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.
Why You Should Visit:
- 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.
Why You Should Visit:
- 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.
Why You Should Visit:
- 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.
Why You Should Visit:
- 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.
Why You Should Visit:
- 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.
Why You Should Visit:
- 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.
Why You Should Visit:
- 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!