Slinky Dog Dash Accessibility
Slinky Dog Dash is a fun and family-friendly outdoor roller coaster in the heart of Hollywood Studios’ Toy Story Land. With its bright theming and beloved toys, this attraction is a Toy Story fan favorite. There are, however, a few accessibility considerations to be aware of before riding.
Consideration: Physical Accessibility & Transferring
ECV riders will have to transfer to a wheelchair to navigate the queue. Wheelchairs are available for this purpose. Ask the ride attendant Cast Member (CM) if you need one. Once through the queue, you’ll need to transfer to the coaster. There is a small step down, but you can use the ride’s Slinky component as a support. The seat bench has a low divider, and the ride restraint is a pull-down lap bar that locks securely into place. I did not identify any immediate red flag barriers to transferring.
Consideration: Heat & Sunshine
Slinky Dog Dash is an outdoor coaster. Riders with heat or light sensitivity due to medications or sensory challenges should wear sunglasses and hats that can be secured firmly. Depending on the time of year and the magnitude of the concern, you may want to ride early in the morning or later in the evening.
Consideration: Ride Preparation
If you or someone in your group finds changes in routines challenging or feels anxious about thrilling rides like roller coasters, I highly recommend participating in ride preparation activities. First-person ride videos are available on YouTube.
By previewing the ride before your park day, the viewer knows what to expect. Additionally, these videos can serve as models of appropriate ride behavior. This can help support behavioral challenges that can arise in overstimulating circumstances.
Consideration: Preparing for Weather-Related Closures
Being an outdoor attraction, Slinky Dog Dash is subject to weather closures. Rain and lightning are the main causes, particularly in the summer. To help prepare individuals for this possibility, write a social story to establish comfort and familiarity with the procedures for an outdoor ride being closed and re-opened. Even better, laminate a physical copy so you can bring it to the parks. Review the story as soon as you see storm clouds rolling in.
The text of the social story can be as simple or complex as you feel is appropriate. Here’s an example of one you could use for any outdoor Disney attraction. Add pictures if you think it would be helpful.
- Some rides at Walt Disney World close when it is raining outside.
- If the ride closes, we will leave the line using quiet voices and nice hands.
- When the storm is over and it is safe, the rides will open.
- When the rides open, we will go back in line and have fun.
Disability Access Service (DAS) on Slinky Dog Dash
Using the Disability Access Service (DAS) on Slinky Dog Dash is straightforward. You will book the ride in the My Disney Experience (MDE) app and report to the Lightning Lane entrance at the return time.
Summary
Slinky Dog Dash is a fun, family-friendly outdoor coaster. As an attraction intended to be thrilling for younger riders, it is very accessible for those with sensory challenges. The ride vehicle’s wide opening and low, divided bench seat make it a relatively easy transfer for guests who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices. By keeping a few considerations in mind, you and your party can plan for a “golly bob-howdy” time!
