San Antonio's Morgan's Wonderland theme park for the disabled has been included along with the ancient cave art of Lasceaux France the Library of the Sultan in Morocco as among the 'World's Greatest Places' in Time Magazine's 2018 list, News Radio 1200 WOAI reports.
“We’re truly gratified to receive this international recognition from such a well-known publication as TIME,” said Ron Morander, general manager of Morgan’s Inspiration Island and unique Morgan’s Wonderland theme park. “It’s wonderful that TIME understands our emphasis on inclusion, bringing together those with and without special needs in a safe, colorful, barrier-free environment to have fun and, in so doing, to gain a better understand of each other."
The magazine relates the story about how prominent local developer Gordon Hartman was moved by the struggles of his daughter Morgan, who was shunned by other children due to her disabilities and was unable to participate in many common children's activities.
Morgan's Wonderland, which was opened as the world's first theme part for disabled children and adults, has received worldwide praise, including the 2017 Leading Edge Award from the World Waterpark Association.
Morgan's Wonderland features specially modified rides like waterproof wheelchairs and wheelchair equipped rides, as well as special activities geared for people with disabilities like autism and Down's syndrome.
Earlier this year, Morgan’s Inspiration Island and Morgan’s Wonderland jointly received the Paralyzed Veterans of America Barrier-Free America Award. And, for the seventh consecutive year, Morgan’s Wonderland has earned a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor, the world’s largest travel website, for “earning exceptional traveler ratings."
PHOTO: Robin Jerstad. Courtesy Morgan's Wonderland. Used by permission