short path, through a gate, and into a store
Where was the exit compared to where you enter? Same place Compared to the stroller parking? A relatively short walk
Is the exit uphill, downhill or flat? Slightly downhill

 

[eternaldisneyfan]

3 Ride Warnings-2 w/special rules for wheelchairs

Information about you (or the person you assisted)
1. What type of needs for accomodation did you have?

4 people

Me (Christamae): Severe Muscular Dystrophy: heat and sun sensitivity, fatigue issues, pain issues, severe generalized muscle weakness, no balance, orthopedic problems, feeding tube, trach, and vent. Breathing treatments, medication, and specialized gtube formula needed throughout the day.

Sister (Danielle): Moderately severe Muscular Dystrophy, fatigue issues, pain issues, severe generalized muscle weakness, very limited balance, orthopedic problems, impaired breathing.

Mom (Christine) Mild/moderate Muscular Dystrophy, fatigue issues, generalized muscle weakness, impaired balance, orthopedic problems, impaired breathing. Can walk short distances on smooth, level surface.

Grandma (June): severe arthritis, heart bypass, diabetes, wet macular degeneration (legally blind in one eye), impaired hearing. Normally walks on regular outings but uses a wheelchair at extended outings ie zoo, Muir Woods, etc

2. Were you using any assistive device, such as a manual wheelchair, power wheelchair, ECV, walker, special needs stroller, etc?

Me: customized Invacare electric wheelchair with head rest, many supports, custom foot plates, and midline control and homemade vent tray, Flexiflo feeding pump, Mic-Key GJ tube, Bivona trach, Newport HT50 Ventilator

Danielle: customized Invacare electric wheelchair with head rest, many supports, custom tray, and midline control

Mom: standard Invacare electric wheelchair

Grandma: rented ECV from Randy’s
3. If so, how large (approximate) is your device?

Me: 44-46 inches
Danielle: 42-44 inches
Mom: 38-40 inches

Buzz Lightyear

Neither Danielle or I fit. Danielle was about an inch off, I was 2 or 3. I am not sure if it was the length or the midline controls. Also you are rushed getting on. And for someone with contractures, limited movement, or strength the shooter will be very hard or impossible to use.

Stitch's Great Escape

I was told that electric wheelchairs aren't allowed on this ride. I thought they meant ecv and had a ride operator look. Nope-electric wheelchairs. Evidently the batteries interfere with the position the wheelchair needs to be in. She also mentionied the headrest so I don't know if that would present a problem for the more specialized manual chairs

Aladdin's Flying Carpets

I was told that electric wheelchairs aren't allowed on this ride. The wheelchair is restrained by a raised block between the front and back wheels. The batteries interfere with the restraint.

 

[kidsister]

Hoping someone will post re POC. We are having a large minnie meet in December and one of our members is wheelchair bound...She adores POC and Captain Jack and is even hosting a 'pirate tutorial' meet. She's never been on POC due to restrictions re no wheelchairs. What I'm hoping will happen is that they will give us enough time (we'll have enough people for a full boat) to lift her from her wheel chair and set her into a seat. Do you think they will let us??? Is there a phone number I can call in advance to ask?

You can delete this from this thread as I know you just want the info posted here....and if anyone has any info, you might PM me? Thanks!

 

[SueM in MN]

Hoping someone will post re POC. We are having a large minnie meet in December and one of our members is wheelchair bound...She adores POC and Captain Jack and is even hosting a 'pirate tutorial' meet. She's never been on POC due to restrictions re no wheelchairs. What I'm hoping will happen is that they will give us enough time (we'll have enough people for a full boat) to lift her from her wheel chair and set her into a seat. Do you think they will let us??? Is there a phone number I can call in advance to ask?

You can delete this from this thread as I know you just want the info posted here....and if anyone has any info, you might PM me? Thanks!

I'll answer your question. I haven't posted anything I know because I don't need to gather information on myself because I already know what I know.

I will leave your post because if people add information, it will help in the information gathering.

If she has a power wheelchair or a non-folding manual wheelchair, she will probably have to change to a manual wheelchair at the entrance to the line
* they do keep some wheelchairs there for that reason.

The problem with wheelchairs for POC is that the boarding and the exit are in different buildings. The boarding is on the top level and the exit is actually in the 'basement' of the building.
After the people get off the boat, it goes up a sort of ramp to get back up to the boarding area. You can't see it going up the ramp - you can see some kind of 'curtains' that block the top area above the level of the boat. There is not head space to ride the boat from the exit to the beginning of the ride. So, there is no way to board at the exit as there is in some other rides.

There is also no easy way to get wheelchairs from boarding to exit unless it fits into the boat.
If it isn't busy, they will sometimes 'shuttle' a wheelchair from the boarding area to the exit, but some people have found they got to the exit before their wheelchair arrived there. So, it is better to take the manual wheelchair they offer if you can ride in it.
The queue is quite long, so if she is not able to sit in one of the park wheelchairs, she will only be able to ride if they can get her chair from the boarding area to the exit for her.
The boat is stopped when you are boarding and getting off. The CM will not 'dispatch' the boat to move until everyone is safely seated. So, you will have enough time, if you are able to get her in.

The problem is the difficulty in lifting someone on and off. The boat is actually lower than floor level and guests normally step over the side of the boat and then down to the seat and another step down from the seat to the floor of the boat.

To help you decide, I'd suggest you ride Small World before trying POC.
Small World has a wheelchair boat which your friend will be able to ride, but the regular boats are fairly similar to the POC boats. The seats on the side of the SW wheelchair boat are pretty much the same as the seats on the non-wheelchair boats. While you are waiting to board, watch people getting on to get an idea of the process. When you board the SW wheelchair boat, kind of take notice of how far down you have to step to get on and off. That will help you decide whether to even try POC or not.

At POC, there are 2 loading areas, one loads from the right side of the boat and the other loads from the left. There is only one unloading area and you will get off the boat toward your left.
There is a moving ramp (kind of like an escalator) directly forward as you get off the ride. You want to keep toward the wall on the left. You will see a small hallway on the left. There is a small elevator there, which goes up and leaves you out behind the bathrooms that are on the far side of the building (close to the railroad). The riders who go up the ramp will come out in the gift shop.
The attachment is a picture of the boat loading area on the left side.

 

[PrincessWendyBird]

Sue,

I have a question for you regarding POC. We ha some issues with this ride last year. I have a rare form of neuropathy related to my adrenal/thyroid disorder. This makes walking nearly impossible because of the pain. (also I tend to lose feeling and trip over my own feet - not a pretty sight) Last year was my first in my wheelchair and the hostess CM insisted I leave my chair and that the walk was less than 100 ft. Longest walk of my life. I am also so glad to know about the elevator now because that "ramp" at the exit was no fun either. I have a manual wheelchair. I can transfer and my DH helps me to do so. Can we fold the chair up and place it in the seat or should we have them try to shuttle it? I ask because I was in a lot of pain after that experience and really don't want to have a repeat event. Also, you may want to note in your book for people to insist on the manual chair - it was a long and painful walk through the queue line for me. We met another family who had the same experience with POC. It could have been that particular CM, but the line was not as short as she had stated!

 

[SueM in MN]

I have a manual wheelchair. I can transfer and my DH helps me to do so. Can we fold the chair up and place it in the seat or should we have them try to shuttle it?

That CM was wrong on several points.
As you found out, the queue is very long. It is also winding and, depending on how they have the chains set up to close off areas, sometimes, it can be even longer than other times.

The ride is listed in the Guidebook for Guests with disABILITIES as
"Pirates of the Caribbean

First the attraction inspired the movies — now the movies have inspired the attraction! Captain Jack's joined the crew! Get ready to set sail on this boisterous journey to discover Captain Jack and his nemesis Barbossa interacting with some of your favorite Audio-Animatronics® buccaneers and adding a terrific twist to the classic adventure — along with new special effects.

Location: Adventureland®

Guests must transfer from motorized scooter or ECV to an available wheelchair, then from the wheelchair to the attraction/ride vehicle."

if you had a manual wheelchair, they should have allowed you to take it in line with you. If it will fold, they can fold it and put it in the back seat.
My DD's manual wheelchair doesn't fold, but they have shuttled if to the exit for us and in the past, a CM has put it into the rear seat of the boat because it is fairly small and light.

 

[PrincessWendyBird]

Thanks so much Sue, I hated to go OT, but that experience is one I don't want anyone to have to go through. I want to be a little more prepared for our December trip. I had read all of the guide books for disabilities and many message boards, but the CM was so persistent. I have learned over time that I sometimes have to be persistent too. Thanks so much. I'm looking through my journal from our trip to see if I can add any ride information to this thread! Thanks Again!

 

[SueOKW]

Splash Mountain - this was hard - the questions are excellent. Nice job.



My son has Cerebral Palsy and cannot move himself or transfer.
He is in a manual wheelchair – jr. adult size.

Approach:
To get to the ride you either arrive by train and your approach to the building is downhill. If you walk there you will go up a hill and down a hill.
The line is the same for everyone – FPs in one everyone else in the other.
There’s no where to see the vehicle ahead of time.

The Queue:
The queue is shaded.
Wheelchairs are spun off from the main queue right before the steps, and you directed on a path toward the exit of the ride. You go by people waiting in line.
You then have to go up the exit ramp – think salmon. It’s about 3 people wide and if memory served, 2 turns where people could run into you. It’s a little hazardous and loud with each log that is emptied.

No Preshow.

The Ride Vehicle
You will be directed to the right over by a wall to gather your belongings and park the chair.
I believe you do have a limited time to board, we always feel slightly rushed. We have to pick Kevin up and step into the boat with him cradled in our arms. I’ve never seen a special log.
There are no restraints. Whoever is sitting next to Kevin has to hold him right and tight.
There are two people per row.
Kev’s chair was right where we left it, next to the exit ramp.
The ride is not jerky, except in one spot after your first big hill. Part of the ride is outdoors in the sun.

The Exit:
You exit down the ramp you came up into the photo area, and through a store.
From here, there is no where to go but uphill.

Great project!!!

 

[eternaldisneyfan]

Jungle Cruise

Information about you (or the person you assisted):
1. What type of needs for accomodation did you have?

4 people

Me (Christamae): Severe Muscular Dystrophy: heat and sun sensitivity, fatigue issues, pain issues, severe generalized muscle weakness, no balance, orthopedic problems, feeding tube, trach, and vent. Breathing treatments, medication, and specialized gtube formula needed throughout the day.

Sister (Danielle): Moderately severe Muscular Dystrophy, fatigue issues, pain issues, severe generalized muscle weakness, very limited balance, orthopedic problems, impaired breathing.

Mom (Christine) Mild/moderate Muscular Dystrophy, fatigue issues, generalized muscle weakness, impaired balance, orthopedic problems, impaired breathing. Can walk short distances on smooth, level surface.

Grandma (June): severe arthritis, heart bypass, diabetes, wet macular degeneration (legally blind in one eye), impaired hearing. Normally walks on regular outings but uses a wheelchair at extended outings ie zoo, Muir Woods, etc

2. Were you using any assistive device, such as a manual wheelchair, power wheelchair, ECV, walker, special needs stroller, etc?

Me: customized Invacare electric wheelchair with head rest, many supports, custom foot plates, and midline control and homemade vent tray, Flexiflo feeding pump, Mic-Key GJ tube, Bivona trach, Newport HT50 Ventilator

Danielle: customized Invacare electric wheelchair with head rest, many supports, custom tray, and midline control

Mom: standard Invacare electric wheelchair

Grandma: rented ECV from Randy’s

3. If so, how large (approximate) is your device?

Me: 44-46 inches
Danielle: 42-44 inches
Mom: 38-40 inches

Approach to the Ride
1. Is the approach to the building/attraction uphill? No
2. Is there a handicapped entrance in a different location? Yes and No
3. Do you need to go to a special area/use an elevator to access the ride entrance? There is a ramp by the Swiss Family Treehouse to access the queue. After waiting in line, you are pulled to the side to board. If you are transferring, this is where your wheelchair stays. If you are using the wheelchair accessible boat, you wait until it arrives
4. Where is wheelchair/ECV/stroller parking for those who choose to walk through the line? Adjacent to the ride entrance
5. Is it possible to view a ride vehicle before getting into the queue? No

The Queue
1. Did you use the regular entrance, Fastpass or Exit to get to the ride? Fastpass
2. Is the queue indoors or outdoors? Shaded or not? Outdoors. Mostly in the sun. The area that people in wheelchairs are pulled to is completely in the sun
3. Did you have any problems with navigating the queue? No
4. How wide is the queue (approximation)? Wide enough for a wheelchair and companion
5. Are there sharp turns/U-turns in the queue? No
6. Are there turnstiles anywhere in the queue? No
7. Is the queue uphill or downhill? No
8. Is it indoors (very smooth surface) or is the surface rough? Relatively smooth
9 About how long is the queue (distance, not wait time)? Moderate length
10. Is the queue area noisy? No
11. Is the queue dark or bright? Bright from the reflection off the water
12. Does the queue wind around so that your area of the queue is close to other parts of the queue? Fastpass line is parallel to the standard queue
13. Anything else about the queue that you want to mention? (Scary, Claustrophobic, etc). It was very hot

The Preshow:
1. Is there any preshow or is it just a waiting area? Just a waiting area

The Ride Vehicle and Boarding:
1. Can you see the boarding area before actually getting on (to help with planning)? Yes, when you are pulled to the wheelchair loading area
2. How many people can sit per row/ride vehicle? 5-10
3. Did you have to sit with any people not in your party? It's a large boat so you will be with other people
4. Did you use the regular boarding area or another boarding area? Separate
5. If you board at the exit, were people getting off in your path to get on? Not really
6. Is there a moving walkway? About how wide is it? No
8. Did you have a limited time period to board? No
9. How do you get into the vehicle? If you transfer it is a big step down. If you use the wheelchair accessible boat, you pull straight on to the lift which is lowered and turned forward
How far down, up or across do you have to maneuver? A 8-10 inch step down
10. How stable is the ride vehicle while boarding? Are there any bars or supports or parts of the ride car you could grab when transferring? The boat rocks and there aren't any substantial holds
14. Can you reach other members of your party while riding? (hold hands, support, etc) Yes, and ride on laps
15. Does the ride have an restraint? No restraint
16. Is it possible for someone to help you get in and out of the vehicle?
Yes. Dad helped Mom in by balancing her and kinda catching her when she stepped down
17. If you had a wheelchair or ECV where was it during the transfer? Mom and Grandma's were in the wheelchair loading area
18. What side do you enter the vehicle from? Do you exit from this same side? Right, yes
19. Where was your wheelchair, ECV, cane, etc while you were on the ride? Was it brought back to you at the exit? Mom and Grandma's were in the wheelchair loading area. No, they don't want it that close to the water
20. Did you use a wheelchair accessible ride vehicle? How do you enter this vehicle? How well did your wheelchair fit? Yes. Pulled straight on to the lift which is lowered and turned forward. Good fit
How much of an extra wait did you have for this vehicle? Awhile. 20-30 minutes. The family behind us got tired of waiting and opted for a difficult transfer
How many wheelchairs can fit in one vehicle? Is there room for someone to accompany the wheelchair user? One. Yes. There were two wheelchair accessible boats but one wasn't working when we were there
Where did they sit and how close are they to the wheelchair user? The wheelchair user is distanced from everyone else as they are centered in the boat

Very important: If you have any doubt about your ability to transfer-use the wheelchair accessible boat! My mom barely got out. Only when Dad put his hands under her behind and lifted her out. They will not allow an ambulatory person to use the lift to assist with transfers


The Exit:
1. What do you exit into? through a store? into another building? outside? If outside, is it shaded or directly into the sun? Outside,in the sun
2. Where was the exit compared to where you enter? Same spot
3. Is the exit uphill, downhill or flat? Flat

 

[mmmbop]

Let me just say, I think this is a WONDERFUL idea! I was browsing this board, looking for any updates about how Haunted Mansion handles the handicapped queue with the renovations.

But, while I'm here, I'll share my experience & what I know about Big Thunder Mountain Railroad


Information about you (or the person you assisted)

1. What type of needs for accomodation did you have?
Just needed an ECV for my grandmother. Grandmother has bad arthritis and can only walk about 20 feet or stand less than one minute.
2. Were you using any assistive device, such as a manual wheelchair, power wheelchair, ECV, walker, special needs stroller, etc? ECV
3. If so, how large (approximate) is your device? Unsure; both rented from Walker Mobility & ordered the Solo model.
4. Did you use assistive listening devices, captioning, interpretation, etc. No.


Approach to the Ride

1. Is the approach to the building/attraction uphill? It is a downward hill until you get into either the stand-by line or the handicapped entrance, then it is uphill.
2. Is there a handicapped entrance in a different location? Yes, the exit of the ride (if you are facing the stand by line, keep going left against traffic).
3. Do you need to go to a special area/use an elevator to access the ride entrance? No, just go to the exit.
4. Where is wheelchair/ECV/stroller parking for those who choose to walk through the line? Unsure.
5. Is it possible to view a ride vehicle before getting into the queue? Unsure, but do not believe so.
6. Any other information?


The Queue

1. Did you use the regular entrance, Fastpass or Exit to get to the ride? Exit
2. Is the queue indoors or outdoors? Shaded or not? The handicapped queue is completely unshaded. The stand-by queue is in a building without windows. If the line is long enough, it will extend out into the unshaded region.
3. Did you have any problems with navigating the queue? What type of problem? As you enter the handicapped queue, it is very dark. They will make sure everyone has exited the vehicle and also is out of the exit.
4. How wide is the queue (approximation)? Wide enough to get the ECV through, but not much wider than that.
5. Are there sharp turns/U-turns in the queue? No.
6. Are there turnstiles anywhere in the queue? Standby queue, yes. Handicapped, no.
7. Is the queue uphill or downhill? Level
8. Is it indoors (very smooth surface) or is the surface rough? If memory serves me correctly, it is gravel until you reach the loading area, which is wood.
9. About how long is the queue (distance, not wait time)? Standby, very long. The handicapped queue, not very long.
10. Is the queue area noisy? Standby yes, handicapped no.
11. Is the queue dark or bright? Dark
12. Does the queue wind around so that your area of the queue is close to other parts of the queue? No. Completely separate queues.
13. Anything else about the queue that you want to mention? (Scary, Claustrophobic, etc). If entering the handicapped queue, as you enter the attraction, it is very dark and narrow. It is a relatively short walkway, but once you enter the loading area, it is still dim. You will have to wait for people to exit where you are standing, then scurry over to the ride vehicle.


The Preshow:

1. Is there any preshow or is it just a waiting area? Waiting area
2. Where is the preshow located? (on TVs overhead? in front of you?)
3. Is the preshow captioned or otherwise accessible for people with hearing disabilities?
4. Is it accessible to people using wheelchair/scooters, or do you bypass it?
5. Where are wheelchairs/ECVs parked during the preshow and can you see from there?
6. Is there any seating in the preshow area? if so, what is it like?
7. How long is the pre-show?
8. How crowded is the preshow area (such as, do they keep telling people to go all the way to the front?)
9. Is the preshow and/or boarding area dark, bright? noisy? any other information to share?


The Ride Vehicle and Boarding:

1. Can you see the boarding area before actually getting on (to help with planning)? No
2. How many people can sit per row/ride vehicle? 2 adults
3. Did you have to sit with any people not in your party? No
4. Did you use the regular boarding area or another boarding area? Regular boarding area.
5. If you board at the exit, were people getting off in your path to get on? Yes. They asked my grandmother to stand slightly before the ride vehicle pulled up, and continue to stand as the people exited the vehicle. My grandmother cannot stand that long (and was afraid someone would bump into her and she'd fall) and remained in her ECV until everyone was off and proceeded to the ride vehicle.
6. Is there a moving walkway? About how wide is it? No
7. Was the moving walkway slowed or stopped for you? Did you have to ask for this? Did you feel the speed was appropriate for you?
8. Did you have a limited time period to board? If so, aproximately how long did you have to get on? Did you feel like it was enough time? Yes, only a few moments to board. My grandmother felt rushed because some people were lingering in the unloading area, but where she parks the scooter is close enough to the ride vehicle she was able to safely make it in.
9. How do you get into the vehicle? (Examples would be stepping down into a boat like POTC; step up into a ride vehicle such as Mission:Space; or across to a seat/bench?
How far down, up or across do you have to maneuver? A small step down.
10. How stable is the ride vehicle while boarding? Are there any bars or supports or parts of the ride car you could grab when transferring? Very stable, you can hold onto both the front and back of your seat as you enter.
11. Is there a particular seat or row that is best to transfer to? Why did you think that row/seat was better (more room, better ability to grab something, etc?) No, they all are pretty equal.
12. Was there a specific ride vehicle that was made for easier transfers? Not that I know of.
13. How much back/head/neck support is there? Is there any trunk support? No head/neck support.
14. Can you reach other members of your party while riding? (hold hands, support, etc) One can ride in the seat next to you.
15. Does the ride have an restraint? What type? Does it touch you? Do you have to fasten and unfasten the restraint yourself? A lap bar that touches your lap. No fastening of the lap belt, it just pulls down.
16. Is it possible for someone to help you get in and out of the vehicle?
If someone helped transfer, what type of transfer was done (sliding board, stand and pivot, lift, etc.)? Unsure, as my grandmother just held on to the vehicle to get in/pull herself up to get out.
17. If you had a wheelchair or ECV where was it during the transfer? Where my grandmother had parked it.
18. What side do you enter the vehicle from? Do you exit from this same side? If you are facing the same way as the train (the caboose being behind you), you enter from the left side. You also exit from the same side.
19. Where was your wheelchair, ECV, cane, etc while you were on the ride? Was it brought back to you at the exit? ECV remained where we left it. Wheelchairs will be folded up and brought to you if both trains are working. If you have an ECV and both trains are running, it is possible you will need to ride twice to get on the same side as your ECV.
20. Did you use a wheelchair accessible ride vehicle? How do you enter this vehicle? How well did your wheelchair fit? N/A
How much of an extra wait did you have for this vehicle?
How many wheelchairs can fit in one vehicle? Is there room for someone to accompany the wheelchair user?
Where did they sit and how close are they to the wheelchair user? Could more than one person sit there?


Theatres:

1. How much wheelchair/ECV seating is there?
2. Are there individual seats or bench seats? Padded or not padded?
3. If it is an individual seat, do you have to fold down the seat first?
4. Do the bench seats have backs?
5. Did you sit in the front or the rear of the theatre?
6. Where does the rest of your party sit?
7. Any other information?


The Exit:

1. What do you exit into? through a store? into another building? outside? If outside, is it shaded or directly into the sun? Outside, directly into the sun.
2. Where was the exit compared to where you enter? Compared to the stroller parking? Same place where you enter the handicapped queue.
3. Is the exit uphill, downhill or flat? Once you exit, it is downhill then you will go uphill to get back to the shops of Frontierland.

 

[SueM in MN]

Let me just say, I think this is a WONDERFUL idea! I was browsing this board, looking for any updates about how Haunted Mansion handles the handicapped queue with the renovations.

Haunted Mansion is not much different for handicapped access after the renovation than it was before.
What they did to the queue was removed the Fast Pass line, so there is only one line. People using wheelchairs or ECVs wait in the regular line until fairly close to the turnstiles that lead into the stretching room. At that point, wheelchair users wait at the 'hearse' until a CM comes to get them.
If you can stand during the stretching room shoe and walk thru the boarding area, you can see the stretching room. If, not, some posters (including us) have been told that wheelchairs are not allowed into the stretching room under any circumstances because it was determined to be a dangerous situation to have them in there. Other people have posted they were told they could bring their wheelchair in and then go back to the exit for boarding after the stretching room show.