The Ultimate Guide to Accessible Anaheim

Whenever you are planning a holiday or day trip, finding information on accessibility is an essential task. But even in today's world of greater inclusivity, this information can be tricky to locate. Luckily help is at hand.

If you are planning a trip to Anaheim and need to know all the key information relating to accessibility, you have come to exactly the right place. This article contains details of the best Anaheim attractions for wheelchair users to visit, information of how to find your way around the city, and recommendations and tips on where to eat and sleep.

About Accessible Anaheim

Compared to many US cities, Anaheim is extremely accessible for wheelchair users. There are very few steep hills, most of the walkways are wide and well-paved, plus the majority of popular venues in the city are wheelchair friendly.

As such, the feedback from our Wheel the World community is overwhelmingly positive from Anaheim. The urban areas are described as well-maintained and generally accessible for wheelchair users. Of course, there will inevitably be areas of the city with uneven surfaces and inclines, but these are relatively few and far between.

As for Disneyland, the main areas of the Resort rate very highly for accessibility. The walkways are well-paved, as are the attraction areas. There are also plenty of ramps and designated areas for people with mobility issues.

Both the city and Resort have a multitude of accessible restrooms, so wherever you are in Anaheim, you should not be too far from a suitable restroom.

Why Travel to Anaheim?

Disneyland is, without a doubt, the most famous tourist attraction in Anaheim. But, downtown Anaheim is full of impressive-looking modern buildings and fabulous shops. For those looking for something a bit quirkier than your usual city center, the historic Center St Promenade is a district full of small restaurants, independent shops, and lively street vendors. Alternatively, the Anaheim Packing House district has a selection of modern, artisan outlets, including foods from all over the world.

The craft beer revolution has firmly landed in Anaheim. The city has an ever-growing collection of independent bars and breweries, many of which stock beers from award-winning local breweries. If you love craft beer, you'll certainly have a good time in this city.

The Anaheim House of Blues has hosted world-class rock and blues music acts for over 25 years. Famous names as diverse as BB King, Skid Row, and Imagine Dragons (just to name a few) have performed at the venue, which is still going strong. The venue has ADA seating and easy access for wheelchair users.

When to visit Anaheim

Anaheim has some wonderful attractions available throughout the year, but choosing the best time to visit the city comes down to your personal preferences. There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best time to visit Anaheim: What will the weather be like? How busy will it be? Will everything be open? Here are the answers to those vital questions:

Fall

This time of year is generally more suitable for wheelchair users — the temperatures are lower (highs are between 68°F to 77°F) and there is often a nice breeze to reduce the humidity levels. Perfect if you are planning on spending most of your time outside.

Spring

Similar to the Fall, Spring is a great time to enjoy the outdoors. Maximum temperatures sit between 68°F to 77°F and will get warmer as the season progresses. Be aware though that sporadic rain is common, especially in the early months of Spring.

Summer

As you would expect, July and August are typically the hottest months (with little rain) in Anaheim, with temperatures regularly reaching 86°F and occasionally reaching 95°F. With no cooling ocean breeze to help matters, this can make things uncomfortable if you spend too long outside.

Winter

The winter months are cooler (highs of 59°F to 68°F and lows of below 50°F) and there are occasional rainy days (something that is extremely rare for the rest of the year). Nevertheless, the majority of winter is mild, and suitable for outdoor activities.

Anaheim is usually a warm (or even hot) city. So whilst you may wish to pack a light coat or jumper, it is generally advisable to wear light clothing. This is especially true if you are visiting Disneyland or any other city attraction, as these visits are likely to involve plenty of wheeling.

Season recommendations

Still not sure when to visit? Well, let's cover some of the main interests and events that might help make your decision easier.

• If you want to avoid big crowds (often a key consideration for wheelchair users), then you should probably stay away from Anaheim during the summer recess and public holidays such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• The majority of attractions in Anaheim, including Disneyland, are open throughout the year. However, during the peak summer months of June to August you will find that the prices of these attractions, plus those of hotels and even restaurants, can rise. It is also important to factor in your travel prices — which can also be higher during the summer months.
• The shoulder seasons of March to May and September to early November, are typically the best times to visit the city if you want good weather AND smaller crowds. Not only that, but big discounts are usually on offer.
• December to February though colder, are very popular times. It's very busy so booking in advance is essential. However, this is a great time if you want to get into the festive spirit or have children to bring along.

Where to stay in Anaheim

All wheelchair users know that accessibility is the single most important consideration when looking for an appropriate hotel to stay in. The good news is that Anaheim has an excellent selection of suitable hotels for wheelchair users. These hotels offer indoor swimming pools with lifts, accessible car park access, reserved parking spaces, roll-in showers or accessible bathtubs, and more.

The Hilton Anaheim offers 4-star luxury accommodation in the heart of the city. Conveniently located next to the Anaheim Convention Center, the Hilton is equipped with accessible rooms containing either bathtubs or roll-in showers, both of which are equipped with grab bars.

If you are heading to Disneyland Resort, then the Disneyland Hotel is the place to stay. As the name suggests, the hotel is located right next to the resort, perfect for giving wheelchair users hassle-free access to the park. The hotel itself has accessible rooms, all of which have step-free access, roll-in showers (complete with handrails and a shower seat), assistive listening devices, and a mobile key entry system.

Additionally, the Good Neighbor Hotels are a very good option if you're planning to go to Disneyland Resort. These provide accessibility features, are within walking distance, and are quite affordable. Here is a list of some of those hotels:

• Anaheim Marriott Hotel - roll-in shower (or bathtub option), shower grab bars, toilet grab bars, and more. Located roughly 1/2-mile to 1 mile from Disneyland.
• Candlewood Suites Anaheim - spacious rooms with a roll-in shower, grab bars, and shower seat. Equipped with a kitchenette. Located roughly 1/2 mile to 1 mile from Disneyland
• Desert Palms Hotel & Suites - equipped with roll-in showers, grab bars, and shower seat. Roughly a 1/2-mile walk from Disneyland.

Another option close to city center is Anaheim Hotel. This inclusive 3-star city center property has accessibility features throughout its communal areas. These include accessible public restrooms, gardens, and restaurants. The heated pool and spa are also equipped with ADA lifts. However you look at it, the Anaheim Hotel really pulls out the stops when it comes to accessibility, making it one of the best budget options for wheelchair users visiting the city.

Few hotels in Anaheim are as welcoming for wheelchair users as the Hotel Fera. In addition to a selection of rooms with roll-in showers and step-free access, guests at the hotel can also benefit from toilet grab bars (in rooms and public restrooms), accessible routes throughout the hotel, and excellent parking facilities. The hotel is situated in close proximity to the freeway and is just a short distance from the city's main shopping area. In short, it is the perfect location for wheelchair users looking for a spot of retail therapy in Anaheim.

If you are traveling with your family to Anaheim and operating on a relatively small budget, then the Holiday Inn Express could be the perfect choice. The hotel boasts an accessible suite, suitable for six guests.

Transportation in Anaheim

Accessible, wheelchair-friendly transport is essential if you are visiting Anaheim, and we are happy to report that the city is well-equipped in this area. Of course, for the majority of visitors to Anaheim, their first transportation issue involves getting from the airport to the city.

Getting to/from the Airport

Anaheim is served by multiple international airports. The John Wayne Airport Orange County(SNA) is the closest airport to the city and the most popular arrival point for visitors. Located just a few miles outside the city, John Wayne Airport offers an array of accessible options for getting to your desired Anaheim location. There are shuttle buses provided by (among others) Prime Time Shuttle and Super Shuttle, as well as taxi and rental car options. All of these services are located close to the baggage reclaim area and are easily accessible via wheelchair. Booking ahead to ensure accessible transport is advisable.

Alternatively, you may arrive at the smaller Long Beach Airport. Although this airport is slightly further out of town, it is still relatively easy to complete your transfer to Anaheim. There are rental services and taxi ranks just outside the airport, plus shuttle options. Again booking ahead is recommended.

The rapidly growing Ontario International Airport is located 35 miles (56 km) outside Anaheim. This airport boasts three terminals and is serviced by a huge range of domestic and international airlines. Unsurprisingly, the airport has a multitude of public transport links, including shuttle buses to and from Anaheim. Alternatively, you can pick up a taxi, hire a car, or even use a rideshare app to specify that accessible transportation is needed. A company to consider for this is Butterfli, an on-demand assisted transportation company with trained staff.

Regardless of which airport you arrive at, Wheel the World provides adapted transport options to help wheelchair users travel to the city, so if you have any concerns regarding your airport transfer, please get in touch.

Getting Around Anaheim

Anaheim has an extensive network of public transport links, many of which are suitable for wheelchair users. Knowing what these are and how to access them all is a must before you travel here.

Bus

Anaheim Regional Transportation (ART) is a network of 19 bus routes that run seven days a week. Designed to service Anaheim's many attractions, the services start an hour before the Disneyland Resort opens and continue until at least 30 minutes after it closes. All ART services can accommodate individuals with mobility challenges, and they connect hotels, and shopping malls with the major tourist attractions.

Additionally, the Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) operates a bus service that runs throughout the county. Neighborhoods are connected via various routes that include stops at popular destinations such as the Disneyland Resort, and the Anaheim Convention Center. All buses have wheelchair ramps and designated accessible seating.

Train

If you are planning to travel further afield, then the Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodel Center (commonly known as ARTIC) provides rail, bus, and taxi services from Anaheim to Los Angeles and other parts of California. The majority of ARTIC services are wheelchair friendly.

Amtrak and Metrolink trains are also available in Anaheim. Trains are fully accessible and have designated areas for wheelchairs and scooters.

Taxis

Options like Uber and Lyft operate in the area for added convenience. Both have accessible vehicles available through the Lyft Access and UberACCESS functions in the respective apps. These vehicles have ramps, lifts, and trained drivers to assist those with mobility needs.

Top 10 Things to do and Their Accessibility

While Anaheim is primarily focused on Disneyland, there are many other things to do. We're on hand to help you make the most of your trip, and can help you get day tickets to Disneyland, or hopper tickets for both Disney parks. For the full Disney experience, opting for a multi-day vacation package that includes Disney, accommodation, and transportation, (focused on accessibility) then we can help organize that as well.

But, what else is there to do aside from Disney?

1. Disneyland / Disney California Adventure Park

No visit to Anaheim would be complete without a trip to the Disneyland Resort. Right across the way is also California Adventure, another exciting theme park that offers more thrilling rides and attractions.

You can book single tickets for either park or opt for the Park Hopper, which allows guests to go back and forth between both parks during the day.

These world-famous theme parks attract an incredible number of visitors all year round and is home to a huge array of fantastic rides and attractions. The resort also provides some superb facilities for wheelchair users. There is a large reserved parking area close to the main entrance, dedicated loading and unloading areas to help wheelchair users access attractions, and even bespoke devices to help you get on and off rides. Throw in some special cushions to optimize your comfort plus a wheelchair rental service, and it is clear to see that Disneyland is dedicated to helping wheelchair users get the most out of their visit.

If you want to get the best possible experience from your visit to Disneyland, you can request to utilize certain programs:

• Disability Access Service - intended for individuals with developmental disabilities such as autism or a similar disorder.
• Location Return Time - for individuals who use mobility devices, this program allows them to request a return time for attractions and rides without having to wait in line. The designated return time will be similar to the current wait time.

2. Disneyland Downtown Disney District

This vibrant district is located right next to the Disneyland resort and contains a rich variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The majority of these venues have ramp access and other suitable facilities for wheelchair users.

3. Anaheim Packing District

The Packing District is an historic venue full of quirky shops and local food vendors, plus artisan restaurants, and a host of other fun venues. The district hosts regular events, like live music, and is regarded as one of the best venues in the city for wheelchair users. There are ramps and elevators throughout the district, as well as plenty of accessible restrooms and other facilities.

4. Angel Stadium of Anaheim

MLB franchise, the Los Angeles Angels play their home games at Angel Stadium, whilst the venue also plays host to a variety of concerts throughout the year. The good news for anyone looking to go to a game is that Angel Stadium has some excellent facilities for reduced mobility fans. This includes designated seating areas, complete with spaces for companions, a large reserved parking area, plus numerous ramps and accessible elevators.

5. Honda Center

The Honda Center is home to the NHL franchise the Anaheim Ducks. To many people, the Ducks are best known for being the inspiration behind the hugely successful Mighty Ducks movie, but today they are a successful hockey franchise who have won six Pacific Championships, and the Stanley Cup.

The Center has extensive facilities for wheelchair users. These include designated, easy-access seating areas (including spaces for companions) and large reserved parking areas.

6. Anaheim Garden Walk

This outdoor shopping complex offers a relaxed, spacious environment for shoppers looking to browse and hopefully pick up a bargain. Visitors with reduced mobility are catered for thanks to conveniently located ramps and elevators.

7. Adventure City

Visitors with young children will love a trip to Adventure City. This smaller theme park is an exciting venue full of fun rides, shows, and other family attractions. Many of the rides have designated spaces for wheelchair users, plus there are ramps and wide communal areas throughout the venue.

8. Yorba Regional Park

Yorba Regional Park offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Anaheim with its series of 4 lakes, greenery, and many paved trails that wind through the 140-acre park. The trails are generally flat with only minor inclines, making them accessible for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. The park is used for picnics, biking, fishing, paddle-boarding, and much more.

9. Anaheim Trails

Explore the great outdoors in and around Anaheim. There are many different trails with various lengths and difficulty, so click here to view trails all around the area that are considered wheelchair-accessible.

10. Center Street Promenade

This vibrant and trendy district in Anaheim offers a mix of boutique shops, delicious restaurants, and a weekly farmers market that takes place every Thursday from 11am to 3pm. There, visitors can stroll and take a gander at some of the local businesses, which is always fun to see whats available.

Accessible restaurants Recommended by our Community

Anaheim has a host of fantastic restaurants, and we are happy to report that many of these eateries are geared up for customers with mobility issues. Thanks to our growing Wheel the World community, we're able to list some of our favorites. All of them come with accessible features such as accessible restrooms, access ramps, wide aisles, open spaces, and more. Have a look below and choose the restaurants that suit your palette.

• Roy's Restaurant: renowned Hawaiian fusion offering high-end, contemporary food on West Katella Avenue.
• The Ranch: Michelin-listed meat lovers' paradise offering large-format meat dishes, all created with exceptional attention to detail. It's found on Ball Road.
• Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill: Popular casual dining restaurant serving tacos, burritos, and a host of other Mexican delicacies in Disneyland California Adventure Park.
• California Fish Grill: Premier fish restaurant for casual diners that serves charbroiled and fried seafood, as well as an array of meat dishes. Located on La Palma Avenue Anaheim Hills.
• Tony Roma's: Family-friendly restaurant that's home to some of the best ribs around, as well as a selection of other tasty dishes. Find it on S. Harbor Blvd.
• McCormick & Schmick's Grille: High-class seafood and steak chain, renowned for offering a relaxed, but high-end eating experience on Gardenwalk.
• Poppy & Seed: SoCal vibe with a huge outdoor area, complete with flowers, herbs, and trees on S. Anaheim Boulevard.
• The Cheesecake Factory: Famous dessert restaurant located on W Katella Avenue.
• P.F. Chang's: Family-friendly Asian restaurant offers a vibrant menu and can be visited on W. Katella Avenue.

Accessible tips from our community

Finding bathrooms

Due to the nature of Disneyland Resort and parks, it's typically very easy to find an accessible restroom when you need one. The parks, in particular, make it very easy with strategically placed, clearly labeled accessible restrooms. Not only are they easy to spot, they have wide doors, high toilet seats, and grab bars.

Within Anaheim itself, accessible restrooms can be found in shopping malls, and restaurants. Most have the international accessibility logo displayed. Impressively, Anaheim considered accessible restrooms to be a basic amenity, and, as such, they feature prominently as part of the general infrastructure ensuring comfort and inclusivity are maintained to the highest degree.

Packing list

Planning ahead can help to make a trip run smoothly. Here are some of our suggestions for packing essentials.

• Wheelchair battery charger
• Footrest and/or shower chair
• Medication
• Service dog essentials (if applicable)
• Disability documents and identification
• Converters if you live outside the USA

Wheelchair Repair Shops

If disaster strikes and your wheelchair develops a fault, don't panic. There are two wheelchair repair shops in the city:

• National Seating & Mobility — 1650 Sinclair St, Anaheim, CA 92806, United States
• Aero Rehab — 1001 N Weir Canyon Rd, Anaheim, CA 92807, United States

Both are centrally located and offer an extensive range of repair services.

Safety

Anaheim is a relatively safe city, but you should still exercise caution when out and about, especially at night. It is also essential that you use the harnesses and belts provided when traveling on public transport.

Finally, make sure you have contact details for Wheel the World on you at all times, as we will be able to assist should you encounter any issues on your trip. Not only that, but we can also help you plan your trip from start to finish should you need it.

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