Over the years, the Disneyland resort has improved a LOT when it comes to accessibility and disability accommodation. Most rides now have accessible entrances and exits or adaptable vehicles, and some even have additional options for guests that need a little extra help to enjoy the experience. But Disneyland Park in particular has a few attractions that can’t really adapt to be more accommodating because of how they were originally designed. When you have a park that’s 60+ years old, that’s unfortunately bound to be the case.
Thankfully, two of those older attractions offer an accessible experience – an alternative so any guest can experience a little bit of the magic.
First, let’s visit the Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough. The attraction’s entrance is on the right side of the rear of the castle. Instead, try going to the left, next to the exit. You’ll see a doorway marked “accessible entrance”.
Here you’ll find an ornate room with jewel storage fit for royalty.
The focal point of the room is this enchanted painting and storybook. The book is identical to those within the attraction, and the enchanted painting shows each of the dioramas visible in the walkthrough, so you don’t miss a single scene.
For guests that may have trouble standing to watch (or prefer to sit like royalty), there’s also a very fancy bench facing the display.
The other accessible variation of an attraction is over in Tomorrowland. This one isn’t as easily to just walk into. Instead, you’ll need a cast member to guide you in.
Head to the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage entrance and just let a cast member know you’d like to visit the accessible experience. Or, if you want to use the official lingo, say you want to visit the outpost. A cast member will guide you to the right side of the building (sort of near the Monorail walkway) and let you right in.
The two times I’ve visited this space, others joined me and it was basically impossible to get a photo without being in their space or hindering their viewing experience, so I left my camera alone. I did however find this great photo series from Reddit that shows exactly what the interior looks like.
Source: Reddit
On the screen, you’ll see the exact same view as you’d get from the portholes inside the submarine. This is also a great alternative if you’re claustrophobic and afraid to go into the subs.
You don’t need to be utilizing disability services or need any accessibility accommodation during your trip in order to access these experiences; they are there for everyone to enjoy. Just please be courteous to those around you, since for many, this is the only way they can enjoy these two attractions! And honestly – that’s just a good way to be no matter where you are or what you’re doing 🙂