Texas Park Designed for Special Needs Kids First of Its Kind

While several theme parks have made accommodations for the special needs community, Morgan's Wonderland in San Antonio claims the title of being the first fully-inclusive and accessible amusement park in the world. This land of wonder has been delighting kids and caregivers since it's inception in 2010.

The inspiration for this place? You guessed it...Morgan, daughter of park founder Gordon Hartman. While playing in a hotel pool, Morgan - born with cognitive and physical special needs - tried to engage with other vacationing children. Morgan's father observed the children turn away from her, uncomfortable with the differences between them. This is when Gordon and his wife Maggie resolved to build a place where Morgan and others in the special needs community could enjoy opportunities that many of us take for granted.

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Designed specifically for those with special needs but made to be enjoyed by all, Morgan's Wonderland has welcomed millions of visitors since it opened in 2010. In addition to wheelchair access, the park includes resources like Braille signage, rest areas for service pets, and more. Anyone with a long-term special need is admitted free of charge.

While other theme parks accommodate people with disabilities and/or special needs, Morgan’s Wonderland was created with them in mind. This unique park was created to enable everyone to come together and have fun, regardless of their abilities. - morganswonderland.org

Subsequently, Morgan's Inspiration Island - the world's first fully-accessible splash park - debuted in 2017. Other expansions of the park include Morgan's Camp, Morgan's Sports, and Morgan's MAC (Multi-Assistance Center), a program that addresses special healthcare needs through coordinated services.

It is estimated that 15 percent of the world's population experiences life with cognitive and physical disabilities, yet much of our modern-day world remains inaccessible to this group. Morgan's Wonderland and its many amenities is a leader in supporting the special needs community here in Texas and beyond.