Accessible Travel: The Top 5 Friendly U.S. Cities for Wheelchair Users
Posted by Build My Wheelchair on Jul 20th 2022
If you're a wheelchair user, planning a vacation can be daunting. You want to make sure that the city you visit is accessible and friendly for people with disabilities. Lucky for you, we've compiled a list of the top 5 most friendly US cities for wheelchair users! From coast to coast, these cities have something to offer everyone.
Seattle, Washington
This northwest city is a great choice for wheelchair users. Though the somewhat hilly geography will give some wheelchair users difficulty, wheelchairtravel.com ranked the city #1 for wheelchair accessibility in the U.S. The city is filled with accessible public transportation and sidewalks including light rail, city buses, water ferries, and taxis with wheelchair ramps. There are also many wheelchair-friendly parks and attractions, such as the Space Needle and Pike Place Market.
Washington, D.C.
Boasting the country's most accessible metro system, Washington, D.C. comes up next on our list. With over a hundred accessible taxis and an extensive network of sidewalks and curb cuts, getting around the city is a breeze. The city also has many wheelchair-friendly attractions such as the Smithsonian museums, National Zoo, Lincoln Memorial, and more.
Boston, Massachusetts
This New England city comes in at number three on our list. Boston is known for being hilly, but that doesn't stop it from being one of the most accessible cities in the US. The MBTA, Boston's public transportation system, is fully accessible with wheelchair lifts and ramps on all buses and trains. The city also has many curb cuts and sidewalks to make getting around easy. And of course, there are plenty of historical attractions and sites to see, such as the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, and Beacon Hill which are all wheelchair accessible.
Denver, Colorado
The Mile High City is a great choice for wheelchair users. With over 300 miles of sidewalks and over 100 accessible public parks, Denver is perfect for those who love the outdoors. The city also has an easily accessible light rail system with low-floor cars and wheelchair lifts. Their paratransit system operates 23 hours a day, 7 days a week, and offers unlimited rides. And if you're looking for some fun indoors, Denver has you covered with many accessible museums, theaters, and restaurants.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Last but not least, Las Vegas is a great city for wheelchair users. The city has many curb cuts and sidewalks, as well as an accessible public transportation system. There are also plenty of wheelchair-friendly hotels, casinos, shows, and attractions. Las Vegas actually boasts of being the home of the most accessible hotels in the world. So if you're looking for a fun and accessible vacation spot, Las Vegas is the place for you!
We hope this list has been helpful in planning your next trip. Remember to do your research before you go to make sure that the city you're visiting is truly wheelchair-friendly. And most importantly, have fun!