Free Morgan’s Wonderland Vacations
Billed as “the worlds first ultra accessible family fun park,” Morgan’s Wonderland (www.morganswonderland.com) was built in the true spirt of inclusion. Even better, thanks to Project Angel Fares, families that can’t afford to visit this San Antonio theme park won’t be excluded either.
Morgan’s Wonderland
Although some theme parks tout their accessibility, Morgan’s Wonderland goes the extra mile. This 25-acre park is filled with low key rides such as the Wonderland Express Train, the Carousel, the Ferris Wheel and the Jeep Adventure Ride — all of which are 100% accessible, even for power wheelchair-users.
Then there’s the Butterfly Playground, Sensory Village and even a Fishing Wharf. Top it off with Pirate Island Playground and a Walk and Roll Path around the perimeter of the lake, and you have something for just about everyone. And you’ll find accessible features — like an adult changing table — that you’re not likely to see at any other theme park. And if you’re a slow walker you can borrow a scooter or wheelchair.
The newest addition to the park is Inspiration Island. It’s located right next door and requires a separate admission. This barrier-free water park offers several splash pads, a riverboat ride and even a pirate ship. And if you think you can’t enjoy a waterpark because you are in a wheelchair, think again, as they also have water wheelchairs available.
Visitors with a disability are given free admission to both parks, and companions and family members are charged a reasonable admission fee. Morgan’s Wonderland is open from March to December, while Inspiration Island operates on a shorter schedule — from early May to Labor Day Weekend.
Tickets for both parks can be purchased online or at the gate, but it’s best to plan ahead. The gate is capacity controlled in order to make it a more accessible experience for everyone, and if you don’t have a pre-purchased ticket you could be turned away on a busy day.
Project Angel Fares
And then there’s Project Angel Fares. This inclusive program provides round trip airfare, three nights lodging, an accessible rental van or other vehicle, and park admissions to selected families. This package also includes free admission for the whole family to Sea World and the San Antonio Zoo. It’s good for a family of up to five, so basically you just have to pay for meals, gas and incidentals. It’s a pretty inclusive vacation — in many ways.
Qualified families must live in the United States and have a child that is at least four years old who has a diagnosed disability. Applicants must submit an application form and provide a copy of their most recent tax return. If an accessible rental van is included, proof of insurance and a current drivers license are also required.
Project Angel Fares applications are accepted year round. The application review process begins each January, and the first applications that are processed are ones that have trips that begin in March, when Morgan’s Wonderland reopens for the season. The application review process then continues chronologically by travel date, until the park closes in December. It’s important to note that since Inspiration Island is only open during the summer months, spring and fall trips don’t include admission to this attraction.
Application acceptance may be suspended during times of a high response. That said, it resumes after the demand falls, so check back often. Details about how to apply can be found at projectangelfares.com/how-to-apply/, while the application is located at projectangelfares.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Updated-2020-PAF-Application.pdf. Finally, if you have any questions about the application process, call (210) 722-0564 or e-mail sharonk@projectangelfares.com.
