wheelchair friendly places to travel

You are using an outdated browser not supported by this software. Please upgrade your browser .

• Housing & Real Estate
• Living on a Budget
• Personal Finance
• Camping & Outdoors
• Destinations
• Vacation Rentals & Hotels
• All Cars & RVs
• Maintenance
• Makes & Models
• All Shopping
• Beauty & Fashion
• Home & Garden
• Kitchen & Groceries
• All Reviews
• All Food & Drink
• Beer, Wine, & Spirits
• Food Trends & Trivia
• Restaurants & Dining
• Taste Tests
• All Lifestyle
• Entertainment
• Health & Wellness
• Life After 50
• All Gift Ideas
• Gifts by Interest
• Gifts by Price
• Gifts for All
• Gifts for Her
• Gifts for Him
• Gifts for Kids
• In The News
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

Copyright ® 2024 Cheapism

50 Best Wheelchair-Accessible Vacation Spots

anirav/istockphoto

The World Is Yours

The Americans With Disabilities Act requires cities, institutions, and businesses to make their facilities accessible to everyone. That includes public transit such as buses and subways; infrastructure including sidewalks, stairways, and elevators; and hotels, restaurants, schools, stores, movie theaters, museums, and so on. Although the ADA has been in effect since 1990 and was amended in 2009, there are still many places and spaces across the country that aren’t in full compliance — and some places globally that have no such law — making travel potentially difficult. Some top destinations are more accessible than others .

We started with the same resources you would: looking to travel experts such as WheelchairTravel , Curb Free with Cory Lee , Wheelchair Traveling , Scootaround , and others who've done the hard (and hopefully rewarding) work of testing accessibility firsthand. Anyone who uses a wheelchair — or traveling with someone who does — would do well to dig into those expert sites before heading off on a trip, hopefully with confirmation that more than a few of the world's biggest travel destinations have taken measures to be friendly to tourists on wheels .

Editor's note: This story has been revised since publication.

Washington, D.C.

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority was called "perhaps the most-accessible public transportation system  in the world" some years back by Our Traveling Blog. The broad sidewalks downtown make it more wheelchair-friendly than most cities its size. Combine that with the Metro (which has elevators at every stop), van transport when elevators break down, kneeling buses, and a mandate to make 100 percent of taxis wheelchair-accessible, and D.C. leads by example. In the nation's capital, most every attraction  you can think of makes it easy for wheelchairs and strollers to get through.

Don't let the Mile-High City moniker or the mountains fool you: Public transportation makes this place easy to navigate in a wheelchair. Yes, Denver can get cold and snowy, but its public transportation system goes to great lengths to be fully accessible. Trains and light rail have ramps and priority seating. The Access-a-Ride paratransit service requires one to three days' notice but is available in dusk-to-dawn and dawn-to-dusk shifts, goes anywhere within a three-quarter-mile radius of standard transit, and is available to out-of-town visitors.

The London Underground, the lower decks of its buses, and even the Black Taxi Cabs — each of which has a ramp, high door openings, and extra room inside for wheelchairs — make London one of the most accessible cities in the world. Buckingham Palace offers step-free access through a private front entrance, and the Royal Mews are completely level. Attractions such as the Tate galleries and British Museum are similarly accessible, and the cars on the London Eye Ferris wheel are step-free.

The shows and casinos on the Vegas Strip (and even the zip lines) are wheelchair-accessible. The city is flat, the sidewalks are broad, and the rain is minimal. There is a sprawling paratransit system, which is open to wheelchair users from other places, and fares for people in wheelchairs on buses are $1. Even the monorail is wheelchair-accessible. As for strollers, don't worry: That family-friendly stint during the '90s means there are plenty of accessible attractions  such as various malls, the Bellagio fountain, the Neon Museum, Fremont Street, and Siegfried & Roy's Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat.

Despite Seattle's hilly nature, WheelchairTravel ranked the city No. 1  among its most wheelchair-accessible cities a few years ago, thanks to wheel-friendly ferries and taxis with ramps. The mild weather and high safety rating help, but the bus system has been fully accessible for more than 20 years, and Sound Transit light rail is wheelchair-accessible as well. Major tourist attractions including the Space Needle, zoo, and aquarium are wheelchair-friendly too.

Oslo, Norway

Bordering Sweden, this city makes great effort to attract visitors who use wheelchairs and walkers. Although most of the city is flat, with well-kept sidewalks and curb cuts, attractions such as the Royal Palace are often on grades. (You can get a great look at the Oslofjord from wheelchair-accessible sites such as the Oslo Opera House and Akershus Fortress.) The Nobel Peace Center, Viking Ship Museum, Fram Museum, National Theater, and Kon-Tiki museum are similarly accessible, and all reachable by trains and buses.

Los Angeles

Los Angeles doesn't mess around. All buses are built for wheelchair access, all rail stations have ramps or elevators, and all wheelchair-using passengers pay less than half price. The Metro also tweets to let riders know if their local stop's elevator is down. The Consolidated Transportation Services Agency has a free fare program and a seven-day-a-week rideshare program. Also, almost all the area's major attractions are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible.

Riviera Maya, Mexico

The Riviera Maya — the touristy area south of Cancun, with its Playa del Carmen resort town — has a slew of accessible beaches, some shopping and dining districts that can offer an occasionally frustrating lack of curb cuts or step up into a business, swimming with dolphins, and one huge draw , according Wheelchair Traveling: access to ancient Mayan ruins with the tour company Cancun Accesible .

Tenerife, Spain

The largest of Spain's Canary Islands seems to specialize in going the extra mile to provide access , Handiscover reports. Las Vistas beach has a wide promenade and floating wheelchairs, Teide National Park offers the Roque de Caramujo Path, and there are enjoyable excursions to check out to the third-largest volcano in the world — not to mention hiking in all-terrain chairs. Even better, “you are almost guaranteed sunshine  any time of year,” according to Travel Breathe Repeat.

Portland, Oregon

Reduced fares for people with disabilities limit the cost of public transit to $28 a month. Those who can't take wheelchair-accessible light rail, buses, or streetcars can apply their fare to the LIFT transport service. Bus, train, and streetcar stations are all built with access in mind, while the city itself is relatively flat in most areas.

Shanghai boasts a few dozen London-style taxis with wheelchair ramps, "which means those with heavy duty power wheelchairs will find the taxi to be a very tight squeeze," according to WheelchairTravel . The city's maglev train is accessible with some planning and the subway system has elevators, although they can be hard to find on the street. (Buses are not accessible.) Sidewalks are broad and easily rollable. The Shanghai Museum, Jin Mao Tower, People's Square and Park, Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, and Oriental Pearl TV Tower are all wheelchair- and walker-accessible.

There's been a lot of investment in making Berlin as inclusive as possible, and easily rollable sidewalks with plenty of curb cuts certainly help. U-Bahn and S-Bahn subway trains accommodate wheelchairs and walkers easily, but there are some stations where this is still an issue. Berlin's buses, tram, and commuter rail are all generally accessible — which is good, because wheelchair taxis are nearly nonexistent. The Reichstag, Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, the Berlin Wall memorial, the Holocaust memorial, and all of Berlin's museums  offer easy access.

Don't listen to the locals complaining about the T: It runs better than the New York City subway, and above- and below-ground trains have good wheelchair access. In fact, a lawsuit against New York City pointed out that the huge majority of T stations in this tourist-friendly city  are wheelchair-accessible. That's getting even better, with 90 percent of stations friendly to those with wheelchairs and the T updating platforms and elevators wherever possible in recent years. The Freedom Trail is one of the most wheel-friendly attractions in the country, while the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Museum of Fine Art, the Esplanade, and the Public Garden and Boston Common  are all easy to navigate with wheelchairs and strollers.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

This capital city is considered one of the most accessible in Southeast Asia by WheelchairTravel. That's saying something about the rest of the region, as sidewalks are narrow, curb cuts are hit or miss, and wheelchair taxis are rare. But light rail, commuter rail, and hop-on, hop-off buses all have either flat entryways or available ramps. With many of the biggest attractions built in the past few decades, sites such as Petronas Towers, Kuala Lumpur Tower, KL City Center, Aquaria, and Merdeka Square are easily accessible. Even older sites such as the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, St. Mary's Cathedral, and Little India street market are surprisingly simple to navigate.

Barcelona, Spain

As a Mediterranean port, Barcelona brings in a whole lot of cruises, and ramps, elevators, and level walkways help accommodate the passengers. This is one of the most accessible cities in Europe, with 100 percent accessible buses and subways and wide sidewalks flanking even the most treacherous cobblestone streets. A rolling tour of medieval sites including Barcelona Cathedral, built more than 500 years ago, and the Santa Maria del Mar church, erected in the 14th century, is fairly simple, while Parc Guell, La Sagrada Familia, and some of Antoni Gaudí's other creations can be either explored or seen from accessible routes. Sant Jaume Square, Las Ramblas boulevard, the former Royal Palace, and all the outdoor cafes in between are also wheel-friendly stops, especially for those looking to park and take in paella, bombas, and other Spanish cuisine.

Nothing about lake-effect snow seems particularly wheelchair-friendly, but we're talking about public transportation. The buses are generally as accessible as tourist attractions including Sears Tower and Wrigley Field, although WheelchairTravel notes that Chicago could certainly invest more into improving train access. While the Chicago Transit Authority's system is about 70 percent accessible, it's trying to reach  a D.C.-like 100 percent by 2036.

The capital of Belgium and the European Union is still heavily cobblestoned and steep, which can make it daunting for visitors who use wheelchairs and walkers. But the city has some accessible hotel rooms and taxis — about one in 10 has a wheelchair ramp. Only about half of city subway stops are wheelchair-accessible, and the trains themselves are often a few inches above their platforms, but all buses and international trains at Gare du Midi have wheelchair access. While the cobbles of Grand Place make it tough to get around, destinations such as the EU Parliament, the Fin-de-Siècle Museum, the Magritte Museum, the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart, and the Musical Instruments Museum are all accessible.

Richmond, Virginia

Only about 30 percent of the city was within reach of public transit in 2011, but that's changing quickly : Richmond's high-frequency bus rapid transit system launched last year along more than a dozen stops. Passengers using wheelchairs pay 75 cents per ride, and have access to a fleet that's now 100 percent wheelchair-friendly. Buses run late into the night, and there's a fleet of 80 vehicles dedicated solely to curb-to-curb paratransit. That makes it easy to get to wheel-friendly destinations such as the Kings Dominion theme park, Maymont Victorian estate, the canal walk, and the Edgar Allan Poe museum.

Bucharest, Romania

The Romanian capital and former Soviet bloc city has been improving wheeled access steadily since the fall of Communism in 1989. The Cismigiu Gardens, Arcul de Triumf, Herăstrău Park, the National Museums of Art and History, the Palace of Parliament, and the Village Museum are now wheelchair- and walker-accessible. City buses and trolleys are largely accessible, and much of the subway has wheelchair access and flat platform-to-train connections, though gaps in between could prove problematic for powered wheelchairs. While WheelchairTravel gives the public transit and hotels high scores and the attractions a moderate score, taxis and sidewalks score on the low end.

Albuquerque, New Mexico

A fairly flat city to begin with, Albuquerque also has one of the most accessible transit systems  in the country. All its buses are wheelchair-friendly, and the Sun Van curb-to-curb service takes up the slack for those who can't ride the bus. Fares for people in wheelchairs are roughly a third of the normal fare, and all NM Rail Runner express train stations are wheelchair-accessible. Nob Hill, the Balloon Fiesta , and most attractions are accessible by wheelchair. Don't bother looking for an accessible taxicab, though. A rental van is, unfortunately, the best way to drive around this city.

Seoul, Korea

This city gets high marks for its buses and subways built for wheeled access, and for broad sidewalks and shop entrances that are among the most wheelchair- and walker-friendly in the world. The Myeong-dong shopping district, Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Cable Car, Seoul Tower, various museums, and the World Cup soccer stadium are all welcoming to visitors using wheelchairs and walkers, with some offering as much as 30 percent off the ticket price to those wheeling their way in.

San Francisco

When New York was sued for its lack of access, the suit noted that all of San Francisco's Bay Area Rapid Transit stations were wheelchair-accessible. Caltrain is similarly accessible, as are Muni buses and trains. The same applies to San Francisco Bay ferries. While nearby Berkeley has free wheelchair repair , drivers in San Francisco are trained to belt chairs into place before traversing the city's steeper streets, and many of the city's most popular destinations , including the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf, Chinatown, Golden Gate Park, and Alcatraz, are wheelchair-friendly.

This British territory bordering Spain may look like an unforgiving rock, but it's a surprisingly accessible tourist hot spot. Sure, elevation makes things tricky elsewhere, but the city center is made up of wide sidewalks and gentle curb cuts. With a large part of its economy built on tourism, Gibraltar has made destinations such as Europa Point, the Rock of Gibraltar, Siege Tunnels, World War II tunnels, Trafalgar Cemetery, Casemates Square, and even the beaches wheelchair- and walker-accessible.

Orlando, Florida

It's the vacation capital of the world, and every tourist attraction in this town  is wheelchair-accessible, from the Disney and Universal parks to Legoland and SeaWorld. The Lynx bus system, which keeps late hours and runs year-round, charges half-price fares for riders in wheelchairs while offering curb-to-curb access paratransit service.

The airport train, hop-on, hop-off buses, and city buses are largely accessible; trams and the subway aren't quite as friendly. Though Russian winters and stairs to pedestrian tunnels under busy streets can be obstacles, most sidewalks are broad and simple to navigate. There are lots of Western hotels with roll-in showers, but the sheer age of sites such as the Kremlin, Red Square, St. Basil's Cathedral, and the Pushkin Museum make them far less accessible than similar tourist draws around the world. Instead, go to a ballet at the wheelchair-accessible Bolshoi or spend some rubles at the GUM Shopping Center.

Philadelphia

Attractions such as the Constitution Center, Museum of the American Revolution, Franklin Institute, Liberty Bell, and even the art museum (the Rocky steps aren't the only way in) are wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. The hotels do a fine job as well. Philly's transit has access but has work to do: Roughly 70 percent of the buses and trains are wheelchair-accessible, and much of that improvement has come in recent years . While SEPTA's bus system is 100 percent accessible, passengers have lobbied for improvement at train stations, especially for regional rail. The PATCO rail line fares only slightly better, but the city is still loaded with accessible options.

There's little accessible public transportation to speak of, and the sidewalks are basically impossible to navigate in a wheelchair or walker, but those aren't the only ways to see Cairo. The city's London-style black cabs have wheelchair ramps and are affordable. While you can't see all the excavation, the pyramids of Giza  have remarkable access, as do Al-Azhar Park, the first floor of the Egyptian Museum, Cairo Tower, and the Cairo Citadel.

Covering more than 97 percent of the city, Honolulu's bus system is exceptional. Fares for those with wheelchairs are about a third of the standard adult fare, and all buses are wheelchair-accessible. If the buses themselves prove difficult, the city's paratransit service covers a whole lot of ground. Honolulu's beaches have all-terrain wheelchairs on hand, while attractions such as Pearl Harbor  and the royal palace are also wheelchair-friendly (even if Diamond Head is not).

The street food, the zoo, and even Raffles, home of the Singapore Sling , are wheelchair- and walker-accessible, thanks to mandated barrier-free accessibility  that's been built into code for more than 20 years. A fully accessible rail system and buses — combined with sidewalks replete with curb cuts and stepless building entry — make Singapore and its myriad malls easy to navigate.

There's one group in particular that's making Montreal accessible: Quebec-based Kéroul . The organization helps those using wheelchairs and walkers — as well as those who need visual and hearing assistance — find accessible tourist facilities in the province. The nearly 290 establishments in Montreal with full access include museums, the Biosphere, the Canadiens' home at Bell Centre, theaters, churches, and more. It also offers Tourist and Leisure Companion Stickers that provide free entrance to attractions for those accompanying people using wheelchairs or walkers.

Indianapolis

Indianapolis' transit system hasn't been all that helpful to wheelchairs and strollers, mostly because its 32 bus routes are strong east and west of downtown, but not necessarily north and south of it. That is changing quickly . Bus rapid transit is coming in, more routes are being added, hours are being extended, bus frequency is picking up, and overall service is increasing by 70 percent. That puts access on par with attractions such as the Indianapolis Children's Museum, the Canal Walk, the World War Memorial, the NCAA Hall of Champions, and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art.

The Bavarian city is among the most accessible in Germany. Sidewalks are wide and flat, and have a whole lot of curb cuts and crossing signals. All subway trains, commuter trains, trams, and buses are designed for wheelchair and walker access, and there are numerous wheelchair taxi services to choose from. The BMW Museum, Deutsches Museum, Marienplatz, Munich Stadtmuseum, Olympia Park, Olympic Tower, and the Dachau Concentration Camp sites are all wheelchair- and walker-accessible, offering ramps and push-button doors for ease of passage.

Atlanta has gone through a renaissance within the past 20 years, which means many of its most popular attractions have been designed with access and the Americans with Disabilities Act in mind. The World of Coca-Cola , the Georgia Aquarium, Zoo Atlanta, Centennial Olympic Park, the SkyView Ferris Wheel, and CNN Center are all wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, as are all its buses and the MARTA subway system.

Cape Town, South Africa

Wheelchair taxi service here isn't the best, but city buses and trains (including hop-on, hop-off buses) have far better access for walkers and wheelchairs. Flat terrain, wide sidewalks and tons of curb cuts and sidewalk ramps make this one of the easiest cities to maneuver in Africa. A cable car to Table Mountain, the Cape Wheel observation wheel, the District Six museum, Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned), Signal Hill, and various parks and gardens are also fairly easy to navigate.

Downtown Dallas, the Sixth Floor Museum, the observation deck at Reunion Tower, the Farmers Market, the Deep Ellum neighborhood, and most of the city's museums are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. The city bus, tram, and light rail systems are all built for easy rolling, and the city's hotels are largely accessible. The sidewalks are ... well ... improving . And it doesn't help that the ADA taxis have been "contracted out to the city's paratransit service," WheelchairTravel says.

Bustling Bangkok is unsurprisingly treacherous for those who traverse the sidewalks and roadways with wheelchairs and walkers. But there are wheelchair-accessible stops on the BTS Skytrain and more robust wheelchair access on the subway and airport rail. Wheelchair-friendly taxis are available, but should be reserved in advance, and Western hotels have roll-in showers. Bangkok's parks, Baiyoke Tower viewing deck, Wat Traimit Temple and golden Buddha, and Grand Palace grounds are all accessible, but may require a cab ride.

There are hills, but the light rail, buses, and funicular are all accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, like the city's stadiums and arenas and attractions such as the Andy Warhol Museum, Mount Washington, Point State Park and the Carnegie museums.

Portions of the Great Wall of China are completely wheelchair-accessible, which makes up somewhat for hit-or-miss subway access and a surprising dearth of wheelchair-accessible taxis. Buses are all equipped with ramps, though, as is Beijing's Forbidden City. WheelchairTravel warns that many Beijing hotels still don't have wheel-in showers, so do some digging in advance.

New Orleans

It's a bit old and uneven, but lively, charming New Orleans  has a city bus system serving all parts of the city that is fully accessible. The street car system's red cars, which operate on the Canal Street and Riverfront, have motorized wheelchair lifts and securement areas, but steer clear of the Green Line . While many of the upper-floor attractions on Bourbon Street aren't accessible, Bourbon Street itself, Cafe du Monde, Jackson Square, Cathedral-Basilica of St. Louis, King of France, City Park, Harrah's New Orleans Hotel & Casino, the jazz clubs of Frenchmen Street, Armstrong Park, and the city's cemeteries are all largely accessible.

Though the Victoria Peak and on-street trams aren't built to handle wheelchairs or walkers, the city's subways, buses, and airport express trains are. Wheelchair taxis are available (but need to be reserved), and the sidewalks are surprisingly navigable, given the city's density. Most importantly, tourist attractions such as Victoria Peak (which doesn't require a tram ride), the Victoria Harbor ferry, the Symphony of Lights, Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car (though not the giant Buddha at its end), and the Temple Street all accommodate chairs and walkers.

Salt Lake City

About 90 percent of Salt Lake City falls within the city's transit corridor. There is an expanding web of bus lines, TRAX light rail, commuter trains and streetcars within the Utah Transit Authority, and all are wheelchair-accessible. There may be an older commuter rail car here or there that is an issue, but they won't keep people who use wheelchairs off transit altogether. Buses are also fully accessible, though there is an extensive paratransit system that offers curb-to-curb and door-to-door service. Salt Lake City wants people to know that the large majority of attractions within the city are accessible by wheelchair and stroller-friendly , and that national parks, state parks, and public lands have adaptable options to help people in wheelchairs explore them.

Fortunately, big draws such as Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, the Astronomical Clock, the National Museum, and even the hilltop Prague Castle and St. Vitus Cathedral have significant wheelchair and walker access. The flatter parts of the city are easy to navigate, and the completely accessible bus system can navigate the tougher stretches. The Prague subway and tram are a bit more efficient, but finding accessible Metro stations and tram cars can be tricky. When all else fails, there are wheelchair-accessible taxis sponsored by the government.

Melbourne, Australia

The Disabled Surfers Association of Australia can help people in wheelchairs surf the southern coast, but attractions such as the Eureka Skydeck, hot air balloon rides, safari tours, and more are all wheelchair-accessible. Even better, Melbourne's beaches have a lot of access points in place to help people in chairs or struggling stroller-pushing parents get onto the beaches and watch the waves roll in.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Flat and flashy, that’s the new Dubai for you, with accessible hotels (including the iconic, sail-shaped, five-star Burj Al Arab); metro, tram, and buses, though accessible taxi vans have to be reserved; and attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and Dubai Mall, which is inside. Even the Dubai Grand Mosque and Al Fahidi Fort will seem doable in a reliable powered chair , according to WheelchairTravel. But not too far from the most modern parts of the city, including in the Old Souk, getting around can be frustrating , Wheelchair Traveling warns.

Sydney takes its work on accessibility seriously, which is evident from its accessibility map , but hasn’t perfected its transit — trains are accessible, but all train stations are not, for instance, just like all ferries are accessible, but some wharves are restricted by stairs. The city’s accessible attractions are many, though, including Taronga Zoo, Manly Beach, and the Royal Botanical Gardens. Wheelchair Traveling has a comprehensive rundown .

Whether you're going to Alaska, Russia, Israel, the Mediterranean, or the Caribbean, Curb Free with Cory Lee  notes that cruise lines have updated their ships and added more access from the rooms all the way to the pools.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Slovenian city is the right size and so friendly to chairs that New Mobility magazine calls it “The Accessible Capital.” (There’s even a Ljubljana by Wheelchair  app.) The experts say not to be put off by the cobblestones, and that even the most unlikely attractions are probably doable: Not only is the funicular to towering Ljubljana Castle accessible, but New Mobility quotes a tourist who called it “my biggest accessibility surprise by far in Slovenia … How many castles have accessible bathrooms?” 

Snow's no problem from April through October in Vienna, a wheelchair-friendly, mostly flat city with accessible public transit systems, attractions, restaurants, stores, and hotels. The outdoor cafes are a welcome break around the flat Stephansplatz pedestrian area with plenty of level-entry cathedrals and monuments, not to mention restaurants and touristy souvenir shops. The Spanish Riding School and its Lipizzaner stallions are accessible, as are attractions including the Belvedere Palace and Albertina art museum.

Bridgetown, Barbados

The Eastern Caribbean isn't particularly accommodating to wheelchairs, but the 2012 Fully Accessible Barbados initiative is changing that by offering incentives to investors who wish to build or refurbish  a property for tourism. Some hotels and resorts in or near Bridgetown have taken advantage, some even providing water-friendly wheelchairs; Bathsheba and other beaches are good examples of accessibility, along with Harrison Cave and some churches. But remember that Rolling Without Limits (seconded by Curb Free with Cory Lee) says some access is possible only because of helpful locals.

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

For those who truly want to see this Cambodian capital: It's possible, though not a breeze. Although Phnom Penh has the highest number of amputees per capita  of any city in the world, and the travel industry has an interest in better infrastructure, sidewalks and public transit are a rarity in this still-developing city. So, how do you get to the Tuol Sleng Cambodian Genocide Museum, National Museum, Olympic Stadium, wildlife rescue center, or even a KFC? Wheelchair-accessible tuk-tuks , complete with ramps. But there are only seven of them, so "a trip to Phnom Penh is not for the faint of heart," according to WheelchairTravel. "You'll still have a great time if you arrive with the appropriate expectations."

Making travel accessible

Book hotels and find experiences with all the accessibility details you need., book hotels with confidence. know before you go.

1 accessible room - 2 adults

Pick great values from our Multi-day Trips!

Discover where other travelers are going, get all you need in one place.

Book with confidence. You’ll get the accessible room you need.

Things to do

Choose a variety of fun, accessible, activities based on your needs.

Multi-day trips

Enjoy private and accessible packages for you and your companions.

Group tours

Share a unique accessible experience with other travelers.

Top accessible destinations

Accessible Travel USA

Explore all destinations

Proud of our impact

Making the world accessible since 2018.

List your hotel or accessible experience for free!

We can help you reach a whole new community and train your staff members to assist people with disabilities..

We are looking for specialized travel agents

If you are already working with accessible travel, you can join us and grow with us., best accessible places to visit in the usa.

• New York accessible hotels
• Chicago accessible hotels
• Miami accessible hotels
• San Francisco accessible hotels
• Orlando accessible hotels
• Astoria Warrenton accessible hotels
• Las Vegas accessible hotels
• Charlottesville accessible hotels
• Fort Lauderdale accessible hotels
• Mesa accessible hotels
• Tampa Bay accessible hotels

Best accessible places to visit internationally

• Paris accessible hotels
• London accessible hotels
• Barcelona accessible hotels
• Cancun accessible hotels
• Rome accessible hotels
• Riviera Maya accessible hotels
• Maui accessible hotels
• Tuscany accessible hotels
• Costa Rica accessible hotels
• Amsterdam accessible hotels

Most popular wheelchair accessible vacation packages

• Alaska wheelchair accessible vacation packages
• Egypt wheelchair accessible vacation packages
• Mexico wheelchair accessible vacation packages
• Peru wheelchair accessible vacation packages
• Greece wheelchair accessible vacation packages
• Israel wheelchair accessible vacation packages
• Costa Rica wheelchair accessible vacation packages
• South Africa wheelchair accessible vacation packages
• Italy wheelchair accessible vacation packages

Wheelchair accessible hotels with roll in shower

• Radio Hotel
• Secret Garden Miami Beach
• Hayes Street Hotel Nashville
• Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs® Resort Area
• Iberostar Berkeley Shore Hotel
• Fairmont Mayakoba
• Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana

Travel tours for disabled seniors

• South Africa travel tours for disabled seniors
• Iceland travel tours for disabled seniors
• Costa Rica travel tours for disabled seniors
• Greece travel tours for disabled seniors

Top visited wheelchair-accessible landmarks

• Miami wheelchair accessible things to do
• Rome wheelchair accessible things to do
• New York wheelchair accessible things to do
• Maui wheelchair accessible things to do
• Orlando wheelchair accessible things to do
• London wheelchair accessible things to do
• Las Vegas wheelchair accessible things to do
• Cancun wheelchair accessible things to do
• Paris wheelchair accessible things to do
• Barcelona wheelchair accessible things to do

More wheelchair accessible destinations

• All wheelchair accessible destinations

6 Tour Companies Dedicated to Travelers with Disabilities

By Arundhati Nath

Growing up, Neha Arora didn’t have the easiest time traveling with her family—her father is visually impaired and her mother is a wheelchair user. “We’d travel 2,000 miles only to realize the place wasn’t accessible or wouldn’t give us the experience we were looking forward to,” says Arora. In 2016, she founded Planet Abled , a travel company that caters to the needs of people with various disabilities, a group the World Health Organization estimates at 15 percent of the world’s population. Arora isn’t the only one pushing for more thoughtful travel experiences—here’s a look at six companies focused on accessible travel .

Travel for All

Travel for All has organized more than 5,000 vacations around the world for travelers with a variety of requirements, including cane users, slow walkers, hearing and vision impaired persons, travelers with complex health issues like dialysis and developmental disabilities, and wheelchair users. “As multiple sclerosis began to affect my own personal travel, I researched what resources could assist me with executing travel using my wheelchair,” says CEO Tarita Davenock. “I was shocked when I saw the lack of services.” Every trip Travel for All plans comes with an accessibility specialist. “We research and give our clients the pros and cons of any area in the world before planning the trip, so our client knows what to expect while they are in that destination,” says Davenock. “Meticulous planning and great attention to detail are the keystones of keeping our vacations safe.”

A Seable group trip in Cambodia, where travelers visited the Wat Phnom temple

Seable Holidays

Seable Holidays specializes in trips for visually impaired travelers. All trips include trained chaperones—who undergo a background check—as well as inclusive sports and sensory activities like horse riding, scuba diving, kayaking, wine tasting, yoga, and tactile museum excursions. And everything is thoroughly vetted, with chaperones, activities, and accommodations tested by blind people before they’re recommended by the company. While trips are on pause during the pandemic, Seable Holidays will bring them back in summer 2022.

Easy Access Travel

Debra Kerper and her team at Easy Access Travel accommodate most types of physical disabilities in their solo trips and mixed group tours. While Kerper sometimes relies on her own experiences as a traveler in a wheelchair, she says every trip needs to be tailored to an individual client’s needs. To do so, the team spends time getting to know their clients to match them with the best vacation choice, and visits hotels and tourist spots for inspection, takes cruises beforehand, and collects information from trustworthy sources to ensure a safe, accessible, and fun experience.

Planet Abled

Neha Arora’s Planet Abled arranges customized tours for people with different types of disabilities, and also plans group tours that include non-disabled people. Their trips mostly take place in India and South East Asia , with plans to expand to countries in Europe, and popular activities include river rafting, skiing, trekking, and wildlife safaris. Some of their extra touches include assigning a travel buddy for the blind, seeking special permission from museums so clients can touch and feel the articles on display, and arranging for sign language interpreters for the hearing impaired.

Wheel the World

Alvaro Silberstein, the CEO of Wheel the World , was paralyzed from the chest down after surviving an accident at 18. This didn’t stop him from seeing the world—he’s since visited 30 countries on five continents. “I realized that people with disabilities should be able to explore places as anyone else,” he says. Most of his clients are adults or seniors with mobility disabilities and wheelchair users, and he can arrange solo travel or group trips. Silberstein wants to create more awareness around accessibility, and his company pays special attention to details like the height of beds, width of doors, and accessibility of bathrooms, compiling this information on the Wheel the World website. Their multi-day trips are designed with local tour operators with a focus on accessible travel, and includes access to adaptive bikes, beach wheelchairs, and equipment for hiking, skydiving, kayaking, scuba diving, and surfing—they’ve even planned Macchu Pichu trips for wheelchair users . The company makes sure “prices are competitive and the pricing is the same no matter if the clients have a disability or not,” says Silberstein.

A quiet moment in Sintra, Portugal

Tapooz Travel

Laurent Roffe and Aicha Nystrom spent years volunteering with an organization that provides outdoors excursions to people with disabilities. “We have many friends in wheelchairs as part of our close community,” says Roffe. “I’m a sea kayak guide and [Aicha] is a ski guide and this has always been a source of immense joy for us. Launching our accessible travel business was a natural extension of what we are and what we like to do.” Their company, Tapooz Travel , specializes in trips for those with mobility issues, including visual and hearing impairment, rather than cognitive disabilities. When they have a client with a visual or hearing impairment, they make sure there’s at least one guide trained in sign language, or have a guide who can help with things like reading the menu at the restaurant and providing a voice narration during a site visit. Their network also includes adaptive sports instructors, sailboat skippers, tribal elders, massage therapists, and hot air balloon operators , all of whom are trained to work with travelers with disabilities.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

30 Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access

Travel is possible for everyone; however, it presents more challenges for wheelchair users and people with mobility problems. It often leaves people asking what the best vacations for wheelchair access are. This post will cover these destinations and so much more, so keep reading.

This post contains affiliate links. When you click on them and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Planning Your Next Wheelchair Accessible Trip? Make Sure to Use The Travel Resources Below!

Travel Insurance: Insure My Trip Accommodations: Expedia Flights: Skyscanner Tours & Activities: Viator

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in North America

Hawaii is one of the best vacations for wheelchair access as it offers something for everyone. From gorgeous beaches to lush mountains, volcanoes, culture, and scenery Hawaii has it all.

In addition, since it’s part of the United States , they have to follow ADA laws. All four islands have accessible transportation options, tours, accessible hotel rooms, and a plethora of fun things to do.

For example, you can do some adaptive surfing or swim with the manta rays on Oahu , go whale watching and drive the road to Hana in Maui , see erupting volcanoes on the Big Island , and go on an accessible helicopter ride over Waimea Canyon or head to an accessible beach in Kauai . There are so many fantastic accessible things to do, I couldn’t possibly list them all here. In fact, the most difficult thing about planning a trip to Hawaii will be choosing which island(s) to visit!

➡️ Each island also has beach wheelchairs available so you can enjoy a day of relaxation. ➡️ Help prepare for your trip by following this Hawaii Packing List !

To get in touch with the wild wilderness, head to Alaska. During your trip, explore rainforests, watch glaciers calving, be amazed at impressive mountains and so much more. Much of Alaska is accessible to both wheelchair users and people with limited mobility (thanks to ADA laws).

You can choose to do a road trip , take a cruise, or explore the state by a domed train. Whichever way you choose to see this great state, you are sure to have awe-inspiring moments.

Alaska is home to 8 national parks, some of them being very remote and are only reached by plane or hiking, making them tough to visit for people with mobility problems. However, parks like Denali, Kenai Fjords, and Glacier Bay are easily accessible and likely to leave you awestruck.

Animal lovers will also enjoy searching for Alaska’s wildlife. Look for Humpback Whales, Orca, puffins, seals, moose, caribou, sheep, and more during your trip. Seeing these animals in the wild is sure to be memorable and on the top of everyone’s Alaska bucket list .

➡️ Thinking about a cruise to Alaska? Check out my Alaska Cruise Tips and read all about my Princess Alaska Cruise Tour Review to help you plan your trip!

3. U.S. National Parks

The U.S. National Parks are one of the best vacations for wheelchair access because they strive to make nature accessible for everyone. While not all parks are accessible, the majority of them have at least partial accessibility.

When you visit the U.S. National Parks, you get to surround yourself with giant trees, majestic mountains, and babbling brooks, and explore cool caves. You can even get a chance to camp under the stars . What’s more is if you are a US resident and have a permanent disability, you get free entry into these gorgeous parks with the Access Pass .

There are currently 63 national parks across the 50 states and US territories. Many people (like me) have a goal to visit as many as possible. Additionally, there are numerous other national sites (i.e. historic sites and lakeshores) that can also be visited for free with your access pass.

Some of my favorite parks and sites I’ve visited so far include:

• Acadia National Park (Maine)
• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (where I got to try a Tracks Chair ) (Michigan)
• Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
• Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming, Idaho, Montana)
• Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)
• Gettysburg National Historic Battlefield (Pennsylvania)

Make sure to check out my national parks page to get all the information you need to help you plan your national parks trip !

4. Playa de Carmen, Mexico

Playa del Carmen, Mexico is a popular tourist destination that has made efforts to become more accessible to people with disabilities, including wheelchair users. In recent years, some of the hotels and resorts in Playa del Carmen have added accessible rooms and amenities, including roll-in showers and grab bars.

Additionally, many tour operators in Playa del Carmen offer tours that are accessible to wheelchair users, including snorkeling and diving tours. There are also a number of cultural attractions that are accessible to wheelchair users, including the Frida Kahlo Museum and the Mayan ruins at Tulum (although the ruins will present some challenges due to steep ramps and gravel or rocky pathways).

Visitors can even enjoy accessible beaches, such as the one in front of Park Fundadores, that provide beach wheelchairs and assistance to visitors with disabilities. The other accessible beach is on the far northern end of town.

5. Banff National Park, Canada

Iconic snow-capped mountains and surreal blue alpine lakes await you at Banff National Park. Wheelchair users and people with limited mobility can experience much of what the area has to offer.

Enjoy a ride up a gondola to appreciate the enormity of the mountains, go out onto a glacier, enjoy a scenic drive, and go on an accessible hike. If you want a more adventurous hiking experience, consider using a joelette wheelchair with Rocky Mountain Adaptive .

When looking for accessible accommodations, be sure to contact the property in advance to discuss your specific needs, as some label themselves as accessible when in reality they are better suited for people with limited mobility.

6. Cruising

Cruising North America (or the world) is a fantastic and accessible way to travel. It’s perfect for people who want to get a taste of a destination or to see multiple places in one trip. Most major cruise lines have accessible cabins and facilities onboard the ship and may even offer accessible excursions.

While there are some specific tips on booking a wheelchair-accessible cruise , it is a relatively easy process, and you are guaranteed an accessible cabin if that’s the type you choose to book. In addition, cruising is a pretty affordable way to travel since it includes room, meals, transportation, and entertainment. You can save even more money by following the suggestions in my cruising on a budget post.

If you’re looking for a North American cruise, popular itineraries sail to Hawaii, Mexico, the California Coast, Alaska, New England, and the Caribbean. Of course, there are European cruises and other destinations to choose from as well.

Search for Cruise Deals Now by Clicking Here!

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in Europe

London is very wheelchair accessible offering accessible public transportation, taxis, hotels, and plenty of attractions. Although they may not appear accessible at first, many restaurants have portable ramps to allow wheelchair users to enter.

During your stay, choose to visit some of the many museums, take a ride on the London Eye, attend a play or performance, tour royal castles, and palaces, and tour West Minster Abbey. For the ultimate tourist experience, make sure to watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace.

London also offers a variety of accessible day trips from the city. Marvel at Stonehenge’s engineering, wander around Windsor Castle or explore the city of Bath. Harry Potter fans will also love doing a studio tour which is just outside the city.

So, whether you have two days in London or a week, you will find plenty of things to do and find it easy to get around the city.

8. Barcelona

Barcelona is considered to be one of the most accessible cities in Europe. It offers accessible public transportation, hotel accommodations, and attractions. It also offers some of the best art museums in Europe .

Art lovers are drawn to Barcelona to explore the architectural works of Anthony Gaudi who designed the famous Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, and other buildings within the city. Indoor art museums include the Picasso Museum, the National Art Museum of Catalonia, and the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art to name a few.

Other popular accessible attractions in Barcelona are the Magin Fountain which offers light shows at night, the Montjuïc Cable Car which gives visitors spectacular views of the city and ascends to the partially accessible Montjuic Castle, going to a wheelchair-accessible beach, and attending a Flamenco show.

Additionally, there are accessible day trip options from Barcelona if you want to escape the city for a little while. For example, you could head to Montserrat Monastery.

This monastery is famous for its stunning location and its Benedictine monk community, as well as for its historical and religious significance. It is also home to the Black Madonna, a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary that is considered to be a significant religious artifact. Visitors can explore the monastery’s beautiful architecture, art, and artifacts, as well as enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

With so many amazing things to do as well as accessible ways to get around and places to stay, it’s easy to see why Barcelona is one of the best vacations for wheelchair access.

Check out this post on how to spend a day in Barcelona .

9. Amsterdam

Famous for its houses, canals, and tulips in the spring, Amsterdam is a wonderful wheelchair-accessible city to visit. They have combined historic places and innovative technology to try to make the city accessible for everyone.

Wheelchair users can enjoy an accessible canal cruise, several famous art museums, and even the Anne Frank House (thanks to a virtual reality tour). Additionally, several options for accessible day trips are available.

The biggest challenge you will face is navigating the sidewalks. This is not because they lack accessibility but rather because they are often blocked by bikes, cars, and strollers. Transportation around the city is also mostly accessible with buses having accessible entrances and spaces for wheelchairs.

Want to know more about accessible Amsterdam? Check out my posts on wheelchair-accessible hotels in Amsterdam , how to spend 4 days in Amsterdam , and the most popular Amsterdam tourist attractions !

Despite its ancient history, accessibility in Rome isn’t horrible. While there will certainly be cobblestones to navigate, they can vary in size, and they weren’t impossible to roll over. Additionally, you can find accessible hotel rooms and places to eat.

Furthermore, many of the most popular sites are wheelchair accessible. Places like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and more welcome wheelchair users. They may even offer discounts or free admission.

There are also accessible tour companies that offer tours within the city as well as day trips. This makes Rome a great base for exploring the region. You could even choose to combine your trip to Rome with the Amalfi Coast .

11. Florence

Surround yourself with gorgeous artwork and delicious food when you take a trip to Florence, Italy. Situated in the stunning Tuscan countryside, surrounded by beautiful hills, vineyards, and olive groves, Florence is a beautiful city to visit and makes a great base to journey to surrounding Tuscan towns as well.

It is known for its delicious cuisine and world-renowned wines, such as Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino. Visitors can also indulge in traditional Tuscan dishes such as steak florentine, ribollita, and pappa al pomodoro, and enjoy a glass of wine at one of the many wine bars and enotecas in the city.

Additionally, Florence has a rich history and culture, with many historic landmarks and cultural events to explore. Visitors can take a stroll through the Piazza della Signoria, where they can see a copy of the famous David statue by Michelangelo and the beautiful Palazzo Vecchio or attend the world-famous Florence Biennale art exhibition.

Art lovers will remember that the city is known as the birthplace of the Renaissance and is home to some of the world’s most significant art and architecture. While here, you can explore the Uffizi Gallery, which houses one of the most extensive collections of Renaissance art in the world, and the iconic Duomo, with its stunning dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi.

Accessibility in Florence is quite good as well. There are some buses and taxis that are wheelchair accessible to help you navigate the city. In addition, many restaurants offer wheelchair access, and some hotels have wheelchair-accessible rooms. There are also accessible tour companies to help you plan your stay and that offer adapted tours within the city and to nearby areas.

Step back into time and tour ancient civilizations as you travel through Athens, Greece. While accessibility in Greece will pose some challenges (mainly due to hills and uneven terrain) it is definitely worth a visit.

Amazingly, places like the Acropolis are wheelchair-accessible (thanks to an elevator). Additionally, you can go to some of the museums to see the artifacts, relax in some of the squares, and take a ferry to nearby islands.

If you need a break from the city, traveling to islands such as Corfu, Rhodes, and Mykonos can offer a relaxing retreat.

Finally, consider some tips for traveling to Greece with mobility issues such as planning ahead and considering using an accessible travel company to make your trip accessible and stress-free. While these companies may not always be the cheapest way to travel, there are certain destinations where the cost may be worth it.

A religiously significant country that draws people from multiple faiths has done its best to accommodate people with mobility problems and wheelchair users. While small alleys and cobblestones will pose some challenges, many of the significant religious sites offer some accessibility.

The two most popular cities (Tel Aviv and Jerusalem) offer accessible hotels and tours. Visitors can relax on accessible beaches, say a prayer at the Wailing Wall, ascend to the top of Mount Olive, and roll part of the path that Jesus walked on his way to be crucified.

Other areas of interest may include the Dead Sea, Bethlehem, Nazareth, and more. Israel for All is a good resource that offers accessible tours and can advise you on the best places to stay and help create your ideal itinerary.

14. Reykjavik, Iceland

If you love nature and relaxation then Iceland is the perfect wheelchair-accessible vacation destination. You can find accessible hotel rooms in the city of Reykjavik, which makes a good base for exploring the area.

During your visit, you’ll find plenty of wheelchair-accessible things to do in Iceland . Make sure to take a golden circle tour where you will see geysers, waterfalls, and where the tectonic plates separate Europe from North America. Additionally, if you visit during the colder months of November – March, you also have an excellent chance of seeing the northern lights.

When you need a break and a chance to relax, make sure to stop at the Blue Lagoon which is fully wheelchair accessible with accessible changing rooms and a ramped entrance into the lagoon. Pool noodles are also available to help with steadiness.

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in South America

15. costa rica.

Explore lush jungles while you look for adorable wildlife, learn about a new culture, and take in the beautiful scenery as you tour Costa Rica. Accessible travel companies such as Wheel the World and il Viaggio Travel will make planning a trip here seamless and ensure accessibility.

There are a number of incredible (and accessible) experiences you can have here including adaptive surfing, hiking (using a special wheelchair), adaptive zip-lining, and relaxing in a hot spring. Whether you like beaches, the mountains, the jungle, or something else, Costa Rica has it all.

On an adapted, accessible tour, you won’t have to worry about getting from place to place or finding an accessible hotel room. In addition, you will have a knowledgeable guide to teach you all about the area.

Want to go on a small group tour to Costa Rica? Email me at [email protected] and I can connect you with a fabulous tour!

16. Cusco, Peru

Believe it or not, wheelchair users can go to Machu Pichu! While Cusco and the surrounding areas will undoubtedly present some challenges, there are travel companies that design tours to the area for wheelchair users. They even provide specialized adapted equipment and helpers to make your trip easier and more enjoyable.

Just imagine learning about Inca culture and seeing the impressive ruins of their once-thriving civilizations. Visit local museums that feature artifacts and the beautiful Incan gold that unfortunately made these natives a target of the greedy European invaders.

Larger hotel chains and brands are in the area and are the best bet for finding a wheelchair-accessible room to stay in during your trip.

17. Galapagos Islands

Get up close to the famous Galapagos Turtles! This destination is perfect for people with an adventurous spirit as you can go rafting, kayaking and even snorkeling during your trip.

While managing a trip to the Galapagos Islands on your own will prove challenging, companies such as Latin America for All will ensure you have the most accessible trip possible. They know the most accessible accommodations, offer accessible transportation, and will assist in transfers to make tours as smooth as possible.

So, if you’ve always wanted to connect with nature while living a little on the “wild side”, then the Galapagos Islands will surely fit the bill.

18. Patagonia Chile

Okay, so Patagonia is a region and not isolated to a specific city or small area. Instead, Patagonia makes up most of Chile as well as parts of Argentina as well.

In the Chilean region, it is known for the stunning Andes Mountain range, gorgeous fjords, glaciers, and wildlife. Santiago is a major gateway for exploring the area but to truly experience Patagonia you will need to move to several towns.

One of the easiest ways for wheelchair users to experience the fjords is to take an accessible cruise. Popular and major cruise lines will have varying itineraries but most sail through Glacier Alley on the way to the southernmost city of Ushuaia.

Holland America adds scenic sailing through some of the other fjords as well. However, most ports or stops along the way are tender ports which makes them inaccessible to full-time wheelchair users.

Popular towns to visit within the Chilean Patagonia include Santiago, Puerto Montt, Puerto Chacabucco, and Ushuaia (which is technically in Argentina).

19. Iguazu Falls

Experience the over 270 waterfalls that make up Iguazu Falls . This mighty collection of incredible waterfalls borders the countries of Argentina and Brazil, and visitors can take in the views in both countries. Most of the pathways and overlooks on both sides are wheelchair accessible and the Argentinian side has special wheelchairs for those with limited mobility.

For a really special experience, choose to stay inside the national park at the Gran Melia Iguazu Hotel . This beautiful property has views of the falls and everything you need onsite. It is also close to the trails allowing you to get an early start and beat the crowds.

Even if you don’t have time to dedicate a few days to Iguazu Falls (which is highly recommended) then consider taking a day trip to Iguazu Falls from Buenos Aires . It will be a long day, but one you’ll never forget.

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in Australia

Sydney is home to some of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi Beach. These sites are not just visually stunning but also offer unique experiences like crossing the bridge or watching a performance at the Opera House.

The Opera House has wheelchair access and offers audio descriptions and tactile tours for visitors with visual impairments. In addition, the Harbor Bridge has elevators so that wheelchair users can enjoy a scenic roll across this landmark. Unfortunately, the bridge climb is not accessible.

Other wheelchair-accessible things to do in Sydney include the Taronga Zoo, Sydney Tower Eye, Darling Harbour, and Bondi Beach. In fact, Bondi Beach has a beach wheelchair available for hire and offers accessible changing rooms and showers. A day trip to the Blue Mountains is also another fantastic option.

Have you ever wanted to see the Great Barrier Reef? Cairns makes for the perfect accessible base for not only going to this famous reef but other wonderful sites like the nearby rainforest as well.

During your stay, make sure to take a wheelchair-accessible cruise to a permanent platform situated in the Great Barrier Reef. While some of your activities on the platform will be limited and depend on your abilities, they have a motorized chair that will allow you to get in the water and snorkel over the reef.

Alternatively, you could choose to take a short cruise to Green Island where there are accessible pathways and where you can see the world’s largest crocodile. If you have some limited mobility, you can then take a glass-bottom boat tour or a quick helicopter ride.

Additionally, your Cairns itinerary should include a train ride aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway to the village of Kuranda. Once there, there are several activity options such as Rainforestation where you can learn about Aboriginal culture, cuddle with a koala, feed kangaroos, and more. When you’re ready to return to Cairns, take the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway to get a different perspective.

22. Melbourne

While the city of Melbourne has plenty of wheelchair-accessible things to do, it is also a gateway for the Great Ocean Road. This popular scenic drive takes guests to the 12 Apostles which are a series of limestone formations that emerge from the ocean.

Other popular stops and overlooks along the drive include Loch Ard Gorge, London Arch, Port Campbell, and Apollo Bay. Accessibility at these points varies and may be limited, however, they each offer fantastic views.

On the other hand, if you prefer to stay within Melbourne, make sure to check out the Melbourne Museum, Royal Botanic Gardens, SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, Eureka Skydeck 88, National Gallery of Victoria, and the Melbourne Star Observation Wheel which are all accessible. Of course, Melbourne has more to offer but this gives you a general idea of what you can do.

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in Asia

23. singapore.

Singapore is a city that combines nature with modern elements. It is truly a unique place that offers a lot to visitors of all abilities. Furthermore, being a more urban city, it has made great efforts to be accessible.

The majority of buses and trains are wheelchair accessible with designated spots and ramps or lifts to board. Additionally, you can book an accessible taxi service. There are also several hotels that offer fully adapted rooms for you to choose from.

During your time in Singapore, make sure to check out Gardens by the Bay which highlights flora and fauna from around the world, the Singapore Zoo which has over 300 species of animals, and the National Museum of Singapore to learn more about the history and culture of the city.

24. Bangkok, Thailand

While accessibility in Thailand does exist, it can be very hit or miss. As a result, you are better off sticking to major cities such as Bangkok during your visit. This city will still pose several challenges but I put it on the list of best vacations for wheelchair access as it is a beautiful country and can be possible with a lot of planning.

Major obstacles you will encounter include high curbs, blocked sidewalks, and limited accessible transportation. More modern mid-range hotels will offer accessible rooms, but it’s best to contact them in advance to ensure they will meet your needs.

For the most stress-free vacation consider hiring an accessible travel company that specializes in Asia travel. Planet Abled is a fantastic option. They will evaluate your needs and take care of all the logistics allowing you to experience the city with ease.

25. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is known for being one of the most advanced and modern cities in the world, and this is reflected in the city’s infrastructure and facilities for people with disabilities. Many public transportation options, including trains and buses, have wheelchair accessibility features like ramps and lifts. Accessible taxis are also available.

Additionally, many newer buildings are designed with accessibility in mind, and many older buildings have been retrofitted to include wheelchair ramps and accessible entrances.

Tokyo also has a lot to offer in terms of tourist attractions and activities that are accessible. For example, the Tokyo Skytree Observation Tower has elevators allowing for easy access, and many museums and cultural sites also have wheelchair accessibility. Other must-see things in Tokyo include the Jindaiji Temple, Ueno Park, Tsukiji Honganji, the Imperial Palace, and Odaiba Seaside Park.

Moreover, Japan has a culture that values respect and hospitality towards guests. This means that you may find that people in Tokyo are generally friendly and accommodating towards visitors with disabilities and that staff at hotels, restaurants and other establishments are often willing to go out of their way to ensure that your needs are met.

Get a taste of Tokyo before or after your trip with a Tokyo Treat Box . You can order yours by clicking here .

Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access in Africa

26. south african safari.

Few things are more exciting than going on a fully accessible South African safari and searching for wildlife. Can you imagine getting a chance to see the big 5 (lions, rhinos, leopards, elephants, and buffalo)? It’s truly an incredible experience.

Thanks to companies like Epic Enabled and more, wheelchair users can have the full safari experience. Accessible vehicles are used for game drives and accessible lodging is available in places like Kruger National Park .

If you want to go on a safari but don’t want the hassle of planning, come join me on a wheelchair-accessible South African safari small group tour !

27. Morocco

You may not think of Morocco and accessibility going together; however, it can be a very accessible country when you use the right travel company. While adapted and accessible infrastructure may be limited, companies such as Morocco Accessible Travel Consultants aim to ensure everyone can experience the beauty of Morocco.

Guests can choose from four different tours which vary in length and places they visit. So whether you want to ride a camel through the Sahara Desert, roll through the famous spice markets, or admire the architecture, there is something for everyone. You will also have the peace of mind that the accessibility has been reviewed and guaranteed for your trip.

History lovers will have a trip of a lifetime when visiting ancient Egypt. From standing in awe at the base of the Great Pyramids, to marveling at artifacts and mummies in the museums, Egypt is a dream destination for anyone who is mesmerized by ancient cultures.

While many of the famous attractions in Egypt aren’t designed for people with mobility problems to enter (i.e. the pyramids) they are still amazing sites to see from the outside. Additionally, there are accessible tour companies that will show you the best accessible routes and take care of all the planning of your trip.

These accessible itineraries allow you to take a cruise down the Nile River, see the Sphinx, Pyramids, and places like the Valley of the Kings. They will ensure you get accessible hotel rooms and provide adapted transportation.

Hiking through the dense jungle and up a mountain to reach a family of gorillas doesn’t exactly sound accessible. However, wheelchair users and people with limited mobility can do just that on a trip to Uganda.

Bwindi National Park (which organizes the gorilla treks) hires reformed former poachers (so they can make a legitimate living) to assist people in the trek. They use either a stretcher or a throne chair to carry people through the forest until they reach the gorillas.

You will then have an opportunity to watch these critically endangered species in their natural habitat and take pictures. Afterward, you will be carried back to where you started.

Tour companies such as Native Escapes can help you make all the arrangements and book accessible hotel rooms for your stay. Please be aware that you will pay an additional cost for the use of the throne chair and assistance (on top of the gorilla trekking permit) but it will allow you to see these amazing gorillas.

Can Wheelchair Users Go to Antarctica? (30)

Yes! Wheelchair users can go to Antarctica . There are affordable Antarctica cruises that won’t break the bank and allow people with mobility problems to travel to the White Continent.

I was lucky enough to visit in January 2023 and had a fabulous time. You can read more about my journey in my Antarctica trip review . There are so many wonderful reasons to visit Antarctica , I know you’ll have an unforgettable trip.

Wheelchair Accessible Travel Tips

While there are so many accessible travel tips I could give (sign up for my newsletter to get weekly tips delivered straight to your inbox), here are my top 5.

*Plan Travel Early

Accessible rooms, cabins, tours, and more are limited, and can book quickly. The best way to combat this is by planning your trip as soon as possible. I always start planning my travels at least a year in advance.

The other advantage to planning early is that it will give you plenty of time to research accessibility and decide what you would like to see and do during your trip.

*Confirm Accessible Hotel Rooms

Finding and getting an accessible hotel room is one of the biggest challenges in accessible travel. If there are no pictures online, contact the hotel prior to booking to confirm the room will meet your needs.

Then after you book, call, and confirm that they are aware you booked an accessible room (if possible, ask for a specific room number you’re assigned to). Finally, call again about 1-2 weeks prior to your trip to ensure that they still have you booked in a mobility-accessible room.

*Figure Out Transportation Options

Assuming you’re not doing a road trip , you will need to figure out what accessible transportation options are available. This will include how to get from the airport to the hotel as well as how to get to the attractions you have on your itinerary.

Sometimes, accessible transportation (if not public) needs to be booked in advance. Additionally, researching available options will give you an idea of how much of your budget you will need to allot to this category.

*Consider Accessible Tours

Some destinations will be more challenging than others in arranging everything you will need. In those cases, you may want to consider booking an accessible tour (either private or small group) to make the trip hassle-free.

Examples of destinations where accessible tours may be beneficial include Egypt, South Africa, Morocco, Patagonia, Cusco, Galapagos Islands, Thailand, Greece, and Costa Rica.

*Research Cruise Ports

While cruises themselves are pretty accessible, the ports they visit can be hit or miss. Before you depart on your cruise, look to see whether any ports are tender (which are generally not accessible), how far the town is from where the ship docks, whether there is accessible transportation (like a shuttle to town or accessible taxis), and if there are any accessible things to do in the area.

Check out my posts on cruising for more information and tips.

Accessible Vacations FAQ’s

Can i travel if i have mobility issues.

One of the goals of this blog is to show you that you can travel with mobility issues. There are so many possible destinations and experiences you can have around the world that are accessible, so it would be a shame not to allow yourself to experience them.

That being said, there is definitely more work to be done to make the world a better and more accessible place for everyone. Each destination will present unique challenges for accessible travel that need to be overcome.

So, it’s important to understand your abilities and weaknesses so that you can choose a destination or form of travel that is best for you.

What Countries are Best for Wheelchair Users?

Many countries have made progress in recent years in terms of accessibility for wheelchair users. However, some countries are generally considered to be more accessible than others. Here are my top picks.

• United States Many cities and attractions in the United States are wheelchair accessible, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures that public places are accessible including national parks.
• United Kingdom The UK has made significant progress in terms of accessibility, and the Equality Act 2010 ensures that public places are accessible to wheelchair users.
• Germany Germany has a strong commitment to accessibility, and many cities have made significant efforts to improve accessibility in recent years.
• Australia Many of Australia’s most popular cities have good wheelchair access. Additionally, they are working on expanding the use of changing rooms which are fully accessible and have large beds or tables to allow for adult changing use.
• Japan Japan has made significant efforts to improve accessibility, especially in the lead-up to the 2020 Paralympic Games. Cities such as Tokyo are at the forefront of this movement.

Is Europe Wheelchair Friendly?

Europe has made significant progress in recent years in terms of accessibility for people with disabilities, including wheelchair users. However, accessibility can vary widely depending on the country, city, and even specific location within a city.

However, some European countries and cities have put more effort into creating accessible environments than others. For example, cities like London, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Barcelona are considered to be quite accessible, while other cities may have more challenges.

Overall, it’s important to research and plan when traveling to Europe as a wheelchair user . Many cities and tourist attractions may have information available online or by phone about their accessibility features. Accessible travel blogs (like this one) are another good resource. In addition, it’s always a good idea to contact hotels or other accommodations in advance to ensure that they can accommodate your needs.

Can You Tour Italy in a Wheelchair?

I am happy to say that Italy is wheelchair accessible! While every destination will pose some challenges to wheelchair users, Italy is definitely worth visiting.

They somehow manage to balance historical sites with accessibility features. Did you know, for example, that there is an elevator in the Colosseum??

So, whether you want to see the famous artwork in Florence , roll along the canals in Venice , visit historic sites in Rome , or enjoy the Amalfi Coast (and more), Italy has an accessible vacation option for everyone.

Where Can I Travel on a Budget?

Since accessible travel can cost double the price (often more) than traditional travel, one of the primary concerns for people living with a disability is how much a trip will cost. This is often referred to as the “disability tax”.

However, the good news is, there are ways to save money on travel. Additionally, there are many popular destinations that can be visited on a budget. In fact, I dedicated a whole post to the subject. Make sure to read my post on the best holidays for people with limited mobility on a budget for more information.

When is the Best Time to Travel?

Choosing the best time to travel will depend on several factors. First, the destination that you choose. For example, you don’t want to travel to Asia during the monsoon season.

Second, your budget will also be a factor. Traveling in the shoulder season (or non-peak tourism season) can often save you money on hotel and airfare. Additionally, lines at attractions will be shorter as well.

Lastly, it will depend on when you have time available to travel. Many people are only able to travel when the kids aren’t in school or when they can take vacation time from work.

Ultimately, whenever you have time and financial means to travel is the best time.

How Do Wheelchair Users Get on an Airplane?

Since unfortunately, wheelchair users are unable to stay in their wheelchairs during a flight, they must transfer to a regular airplane seat. To accomplish this, the airlines use an aisle wheelchair to assist passengers down the narrow aisles of the plane.

Staff can assist with transfers. However, if you have sensitive areas or want a smoother process, it’s a good idea to bring a sling with you that staff can use to assist you.

You will go through the same process when disembarking the plane and your regular wheelchair should be waiting for you at the door of the aircraft.

Can You Travel Independently as a Wheelchair User?

Most airlines have a policy that if you cannot safely evacuate yourself in the event of an emergency you will need to travel with a companion. Whether the airlines enforce this policy is another question. Ultimately, there have been instances where wheelchair users traveling independently have been denied boarding.

Additionally, some airlines have policies where they will not transport a power wheelchair over a certain weight.

It is always recommended that you check with the accessibility department at each airline to find out what their rules and regulations are and for guidance, so you don’t show up at the airport only to be disappointed.

Most cruise lines (but not all) allow people in wheelchairs to sail without a companion to assist them. However, you will need to be able to handle all your activities of daily living (eating, showering, dressing, going to the bathroom, etc.) on your own.

Are There Wheelchair Accessible Travel Companies?

There are several companies that exist that specialize in wheelchair-accessible travel and provide tours. You can find the providers that I have personally used and recommend on my wheelchair-accessible providers’ page .

Additionally, there are travel agents that specialize in accessible travel that can assist you in planning a perfect trip.

How Do I Decide Where to Travel?

One of the great challenges for any traveler is deciding where to go. While some people throw darts at a map, this strategy doesn’t work well for people with mobility problems.

Instead, I recommend creating a bucket list of your dream destinations. Then, prioritize the ones that are most important to you. Next, do some research to get an estimated budget for those destinations and learn a little more about how accessible they may be (blogs like this one can often help with your research).

Pro Tip: Use my Accessible Vacation Destination Inspiration Page to help see what destinations are possible (listed by interests).

Finally, when it comes time to pick your next trip, set a budget and look at which items on your bucket list fit not only your interests and priorities but what you can afford to spend as well.

What Are the Biggest Challenges in Wheelchair Accessible Travel?

Unfortunately, there are several challenges that come with wheelchair-accessible travel.

First, is finding an accessible hotel room (and actually getting the one you booked). When traveling outside of the United States, many hotels do not show pictures of their accessible rooms online. Additionally, (whether it’s in the US or abroad) you can think that you booked an accessible room only to show up and find out that they have none available. Or staff assigns you a hearing-accessible room vs a mobility-accessible room.

Second, there is the chance that your wheelchair or mobility device will get damaged by the airline when you fly to a destination. This is a daily occurrence that happens way too often. While there are steps you can take to protect your device, airlines need to do better as well.

Third, finding accessible transportation is not always easy. While some cities do an amazing job at providing this, many do not. This often results in travelers having to book private transportation and/or tours just to get to where they want to go (at a significant cost).

Lastly, there is the cost of accessible travel. I mentioned earlier that it can cost twice as much (often more) than traditional travel. This is due to the fact that there is often a lack of accessible public transportation, accessible group tours, and limited companies that offer accessible services.

Conclusions on Best Vacations for Wheelchair Access

My hope is that this post has not only shown you that it is possible to travel as a wheelchair user or someone with limited mobility but given you an idea of the best vacations for wheelchair access. While traveling with a disability can be challenging, it is also extremely rewarding. So, go ahead and get planning to check more destinations off your bucket list!

Share this:

I'm Kristin and I was born with a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy, which impacts my mobility and breathing. Despite this challenge, I have travelled across the United States and abroad and want to share my accessible travel information with others.

13 of the Most Wheelchair Accessible Travel Destinations

Wheelchair accessible travel destinations, sydney, australia.

London, England, U.K.

Washington, D.C .

Vienna, Austria

Barcelona, Spain

Atlanta, Georgia

Paris, France

New York City, New York

Amsterdam, Netherlands

San Francisco, California

Melbourne, Australia

Join our newsletter

What do you want to drive?

Mobility scooters.

Electric Wheelchairs

Manual Wheelchairs

Rollators & Walkers

Where do you plan to use it?

What weight range applies.

8 Top Destinations for a Wheelchair-Friendly Vacation

Updated : May 15, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, CW

Table of contents.

• Playa del Carmen
• U.S. National Parks
• Rio de Janeiro
• Cape Town, South Africa
• Maui, Hawaii

Wheelchair users face a variety of unique challenges that don’t have to get in the way of adventure. The demand among wheelchair users and others living with various disabilities for accessible tourism is reaching new heights, as more amenities and wheelchair-friendly features become more commonplace. 

Due to this, wheelchair-accessible cities, attractions and cultural sites can be found all over the world, opening up exciting new experiences and destinations to people of all kinds. AAA is committed to getting intrepid travelers of all abilities to the destination of a lifetime, so if you’re looking for your next wheelchair-friendly vacation spot, take a look at the following top destinations. 

1. Playa del Carmen

Located just over 40 miles to the south of Cancún, Playa del Carmen (or just plain “Playa”) is a popular resort city on Mexico’s Caribbean coast. As tourism is a major part of the local economy, local hospitality and tour providers have invested heavily in making their city more accessible to wheelchair users from abroad. Rent a beach wheelchair and soak in the sun on one of the most innovative wheelchair friendly vacation spots in the world.

Why You Should Visit:

• Wheelchair-accessible beaches (complete with beach wheelchairs). 
• Wheelchair-friendly hotels, restaurants and destinations like the Frida Kahlo Museum. 
• Easy access to the Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá and Tulum, whose gravel paths and ramps allow wheelchair users a rare chance to glimpse some of Mexico’s heritage up close. 

2. U.S. National Parks

If you’re traveling on a budget or don’t want to wander too far afield, don’t worry — there’s more than enough to explore right in your own backyard. Since National Parks are federal property within the borders of the United States, they’re required to provide a range of amenities and features to all visitors under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Plus, with 423 national park sites and 63 National Parks to choose from, you can broaden your horizons by visiting some of the country’s most important historical and natural sites without worrying about accessibility. 

• Extensive options with over 400 parks and sites of interest to choose from. 
• Ongoing and constant investment in accessible features under the NPS’ Accessibility for All Americans program. 
• US residents with a permanent disability qualify for a $10 National Park Disability Pass (Access Pass), granting free entry to all national parks for life. 

3. Las Vegas

If you envision an adventure in nightlife for your next wheelchair-friendly vacation, you’ll be glad to know that Sin City, USA is one of the most wheelchair-friendly destinations in the country. Las Vegas’ 60 casinos and thousands of hotels feature accessible features like wheelchair ramps and elevators, meaning you can enjoy all the gaming, entertainment and scheduled events you can handle. Plus, many Las Vegas events, like the Fremont Street Experience and the Las Vegas Arts District, are free to enter. Famous for their nightly shows, wheelchair users can comfortably see some of the best shows in town.

• Ride the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel, which is also wheelchair-friendly. 
• Extensive entertainment, shopping and dining options in accessible venues. 
• Extensive transportation options include wheelchair-accessible cabs and public buses. 

4. Rio de Janeiro

Brazil’s second-largest city is world-famous for many things, such as lively carnivals, sparkling white beaches and stunning natural scenery. You might be surprised to learn that it’s also one of the most accessible cities in South America, the result of substantial investments made for the 2016 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. While it may take some preparation to access some of Rio de Janeiro’s most iconic spots, the city’s accessible infrastructure makes it a must-see for wheelchair users from all over the world. 

• Wheelchair-accessible sidewalks, cabs and public transportation provide city-wide access. 
• Extensive options for wheelchair-friendly hotels and accommodation. 
• Accessible beaches, heritage sites and nature including the Christ the Redeemer Statue and Sugar Loaf Mountain. 

5. Amsterdam

Amsterdam has long been known for combining centuries-old heritage with modern technology, including the city’s public infrastructure and amenities, making this one of the best European destinations for wheelchair users. Many Dutch hotels follow ADA guidelines, so you’ll find the same level of accessibility you’d find at home and more than enough options when it comes to accommodation. Plus, the city is home to some of the Netherlands’ most beloved attractions, including the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and much more. 

• The extensive network of wheelchair-accessible sidewalks, canal paths and public transportation. 
• Wheelchair-friendly canal cruises, museum tours, dining and shopping. 
• Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is well-regarded for its accessibility and its friendly special assistance team. 

6. Singapore

Arguably the most accessible city in Asia, Singapore’s wealth of sights, sounds and experiences is open to all. The city-state’s Code on Barrier-Free Accessibility in Buildings has led to step-free, easy curbside access for most buildings and sites like the Supertree Grove and its many parks. On top of that, a well-planned streetscape offers wheelchair users an endless variety of options when planning days out to museums, entertainment and dining. 

• Wheelchair-accessible taxis, trains and buses with designated ramps and entry points. 
• Must-see attractions including the National Museum of Singapore, Singapore Zoo and Clarke Quay. 
• A selection of comfortable, accessible hotels with rooms adapted for wheelchair users. 

7. Cape Town, South Africa

Much of Africa, being rural or remote, is still inaccessible or difficult to access for wheelchair users, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on the idea of a South African getaway. While some of the more forbidding regions might not be an option, you can still explore wheelchair-friendly cities like Cape Town, South Africa’s legislative capital and second-largest settlement. Regularly regarded as one of the best cities in the world to visit and close to two major UNESCO World Heritage sites — Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent decades in prison and the Cape Floristic Region, one of the most diverse regions of plant life on Earth — Cape Town is also highly accessible, offering both modern accessible infrastructure and an easy-to-use, far-ranging transit system. 

• Wide, even sidewalks offer independent access to the city’s most fascinating neighborhoods and sights. 
• An easy-to-use bus system equipped for wheelchair users with over 600 stops throughout the city. 
• Extensive options for wheelchair-adapted rooms in hotels across town. 

8. Maui, Hawaii

Maui, Hawaii is an excellent wheelchair friendly vacation option. Maui is full of accessible beaches and activities for the beach-lover to the adventure seeker. Join a Hawaiian luau with traditional Polynesian dancing, fire displays and island music to fully immerse yourself in the local culture. If whale-watching sounds enticing, you can book a trip to find the humpback whales swimming through the Pacific Ocean (whale-watching season runs from mid-November to mid-April, so plan accordingly if that is an activity you'd like to do). On the beach, you ca rent multiple types of mobi-beach chairs, a beach trax and even take an accessible surfing lesson if you are feeling adventurous. Plan on visiting Maui based on your interests and activities you prioritize.

• Some of the most beautiful beaches in the world
• World-class hotels and restaurants that are mostly all wheelchair friendly
• Accessible equipment rentals throughout Maui.

Plan Your Vacation With AAA

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach trip or a romantic winter getaway, there are plenty of amazing destinations right here in the U.S. to choose from. Ready to book your vacation? Visit your  local AAA travel office  or book online with  Trip Canvas .  AAA members  will receive discounted hotels, rental cars and more!

More Articles

Travel like an expert with aaa and trip canvas, get ideas from the pros.

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

10 Wheelchair Friendly Places to Visit Across America

Share article.

There are 75 million wheelchair users worldwide: that’s twice the population of Canada! A lack of accommodations makes it difficult for many of them to enjoy taking vacations or traveling.

With some research and planning, you can find a destination to enjoy some time away, whether you’re looking for peace and relaxation or adventure and fun. Many popular travel destinations are doing a better job of catering to visitors with all types of disabilities, and the rest of the travel industry is finally following their lead.

Here are 10 of the most recommended wheelchair-friendly travel destinations to visit in the US (and don’t forget to consider a wheelchair van rental to get there in style!).

1. Disneyland and Disney World

Disneyland and Disney World are two of the most popular theme parks in the 

world. Efforts to increase accessibility have helped everyone experience a bit of their magic. Both Disneyland and Disney World offer services such as advanced ticket purchases and wheelchair rentals. Service animals are also allowed throughout the parks. The attractions spread over the parks have varying levels of accommodations, so be sure to plan your trip in advance.

2. Yellowstone National Park

This large park touches three states: Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. It's a well-known and popular destination, and it's making efforts to improve accessibility . Even if you can’t hike the mountains, many of Yellowstone's trails, fishing sites and walkways are accessible. The park also offers great guided audio tours and wheelchair rentals.

3. Little Valley Mountain Resort

The Great Smoky Mountains are another wheelchair-friendly national park, but you can also spend all your time in this very accessible resort if you prefer. The cabins are easy to get around in with open floor plans and ramped entries, as well as an accessible space designated for fishing.

4. Hanauma Bay State Park

This gorgeous park has the white sand and blue water you'd expect in Hawaii. What sets it apart is that it sits inside a dormant volcano. Accessibility options also make this park unique. Wheelchair rentals are easy to find, and balloon-tied beach chairs are free year-round from 8a.m-to 4 pm. You’ll also find inclusive snorkeling outfitters, dolphin 

watching, cruises and helicopter tours. There are enough activities in Hanauma Bay to ensure you never get bored. They include snorkeling, dolphin watching, Luas, cruises, and tours on a helicopter or catamaran.

5. Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas

Cruises are a great option for wheelchair users, and this is one of the best. You'll pass by several beautiful destinations while enjoying delicious food and captivating shows. The boat has  46 accessible cabins with large doors, bed lifts, low sinks, and roll-in showers. The recreational facilities also cater to wheelchair users. The pools have lifts to help you in, and the theaters have specialized seating.

6. Niagara Falls

This popular destination may not be the first one you consider when looking for wheelchair-friendly places to visit. It was difficult to navigate in the past, but today it's more accessible than eve r. The Maid of the Mist boat ride gives you a relaxing, accessible trip around the falls. You can also choose the Niagara Scenic Trolley if you want a different travel option. Consider the Cave of the Winds tour if you're prepared to get wet. You'll end up on the permanent deck only 75 feet away from the falls.

7. Kennedy Space Center

Children and adults all over the world who are fascinated by outer space will certainly enjoy this wheelchair-friendly destination. Accessible equipment is available for rent at the front door, and each theater includes plenty of accessible seating. Even the shuttle launch simulation has an accessible seat and a 5-point harness to keep you in place!

8. Stagecoach Trails Guest Ranch

The founder of this Yucca, Arizona spot has first-hand experience with how to travel in a wheelchair. His daughter uses one, and he customized this Yucca, Arizona ranch to fit her needs. Aside form a one-of-a-kind Western experience, the accommodations at Stagecoach Trails include roll-in showers and ADA tubs. There's also intentionally plenty of space to maneuver around in the lodge and dining room.

9. The Smithsonian

This cluster of museums in Washington, DC is one of the most popular in the US. It gets crowded with tourists who want to see the slice of history they provide. This popularity may be part of the reason for efforts to ensure that wheelchair users aren't left out. Every exhibition is wheelchair accessible , and so are its restrooms. You can also take an elevator up to its public floors.

10. Seattle Zoo and Aquarium

Seattle is one of the most accessible cities in the US, despite being known for its hills. One of the many reasons for this is its many forms of public transportation, including ferries, taxis, buses, and rails. The zoo and aquarium are two of the city's most famous attractions. They both offer free wheelchair rentals and have accessible restrooms. Still, some of the zoo's paths are steep and bumpy. You'll need to be careful as you go along and may need a bit of help to keep you from falling.

Getting out of the house can feel like a major hurdle, but it doesn't have to be. Don’t forget, wherever your travels take you, BraunAbility has the products you need to help you get wherever you want to go. You can also rent wheelchair vans from a local mobility dealer.

Other Articles: 

• 3 Accessible American History Vacations
• 5 Ideas for Observing MS Month
• The Importance of Honoring Parkinson's Awareness Month
• What Is the Best Wheelchair for Seniors?
• What Is a Caregiver?

Vehicle $28.979

Standard Equipment:

17" Wheel Cover

Mobility-Friendly Travel Guide from National Council on Aging

by Charlie Leocha | Jan 12, 2024 | Disability Assistance

Explore the world with our NCOA guide designed to make travel accessible, enjoyable, and worry-free for those using wheelchairs, walkers, and canes.

Key Takeaways

• Accessible travel is vital for social inclusion, medical needs, and overall well-being, especially for older adults.
• More than 6.8 million Americans living outside of institutions use assistive devices to help them with movement. Around 1.7 million of those use a wheelchair or scooter, and the remaining 5.1 million use canes, crutches, and walkers.
• The Air Carrier Access Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations mandate accommodations in air and cruise travel.
• For road trips, safely stow mobility devices in the car and consider renting an accessible vehicle.
• Major train and bus lines offer accessible seating and facilities, but booking in advance is advised.
• Proper planning, including emergency preparedness and consulting with service providers, helps ensure a smooth travel experience for those with mobility devices.

Travel isn’t just a luxury; it’s a vital aspect of well-being, especially for older adults. Travel provides cognitive, social, and physical health benefits to older adults — a group that is more prone to developing difficulties in these areas. But for anyone who relies on mobility aids like wheelchairs, walkers, and canes, the idea of travel can seem daunting.

The good news is that accessible travel is not only possible but also increasingly more common and doable. Numerous blogs and services are dedicated to making travel accessible for everyone. Whether you’re traveling for leisure, family visits, or medical appointments, this guide aims to empower you with actionable information for a smooth and enriching journey that meets your mobility needs.

Planning tips for mobility-friendly travel

Proper planning is the cornerstone of any successful trip, and it’s even more crucial when you’re traveling with mobility aids. About 30 percent of Americans over the age of 65 living outside of institutions use assistive devices for mobility purposes, both inside and outside the home. Many use a wheelchair or scooter, while the greatest number use canes, crutches, and walkers. Traveling with mobility aids is possible, and can be done successfully by following a few planning tips :

• Research your destination: Before you book anything, research the accessibility features of your chosen destination. Look for hotels and rental properties with ADA-compliant rooms, and check if tourist attractions offer wheelchair ramps or other accommodations. Websites like WheelchairTravel.org provide valuable insight into the accessibility of locations.
• Consult your health care provider: Before embarking on your trip, consult your health care provider for a pre-travel check-up. Discuss your travel plans, and make sure you have enough medication and supplies for the duration of your trip.
• Communicate with transportation providers: When booking flights, notify the airline about your mobility device in advance. Most airlines offer assistance for boarding and deplaning, and narrow aisle wheelchairs are provided by the airlines to get you to your seat. If you’re traveling by train or bus, check their policies on mobility aids, since they differ.
• Communicate with your accommodation provider: Call hotels or rental properties directly to confirm the availability of accessible rooms. Inquire about ramps, elevator access, door widths, roll-in showers, and other features that can make your stay more comfortable. Plan accessible ground transportation ahead of time from your accommodation to your planned activities. A hotel will often be able to book this for you.
• Get insurance: Invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies and the potential loss or damage to your mobility device.
• Mobility device maintenance: Check the condition of your mobility device and consider a tune-up before the trip.
• Set aside some break/rest days: You don’t want to tire or stress yourself out by overscheduling every minute of your trip, so be sure to schedule moments to recharge.

Traveling checklist

Packing these items will help ensure a smooth trip:

• Mobility aid: Choose a device that is compact, foldable, and will travel easily. The scooter or wheelchair you use at home may be too bulky. Consider renting a more portable chair or scooter. If you are bringing a new device, be sure to practice with it until you are comfortable. Don’t wait until the trip to learn how to use it.
• Chargers and batteries: Bring extra batteries or chargers for electric wheelchairs and scooters.
• Medical supplies: Ensure you have enough medication and other medical supplies.
• Documentation: Keep copies of prescriptions and any other medical documentation.
• Emergency contacts: Draft a list of local health care providers and emergency services at your travel destination.
• Accessibility apps and guides: Download apps and guides that can help you find accessible routes and services. Apps like iAccess Life will help you navigate accessible routes and locations. Google Maps also has an “Accessible Places” feature, which labels accessible entrances, seating, restrooms, and parking. Additionally, Mobility International USA offers PDF guidebooks for accessible destinations around the world.

Air travel with a mobility device

Navigating the skies with a mobility device requires a bit more preparation, but it’s entirely achievable with the right knowledge and planning.

The Air Carrier Access Act

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) is a U.S. federal law, first enacted in 1986, which prohibits discrimination against passengers with disabilities in air travel. Under the ACAA, airlines must accommodate travelers with disabilities, including those who use mobility devices. This means airlines are required to provide assistance for boarding, deplaning, and making connections, as well as stowing your mobility device. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the ACAA to understand your rights and what accommodations you can expect.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a program called TSA Cares, which is a helpline that provides additional assistance during the security screening process for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, and other circumstances. TSA Cares is staffed to provide travelers information on what to expect during the screening process Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m.–11 p.m. ET and weekends and holidays, from 9 a.m.–8 p.m. ET.

A traveler may request the services of a TSA Passenger Support Specialist (PSS), who can provide assistance through security screening. A PSS is a TSA officer who has received specialized training, including how to effectively assist and communicate with people with disabilities or medical conditions, and travelers who need additional screening assistance. You may call the number above or fill out an online form to request a PSS.

Planning air travel with a walker or cane

Air travel with a walker or cane is generally straightforward. Here’s what you need to know:

• Stowing the device: Walkers and canes are typically folded and stowed in the overhead compartment or a designated area in the cabin.
• Mobility assistance: Airlines offer escort services to help you move through the airport and onto the plane. You may also request an aisle wheelchair for easier boarding.
• Call ahead: While not mandatory, it’s advisable to notify the airline in advance that you’ll be traveling with a mobility aid. This ensures the crew is prepared to assist you.
• Label your device: Be sure to put your name on your device so there is no confusion if it gets gate checked.

Planning air travel with a wheelchair

Wheelchair travel involves a bit more planning but is still manageable. Here’s what you should know:

• Advanced notice: Always give the airline advance notice that you’re traveling with a wheelchair. This allows them to make the necessary preparations for your journey.
• Types of assistance: Airports offer various types of wheelchair assistance, such as escorting you through security and helping you board the plane.
• Your own device: You can generally use your own wheelchair or scooter up to the boarding gate. From there, it will be stowed in the cargo hold, and you’ll be transferred to an aisle wheelchair for boarding.
• Airport-issued wheelchair: Some travelers opt for an airport-issued wheelchair. If you choose this option, your personal wheelchair will be stowed immediately upon check-in.

Shannon MacDonald, an occupational therapist in Denver, Colorado, has guidance for navigating airports with mobility devices. Her number one recommendation is to plan ahead and not leave anything until the last minute. She tells her clients to take advantage of TSA PreCheck® and Global Entry in order to reduce delays. She told us you can now complete the TSA PreCheck application at any Staples store in the country.

Laurel McFarland of Parker, Colorado, is 75 years old and uses a cane after her double knee replacement surgery. She recently traveled through Denver International Airport (DIA), an airport that is notorious for long wait times. Ms. McFarland wishes she had known about the Staples option mentioned above by MacDonald. She underestimated how long it would take to get through DIA’s security. Laurel began the TSA PreCheck application online and planned to complete it at the airport, but found herself at the wrong end of the concourse without enough time to get to the other side. She was unable to complete or use TSA PreCheck and had to stand in a long, standard security line. Laurel also wishes she had accepted the wheelchair offer at check-in. She told us, “Next time, I’m taking the wheelchair. Who cares what it looks like.”

• Use crossbody bags or fanny packs to free up your hands
• Put your medications in carry-on bags
• Use Apple AirTags or Tile tags in checked luggage for easy trackability and peace of mind
• Take advantage of preboarding
• Start with shorter trips if longer ones seem daunting

MacDonald’s final words of advice were, “Don’t be afraid to travel — it’s so worth it!”

READ ALSO: Why knowing airline wheelchair policies can make flying easier Airlines damage passenger wheelchairs — more than 200 a week

Charlie Leocha is the President of Travelers United. He has been working in Washington, DC, for the past 14 years with Congress, the Department of Transportation, and industry stakeholders on travel issues. He was the first consumer representative to the Advisory Committee for Aviation Consumer Protections appointed by the Secretary of Transportation from 2012 through 2018.

Subscribe to Our Free Newsletter

Recent posts.

• Why the value of your life depends on where you die
• Will new airline consumer protection rules help you when you fly this summer?
• Today’s passengers and airport amateurs are like yesteryear’s holiday travelers
• Americans deserve quality sunscreens to prevent skin cancer now!
• Know the real rules for best compensation when you are bumped

Accomplishments

These accomplishments have been achieved by working closely with our members, national media, the travel industry, the Department of Transportation (DOT), Congress and many other agencies.

• – Removal of restaurant fees from DC area eateries — this is an ongoing project
• – Creation of DOT Dashboard to outline consumer rights after cancellation of a flight
• – Bi-partisan bill to eliminate hotel resort fees introduced into House of Representatives
• – Creation of the Advisory Committee for Aviation Consumer Protections
• – Advertised airfares now include airfare plus, mandatory taxes and fees
• – Lost/damaged/delayed luggage compensation limit increased to $3,800
• – Passengers have 24 hours to change or cancel their nonrefundable tickets without penalty
• – Once an airfare is purchased, that airfare and ancillary fees cannot be increased
• – Families flying together act passed by Congress that requires family members 13 years of age and younger to sit with other family members at no additional cost.

View More Accomplishments

Related Posts

Venice for the disabled is not easy

Feb 22, 2024

Why knowing airline wheelchair policies can make flying easier

Feb 8, 2024

Airlines damage passenger wheelchairs — more than 200 a week

Aug 7, 2023

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Tips

This Is the Most Wheelchair-accessible City in the U.S.

Orlando, Florida tops this mobility-centric list.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Kruck20/Getty Images

Imagine booking a vacation and not being able to see the sights you want — not because you didn’t plan ahead and buy a ticket, but because you physically can’t access the sites . Frustrating would be an understatement.

It’s no wonder that, according to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics , over 40 percent of people aged 18 to 64 and over 57 percent of persons aged 65 and older who have travel-limiting disabilities reported that they hadn’t traveled at all in 2022. When even a tiny trip requires days of planning and there’s no guarantee that you’ll have accommodating housing , dining options, or activities, it can be easier to stick with what you know — to stay home and plan a local trip instead. 

The folks at InsiderMonkey.com, a finance site, dove into the world of accessibility, evaluating various sources and Reddit threads to determine what U.S. cities stood out in the wheelchair community. Topping the list was Orlando in central Florida.

The city, which is best known as the home to Walt Disney World Resort, actually has more than a dozen theme parks, many of which are known for providing plenty of accommodations for wheelchair users . At Disney World, for example, there are wheelchairs available to rent, wheelchair-friendly buses to take you around the park, special load and unload areas, and even cushions on various rides. The park has a webpage that provides all the details so guests with disabilities know what to expect. 

Beyond being home to several wheelchair-friendly theme parks, the ranking notes that “Orlando boasts a robust healthcare system and an accessible bus system called Lynx, contributing to its disability-friendly reputation.”

Orlando Health, a network of hospitals in Orlando, was recognized in 2022 for its excellence in keeping patients safe and providing quality care. Additionally, the CDC reports that 12 percent of adult Floridians have mobility issues — a statistic that ensures that healthcare providers are familiar with and well-equipped to care for wheelchair users. 

Orlando’s bus system, Lynx, has an accessible transportation arm called Access Lynx . Access Lynx is a shared ride door-to-door transportation service and customers with disabilities can get a bus pass at a discounted rate .

Following Orlando, which got a perfect score of 1, were four other U.S. cities that stood out for their wheelchair accessibility: Seattle; Chicago; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and New Orleans.

Related Articles

Destinations

Welcome to California!

Whether it’s wheelchair traveling to the mountains, coast, wine country, or one of California’s many prestigious parks, there are a lot of options. These wheelchair travel reviews, tips, and resources will allow you to plan and and prepare for your next trip. 

• Places to Stay

Lower Bidwell Park in Chico, California

Lower Bidwell Park in Chico, California boasts wheelchair-accessible trails that offer a scenic and inclusive outdoor experience for visitors of

Chico Seed Orchard Park + Trail

In Chico, California, the Chico Seed Orchard, managed by the Mendocino National Forest, not only offers wheelchair-accessible features but also

Hotel James in Chico, California

Hotel James, nestled in the heart of Chico, California, offers a charming retreat with one wheelchair accessible room. A wine

Palm Canyon Hotel & Resort by Anza-Borrego Park

Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Palm Canyon Hotel & Resort offers a tranquil and

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, California Wine Country

In Northern California, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park is located between the Sonoma and Napa valleys. Surrounded by redwoods and ferns with

Del Valle Regional Park (EBRPD)

Del Valle Regional Park (EBRPD) is located in the East Bay of San Francisco in the town of Livermore. This

Sunol Regional Wilderness Park (EBRPD)

Sunol Regional Wilderness is located in the East Bay of San Francisco, in the town of Sunol near Pleasanton and

Accessible Kayak Launch Locations

Kayaking is a great outdoor water activity! Accessible kayaking is growing throughout the United States. With adaptive equipment and launching

Pinnacles National Park, California

Pinnacles National Park is located in central California by Monterey. The park was formed by volcanic eruptions and sits along

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park + Pfeiffer Beach

Off the California Coast, south of San Francisco and Monterey, travelers will find three different Pfeiffer Parks. The biggest is

Southwest Road Trip Wacky, Wild + Random Stops

The American Southwest to calls to me again for another road trip adventure among its colorful, poetic landscapes between bites

Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, California

Not far from the Hearst Castle and San Simeon State Park, and located in Cambria off the coast of Central

San Simeon State Park, California

  Not far from the Hearst Castle in Central California off the coast near Cambria on Highway 1 is the

Garrapata State Park, California Coast

In central California along the Pacific Coast Highway, and below Point Lobos State Park near Carmel-by-the-Sea, is the Garrapta State

Henry Cowell State Park, California

In the Santa Cruz Mountains off the coast of Monterey Bay in California is the Henry Cowell State Park. This

Año Nuevo State Park, California

Año Nuevo State Park is located off the coast of central California, near Monterey Bay above Santa Cruz and below

Hearst Castle: California State Park

Hearst Castle is a California State Park, located on the coast between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Hearst Castle rests

Hendy Woods California State Park

A little more than a hour from seaside town of Mendocino, California is the Hendy Woods State Park. This a gorgeous

5 Best Wheelchair Accessible Beach Vacations

Are you looking for the best wheelchair-accessible beach vacations? During the hot summer days, there’s nothing better than relaxing on

Mt. Shasta: Shasta-Trinity + Klamath National Forest

I’ve been visiting the Mount Shasta Area of Shasta-Trinity and Klamath National Forest my whole life, even before I became

The Inn at Lake Shasta, California

The Inn at Shasta Lake is a contemporary, luxury bed and breakfast near Shasta Lake in the Trinity Forest of

Mt. Shasta, California: The LOGE

The LOGE is located on the edge of Mt. Shasta City with close access to the freeway. This property has

Yosemite National Park, California

Yosemite National Park in the foothills of the Sierra Mountains of California is one of the most popular attractions in

Russian River Glamping AutoCamp Cabin

AutoCamp Russian River is located in the small downtown of Guerneville in the Somona Wine Country of California, and is

Death Valley National Park, California

Death Valley National Park is located in Southern California on the boarder of Nevada. This video is a great overview

Elk Grove, CA: Laguna Creek Area Trails

Just outside Sacramento, in the town of Elk Grove, California, almost all of the paths are wheelchair accessible. The Laguna

Martin Murphy Trail: Santa Clara County, California

The Martin Murphy Trail near Santa Cruz in Central California county of Santa Clara is a unique loop trail with

USA Botanical Gardens

Stop and smell the roses, no seriously, get outside for some vital vitamin D while enjoying the floral fragrant of

Bay Area Outreach & Recreation Program (BORP)

Bay Area Outreach & Recreation Program (BORP) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization working to improve the health, independence and social

Santa Clara County, California: Coyote Creek Parkway

The name Coyote Creek Parkway is managed by the Santa Clara County in Central California near Santa Cruz. Coyote Creek

Sycamore Grove Park Regional Park (EBRPD)

Sycamore Grove Park is nestled in the Livermore Wine Country, located in the East Bay of San Francisco. The park

Mt. Tamalpais, California: West Point Inn Cabins

The West Point Inn is nestled on the slopes of Mt. Tamalpais in Mill Valley, California, not far from Muir

Yosemite National Park Attractions

Yosemite Valley Floor Trail Besides two small inclines, the paved bike path on the Yosemite Valley Floor was virtually flat

Autocamp Yosemite Glamping Cabins

Approximately 40 minutes from the Yosemite National Park entrance on Highway 140 in the Sierras of California is a glamping

Yosemite Bug Resort

Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort is about thirty-minutes just outside of Yosemite National Park on Highway 140 tucked along a

Glaming @ AutoCamp

As a travel writer who loves the outdoors, glamping (glamor camping) has become one of my favorite ways to immerse

San Diego, California: Adaptive + Recreational Sailing

Challenged Sailors San Diego in California provides therapeutic and recreational adaptive sailing opportunities for people with disabilities to enhance their

Lassen National Park, California

Lasson National Park is located in Northern California between the Shasta area and Reno, Nevada. When visiting, there are camping

Sequoia + Kings Canyon National Park, California

  The grouping of four towering sequoia redwoods alongside the road in the Sierra Mountains, known as the “Four Guardsmen,”

Fort Funston Overlook + Trail, California

Fort Funston (MAP) is located along the Pacific Ocean shoreline on the southwest side of San Francisco across from Lake

Marin Headlands National Park, California Wheelchair Tips

The Marin Headlands National Park, managed by the Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA), is located right off the Golden

Pacific Grove Borg’s Motel

Along the Monterey Bay coastline is the small beach town of Pacific Grove, neighboring the cities of Monterey and Carmel.

Rosie the Riveter Park Shipyard Museum Memorial

Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historic Park is located on the San Francisco Bay in the industrial heart

Pismo Beach, California SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel

The SeaCrest OceanFront Hotel in Pismo Beach is located on the central coast of California in between San Luis Obispo

Eugene O’Neill National Historical Site, California

The Eugene O’Neill Historical Site is a beloved residence of one of America’s most influential playwrights and a Nobel Peace

San Francisco, California Travel Guide

San Francisco is one of the hilliest cities in the USA, and it’s still accessible for wheelchair travel! Of course, power wheelchairs

Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel, California Coast

Pigeon Point Lighthouse Hostel is located right on the cliffs of the Pacific Ocean in the Monterey Bay of California

Murphys Suites Hotel, California

Murphys California is a small town about 3 hours east of San Francisco. There are a few places to stay,

Truckee, California: Hampton Inn Hotel

Truckee, California is a small town just outside of North Lake Tahoe, CA. Interstate 80 runs right through Truckee, which

The Salton Sea, Southern California

The Salton Sea in Southern California is a fascinating place with a tragic history. This hauntingly beautiful body of salt

Sacramento, California: Amtrak Train

The Sacramento Amtrak Train Station is located in Downtown Sacramento not far from Old Town Sacramento and the California State Capitol. Parking and

Los Angeles, California Attractions

The city of Los Angeles or the “city of angels” has a lot more to offer than just star gazing

Van Rentals: Oregon, California, Arizona, Nevada

Ability Center’s fleet of newer model, wheelchair accessible BraunAbility and VMI minivans are available for weekly and long-term rent. We

CA Sonoma Wine Country in the Fall

Witnessing trees changing colors on the East Coast during the crisp autumn months is an attraction all its own, but

Santa Cruz Beach Accessible Travel Guide

The City of Santa Cruz, California is located on the beach just above Monterey and below San Francisco. Santa Cruz

Point Reyes Seashore National Park in California

This magnificent expanse of parkland is one of the nation’s great treasures. Point Reyes Seashore National Park has 71,057 acres

Mori Point, Pacifica Promenade and Pier

Mori Point is located south of San Francisco in Pacifica along the coast, and is managed by the Golden Gate

Pacifica Coastal Trail, Northern California

Between Pedro Point and Rockaway Point, Pacifica State Beach, often called Linda Mar Beach, is popular with surfers and dog

Bayview Motel in Eureka, California

The Bayview Motel in Eureka, California is located on top of small hill right off highway 101 that runs through

Sonoma Wine Country, California: Cabana Pool

Living in the San Francisco Bay Area means having access to some of the most beautiful spots to visit, and

Top 5 Accessible Trails in the San Francisco Bay

Besides being very diverse and multicultural, the San Francisco Bay Area is also very wheelchair accessible, including a number of

Monterey, California: Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is an oceanfront park on the coast of Northern California in Carmel, right by Monterey

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, California

California’s most northerly redwood park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, boasts some of the world’s largest trees and six miles

California: Skydiving without My Wheelchair

 “Can you skydive three people who are paralyzed today?” inquired my friend Charlene Vine to Bill Dause, the owner

John Muir National Historical Site, California

John Muir, the father of park conservation, spent his last couple of decades in a beautiful Victorian home overlooking orchards

Nisene Marks State Park by Santa Cruz

The Nisene Marks State Park, located just right off Hwy 1 near Santa Cruz, California, is a beautiful peaceful redwood

San Diego Accessible Travel Attractions Tips

San Diego, California is a premier vacation beach destination, where people from all over the world come to soak up

Towne Place Suits Marriott at Disneyland in Anaheim, CA

Towne Place Suits Marriott is located about a mile from Disneyland just off of E Katella Ave in a quieter

Old Town Sacramento, California

In many cities, the “Old Town” section isn’t very wheelchair friendly, but this isn’t the case in Sacremento, California. The

North Lake Tahoe Accessibility Travel Tips

We arrived in Tahoe on a beautiful late summer day and checked into the Hyatt Hotel situated directly on the

South Lake Tahoe Accessible Travel Tips

Whether summer or winter, Lake Tahoe is one of California’s most visited and naturally beautiful destinations. It was referred to

Yosemite National Park Accessible Accomodations

When vacationing in Yosemite National Park there are a number of overnight accessible accommodation options. No matter what you choose,

Yosemite Tenaya Lodge

Tenaya Lodge is located on the edge of Sierra National Forest just past the small town of Oakhurst and a

Van Damme State Park, California

The Van Damme State Park in the county of Mendocino of Northern California (map) is known as the “Jewel of

Sonoma, California: Luxury African Safari + Tent Cabin

Upon arrival I turned off my cell phone; it was worthless now because I was in a reception dead zone.

San Francisco: Fort Mason + Great Meadow

Fort Mason in San Francisco, California is a former Army post dating from the Civil War and divided into Upper

Monterey Bay, California: Monarch Grove Sanctuary

Every fall and early winter, thousands of Monarch butterflies travel amazing distances from the northern United States and southern Canada

Antlers Campgrounds & RV Park in Northern California

Antlers RV Park and Campgrounds is located on Shasta Lake in Northern California in the small town of Lakehead. It

Asilomar Beach Sand Dune + Conference Grounds

Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds were created around 107 acres of natural coastal and forest resources with rustic settings,

Natural Bridges State Park Santa Cruz, California

In fall and winter, up to 150,000 monarch butterflies come to Natural Bridges State Park in Santa Cruz from the northern

Palm Springs & Palm Desert Travel Guide

Two hours south of Los Angeles and a day trip away from Joshua Tree National Park in the Mojave Desert

Los Angeles, California Downtown Hotel

The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites is located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles off Figueroa Street. The architecture of

Temecula, California: Inn at Churon Winery

The Inn at Churon Winery is a French-inspired chateau overlooking the rolling hills of vineyards in the Temecula Wine Country

Fly a Glider Plane with Hand-Controls

The San Gabriel Mountains in the Mojave Desert of Southern California have nearly perfect conditions for flying a glider plane,

California: Hot Air Balloon Ride

The stars were still out when I awoke. I was still half asleep as I got my things together in

Headwaters Forest Reserve by Eureka, California

Once the setting for a thriving mill town of 400 people, the Headwaters Forest Reserve is now inhabited only by

Pasadena, California Langham Resort

The Langham Huntington is a full-scale resort in Pasadena, California. It’s located in a very upscale area of Pasadena near

Temecula Wine Country, California

Temecula Wine Country in Southern California is conveniently located about an hour and a half away from Los Angeles, Palm

Share Adventures in Santa Cruz, California

Founded on the belief that recreation, fun, challenge and access to the outdoors are an essential part of a healthy

Beach Wheelchairs in San Diego, California

San Diego, California has some of the best beach access in the world. Many beaches in San Diego have beach

Indian Grinding Rock CA State Historic Park

The Indian Grinding Rock is located just east of Jackson, California, which is about 3 hours east of San Francisco,

California: Bay Area Association of Disabled Sailors

The Bay Area Association of Disabled Sailors (BAADS) strives to make all aspects of sailing accessible. To fulfill this mission, we

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California

Covering 600,000 acres, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in California. It protects a vast desert wilderness

San Francisco Crissy Field + Fort Point

Crissy Field with Fort Point tucked below the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco is a scenic spot and delight for

San Francisco Botanical Garden + Events

Have you thought about visiting San Francisco, CA for a weekend vacation or a holiday trip? If not, there are

Handlery Union Square Hotel in San Francisco

Price Category: Mid-Range www.handlery.com 351 Geary Street-San Francisco, CA  94102 Direct Reservation Number: (415) 781-7800 Reservation Fax: (415) 781-0269 10 wheelchair

San Francisco: Laurel Inn @ Pacific Heights

Close to the San Francisco Presidio in Pacific Heights is the Laurel Inn, a boutique hotel. The location is peaceful,

Joshua Tree National Park Access Guide

Joshua Tree National Park, 794,000 acres of desert wilderness – where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts merge in California near

Malibu, California Travel Tips + Attractions

  The Pacific Coast Highway 1 (PCH) is a famous area of Malibu known for its stretch of ocean views.

Santa Barbara, CA Travel Guide + Tips

Santa Barbara is part of California’s Central Coast and is not only a beach town but a college one with

Los Angeles County Metro Rail System

The Los Angeles County Metro Rail System is made up of 6 lines with over 70 stations serving the Greater L.A.

Lake Tahoe, California: Landing Resort

The Landing Resort is a luxury, boutique hotel with fine dining and spa services on a lake-front property in South Lake

Long Beach, California Travel Tips

Long beach is about 40 miles south of Los Angeles. Long Beach is almost a child of L.A. with a

Long Beach, California Public Transportation

Getting around Long Beach, California is easy with great accessible public transportation whether it be by air, land, or sea.

San Francisco Accessible Taxis Problems

Getting around some parts of San Francisco can be challenging in a wheelchair, especially if using a manual wheelchair because

Bodega Bay Lodge + Spa

Bodega Bay Lodge & Spa in Bodega Bay, California is a wheelchair friendly place to rest your head and managed by

Los Angeles Area Wheelchair Accessible Taxis

United Independent Taxi services the greater Los Angeles area for those needing wheelchair access, which means L.A., Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice,

Driving Northern to Southern California

To get between Northern and Southern California, the two most popular routes are Highway 5 and the PCH1/101 Freeway. Highway

Holiday Inn Fisherman’s Wharf

The Holiday Inn at Fisherman’s Wharf in the middle of Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghiradeli Square. The hotel has 2 sections

Redwoods Hiking Trails, Northern California

Think of Northern California and think of redwood trees, the largest trees in the world. Even in the San Francisco

Samual P. Taylor California State Park

The Marin County in the Bay Area will allow you to explore one of California’s natural treasures, the redwoods. Nestled

Bothin Marsh + Sausalito-Mill Valley Path, California

A wide, level asphalt section of the Bay Trail known as the Mill Valley-Sausalito Path, popular with cyclists, runners, and

Palm Springs, California Hotel

The Movie Colony is a cute boutique hotel located just a few blocks from the hip and happening Downtown Palm

Fort Bragg, California: Pomo Bluffs Hiking

Pomo Bluffs Park is a 25-acre blufftop park at Todds Point, on the south side of Noyo Bay/Noyo Harbor inlet

Grover Hot Springs State Park, California

The centerpiece of the Grover Hot Springs State Park in the Sierra Mountains of California is the mineral hot springs,

Venice Beach, California Erwin Hotel

The Erwin Hotel is in the Heart of Venice Beach, California feet away from the Ocean, the famous Venice Sidewalk

Venice Beach, California Travel Tips

Venice Beach is a big tourist attraction for the Los Angeles and a local favorite since it’s a twenty minute

San Francisco, California: Baker Beach

At the northern tip of San Francisco’s Presidio, Baker Beach offers spectacular views from outside the Golden Gate. Beach wheelchairs are

Big Morongo Canyon Preserve, Southern California

The Big Morongo Canyon Preserve is a 31,000 acre preserve in the Little San Bernardino Mountains that protects one of

Sonoma Wine Country Travel Tips

Sonoma County lies in the North Coast Ranges of northwestern California, about an hour away from San Francisco. This part

Half Moon Bay, California Travel Guide

Off California’s Pacific Coast Highway in Northern California is the coastal city of Half Moon Bay in the Monterey Bay

Redwood Regional Park (EBRP), Oakland

The Reinhardt  Redwood Regional Park is an extraordinarily lovely park managed by East Bay Regional Parks (EBRP), located a few

The Yosemite Lodge, Yosemite Park

Yosemite Lodge is a great option for a wheelchair traveler if staying at Yosemite National Park. It is right across

Muir Woods National Monument, California

Strolling through Muir Woods National Monument in Mill Valley, Northern California not far from San Francisco is a space where

Hammond Trail: Arcata-McKinleyville, California

The Hammond Trail is a popular hiking/biking/equestrian trail that winds past open fields, woods, and residential areas for more than

Murphys, Northern California Tips

  Murphys, California is a little town tucked in the gold rush country. This town is now more known for

Mendocino, California Attractions + Tips

Mendocino is a small town on the coast of Northern California where the jagged shoreline meets the lush forests filled

Eureka, California: Patrick’s Point State Park

Thirty miles north of Eureka, in the heart of the redwood country, Patrick’s Point State Park juts into the Pacific

Trees of Mystery, Northern California

Driving along scenic Highway 101, it’s a little startling to come upon the Trees of Mystery, a commercial roadside attraction

Beach Front Park in Crescent City, California

Beach Front Park in Crescent City, Calfironia comprises 10 city blocks of grassy sports fields, picnic areas with unobstructed views

Napa Valley Wine Country, California

Napa Valley Wine Country has made itself world famous in the wine industry and is made up of the towns

Santa Monica Beach City

Santa Monica Beach is one of my absolute favorite destinations in the greater Los Angeles area and one that the

Californa Beach House Rental

The waves crash against the rocks and the spray leaps to the sky. Each droplet of salty water glistens in

Mendocino Bed & Breakfast with a View

The Little River Inn is a quaint B&B located on the coast of Mendocino in Northern California. It is a

San Francisco Presidio

A U.S. Army post for nearly 150 years, San Francisco’s Presidio has been a national park since 1994 and a

Santa Cruz Mt. Train Ride + Trail

When you think of Santa Cruz, usually it’s followed by Beach Boardwalk and images of California’s coast and the Pacific

California Coast: Timber Cove Inn

Timber Cove Inn is a place you stay at to get-a-way and get lost in quiet tranquility. It sits along

Pasadena, California: Huntington Library, Gardens + Galleries

The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens in Pasadena, California is a private, non-profit institution established in 1919 by

Yosemite Half Dome Village Accommodations

Half Dome Village in Yosemite National Park has a few different accessible sleeping options and all use keys (not cards)

San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge Plaza + Overlooks

Everyone who visits San Francisco, California wants to see the Golden Gate Bridge, for the same reason that residents are

Petaluma River, California: Shollenberger Park Trail

Tucked inside an industrial park on the banks of the Petaluma River in California is Shollenberger Park, a wetland teeming

Santa Cruz, California: Ocean Hotel

Santa Cruz Beach is by far one of the most famous beaches in California, and as the Beach Boys sang

MacKerricher State Park, California Coast

Sprawling MacKerricher State Park, one of the more accessible parks in Mendocino County, has more than 2,000 acres of dunes,

Van Damme State Park, California Coast

Three miles south of Mendocino, 2,000-acre Van Damme State Park has a variety of habitats: marine, coastal bluff terraces, and

Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park, California

Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park sits on a headland that juts dramatically into the ocean on the coast

Doran Regional Park, Bodega Bay

Doran Regional Park in Bodega Bay is situated on a broad, sandy 120-acre spit that forms the northern border of

Mendocino Botanical Gardens, California Coast

The 47-acre Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, on a marine terrace two miles south of Fort Bragg, offers a pleasant opportunity

Bodega Bay Head Trail in California

Bodega Head in Bodega Bay forms the tip of a peninsula that extends south of the Bodega dunes and protects

California Sonoma Coast State Park Accessibility

Sonoma Coast State Park is not a single site but rather a collection of beaches, campgrounds, bluffs, crags, and headlands

Monterey, California Scenic Coastal Trail

The Monterey Bay Sanctuary Scenic Trail is a link in the 1,200-mile Coastal Trail that is planned to run the length of

Calaveras Big Trees State Park, California

Calaveras Big Trees in the Sierra Mountains of California had been ordered to be preserved in 1904 by President Roosevelt, stating

Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial, California

The Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial in Martinez, California is one of America’s least visited historical sites, but it

Fort Ross State Historical Park, California

Fort Ross, the southernmost Russian outpost in North America, stands on a high ocean bluff, with a calm sheltered cove

Vista Trail, Bodega Bay California Coast

This small turnout along Highway 1 by Bodega Bay, known as the Vista Trail, is a great place to stop

Oakland, California: Temescal Regional Recreation Area

Tucked between the intersection of Highways 24 and 13 in Oakland, you’ll find Temescal Regional Recreation Area, one of East

Disneyland California Wheelchair Travel Tips

I remember the first time my mom and dad took us to Disneyland. I was five. I also remember my

Bodega Bay, California: Bird Walk Trail

Bird Walk in the Bodega Bay is a mile-long loop trail through a revitalized 14-acre saltwater marsh at the mouth

Bodega Bay, California Weekend Getaway

Located off Highway 1 about 45 minutes north of the San Francisco Airport is the quaint town of Bodega Bay.

Mendocino, California: Vegan B&B

While searching for hotels in Mendocino, the Stanford Inn caught my eye because of its organic gardens used in the

Wrights Beach Jenner, California

In Jenner, California, Wrights Beach, with its low bluffs isn’t as dramatic as the coastline farther north, but it is

Livermore, California Wine Country

The Livermore Wine Country is located about fifty minutes from San Francisco on the east side of the Bay Area.

Monterey, California Travel Guide

Monterey is one of the ocean cities along Monterey Bay, Northern California with a cool coastal vibe and an emphasis

San Francisco Zoo

Off the Great Highway in the southwestern part of San Francisco and right across from the ocean is the San

San Francisco Golden Gate Park Attractions

The San Francisco Golden Gate Park has a number of treasures to explore for travelers with access needs. The park

San Francisco: Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf + Ghirardelli Square

The famous Pier 39 and Fisherman’s Wharf are the most popular tourist attractions in San Francisco, so prepare yourself for

San Francisco Embarcadero Attractions

San Francisco is known for impeccable culinary cuisine, so along the Embarcadero are fantastic restaurants, from the AT&T Park to

Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART)

The Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is a great public transportation option for those traveling in the San Francisco or Berkeley

Filoli Gardens + Mansion, California

Thirty minutes from San Francisco in the South Bay in Woodside, CA is a historical piece of land known as

Oakland Coliseum Accessible Seating

The Oakland Coliseum is home to the four-time World Series Champions, the Oakland Athletics otherwise known as the A’s, and

Chabot Regional Park, East Bay, California

If you find yourself in East Bay near Castro Valley and looking to spend some outdoors then think about exploring

SF Bay Area Concert and Performance Venues

The San Francisco Bay Area has music venues all over and range from small eclectic ones to stadiums. This is

San Diego, California: Where to Eat + Drink

Ocean View Drinks + Dining Start your evening off at the Manchester Grand Hyatt (Top of the Hyatt) and if

Pleasanton, California Accessible Trails

Marilyn Murphy Kane Trail In Pleasanton, California, on the east side of the San Francisco Bay, is a park called

Farmer’s Daughter Hotel + Restaurant in L.A.

Literally across the street from the famous LA Farmer’s Market on Fairfax the boutique hotel the Farmer’s Daughter and its

Santa Monica, California: Ambrose Hotel

The Ambrose Hotel is located on 20th street in Santa Monica, California. That’s 20 blocks from the ocean! The hotel

South Lake Tahoe Places to Stay

One of the best and most luxurious places to stay in Lake Tahoe is the Landing Resort and Spa in

San Francisco, California: High Tea Time

San Francisco, California has a lot of wonderful unique tea houses, all with different blends, decor, and service. Samovar Tea

San Francisco Transportation + Getting Around

“If you’re going to San Francisco, be sure to wear some flowers in your hair…” Well, that was the protocol

Monterey, California Seacliff State Beach

Seacliff State Beach stretches for nearly a mile along the northern end of Monterey Bay in the town of Aptos,

California Coast: Carmel River State Beach

Carmel River State Beach in the Monterey Bay Area of California offers fine views of Carmel and Point Lobos State

San Francisco, California: Hotel Emblem

Hotel  Emblem  is located in the Union Square district of Downtown San Francisco, a very popular area for shopping and

Stinson Beach, California Tips + Guide

Stinson Beach and its 3.5 miles of sandy oceanfront are very popular during summer. Part of the beach is maintained

Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, California

Within this 2,315-acre Point Pinole Regional Shoreline Park, the largest on the northeast bay shore, you’ll find a variety of

Fort Humboldt, Northern California Coast

Fort Humboldt in Northern California is a remnant of a U.S. Army outpost established in 1853 to protect settlers from Native

Las Gallinas Wildlife Ponds in Marin County, California

Just north of the Marin County Civic Center, bordering McInnis Park on San Pablo Bay, four miles of hard-packed levee

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, California

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, 45 miles north of Eureka in the heart of redwood country, is a unit of

Alameda Creek Trail, East Bay Area, California

In the California Bay Area, a paved 12-mile trail along Alameda Creek from Niles Canyon to the bay attracts bicyclists,

Northern California Coast Attractions

The rocky shores of the Northern California Coast offer countless views to relax in nature. There are no flashing lights,

Pillar Point Harbor in the Bay Area, California

Approximately 25 miles south of San Francisco, in the small town of Princeton, Pillar Point Harbor is a home port

Berkeley, California Travel Tips

Berkeley is more liberal than its neighbor San Francisco across the bay that can be reached by ferry, BART, or

Yosemite Park, California: Ahwahnee Hotel Brunch

Whether it is a day trip or an overnight vacation to Yosemite, the only place to go to for Sunday

Arcata Marshland Trails, Northern California Coast

Arcata Marshland is 307 acres at the edge of Humboldt Bay and is an early and much-admired example of environmental

Santa Cruz, California San Lorenzo Park + River Trail

This small urban park on the San Lorenzo River in Santa Cruz has a duck pond, accessible playground, and large

Santa Cruz, California: Neary Lagoon Trail

Neary Lagoon peaceful freshwater marsh lies within a 44-acre park tucked between a wastewater treatment plant and a residential neighborhood

Carmel City Beach, Monterey California Guide

Carmel City Beach is a spectacular white-sand beach fronting the village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for hand-crafted cottages from its days

17-Mile Drive: Carmel, Monterey Bay, California

The 17-Mile Drive is a privately owned scenic drive that runs along the coast of the Monterey Peninsula, passing through

Monterey Bay, California: Elkhorn Slough

Elkhorn Slough is one of the best places in North America to see birds, and the best place for wheelchair

Asilomar State Beach, Monterey Bay, California

Known for its distinctive white sand, Asilomar State Beach, is located in the town of Pacific Grove in the Monterey

Monterey Bay Area Point Lobos Trails

  This rocky, forested headland in the Monterey Bay was named Point Lobos in the late 18th century, for the

San Francisco MOMA (Museum)

Tickets to the San Francisco, California Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) can be purchased outside the building on the sidewalk.

Santa Cruz, California: Lighthouse Field State Beach

A popular destination for surfers, bicyclists, and dog walkers, Lighthouse Field State Beach lies south of the Santa Cruz Beach

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, California

Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, 821 acres in the redwoods and along the Big Sur River, is popular with families

Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur, California

Pfeiffer Beach, while hard to find, is one of the most popular beach access points in Big Sur. On our

Hyatt at Fishermans’ Wharf in San Francisco

Price Category: Mid-Range www.fishermanswharf.hyatt.com 555 North Pointe St San Francisco, CA 94133 Direct Reservation Number: (415) 563-1234 Reservation Fax: (415)

Hungry in Santa Cruz, California

I found myself returning to Santa Cruz in January this time to celebrate a friend’s birthday. I stayed at the

Monterey Bay, CA: Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine

This 1,400-acre reserve protects wetlands and uplands for scientific research, public education, and visitor enjoyment. Five miles of steep trails

San Francisco Downtown Hotel

The San Francisco Four Seasons Hotel is a short stroll from the Powell BART Station and is a luxury hotel

San Diego, California Resort Hotel

The Bahia Resort Hotel is located on Mission Bay in San Diego, California a very popular and touristy part of

Pin It on Pinterest

10 of the Most Epic Wheelchair Friendly Holidays in Europe

International travel is possible as a wheelchair user and there are endless sights to see, places to visit, and meals to enjoy all around the world, but especially in Europe. From the fleets of wheelchair accessible taxis to the tour companies that have all the inside information to help you plan your dream vacation, there are plenty of wheelchair friendly holidays in Europe for you to consider. All of the cities on this list have great accessibility, which will allow you to focus on the destinations over the logistics.

This top 10 list takes you all over some of the most wheelchair accessible cities in Europe and includes both well known destinations, as well as some hidden gems. Each location is broken down to highlight recommended tour companies, things to do, and getting around, which includes rolling around, taxis, and public transportation. Without further ado, here are 10 of the most epic wheelchair friendly holidays in Europe –

Wheelchair Friendly Holidays in Europe

1: barcelona, spain.

Tour Companies

Barcelona Zero Limits is a great company if you’re looking for someone to organize your trip for you. This company is great to work with if you know the types of experiences you’re looking for, from exploring the city’s most well known locations to more of an adventurous trip with things like scuba diving.

Barcelona Special Traveler is an experienced tourism company and was one of the first receptive travel agents in the area. They specialize in wheelchair friendly holidays and can plan your whole trip, or help with accommodations, transportation, tours, and any medical services you may need during your stay.

Mercat La Boqueria

The Mercat La Boqueria has been a city market for centuries and it’s a great way to experience the culture and life of Barcelona. The market has classic narrow pathways, but it’s all part of the charm. You shouldn’t have any problems rolling around as the crowds are polite and many vendors are accessible, as are the ramps throughout.

The Beach at Nova Icària

The beaches are very accessible with ramps that transition you from the sidewalk to the sand and there are several wooden ramps to take you to the water’s edge. Nova Icària is a great wheelchair accessible beach, from the changing rooms and restrooms to the amphibious chairs, hoists for transitioning from chair to chair, and the accessible pathways. This is a must-see destination for anyone traveling to Barcelona.

Getting Around

Barcelona is hands-down one of the best wheelchair friendly cities in Europe. The roads are pretty flat with only a few cobblestone sections, but far less than in other European countries. There are also plenty of curb cuts, which makes it easier to navigate. The Gothic Quarter does have a few hills, but they are manageable and I enjoyed rolling around the city center.

There are two main accessible taxi companies in the city and it’s a good idea to call a day or two ahead to book your trip to ensure they send the correct vehicle. The metro is another great option, as most of their metro stations are accessible and have elevators leading to the platforms. The buses in Barcelona are 100% accessible with the entire fleet outfitted with ramps and lifts, which makes it easy, but plan ahead to know the routes, stops, and how to alert the driver of your needs.

2: Helsinki, Finland

Happy Guide Helsinki is a great tour company that has  wheelchair accessible driving/walking/rolling tours of the city. I took my tour on my first day in the city, which was a great way to get my bearings and explore. The van they used had a lift that made it easy to load and unload throughout the day.

Loading into the accessible van.

Suomenlinna Sea Fortress

This attraction is so much more than a fort. A short ferry ride takes you to a whole island rich with history and experience. The ferry is completely accessible with a leveled ramp to board and plenty of seating inside and out. I traveled with a guide on the island and it was a great experience to get first hand knowledge while I saw the sights. There is a wheelchair accessible tour route and their website features a map to illustrate the complete route, as well as the stops.

Sibelius Monument

The Sibelius Monument was constructed in honor of Jean Sibelius, a famous composer. The monument is made of welded steel and resembles organ pipes. This is a must-see and a popular tourist attraction. While you’re in the city, this is an easy stop to make. It’s the perfect location for breaking up the day and it gives you a chance to enjoy the park.

Helsinki is a great city for rolling around. This is the best way to take in the sights and enjoy the atmosphere. The weather can be a little unpredictable, especially in the winter, but I’ve never had any issues getting around even in the snow. The paths are very well maintained, which makes it easy to get around.

Taxis are one of my favorite modes of transportation in Helsinki also because there are so many wheelchair friendly taxis (over 300!!). Most of the time, I would place my call and a car would show up within ten minutes. I kept my favorite company’s number on hand and didn’t hesitate when I wanted a ride.

Traveling by bus and metro is also very easy. As a wheelchair user, you aren’t required to have a ticket, but any non-wheelchair users do. Pay attention to the bus schedule and which buses have low floors, and you’ll be set for using public transportation. There are special seats for wheelchair users, usually near the front of the bus. Every metro station is accessible and has an elevator, so you shouldn’t have any issues getting around in one of the most wheelchair accessible cities in Europe.

Iceland Unlimited  is a local company run by a wheelchair user that puts first-hand insight and experience into their tours and planning to give you one of the best wheelchair friendly holidays in Europe. Their tours are wheelchair accessible from the paths and parks to the restaurants and travel accommodations. Great tour options with this company include the Golden Circle Tour and hunting the Northern Lights, both just outside of the city of Reykjavik.

Golden Circle

The Golden Circle  is 300 kilometers outside of Reykjavik and can be driven in around 4 hours, but many visitors make this a day trip to explore the sights. The best way to experience the Golden Circle is to book with a tour company. This will make it easy to enjoy the day without having to book other transportation and plan your own attractions. Highlights of this tour include a national park, a geyser, and waterfalls. It’s a great day spent in nature and gives you an idea of what lies outside of the city, as well as the beauty of the country.

Iceland’s Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon  is a geothermal spa and is located 15 minutes from the Reykjavik airport. Along with a good soak in the water, there’s the opportunity for a natural mud mask, increasing the relaxation and spa-like experience. There are other spa treatments available as well, which can be a great way to work out the jet lag before you begin your trip. This location is very accessible with adapted bathrooms and changing rooms, plus a rolling shower chair to use for getting in the hot springs.

Getting around the city of Reykjavik is accessible when the weather is fair. The sidewalks have curb cuts and are mainly flat, with the occasional hill. When the weather is more winter-like, with snow and ice, it can be more difficult to navigate and it might be better to call a taxi.

There are several accessible and wheelchair friendly taxi services and it’s a good idea to have their numbers on hand, so you can call whenever there’s a need. All public buses are wheelchair accessible, complete with kneeling options, which makes it easy to board. While the buses are great in terms of accessibility, it can be quite difficult to navigate the route and schedule, so it’s best to plan ahead and be prepared.

4: Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Accessible Travel Netherlands is a company that can help arrange transportation and experiences to suit your needs. They’re a great way to set up taxi pick-ups and other transportation, as well as help you choose restaurants and plan which attractions you’ll visit.

Walking Tour of the City

Taking a walking and rolling tour of the city is a great way to get to know the space, learn about the history, and get some useful tips all at the same time. I worked with Accessible Travel Netherlands to organize a guided tour. Amsterdam is full of unique shops and adult content, but there’s still plenty to see even if that doesn’t suit your taste. The city is very accessible with wide sidewalks and smooth paths. The city is very bicycle friendly, so watch out for traffic!

Canal Cruise

Amsterdam has over 100 canals, so getting to experience the city from the water is amazing. I visited during the annual Light Festival, which made a nighttime ride along the canal a real treat. I was booked on a wheelchair accessible canal cruise, where the boat had a lift and accessible tables inside. The roof of the boat was glass, which made it easy to experience the city skyline as well.

Rolling around is easy with mostly flat sidewalks and roads, and plenty of curb cuts. This is a very bicycle friendly city, which makes it that much easier to roll around in with a wheelchair. When I needed a lift beyond walking around, I used Accessible Travel Netherlands to provide a wheelchair accessible taxi. There are many accessible restaurants and I appreciated all the information Accessible Travel Netherlands offered, as their services helped expedite my short two day stay. I’d definitely use them if I were to visit again.

5: London, England

When I visited London, I didn’t use a tour company, as I won my trip in a contest to see Katy Perry . Most of the tour companies I found in my research cater specifically to wheelchair accessibility. London is extremely accessible, as you’ll see from the information below, and you may be able to plan your whole trip knowing most everything will be accommodating.

The London Eye

The London Eye is a large ferris wheel with individual capsules that hold 20 people. This wheel gives you a great view of the city and you can see a little bit of everything from the sky. The Eye is completely wheelchair accessible, as the capsules have enough room to roll around and take in the view on all sides.

Exploring the City

There’s so much to do in London that it’s hard to choose what to recommend! You definitely will get the most out of your experience by rolling around and using taxis to check out the highlights. I would recommend visiting The King’s Head for fish and chips, visiting Buckingham Palace for the changing of the guard, and seeing the architecture at Westminster Abbey.

Most of the taxis in London are wheelchair friendly. I tested this as soon as I landed and was pleasantly surprised to find that all black cabs in London have a fold-out ramp, so you can roll right into the cab. You do have to sit sideways during the ride, but it’s nice to be able to hail a taxi at any time.

The city is very easy to navigate while walking or rolling. London is really accessible and wheelchair friendly, so you won’t have too much of an issue getting around or finding accessible activities while you’re there. It’s actually really great knowing that you can book that London trip you’ve been dreaming of and not have to spend too much time researching accessibility.That makes London one of the best wheelchair friendly holidays in Europe!

6: Munich, Germany

Englischer Garten

The Englischer Garten is Munich’s largest public park and it is even bigger than Central Park in New York City. Part of the park is the Chinesischer Turm beer garden, which is a great opportunity to sample German food and beer while relaxing in the beautiful outdoor space. The park is busiest in the summer, but entertaining and worth a stop all year round. Be sure to include the park as part of your city tour, as it’s a great break from busy city life.

Hofbräuhaus

This large restaurant and brewery can host upwards of 1,000 people at a time and is known for its traditional German faire complete with authentic music. When people think of Germany, this is what they have in mind. Another unique touch in this restaurant is the shared dining experience, with large family style tables. This restaurant is a must-see and it’s a great place to enjoy an authentic experience with a liter of beer, a pretzel, and other traditional dishes along with a community feel.

Public transportation is a good option, as there is a train station at the airport, which makes it easier to get where you’re headed without arranging a car. The train station can be tricky as not all platforms will have a ramp set up to get onto the train. You can ask an attendant, but be aware that it can take awhile to get things organized. Taking the train shouldn’t be a problem once you get the hang of the process. Wheelchair accessible taxis can be expensive and you should have the number for a service on hand, as most people in the city use public transport.

7: Madrid, Spain

My mom and I at Puerta de Alcalá

Accessible Madrid was the tour company I used for my stay and they were great about providing the necessary tours and transportation. They have their own wheelchair accessible van, which is great for day trips. They were also great about booking a wheelchair accessible taxi for shorter trips, like when I went on a walking and rolling tour of the city.

Plaza Mayor & Mercado de San Miguel

This destination is a bustling square filled with restaurants, bars, and amazing architecture. The middle of the plaza still has some traditional cobblestone, but you can get around the square well on the smoother edges on the sidewalk. This is a great place to try some local cuisine and people watch, as there are crowds moving in and out throughout the day. If you’re looking for even more excitement in one of the most wheelchair accessible cities in Europe, check out the Mercado de San Miguel, the local shopping market. This is the place for even more food, activity, and culture.

Buen Retiro Park

This park is a great way to end the day for a break from busy city life and is a chance to take in the natural environment. There are over 150,000 trees with plenty of flowers, greenery, and fountains to enjoy. There’s also a lake complete with rowboats. It’s a nice place to enjoy some peace and quiet, and paired with a tour of the city it gives a great, well-rounded experience of Madrid.

Wheelchair accessible taxis are available. I worked with Accessible Madrid , who booked the taxi or brought their own van, depending on where I was headed and how long I’d need transportation throughout the day. The accessible taxi had a fold-out ramp and tie-downs, which worked well and provided a comfortable ride.

Madrid is also really wheelchair friendly with flat sidewalks and only a few cobblestone sections. I didn’t have any problem with the smooth sidewalks and there were always curb cuts when I needed them. I enjoyed our walking and rolling tour, which just goes to show how friendly the city is for wheelchair use.

8: Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen Urban Adventures  is a great tour company for a walking and rolling tour of the city. Many of the tourist attractions are easy to visit in a tour by this company and it makes for an enjoyable and full day. They were great to work with and we fit in all the best sights, most of which are around the center of the city.

National Museum of Denmark

This is a great place for learning about Danish history and culture in addition to checking out the other exhibits. The entire museum is wheelchair friendly with elevators and lifts, but due to the size of the museum you should give yourself a few hours to fully enjoy each space. You could easily spend most of a day here if you’re a museum fan, or spend a couple of hours and enjoy the most exciting parts.

Walking Tour

I contacted Copenhagen Urban Adventures to book an accessible tour, and while they’d never done one they jumped at the chance to help me explore the city. Urban Adventures has 160 destinations around the globe, and I’d recommend them if they’re available at your destination. A walking tour is a great way to explore the city, not only to get the basics, but also to get some details about the buildings, layout, and other attractions.

If you’re exploring the city , you shouldn’t have a problem getting around. Most of the sidewalks are flat and you’ll do fine, but there may be an occasional inaccessible entrance way. Some restaurants may have outdoor tables, so you can bypass the door and the other visitors.

The city is improving its wheelchair accessibility and with many of the top tourist attractions close together, it’s really easy to get around in the city. I found it helpful to study a map of the city before my trip, to get to know the city and plan my transportation. To use a taxi, you’ll have to call ahead. To save some time, you may want to get to know the metro or train lines, as they’re more accessible than the bus service.

9: Tallinn, Estonia

Saku Travel is my go-to company when traveling and touring Estonia. I’ve been twice now and worked with this company both visits. They have a wheelchair accessible van with a ramp, which is so easy to use and the tie-downs allow you to stay in your wheelchair the whole time.

Viru Bog in Lahemaa National Park

Visiting a bog isn’t something that’s usually on a wheelchair user’s list, as they aren’t typically accessible, but the Viru Bog in the national park is a beautiful place in nature and is completely accessible. Raised wooden pathways and platforms make this bog accessible to everyone and the  2.2 mile trail offers plenty to see. There’s even an accessible bathroom, which is a great added bonus.

Solaris Centre

This shopping center is the perfect place to get to know the culture and pick up some souvenirs. I stopped in for lunch and enjoyed wandering through the shops. Tip, if you’re looking for something to mark your travels, check the grocery store on the first floor. I found candy, shot glasses, and plenty of souvenirs before I had to head home. On the upper floors, there’s plenty of dining options and the view is fantastic.

During my time in Tallinn, I was with Saku Travel and we used their wheelchair accessible van to drive between destinations. This was the best way for me because we had our tour planned and I didn’t have to worry about finding transportation to get to the next place. Other than that, it was fairly easy to walk and roll around the city and each place we stopped at. Some of the cobblestones or entrance ways weren’t as wheelchair friendly, but I still had a great time.

10: Saint Petersburg, Russia

Out of all the accessible tour companies to choose from, my favorite is I Travel SPB  because the customer service is top of the line. The representative I spoke with was great about responding to my messages quickly and she was very knowledgeable about the city’s accessibility. The company uses a spacious van with a fold-out ramp, which made it easy to get in and out and the tie-downs made it a comfortable ride.

There are over 300 bridges in Saint Petersburg and lots of canals. Taking a canal cruise is a great way to experience the city from a new vantage point and enjoy the weather. This was a great experience because of the tour company I used. They set everything up and have a connection to a wheelchair accessible boat, so everyone can enjoy the water. They use a ramp to allow wheelchairs to board and the space on the boat can accommodate up to two wheelchairs at once.

The Winter Palace at the Hermitage Museum

The Hermitage Museum is huge, so it’s impossible to see it all in one day or even two. I focused my visit on The Winter Palace, which was completely wheelchair accessible. There were lifts and elevators that made getting around a breeze. I would suggest visiting with a tour guide and having your tickets in advance. There was a very long line for tickets and we saved a lot of time by having ours ahead of our visit. The Winter Palace was busy and crowded, so be aware of the busy season and of others when navigating the space.

I traveled with I Travel SPB and we used their van, but it was easy to walk and roll around each destination. Many of the tourist attractions are wheelchair accessible and it was easy to navigate through all of the places I visited.

I know it can seem almost impossible to travel abroad as a wheelchair user at times, but I promise that it is possible. These 10 wheelchair friendly holidays in Europe were magnificent in their own ways and there are so many other options and locations as well. Using a tour company can save you some of the hassle of booking each excursion and working with a guide can make getting around and finding the best dining options in these wheelchair friendly cities in Europe that much easier.

Related Posts

• Latest Posts

After being diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy at the age of two, Cory's thirst for adventure never ceased. He went on many trips around the US when he was younger, and then started taking things internationally when he turned fifteen. Since then, Cory has traveled around the world, all while managing to successfully graduate college and start up his travel blog curbfreewithcorylee.com, where he shares his accessible, and sometimes not so accessible, travel adventures with others. Through this, he hopes to inspire other wheelchair users to roll out of their comfort zone and see all of the beauty that the world has to offer.

• 8 Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in Chicago, Illinois
• How to Enjoy Northeast Tennessee as a Wheelchair User
• How to Have the Best Weekend in Mesa, Arizona as a Wheelchair User

Comments are closed.

Boston, Massachusetts Wheelchair Accessible Travel Guide

Boston, Massachusetts is among the premier wheelchair accessible destinations in the United States and is one of the top cities to visit for first-time disabled travelers . Those accolades are rooted in the city’s largely accessible public transportation system, wheelchair-friendly attractions, and wide selection of ADA accessible hotels.

Boston played a central role in the American Revolution, and welcomes visitors to explore American history on the Freedom Trail, a collection of historic sites that includes the USS Constitution (America’s oldest commissioned warship), Paul Revere’s colonial home, the Old North Church, the Massachusetts State House and other significant places.

Despite its centuries-long history, Boston also has the features of a modern city. Following the “Big Dig,” downtown Boston was transformed with an accessible public park and pedestrian corridor known as the Rose Kennedy Greenway. Its historic subway system has been expanded and made accessible, providing connections to city buses, ferries and intercity rail services, making it easy to explore the city and wider region.

Using this guide to wheelchair accessible travel in Boston, Massachusetts, you will be prepared to explore and enjoy this special city that I have been fortunate to call home.

Guide Contents

Airport accessibility.

Boston’s airport has invested in accessibility features that improve the disabled traveler experience.

Attractions & Sights

Wheelchair users can board America’s oldest naval vessel, follow the midnight ride of Paul Revere, and relax along the Charles River Esplanade.

Hotels & Accommodations

Select a place to stay from this list of wheelchair accessible hotels in Boston.

Public Transportation

The Boston subway is the oldest in the United States and dates to 1897, but is largely accessible to wheelchair users.

Wheelchair Taxis

The City of Boston has licensed 100 wheelchair taxis with a ramp, plus UberWAV and Lyft Access rideshare services.

Sidewalk Accessibility

Boston is a largely flat city and, while many sidewalks are in disrepair due to age and winter weather, most have curb ramps.

Additional reading

The following articles from the Wheelchair Travel Blog also provide unique insight into the City of Boston, covering topics relating to accessible tourism in Boston.

Why Boston’s Silver Line to Logan Airport is a Winning Accessible Transit Model

Big Dig: How One of America’s Largest Infrastructure Projects Elevated Accessibility in Boston

Review: Wheelchair Accessibility of Amtrak Acela Train (Boston to Providence)

Join 25,000+ others who receive the Wheelchair Travel newsletter

Accessible Hawaii: the best things to do for travelers with disabilities and additional needs

Feb 7, 2022 • 7 min read

Many sights and services in Hawaii are accessible to visitors with varying mobility and sensory needs © JGalione / Getty Images

Planning travel to Hawaii , a destination that tops many a tropical vacation bucket list, takes consideration. That the archipelago exists in the middle of the Pacific Ocean quite literally thousands of miles from its two nearest land masses — Alaska and Japan — having a curated list of things to do can help maximize your trip on the ground.

For travelers traversing the world in a wheelchair and/or with sensory challenges that need to be accounted for, there are extra considerations to ensure a safe and worthwhile experience. Consider this your primer to accessible travel in the Hawaiian Islands, from Oahu to Hawaii Island.

Accessible travel to Hawaii: things to do before you go

From booking accommodations to giving advance warning of furry travel companions, there are a handful of things to take care of well in advance of your trip.

Airport assistance is available

Hawaii’s most-visited islands are Oahu (HNL), Maui (OGG), Kauai (LIH), and Hawaii Island ( Kona airport , KOA; Hilo airport , ITO). Each one of its airports offers terminal to curbside assistance for travelers with various mobility, visual, and hearing needs.

Use filters to book appropriate accessible accommodation

Major hotel booking sites such as Booking.com and alternative accommodation sites like Airbnb have search filters to identify accessibility needs. For example, a search for accessible hotels on Maui on Booking.com lists 18 hotels in Lahaina ( Ka’anapali Beach Hotel , Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa) and 13 hotels in Wailea including Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea , and Wailea Beach Villas. 

On Airbnb, filter for accessible features like a flat path to the front door, wide doorways and hallways, fixed grab bars in the bathroom, and step-free access to common areas. 

Submit paperwork for service dogs to travel in advance

Travelers jet-setting with service and guide dogs should submit all required paperwork to the state’s Rabies Quarantine Branch at least ten days ahead of travel. Upon arrival in Hawaii, service and guide dogs must pass inspection and compliance at Airport Animal Quarantine Holding Facility or upon advance request, in the airport terminal. Note that Daniel K. Inouye Airport in Honolulu is the only port of entry for all dogs and cats coming to the islands.

Give advance notice of accessibility needs to car rental companies 

With advance, notice car rental companies located at all major island airports accommodate accessibility needs. They can also deliver your rental to the airport terminal. 

Oahu’s TheBus , Kauai’s Kauai Bus , Hawaii Island’s Hele-On bus service, and Maui’s Maui Bus are all wheelchair-accessible and operate paratransit service. Call to request paratransit transport.

Accessible experiences: things to do once you get to Hawaii

There are many self-guided and organized recreational and leisure experiences accessible to those with varying mobilities and sensory needs throughout the major Hawaiian islands. 

Many beaches are wheelchair-accessible

Many beaches on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii Island feature accessible parking, all-terrain wheelchair rentals, and beach mats for sand access. The state recognizes disabled parking placards from other states.

For example, Ala Moana Beach Park , Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve and Kailua Beach on Oahu offer all-terrain wheelchairs (typically with a two-hour limit) and beach access mats. So do Lydgate Beach Park and Poipu Beach on Kauai. Call the City and County of Honolulu, Department of Parks and Recreation at (808) 768-3027 for wheelchair availability and to request a wheelchair.

Some Hawaii Island and Maui beaches are accessible, with more information from their respective departments of recreation.

There are a few accessible trails across the islands

For more information about the Hawaiian Islands’ accessible trails, try the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Na Ala Hele Trails and Access Program ’s contact page . The Department’s interactive Hawaii Trails map displays three accessible trails using the “Accessible” filter option in the Activities section under Advanced Search — Kanealole Trail and Maunalaha Trail in Honolulu, on the island of Oahu, and Ohai Loop Trail and Overlook on Maui. More information about Hawaii’s recreational trails is also available on the OuterSpacial app . The app includes search filters for wheelchair-, hearing impaired-, and visually impaired-friendly outdoor activities.

Which island in Hawaii is best for accessible travel?

Whether you’re in search of languid beach days , dynamic cultural experiences, or chasing breathtaking natural landscapes , here are some of the best accessible things to do by island.

Experience Hawaiian culture at accessible venues on Oahu

On Oahu’s rural North Shore The Polynesian Cultural Center accommodates a range of mobility, visual and hearing access needs. There’s a wealth of activities to explore — from visiting island "villages" such as Tonga, Fiji, and Samoa to luau dinner shows. In 2021, the Cultural Center announced Master Chef restaurateur and Hawaii Food and Wine Festival regular, Graham Elliott, as Executive Chef of its Pounders restaurant, who also influences its luau and buffet menus. 

In Honolulu’s Chinatown neighborhood, the historic Hawaii Theatre built in 1922 accommodates wheelchair users and offers listening devices. During its tenure, the Theatre has hosted numerous live musical, dance and comedic performances. Similarly, Blue Note Hawaii is a live performance venue and a popular place to catch live Hawaiian, Jazz and R&B music, that offers accessible seating. 

Tour companies in Kauai cater to travelers with limited mobility 

Kauai’s swaths of undeveloped landscapes make it a go-to island destination for immersive eco-adventures, even for those with various mobility needs. Kipu Ranch Adventures makes accommodations on a case-by-case basis for its ATV and off-road tours. Its three-hour signature off-road ranch tour rumbles through Huleia Valley as well as past cattle, wild pigs, chickens and peacocks. At Kauai Backcountry Adventures, its serene mountain tubing tour through a former sugar plantation irrigation system can accommodate guests with disabilities and limited mobility, though parts of the tour do require climbing up and down stairs. The company recommends calling ahead in the event additional staff need to be scheduled to help provide a comfortable experience.

Red dirt-pigmented Waimea Canyon (often called “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific”) and Wailua Falls are accessible via paved parking and viewing areas for more passive sightseeing.

Maui is home to several accessible wildlife experiences, including scuba diving  

Located between Kihei and Maalaea towns, Kealia Pond Coastal Boardwalk sits within a National Wildlife Refuge and offers a mile-long, wheelchair-accessible boardwalk along Maalaea Bay. Use the interpretive signage to spot native (and endangered) Hawaiian birds like the Hawaiian stilt, with its long pink legs and Hawaiian coot, featuring a distinct white bill and dark body.

Lahaina Divers is equipped to guide accessible scuba diving experiences from Molokini Crater to Western Maui’s Turtle Reef. Staff hold certifications with the Handicapped Scuba Association (HSA). 

Wheelchair-friendly Maui Ocean Center’ s Humpbacks of Hawaii exhibit and 3D theater opened in 2019. Roll along to whales’ migration route from Alaska to Hawaii, compose your own whale song, and learn about the role marine life plays in Hawaiian culture. A fun fact: the exhibit was built in the shape and size to fit a grown female humpback whale. Complimentary wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and service dogs are welcome.

There are accessible tours and trails on Hawaii Island (Big Island) 

The best way to navigate Hawaii Island’s Volcanoes National Park includes an initial stop at the Kilauea Visitor Center. There, wheelchairs are available for use, as well as information on the best accessible trails and viewpoints, like much of the Ha’akulamanu (Sulphur Banks) Trail and Kilauea Overlook. American Sign Language interpretation can be arranged two weeks prior to visiting if you call (808) 985 6011. The island’s volcanic activity makes it the youngest and largest of the main islands.

Body Glove ’s 2.5-hour whale watching tour departs from Kona December through April and offers chance opportunities to also spot spinner dolphins, manta rays, and sea turtles. It also hosts a sunset cruise with live music and cocktails. A customized boarding ramp accommodates manual and electric scooters, while the lower deck of its catamarans are fully accessible. Accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Blue Hawaiian runs helicopter tours over the Big Island, Oahu, Maui, and Kauai. Custom chairlifts help passengers under 250 pounds get into and out of the helicopters. 

Further services and resources for travelers with disabilities

Hawaii’s Disability Access and Communication board offers more information about accessible travel in the islands. Interpreting Hawaii and Isle Interpret offer sign language interpretation and assistance, including Japanese, Korean, and some European sign languages.

You might also like: What you need to know before visiting Hawaii    Hawaii's 20 most stunning views you have to see to believe: waterfalls, volcanoes and starry skies    10 top experiences on Hawai‘i's Big Island: one of the most stunning land, sea and sky destinations in the world   

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

May 3, 2024 • 12 min read

The summer months are the USA’s busiest travel season. Plan your vacation with these top places to visit.

Apr 22, 2024 • 13 min read

Mar 5, 2024 • 13 min read

Feb 2, 2024 • 6 min read

Nov 2, 2023 • 5 min read

Mar 16, 2023 • 12 min read

Feb 16, 2023 • 7 min read

Jan 24, 2023 • 6 min read

Jan 9, 2023 • 5 min read

Dec 15, 2022 • 5 min read

Which Caribbean islands are the most wheelchair-accessible?

The Caribbean is stunningly beautiful and the perfect place to visit if you're looking for some fun in the sun. And after the past year and a half, I think we all deserve a piña colada or four while relaxing under a palm tree, right?! If you are looking for a tropical destination for an upcoming trip, the Caribbean is a spectacular place to consider, but for wheelchair users , accessibility can be a bit hit or miss depending on which island(s) you visit specifically.

Sign up to receive the daily TPG newsletter for more travel news!

Accessibility certainly varies across the Caribbean, but many of the most popular islands are wheelchair-friendly. Whether you want to enjoy accessible tours or simply float in the Caribbean Sea, almost anything is possible if you know where to travel and which companies to use once you're there.

Here are some of the most wheelchair-accessible Caribbean destinations.

In Aruba , a popular saying is "Biba dushi", which means "Living the good life". If you visit the island, that's exactly what you'll be doing. You can live the good life, no matter what your abilities are, thanks to various companies that are focused on improving accessibility in Aruba.

Companies like Adapted Happy Wheels (reach them at 297-568-4787) have beach wheelchairs for rent and if you are looking for a proper in-depth tour of the island, Accessible Caribbean Vacations and Chogogo Tours offer fully accessible tours with adapted transportation. You can visit the most notable sights, such as the Natural Bridge and the California Lighthouse, on a full-day tour or if you'll be in Aruba for multiple days, you can arrange accessible transportation for your entire trip.

Related: 10 wheelchair-accessible tour companies that are changing the travel industry

Not technically in the Caribbean but still Caribbean-esque, the Bahamas consists of approximately 700 islands, and only about 30 of them are inhabited by people. While there are a few great islands that are worth seeing in the Bahamas, New Providence Island (home to the capital city of Nassau) and Paradise Island are the most wheelchair-friendly.

Paradise Island is most known for its stunning Atlantis Resort. The Atlantis has 30 accessible rooms, a casino, more than 20 restaurants, a waterpark, an aquarium, zero-entry pools, and beach wheelchairs are available for guests ... just to name a few of the many things that make the Atlantis a phenomenal place to stay for wheelchair users.

Related: The most wheelchair-accessible beach destinations in the US

If you'd like to get away from the Atlantis for a few hours (or if you choose to stay elsewhere), accessible transportation is available from Courteous Transfers & Tours or Accessible Caribbean Vacations. Their adapted vehicles can take you all around the island, whether you want to try conch fritters at one of the best restaurants in Nassau or visit the open-air Straw Market.

Another accessible destination in the Southern Caribbean is the island of Barbados. However, Barbados is not just one of the Southern Caribbean's most accessible places, it's one of the best wheelchair-friendly destinations in all of North America.

Related: These are the most wheelchair-accessible cities around the world

The Barbados Council for the Disabled has a program called Fully Accessible Barbados , which aims to create an inclusive island. FAB has beach wheelchair rentals and on their website, they have a lot of information about accessible things to do and hotel options. For accessible transportation while in Barbados, Blessed Rentals has specially equipped vans and they can arrange fully accessible private tours as well. If you're up for an adventure, you could go caving at Harrison's Cave. The cave is surprisingly wheelchair-accessible and touring it will give you some time to cool down after enjoying the beaches.

Jamaica is the birthplace of reggae and one of the most relaxing, and accessible, places in the Caribbean. The food is delicious, there are a variety of beautiful sights from coast to coast, and Jamaicans are some of the friendliest people on earth.

If you are a wheelchair user, you are in luck because there are some wonderful tour companies in Jamaica that specialize in accessibility: Jamaica Wheelchair Taxi and Ken's Wheelchair Service & Tours . Both companies offer airport transfers and fully customized tours. There are wheelchair-accessible tours to the notable Dunn's River Falls, the beaches in Falmouth and even Bob Marley-inspired tours. No matter what you are hoping to get out of a trip to Jamaica, almost anything is possible.

Related: Open for business: What to know about getting to Jamaica on points this summer

Puerto Rico

Many aspects of Puerto Rico are fantastic, such as the beaches, the history and its plethora of attractions. One of the best things about Puerto Rico though is the fact that you don't even need a passport to visit from the U.S. So, whether you are a frequent jet-setter or new to traveling internationally, this could be an ideal accessible destination for you.

Related: 7 air travel tips for wheelchair users

Companies such as Adames Luxury Transportation and Go Puerto Rico Shuttle offer adapted transportation and tours around the island. Some tour possibilities may include the El Yunque National Forest, a tropical rainforest, or San Juan sights like Castillo San Felipe del Morro or the Bacardi distillery. There are so many fun and accessible things to do in Puerto Rico that you'll likely have a difficult time deciding on a final itinerary.

Love Exploring

The World's Most Wheelchair Friendly Cities REVEALED

Posted: December 9, 2023 | Last updated: December 10, 2023

Accessible cities

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is considered to be one of the most accessible European cities for good reason. All buses and most metro stations are wheelchair-accessible making getting around more convenient. There are also adapted pavements and pedestrianized, tree-lined boulevards; even Ciutat Vella (Catalan for Old City) is cobblestone-free. Plus, major attractions like Park Güell and Casa Milà offer reduced mobility access, as well as the Sagrada Família, which also provides free entry to wheelchair users.

If it's beach time you're after, the wheelchair-accessible promenade includes pathways down to the water, accessible changing facilities and a free assisted bathing service from June to September every year at the likes of Nova Icària and the Fòrum Bathing Area. Once you’ve soaked up all that Barcelona has to offer, rest easy at Hotel Casa Camper , Booking.com’s highest-rated accessible hotel in the city. Most of the rooms are wheelchair-friendly and two are specially adapted.

Seattle, Washington, USA

Seattle regularly claims the top spot as North America’s most accessible city. From taxis and buses to airport shuttles and ferries, you can expect comfortable rides with ramps, elevators and a Link Light Rail system, all of which are wheelchair-friendly. But its accessibility extends beyond its transport…

Many of Seattle's attractions are also accessible to wheelchair users. Head to the top of the Space Needle (the city’s iconic observation tower landmark), go on a boat trip around the islands of Puget Sound, where you might spot a whale, or board the 175-foot-tall Seattle Great Wheel. If you’ve time, there’s also the waterfront Pike Place Market and surrounding nature areas that are equipped with boardwalks and viewing platforms. Stay in downtown Seattle’s Hotel Ändra , whose accessible suites come complete with a roll-in shower.

London, England, UK

Despite its narrow roads, cobbled pavements and a whole lot of tourists, London has been named one of the world’s most accessible cities, particularly when it comes to public transport. A quarter of the Tube’s stations have step-free access and you can plan your trip ahead of time using the TfL (Transport for London) website. 

The city’s buses and black cabs are all wheelchair-accessible, while many tourist attractions have ramps. The government is said to be working on new access laws which will require all tourist attractions to provide adequate wheelchair access. Stay in the heart of the action at the stylish Redchurch Townhouse in Soho, whose accessible features include wheelchair platform stairlifts and handrail-fitted bathrooms.

Berlin, Germany

The German capital is well-equipped for wheelchair users, with wide, well-paved and flat pavements, and accessible public transport. If culture’s your bag, make a beeline to Museum Island, or stop off at the Reichstag. The imposing building’s 360-degree domed roof (pictured) is kitted out with a spiralling internal ramp, which also has resting points for manual wheelchairs.

There are also plenty of accessible hotels to choose from with many modern establishments featuring ramps, elevators and roll-in showers. The Wilde Aparthotels by Staycity , near Checkpoint Charlie, has an accessible room with an extra-large double bed and two sofa beds. The entire unit is wheelchair-accessible and is one of the city's top-rated accessible hotels.

Singapore’s modernity is what earns the island country a place on this list, with well-maintained streets, dropped kerbs and smooth surfaces pretty much everywhere. Most tourist attractions are accessible, like the Singapore Cable Car, which takes you across the harbor to Sentosa Island . Of course, the iconic Gardens by the Bay is another must-see. This sustainable oasis is known for its high-tech ‘Supertrees’ (pictured), which are powered by solar panels and can collect and filter rainwater.

The city-state also has an efficient mass rail transit (MRT) system which is fully accessible with barrier-free access, and there are wheelchair-friendly taxis too. Wondering where to stay? The serviced suites at  Pan Pacific Singapore are wheelchair-accessible, as are the hotel's pool, fitness center and lounge. 

Vienna, Austria

Absorb Vienna’s history to its fullest, thanks to its accessibility. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with smooth paths in place of clunky cobblestones. Dropped kerbs are also standard here. It’s easy to get around by tram, bus or metro with 95% of U-Bahn and S-Bahn stations completely accessible.

Many of the city's museums, galleries and attractions are wheelchair-friendly too. Don’t miss the Gustav Klimt masterpieces at the Belvedere Palace and Museum (pictured), or the jaw-dropping palaces of Schloss Schönbrunn and Hofburg. Complete your stay at the elegant and accessible Apartments Rooseveltplatz , with its upper floors accessible by elevator.

Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Sydney is said to be one of the best places in the world for travelers with reduced mobility. There are barrier-free trains, buses and ferries with ramps. Museums, galleries and tourist sights have increasingly accessible options, with the Harbour Bridge recently installing elevators. Over on Bondi Beach you can rent beach wheelchairs and there’s a new ramp in the works which will improve access at the northern end.

Fancy seeing what else Sydney has to offer? Visit WheelEasy, a Sydney-based foundation whose website reviews attractions based on their accessibility. In terms of where to stay, choose from either end of the budget: The Darling's  luxury, accessible suites offer incredible harbor vistas while the Sydney Harbour YHA is an accessible hostel with just-as-awesome rooftop views. As well as spacious rooms and handrail-equipped bathrooms, the kitchen also has wheelchair-friendly cooktops and facilities. Read Booking.com's full list of wheelchair-accessible cities  here .

More for You

Chris Pratt’s stunt double Tony McFarr dies aged 47

Millionaire who retired at 35: These are the 3 'stupidest lies' I've heard about early retirement

Exclusive satellite images show destroyed Russian jets and building at Crimean airbase

Zendaya's Stylist Law Roach Names Designers Who Refused to Dress Her on Red Carpets, Including Dior and Gucci: ‘If You Say No, It'll Be Forever'

Alyssa Farah Griffin Busts Trump’s ‘Terrible’ Debate Move: ‘Entirely The Wrong Tact’

18 British Foods the Rest of the World Doesn’t Want to Try

At 93, he’s as fit as a 40-year-old. His body offers lessons on aging.

Angelina Jolie’s Daughter Vivienne Supports Her During “Today” Show Appearance

I drove the Tesla Cybertruck. These 7 design flaws surprised me.

Nikki Glaser, 'winner' of Tom Brady's Netflix roast, fires back at NFL star's regrets

Here's What a $5 Million Retirement Looks Like in America

25 Movie Details You Never Noticed

35 Chocolate Cake Mix Recipes to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Exhausted toddler won’t let her ice cream get taken away

It’s time to bring back the world’s greatest fighter jet - from the 1990s

Elon Musk fired Tesla’s Supercharger team for a strange reason

Jean Smart Explains Why She Angrily Called Out A Health Worker After Husband’s Death

17 movie and TV lines actors refused to say on screen: ‘I’m a self-respecting human being, I can’t do this’

Letitia James Asked to Turn Over Documents

17 Subtle Signs That Someone Is Rich

What people with disabilities and their families wish fellow travelers would know and do

• More than 1 in 4 U.S. adults have some kind of disability.
• Even when travel spaces meet ADA requirements, they aren't always accessible for all.
• There are simple things we can all do to accommodate fellow travelers with disabilities.

"Traveling with disabilities" is a 10-part series focusing on the experiences of travelers with disabilities. This is part of our continuing mission to highlight underrepresented communities in travel. If you'd like to contribute to our future reporting and share your experience as a source, you can  fill out this quick form .

Linda Williams doesn't make dinner reservations the way most of us do.

She makes a point to ask others about their accessibility needs first. The clinical psychologist and founder and CEO of  Invisible Disability Project knows  more than 1 in 4 U.S. adults have some kind of disability, whether or not it's obvious to others.

"There's probably something that exists in my friend group that I can't see," she said. "And unless I extend an invitation, they may not feel comfortable to speak up."

Being visually impaired herself, she knows what it's like to feel left out.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

There are countless little things we can all do to accommodate people with disabilities. Over the past few months, USA TODAY has explored some of the unique but prevalent challenges  travelers with disabilities face. Here are seven things USA TODAY readers and contributors with disabilities want fellow travelers to know:

WHAT IS ACCESSIBLE TRAVEL?: It varies family to family

'CRAWLING TO MY SEAT': Some travel experiences can be avoided with better technology

1. Don't stare, but don't ignore either

"My mom always used to say, 'Instead of staring at me, ask me why I'm in this wheelchair so that I can educate you about disabilities,' " said Marta Rivera who has multiple sclerosis , as her late mother did. 

Rivera's children hated when other people stare at their grandmother, but being ignored can also be hurtful.

"If you see somebody attempting to get into a building, it costs you nothing to hold the door open," Rivera said. "I can't tell you how many times I was trying to get through a door with my mom's wheelchair and people would just let it slam on us, and it's just so humiliating." 

2. Acknowledge and engage with people with disabilities

"I know that the world is not built for us, but the fact that you're acknowledging that ... in an attempt to make it a little easier, that speaks volumes," said Bethany Hildebrandt, whose daughter Kaylee, has  cerebral palsy , among other medical complexities, and is considered nonverbal because only her family can understand her speech. 

Hildebrandt calls American Disabilities Act guidelines the bare minimum for hotels and other travel entities and wishes people with disabilities would be invited to the table when it comes to designing spaces and experiences to accommodate them.

IS YOUR DOG A CERTIFIED GOOD BOY?: You might need proof when traveling abroad with a service animal.

MY TRIP TO PATAGONIA: 'The right wheelchair will take you anywhere a pair of legs can'

Deborah Dopkin, a bilateral amputee, says she could write a whole book on bathroom accessibility.

"Roll-in showers where it is impossible to reach the shower controls from the shower bench (are) a frequent problem, as are towel rods and robe hooks that are not reachable," Dopkin said. "Most hotel bathrooms in ADA rooms feature sinks that one can wheel under, but the mirrors are hung so high on the wall as to be useless from a wheelchair."

She says closet rods are also often out of reach and mattresses can be "so high off the ground that it is dangerous to transfer from a wheelchair to the bed." That's assuming she can get in the room in the first place. 

"The simple act of opening the door to the room – often heavy and spring-loaded – and wheeling into the room would be comical if it weren't nearly impossible to manage alone," Dopkin said. "This is true for public bathrooms as well."

"Communicate with someone who is living it," Hildebrandt suggested to people who design these spaces. "Confer with them when you're making these choices or decisions about what this looks like in real time."

3. Know that COVID complicates everything

While many countries have relaxed COVID-19 restrictions for travelers, we've seen throughout the pandemic that things can change very quickly. Travelers with disabilities, who require careful planning, may not be able to pivot last minute.

"In November, we had to cancel a trip to Vienna because the day before we were scheduled to leave, Vienna closed its borders," said Judy Tudor, a Fora travel adviser who is paraplegic. "We wondered what would have happened if we were already on our flight when this change occurred and arrived in Vienna, only to be told we could not enter. This is an inconvenience for any traveler, but for travelers with disabilities who need special accommodations or arrangements, they can be left with very limited options to make changes."

Pandemic-related staff shortages may also make travel more difficult.

"Many travelers with disabilities often call ahead to hotels, restaurants and attractions to ask questions about accessibility or make specific requests for their visit," Tudor said. She's found personalized services like that less available and newer staff to be unfamiliar with accessibility issues.

TRAVELERS YOU WON'T FIND AT AIRPORTS: COVID impedes travel for people with disabilities

4. Center people with disabilities

"Think, 'OK, where in my environment might someone with various diverse bodily needs bump up against a barrier that prevents them from fully accessing the space?' " Williams of the Invisible Disability Project said.

She acknowledged the difficulty in doing so, particularly for disabilities that may not be seen.

"If I'm an able-bodied person who sees and hears and smells and ambulates, how in the world can I imagine this?" she asked. "We can, actually, by centering just that idea that bodily diversity exists."

5. Don't assume ability

"Don't presume anyone’s ability status – especially when it comes to carrying luggage, walking longer distances, taking the stairs, etc.," said Amy Gaeta, a Ph.D. student and disability rights activist. "This includes people who look and don’t appear disabled as well as people with mental illnesses and learning disabilities."

Gaeta has nerve damage in one leg as well as multiple invisible disabilities, including  anxiety  and  post-traumatic stress disorder .

"If traveling with a disabled person, ask them what you can do to be a better travel partner," she said. "If your disabled traveler partner agrees to it, inform any travel attendant staff that a disabled passenger is aboard and ask what options they (may) have to make the trip more accessible and comfortable for them."

'ENDO HAS STOLEN SO MUCH': Traveling with endometriosis requires planning

Craig Harms wears a "deaf" sticker on his shirt when he travels so others can tell he's lost his hearing.

"It helps getting through TSA and boarding, and airport workers seem much more accommodating knowing that I can’t hear rather than judging me as being obstinate or suspicious-acting," he said.

"Please be patient with us," he added. "If there are miscommunication problems, which occur, please resolve the issue instead of taking the easy way of walking off and ignoring us. And please don't think us rude if you try to talk to us and we ignore you – our ability to communicate effectively was the first thing robbed of us."

6. Don't forget people with disabilities

"Using a guide cane allows other people to know I am visually impaired, but the downside to pulling out the cane when traveling is being made to wait," said Maxine Freedom Starr, MSW, a wellness assurance counselor with the Center for Independence of the Disabled, New York . "People often see that disabled people get to skip lines and go first for a lot of things, but there are equally times when I am made to wait for assistance to arrive, assistance I do not require most of the time."

She said that many places, like airports and attractions, see visually impaired people as a liability. 

"I am not allowed to walk freely or service myself despite saying I am physically able and competently able to do so," she said. "The very thing I try hard to avoid is requesting assistance when out because when it comes to the visually impaired, it is frequently 'out of sight, out of mind.' I have been left in empty rooms, put in corners, missed half of the event I was attending, missed meals and forgotten altogether."

'FORGOTTEN': Legally blind traveler left in an airport basement for hours

7. Assume the best of others

"Just be nice. Assume that people are doing their best," said Shannon Rosa, senior editor of  Thinking Person's Guide to Autism . Her son Leo is  autistic , and her other two kids are neurodivergent . 

"Even if we look different, even if we behave differently, we have as much right to be in public places as anybody else," she said. "So don't be unkind."

'MY KIDS DON'T WANT HUGS AND KISSES': The cultural dimension of traveling with an invisible disability

'TAKE IT SLOW': Florida theme parks have accessibility programs but they still require planning

Rosa notes that things that may not be a big deal to other people, like making eye contact or adjusting to flickering fluorescent lights, can be tough for some people who are autistic.

"I think it's really important if what we are invested in is the happiness and well being of our children who have disabilities, even if they're not apparent to other people, that absolutely try to accommodate them the best we can and try not to shame them for when they're having a difficult time because they need support," she said. "They don't need shaming."

Contributing: Bailey Schulz, USA TODAY

Share your experience with USA TODAY

North East England

North West England

Northern Ireland

South East England

South West England

East Midlands

East of England

West Midlands

Yorkshire and the Humber

Choose a category.

Adventure Activities

Animal & Wildlife Parks

Arts & Crafts

Family Attractions

Historic Houses & Castles

Museums & Galleries

Outdoor Activities

Parks & Gardens

Play Centres

Sport & Leisure

Transport, Trips & Tours

Water Activities

Quick links to 100s of websites.

Accessible Great Days Out UK aims to help you find accessibility information quickly and easily for hundreds of attractions and activities .

Search by region, county or category .

12 Days Out Categories

With Accessible Great Days Out UK finding the perfect day out has never been easier!

Find UK Days Out

Privacy Overview

Services for Guests Who Are Neurodivergent

Disney is committed to delivering a wide range of innovative support services aimed at helping our guests with disabilities visiting our theme parks. explore ways and resources for guests with neurodivergent disabilities to use throughout the theme parks and in the resort hotel areas. some tools found on this page may benefit a variety of individuals and are not limited to guests with neurodivergent disabilities., know what to expect at the parks.

For more information, download the Accessibility Planning Guide & Recommendations.

How to Prepare

Plan a visual schedule.

Next, fill in the remaining times with possible attractions and use a question mark or a change card to build flexibility into the schedule. Review the visual schedule with your family member before your visit so they have an idea of what to expect.

By providing a possible timeline, you can help the Guest with a neurodivergent disability understand what to expect—such as crowds, sights, sounds, and smells—and so that they can learn the routine.

For an example of a timeline, please download our Accessibility Planning Guide & Recommendations .

Study Location Maps

Review the maps with the Guest with a neurodivergent disability and try to lay out a plan for the day. We recommend that you consider downloading the My Disney Experience app to have information on your mobile device, including entertainment showtimes. You can even order food and beverages via the My Disney Experience app .

What to Bring

Being prepared for a day at Walt Disney World Resort goes beyond the parks. Plan ahead by bringing along an assortment of items.

Some suggestions include:

• A Safety Bracelet or Nametag
• Ear Plugs or Headphones
• A Favorite Device or Activity
• A Sensory Toy

Practice Waiting in Line

To prepare, practice waiting with the Guest with a neurodivergent disability at home or in lines at places they might already frequent.

Attraction Planning Resources

Sensory experience details.

Review a list of details about Walt Disney World experiences—including details about scents, lighting effects, attraction vehicle speeds and more.

Accessing Attraction Queues

Walt Disney World Resort offers tips and a variety of programs to help Guests with disabilities access attraction queues including Rider Switch, Single Rider, Disability Access Service and more.

At the Parks

Companion restrooms.

Learn more about restrooms

Choose a Meeting Location

Should they get lost, stress the importance to the Guest with a neurodivergent disability of finding a Cast Member who will assist in attempting to reunite you. In addition, there are also designated locations in each park where lost persons can be escorted.

It is recommended that you take a photo of the Guest with a neurodivergent disability on your mobile device or digital camera, especially if they tend to wander off. You may also consider making a nametag that includes their name, as well as your name and mobile phone number.

Take a Break

Some examples include:

Magic Kingdom Park:

• Main Street, U.S.A. – Center Street
• Adventureland – Area near Swiss Family Treehouse; Area next to the Pirates of the Caribbean restrooms
• Frontierland – Miner’s Cove; Area near Tiana’s Bayou Adventure restrooms
• Liberty Square – Area behind Ye Old Christmas Shoppe; Area next to the Hall of Presidents
• Fantasyland – Area near the Wishing Well; Area outside Pete’s Silly Sideshow
• Tomorrowland – Pathway near TRON Lightcycle/Run leading towards Fantasyland; Area between Space Mountain and the Rockettower Plaza Stage; Area near Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress
• World Celebration – Areas throughout
• World Nature – Area between the Seas with Nemo and Friends and the Coral Reef Restaurant; Imagination Pavilion near the restrooms
• World Discovery – Area near Mission: SPACE and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
• Mexico Pavilion – Accessible ramp to right of pavilion
• Norway Pavilion – Corridor between Norway and China
• China Pavilion – Area next to the Temple of Heaven
• Italy Pavilion – Seating nook next to Pizza Al Taglio
• America Pavilion – Corridor between Joffrey’s Coffee and Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue
• Japan Pavilion – Garden seating area
• Morocco Pavilion – Near Restaurant Marrakesh and Lamps of the Wonder
• France Pavilion – Between France and the United Kingdom near the water
• United ­­Kingdom Pavilion – Garden area
• Canada Pavilion – Garden walkway towards Le Cellier Steakhouse

Disney’s Hollywood Studios:

• Sunset Boulevard – Courtyard near Lightning McQueen’s Racing Academy
• Sunset Boulevard & Hollywood Boulevard – Area next to The Hollywood Brown Derby restaurant
• Animation Courtyard – Near the restrooms
• Pixar Place – End of block near archway
• Toy Story Land – Corridor between Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge
• Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – Area next to First Order Cargo; Area between Oga’s Cantina at the Walt Disney World Resort  and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run; Area next to Toydarian Toymaker
• Grand Avenue – Corridor on right just before Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge; Pathway between Muppet Vision 3D and Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano
• Echo Lake – Area by Indiana Jones Adventure Outpost to the right of 50’s Prime Time Café

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park:

• Discovery Island: Areas throughout
• DinoLand USA – Area next to theater
• Asia – Maharajah Jungle Trek (locations throughout) and the pathway next to Caravan Road leading to Africa
• Rafiki’s Planet Watch – Locations throughout
• Africa – Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail (locations throughout)

All Parks – First Aid and quick-service restaurant seating areas (during non-peak periods).

Learn more about break areas in the Accessibility Planning Guide & Recommendations.

Dietary Accommodations

View more information about  special dietary requests  throughout the Resort.

Guest Health Care Services Presented by AdventHealth