2 Best Sights in San Antonio, Texas

The world's first theme park designed and built for individuals with special needs, 25-acre Morgan's Wonderland is completely wheelchair-accessible, with playgrounds, attractions, and rides specially built to accommodate wheelchairs, like the colorful carousel and the Whirling Wonder Ferris Wheel. Traditional swing areas also feature wheelchair swings. New additions include the 4D Magic Cinema theater that gives guests the sensation of riding a thrilling roller coaster, a four-seat zipline that soars above the park's scenic lake, a passenger boat ride that crosses the lake, and a ride featuring six hang-glider-style cars that gently fly in a circular pattern. The Wonderland Express train ride gives an overview of both Morgan's Wonderland and adjacent Morgan's Inspiration Island splash park, the latter with five tropically themed splash pads. And because not everyone's wheelchair is suited for a watery environment, there are complimentary waterproof wheelchairs and protective accessories for guests.

The inspiration for such an amazing place is Morgan Hartman, daughter of native San Antonian philanthropists Gordon and Maggie Hartman. The Gordon Hartman Family Foundation pursues Gordon and Maggie's goal of helping people of all ages with special needs. Morgan Hartman is now 30 and is greeted like a rock star when she visits her namesake park. Special needs children and adults are admitted to the park free of charge. Before planning a visit, call or check the parks' website for days and hours of operation.

The largest marine park in the United States, SeaWorld San Antonio consists of more than 250 acres where you can see shows and animal habitats and experience thrilling coasters and family-friendly rides. Shows include orcas, belugas, sea lions, and Pacific white-sided dolphins. There are also immersive educational experiences where you can get up close to belugas, dolphins, sea lions, and penguins. Aldabra Island is a 5,000-square-foot habitat housing the Aldabra tortoise, one of the largest tortoises in the world. The new habitat allows guests to interact and feed them on a guided tour. Aquatica water park (admission is separate from SeaWorld) offers a range of water rides, slides, and pools and is open on select days from March through October. The free SeaWorld app helps plan your day, reserve seats at shows or book an animal encounter tour. There is also a free Aquatica app. The pricing structures for both parks vary seasonally and depend on whether you purchase tickets in advance or at the entrance. Check the website or call for the latest prices.