Olivia Ter-Berg, a Formats Producer with a disability called clubfoot, recently visited Disneyland Paris and found the park's Priority Card system to be a game-changer for accessibility. Over three days, she racked up nearly 90,000 steps, over 40,000 of them using crutches, and credits the Priority Card for making her trip significantly easier. The card, which provides priority access to rides, shows, parades, and character meet-and-greets, allowed her to bypass long queues and enjoy attractions with minimal wait times.
What is the Disneyland Priority Card?
The Priority Card is a free pass for visitors with officially recognized disabilities. It grants the cardholder and up to four companions priority access to rides and shows, or the cardholder plus two companions for parades and fireworks viewing areas. Additionally, an Easy Access Card provides an allocated return time, allowing visitors to explore other parts of the park while waiting. Ter-Berg notes that the Easy Access Card is not the full disability pass but allows holders to skip lines at certain times, alongside Premier Access guests who pay between €110 and €230 for an all-day pass.
How It Worked in Practice
Using the Priority Card, Ter-Berg accessed priority entrances at each ride, often through the exit or a separate queue shared with Premier Access guests. The most striking example was Frozen Ever After, where the regular queue wait was 90-130 minutes, but she waited a maximum of 10 minutes on three visits. Staff were friendly and helpful, making her feel cared for rather than a burden. She could take her crutches on most rides, and when not allowed, staff safely stored them and returned them promptly.
Evening Shows: A Highlight with Room for Improvement
The Priority Card proved invaluable for evening shows, where crowds queue for hours. Ter-Berg arrived just 30 minutes before showtime and had an unrestricted view. However, she points out a significant lack of seating in the accessible viewing areas, which was challenging for someone using crutches. She ended up sitting on the floor for parts of the shows. She also noted that accessible queues, such as for Crush's Coaster, lacked overhead coverage, which was problematic during heavy rain, making the ground and her crutches slippery.
Overall Positive Experience
Despite these minor drawbacks, Ter-Berg describes her experience as overwhelmingly positive, calling Disneyland Paris one of the most accessible places she has visited. She received first-class treatment and believes the park sets a high standard for other theme parks to follow.
How to Get a Priority Card
To obtain a Priority Card or Easy Access Card, visitors must apply online up to one month before their trip, uploading proof of disability recognized by their home country. For UK residents, a national disability card is sufficient. The card is collected at City Hall inside Disneyland Park, or at Disney Hotels if staying there. The process is simple and smooth, but proof is mandatory.
