Orange County, located in Southern California, is known for its beautiful beaches, family-friendly attractions, and vibrant cultural scene. With diverse activities ranging from theme parks to scenic coastal areas, the county offers a variety of accessible options for wheelchair users.
Outdoor Attractions
- Disneyland Resort: A world-renowned theme park featuring attractions, dining, and entertainment. Paved pathways throughout the park with accessible routes to all major attractions. Accessible restrooms, dining, and parking. Wheelchair rental available. Some attractions have height requirements and limited accessibility.
- Downtown Disney District: A lively area with shops and dining, featuring wide, paved pathways with accessible routes.
- Huntington Beach: Known as “Surf City,” this beach offers a wide sandy shore and a vibrant pier area. Paved boardwalk and access pathways. Beach wheelchairs are available. Accessible restrooms and parking. Soft sand can be challenging; beach wheelchairs can assist.
- Irvine Regional Park: A large park with scenic views, picnic areas, and the Orange County Zoo. Paved and well-maintained trails with accessible paths to key areas. Some trails have slight inclines. Accessible restrooms and parking.
- Orange County Great Park: A large park offering sports facilities, a carousel, and an observation wheel. Paved paths with accessible routes, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. Accessible restrooms and parking.
- Laguna Beach: A charming coastal town with beautiful beaches, art galleries, and scenic views. Paved boardwalks and accessible paths along the main beach areas. Some beaches have steep access points; beach wheelchairs are available. Accessible parking and restrooms available.
- Crystal Cove State Park: A scenic coastal park with rugged beauty, tide pools, and hiking trails. Paved and well-maintained trails; some areas with gravel or sand. Accessible restrooms and parking.
- Santa Ana Zoo: A zoo featuring various animal exhibits, a carousel, and a small train. Some animal enclosures may be viewed from a distance. Paved pathways throughout the zoo. Accessible restrooms, parking, and animal exhibits.
- Accessible Bike Rentals: Several locations in Orange County offer adaptive bike rentals, including handcycles and tricycles. Rental services provide equipment suited for different needs. Some companies to consider are Beyond Bikes, Rehab and Mobility Systems, Freedom Concepts, and SoCal Adaptive Sports.
Indoor Attractions
- Bowers Museum: A museum featuring art and cultural exhibits from around the world. Pathways are paved and smooth. There is also accessible restrooms, entrances, and elevators.
- South Coast Plaza: A premier shopping center with a wide range of luxury and boutique stores. Paved with ramps and accessible paths. Accessible restrooms, parking, and shopping areas. Some stores may have narrow aisles.
- Discovery Cube Orange County: An interactive science center with exhibits and hands-on activities. Pathways are paved with ramps and elevators. Some exhibits may require assistance. Accessible restrooms and parking.
- The Heritage Museum of Orange County: A museum featuring exhibits on local history, cultural heritage, and historic buildings. The museum has paved and smooth pathways. Accessible restrooms, entrance, and parking.
- Pretend City Children’s Museum: An interactive museum designed for children, but accessible for all, with hands-on exhibits and activities. Pathways are paved and smooth. Accessible restrooms and parking.
Restaurants
- The Cut: A modern eatery offering gourmet burgers and casual dining. Wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating. Accessible restrooms available. Busy during peak hours.
- Mastro’s Steakhouse: An upscale steakhouse known for its fine dining experience. Wheelchair-accessible entrance and dining area. Accessible restrooms. Can be crowded; reservations recommended.
- Old Vine Kitchen & Bar: A contemporary restaurant featuring a diverse menu and craft cocktails. Wheelchair-accessible entrance and seating. Accessible restrooms. Some narrow pathways between tables.
Places to Stay
- The Resort at Pelican Hill: A luxury resort offering ocean views, a spa, and golf courses. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers. King and queen-sized beds.
- Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa: A beachfront resort with various amenities including a pool and dining options. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers. King and double beds.
- Best Western Plus Park Place Inn – Mini Suites: A convenient and affordable option with easy access to Disneyland Resort. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers. King and queen-sized beds.
- Disneyland Hotel: themed hotel with direct access to Disneyland Resort, featuring a pool, dining options, and entertainment. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers or bathtubs. Various options including king and queen-sized beds.
- Hotel Irvine: A contemporary hotel offering modern amenities, a pool, and a convenient location. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers. King, queen, and double beds.
- The Westin South Coast Plaza: A luxury hotel near South Coast Plaza, featuring upscale amenities, dining, and easy access to shopping. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers or bathtubs. King and queen-sized beds.
Transportation
- Public Transit: Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) offers bus services with wheelchair-accessible buses equipped with ramps or lifts and designated seating areas.
- Taxis and Rideshares: Several taxi companies and rideshare services provide wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Ensure to request an accessible vehicle when booking. Such companies are California Yellow Cab (24 advance booking recommedned). Uber WAV abd Lyft Access may also be useful.
- Rental Services: Accessible vehicle rentals are available from local companies for convenience in traveling around the county.
- Orange County Airport Shuttle: Provides shuttle services to and from John Wayne Airport, with accessible options available.
