Universal Orlando Resort has excellent news for guests with disabilities looking for significant changes within the parks this year.
Disney, you should be ashamed of yourself.
Universal Orlando Resort Outshines Disney With New Disability Access Overhaul
Universal Orlando Resort has introduced significant changes to its disability access program for the upcoming Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) event, aimed at providing a more seamless and inclusive experience for guests with disabilities.
The adjustments, which include the ability for guests to sign up for return times at multiple kiosks throughout the park, mark a considerable enhancement over previous years and position Universal as a leader in accessibility within the theme park industry.
Starting this year, guests attending Halloween Horror Nights with a disability access pass can secure return times for the event’s haunted houses at any of several strategically located kiosks across the park.
This change allows guests to conveniently reserve a spot at a house in front of the park while at the back and vice versa, significantly reducing the physical strain and logistical challenges often faced by those with disabilities.
In previous years, guests with disabilities had to visit each haunted house or attraction to secure a return time, which could mean traversing the park’s vast layout multiple times in a single evening. The new system is designed to alleviate that burden, ensuring all guests can enjoy the event more efficiently, regardless of their physical abilities.
For those that need an AAP pass during #HHN33 , Keep an eye out for signs like these around the park that will let you know where you can pick up an AAP pass – @EthanHershaft on X
For those that need an AAP pass during #HHN33 , Keep an eye out for signs like these around the park that will let you know where you can pick up an AAP pass pic.twitter.com/KFU2r3H64U
— Ethan Hershaft (@EthanHershaft) August 28, 2024
Universal’s proactive approach contrasts sharply with the recent changes made by Walt Disney World Resort to its Disability Access Service (DAS) pass, which has faced criticism from guests and disability advocates alike.
Disney’s revised program, intended to streamline the process and reduce abuse of the system, has instead resulted in complaints of increased wait times, limited availability, and confusion over how the new system works.
Many guests with disabilities have expressed frustration with Disney’s DAS pass modifications, noting that the changes have made it more challenging to plan their day and access the attractions they want to experience.
How the Theme Park Giant Will Pave the Way, Unlike Disney
Some have reported that the new requirements, including a more complex verification process and restrictions on when and how return times can be booked, have diminished the sense of spontaneity and enjoyment that Disney parks are known for.
In contrast, Universal’s updated disability access program for Halloween Horror Nights has been widely praised for its simplicity and effectiveness. By offering multiple kiosks for return time sign-ups, Universal has made the process more convenient and equitable, allowing guests to navigate the park and enjoy the event without unnecessary stress.
The positive reception of Universal’s changes has not gone unnoticed, with many industry observers suggesting that the move could set a new standard for disability access in theme parks.
By addressing the specific needs of guests with disabilities and implementing a solution that enhances their experience, Universal is meeting and exceeding expectations in a way that its competitors have struggled to do. The enhancements to Universal’s disability access program come when inclusivity and accessibility are increasingly recognized as essential components of the theme park experience.
As parks continue to recover from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, offering a welcoming and accommodating environment for all guests is more important than ever.
Universal’s decision to upgrade its disability access program for Halloween Horror Nights represents a strategic advantage and a moral imperative. By taking the accessibility lead, Universal differentiates itself from Disney and solidifies its reputation as a forward-thinking and guest-centric destination.
Guests attending Halloween Horror Nights this year are already expressing their appreciation for the changes. Social media platforms have been flooded with positive comments from guests excited to experience the event without the logistical hurdles that previously hindered their enjoyment.
As the theme park industry continues to evolve, Universal Orlando Resort’s commitment to accessibility stands as a shining example of how thoughtful innovation can enhance the guest experience for everyone.
With the new disability access program for Halloween Horror Nights, Universal has again demonstrated its dedication to creating a more inclusive and enjoyable environment, setting a high bar for competitors to follow.
Prepare to race across the cosmos with the Ride Guys. Here is an exclusive look at Stardust Racers, coming to Universal Epic Universe in 2025.
Prepare to race across the cosmos with the Ride Guys. Here is an exclusive look at Stardust Racers, coming to Universal Epic Universe in 2025. 💫
Full episode here: https://t.co/BWC74VkwXv pic.twitter.com/m2hEK20HwI
— Universal Orlando Resort (@UniversalORL) August 16, 2024
In the meantime, this Universal destination is gearing up for an all-new theme park, Epic Universe, which will open its doors next year. The Dark Universe, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, an expansion to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Celestial Park, and more will be coming as lands with brand-new attractions that will make this Universal destination one for the books.
The Universal Epic Universe theme park will join the likes of Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure, and Universal Volcano Bay as a week-long vacation destination for guests.
In summary, Universal Orlando Resort’s enhancements to its disability access program for Halloween Horror Nights represent a significant step forward in accessibility, allowing guests to sign up for return times at multiple kiosks throughout the park.
This change not only makes the event more enjoyable for guests with disabilities but also positions Universal as a leader in theme park inclusivity, especially in contrast to recent struggles with Disney’s Disability Access Service.
By prioritizing guest experience and accessibility, Universal has set a new standard for the industry, demonstrating its commitment to creating a more inclusive environment for all visitors.