A 2024 Accessible Travel Award Winner, wheelchair accessible Kings Island in Mason, Ohio, is more than just a theme park—it’s a full experience for families seeking inclusive fun. As a mom to a child who uses a wheelchair, I was happy to find an abundance of accessible options, from rides to dining and beyond. The park is massive, well themed and includes a water park. It’s the kind of place you’ll want spend more than one day in. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to relive the magic, this guide highlights what makes Kings Island a top pick for accessible family adventures.
What Makes Kings Island Accessible?
The highlight that brought us to the park last year was the newly built adaptive car on Snoopy’s Soap Box Racers. The last car on the ride opens up to enable a seamless wheelchair transfer instead of shimmying through the usually narrow roller coaster entrance. While I was disappointed that most rides require a transfer, overall it was a smooth day, regardless of mobility needs.
Thanks to their water wheelchair and zero entry pools and splash zones, the water park was easy to navigate and to soak in all the fun.
From designated parking spaces and wheelchair rentals to accessible restrooms and adaptive attractions, it’s clear that they’re working towards being one of the most accessible theme parks. many rides have transfer accessibility and offer spaces for caregivers to assist. It’s always a good idea to check the park’s Accessibility Guide or consult Guest Services upon arrival for specific ride details.
Navigating Your Wheelchair Friendly Day at Kings Island
When you arrive, stop at Guest Services (by the entrance on the right hand side) to go over your needs and get the appropriate disability pass. You’ll enter each ride through the exit, and you’ll be given a return time for your next ride based on the current ride’s wait time. Attendants are helpful and can bring any ride to a complete stop to give you the time and space you need to board.
Accessible Attractions and Experiences
Here are some attractions and areas where Kings Island shines in accessibility:
Kings Island & Miami Valley Railroad: An accessible train ride that offers scenic views of the park while accommodating wheelchairs.
Outdoor Dining: Many of the dining options offer outdoor roll-up service, making it easy to find food options that work. Counter heights are accessible, and dietary needs are addressed at most food locations.
Planet Snoopy: This is where the adapted roller coaster car is, and they also have an all abilities playground. We ended up spending half the day in this corner of the park.
Wheelchair-Friendly Pathways: Smooth and wide paths make navigating the park a breeze.
Service Animal Relief Areas: located next to First Aid on International Street and adjacent to the restroom at Backlot Stunt Coaster
Adult Size Changing Tables: Adult changing tables are located at the Family Care Center, changing location near Coconut Cove restroom and the family restrooms inside the Front Gate, and by Backlot, Invertigo and Banshee rides. Private restroom facilities for guests needing the assistance of a companion are available at all restroom locations throughout the park, including First Aid. Wheelchair accessible stalls are located in all restrooms.
Insider Tips for Visiting Kings Island with a Wheelchair
Here are some practical tips to make the most of your day:
- Use the Accessibility Guide: Download Kings Island’s accessibility guide from their website to plan ahead for the rides that work for you.
- Prioritize and Plan: The park is on a Disney scale when it comes to rides, attractions, and even physical space. You can’t do it all in a day. Even if you plan for two days, you’re going to need to decide what your priorities are and plan accordingly. We could’ve done a full day in Soak City alone.
- Don’t Miss the Water Park: Soak City is an incredible water park on its own. They have water chairs that make it easy to be a part of all the fun – independently. The website says to pick them up at guest services, but guest services had no idea they had them. They sent us to First Aid, who helped us to track one down… at guest services. I suggest you ask when you first come in, to avoid back tracking. They’ll find the chair and bring it to you. The chair cannot go deeper than seat level. For the lazy river, it’s easiest to bring the tube out of the current to load at a lower level.
- Beyond the Rides: Check the schedule for entertainment, shows, and character meet and greets.
Dining Options for Families
Kings Island offers a variety of dining choices, with accessible seating areas and dietary accommodations. When you enter the park, you’ll be greeted with International Street – similar to Disney’s Main Street U.S.A. vibe… but internationally themed. The street is festive and fun and filled with shops and restaurants. A couple of the restaurants had older, narrow doors, but we were able to enter through exits or by holding both doors open. It’s a fun area to grab a bite and dine outside with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
We also really enjoyed Pigpen’s Mess Hall because the kids could grab bites in between playing at Camp Snoopy.
If you’re planning on eating more than one meal in the park, the dining plan is worth it. The plan is set up so that you can order food every four hours, so you can actually get three meals out of it if you’re playing all day. Depending on what you’re eating, the all day plan is just a little more than the cost of one meal.
Blue Ice Cream: This is one of those things the park is known for. You can find it in Planet Snoopy, but they also have it in other locations around the park.
If you’re planning to pack snacks, keep in mind that outside food is generally not allowed, but exceptions are made for medical needs.
Other Accessible Attractions Nearby
Kings Island is just the start—Warren County, Ohio, is packed with accessible attractions for families. From a UNESCO World Heritage Site to museums, fabulous dining, and a Great Wolf Lodge, there’s plenty to explore. For a full list of options, check out my article on Accessible Warren County, Ohio.
FAQ: Kings Island Accessibility
Q: Is Kings Island wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes! Kings Island offers wheelchair rentals, accessible paths, and attractions designed with mobility needs in mind.
Q: Are there accessible restrooms in the park?
A: Absolutely. Accessible restrooms are conveniently located throughout the park.
Q: What rides are suitable for children with disabilities?
A: Most rides accommodate transfer accessibility. See the Accessibility Guide for details on each ride.
Q: Can I bring my own wheelchair?
A: Yes, and bringing your own equipment is often the most comfortable option.
Final Thoughts
From the adapted roller coaster and water wheelchair to the accessible pathways and dining options, Kings Island is a destination that welcomes everyone. If you’re searching for a family-friendly, inclusive adventure, Kings Island should be at the top of your list.
Have you visited Kings Island or another accessible theme park? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!