Best U.S. Travel Destinations for Wheelchair Users: Top Accessible Places to Visit in 2025

Travel is one of life’s greatest joys, offering the chance to explore new places, experience diverse cultures, and create lasting memories. However, for many individuals with mobility challenges, the excitement of planning a trip can often be overshadowed by concerns about accessibility and comfort. Everyone deserves the opportunity to travel with confidence and ease, without the stress of wondering whether destinations will meet their needs.

Fortunately, many destinations across the United States have recognized the importance of inclusive tourism and have made impressive efforts to create welcoming, barrier-free experiences for wheelchair users. From thoughtfully designed public spaces and transportation systems to accessible accommodations, restaurants, and attractions, these cities and parks are setting new standards in accessible travel.

Whether you’re seeking vibrant urban exploration, breathtaking natural wonders, relaxing beach getaways, or fun-filled family adventures, these U.S. destinations offer a perfect blend of accessibility, convenience, and unforgettable experiences. With proper planning and the right destination, traveling can be just as enjoyable and carefree for wheelchair users as it is for anyone else.

Here’s a detailed look at some of the most wheelchair-friendly travel destinations across America:

1. Washington, D.C. — The Capital of Accessibility

As the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. sets the gold standard for accessible tourism. Thanks to years of thoughtful urban planning and federal regulations, nearly all of its major attractions are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. The city offers an impressive blend of history, culture, and modern infrastructure that makes sightseeing enjoyable and stress-free for wheelchair users.

National Mall

Home to some of America’s most iconic monuments and memorials, the National Mall is a must-visit. Monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and World War II Memorial are all thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind. The National Mall features smooth, wide, paved pathways that are easy to navigate by wheelchair, with minimal elevation changes and plenty of shaded resting areas.
Many of the monuments also provide ramps, elevators, and nearby accessible parking to ensure all visitors can fully experience their grandeur up close. Several of the memorials even offer guided tours or mobile apps that include audio descriptions for visitors with additional needs.

Smithsonian Museums

The Smithsonian Institution operates over 17 world-class museums and galleries throughout the city, including the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. All Smithsonian museums are free to enter and fully wheelchair accessible.
Entrances feature automatic doors, accessible elevators serve all floors, and accessible restrooms are conveniently located throughout each facility. Most buildings offer loaner wheelchairs upon request at no charge, and trained staff are available to assist with any additional accommodations visitors may need.
Many exhibits are designed to be viewed comfortably from a seated position, and some museums also offer tactile exhibits, large-print materials, and assistive listening devices to enhance the experience for guests with multiple accessibility needs.

Public Transportation

Getting around Washington, D.C. is relatively easy for wheelchair users. The Metro system, which includes subway trains and city buses, is ADA-compliant.
Metro stations are equipped with elevators, wide fare gates, and level boarding areas. Buses are fitted with ramps or lifts, as well as designated seating areas for wheelchair users. MetroAccess, a specialized door-to-door paratransit service, is also available for those who qualify.
Taxis, ride-share services, and private transportation companies in the area often have accessible vehicle options as well, providing even more flexibility.

Additional Accessibility Features

Beyond the major landmarks, many hotels, restaurants, and theaters throughout the city offer ADA-compliant features such as accessible entrances, roll-in showers, lowered counters, and ample maneuvering space for wheelchairs. The city’s many parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces are also increasingly designed with accessibility in mind, providing beautiful and relaxing options for outdoor exploration.

Travel Tip

Consider scheduling your visit during spring to enjoy the famous National Cherry Blossom Festival. The event offers accessible viewing areas along the Tidal Basin, with flat, paved paths that make it easy for wheelchair users to take in the stunning blooms. Early morning visits can help you avoid the biggest crowds and offer a more peaceful experience.

2. San Diego, California — Sunshine and Seamless Access

San Diego is not only famous for its near-perfect weather but also for its thoughtful accessibility features that make it a top destination for wheelchair users. The city’s laid-back atmosphere, scenic coastline, and wide range of activities make it ideal for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure — all while prioritizing comfort and mobility.

Balboa Park

At the heart of San Diego lies Balboa Park, a 1,200-acre cultural oasis that’s not only stunning but highly accessible. The park is home to over 16 museums, including the San Diego Museum of Art, the Fleet Science Center, and the San Diego Natural History Museum, all of which offer ADA-compliant entrances, elevators, and restrooms.
The park’s botanical gardens and outdoor spaces feature wide, flat, paved walkways that are easy to navigate by wheelchair or scooter. Many of the park’s outdoor seating areas, shaded paths, and accessible picnic spots make it a perfect place for a leisurely afternoon.
For visitors who want to explore more of the park, accessible tram services run throughout Balboa Park, offering hop-on-hop-off convenience for those who may need a break from walking or rolling.

San Diego Zoo

Consistently rated one of the world’s best zoos, the San Diego Zoo offers a truly inclusive experience. From the moment you arrive, you’ll find accessible parking, wheelchair rentals, and smooth, gently sloping pathways that cover most of the 100-acre property.
The zoo offers complimentary shuttle buses with lifts and accessible seating, allowing guests to easily reach different areas. Many animal exhibits are designed at eye level for easy viewing from a seated position, and exhibits like the Polar Bear Plunge and Elephant Odyssey have specially designed platforms for unobstructed views.
Service animals are also welcome, and detailed accessibility maps are available to help visitors plan their route through the zoo in advance.

Beaches

San Diego’s beautiful beaches are among the most wheelchair-friendly in the country. Locations like La Jolla Shores, Mission Beach, and Coronado Beach offer free or low-cost beach wheelchair rentals (manual and motorized options available at some locations), making it possible to navigate sandy shores with ease.
ADA-compliant boardwalks and ramps provide smooth access directly to the beach, while accessible parking and restrooms make planning your beach day stress-free.
In addition, several beaches have installed Mobi-Mats — special non-slip pathways laid out on the sand to help wheelchairs move closer to the waterline safely.

Accessible Attractions Beyond the Beach

Beyond the zoo and beaches, San Diego offers many additional accessible attractions:

• USS Midway Museum: Fully wheelchair accessible with elevators, ramps, and guided accessible tours of the historic aircraft carrier.
  
• SeaWorld San Diego: Offers wheelchair-accessible shows, ride transfer assistance, and companion seating.
  
• Old Town San Diego State Historic Park: Many of the historic buildings and shops have been upgraded with ramps and accessible paths.
  

Transportation

San Diego’s public transportation system makes exploring the city incredibly easy for wheelchair users. The San Diego Trolley system is fully accessible with level boarding, ramps, and priority seating. Most city buses are also ADA-compliant, equipped with ramps and lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and scooters.

Travel Tip

While the weather is generally pleasant year-round, visiting San Diego during the spring or fall months can offer milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and even more enjoyable outdoor experiences.

3. Orlando, Florida — The Theme Park Capital of the World

Orlando has rightfully earned its reputation as the theme park capital of the world — and it’s also one of the most accessibility-focused destinations in the U.S. The city’s theme parks, hotels, and transportation providers have invested heavily in inclusive design, ensuring that guests with mobility challenges can fully enjoy everything Orlando has to offer. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Orlando provides thoughtful accommodations every step of the way.

Walt Disney World

No destination has gone as far as Walt Disney World when it comes to accessibility. Disney has made it a core mission to ensure that all guests can experience the magic of its parks with comfort and dignity.

• Disability Access Service (DAS): This program allows guests who cannot wait in standard queues to schedule return times for attractions, reducing the need to stand or wait in long lines.
  
• Accessible Attractions: Many rides are wheelchair-friendly, and certain attractions offer transfer-accessible ride vehicles with assistance from cast members.
  
• Paratransit Services: Disney offers accessible parking, accessible buses, and complimentary transportation throughout the resort with lifts and ramps.
  
• Wheelchair and Scooter Rentals: Guests can rent mobility devices daily or for the length of their stay.
  
• Restrooms: All parks feature accessible restrooms, companion care restrooms, and changing stations for guests of all ages.
  
• Accessibility Guides: Detailed guides are available online and at guest services desks, outlining the specific accessibility features of each ride, show, and restaurant.
  

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort has also made tremendous strides in providing inclusive experiences for guests with mobility needs.

• Attraction Accessibility: Many rides feature transfer devices and detailed instructions on ride accessibility, with team members available to assist.
  
• Virtual Line and Rider Swap: For guests who cannot wait in traditional lines, virtual queues and rider swap options provide flexibility and ease.
  
• Assistive Technologies: The resort offers assistive listening devices, closed captioning, sign language interpreters (with advance notice), and visual or sensory accommodations.
  
• Resort Hotels: Universal’s on-site hotels include ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, lowered countertops, and widened doorways for ease of movement.
  

SeaWorld Orlando

At SeaWorld Orlando, accessibility remains a priority to ensure all guests can enjoy up-close marine life encounters and thrilling shows.

• Accessible Seating: The park offers wheelchair-accessible seating areas at shows and exhibits throughout the property.
  
• Ride Access: Many rides are accessible or offer transfer options, and trained staff are always available to assist.
  
• Service Animals: Service animals are welcome throughout the park, and relief areas are available.
  
• Wheelchair Rentals: Manual and motorized wheelchairs are available for daily rental.
  

Hotels & Accommodations

Throughout Orlando, a wide variety of hotels — from budget-friendly chains to luxury resorts — offer ADA-compliant rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, widened doorways, lowered beds, and accessible pool lifts. Many hotel shuttles are also equipped with lifts or ramps.

Transportation

Orlando’s transportation system is built with accessibility in mind:

• Mears and private shuttle services offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
  
• Lynx bus system features ramps, kneeling buses, and securement areas for wheelchairs.
  
• Accessible taxis and ride-shares (such as Uber WAV) are widely available.
  
• Orlando International Airport (MCO) is fully ADA-compliant, offering mobility assistance, accessible restrooms, and easy navigation for travelers.
  

Other Accessible Attractions in Orlando

Beyond the theme parks, Orlando offers even more wheelchair-friendly attractions:

• ICON Park: Features accessible rides like The Wheel, as well as flat, paved pathways throughout the entertainment complex.
  
• Kennedy Space Center (nearby): Offers fully accessible exhibits, IMAX theaters, and tours of America’s space program.
  
• Orlando Science Center: Fully accessible and interactive, with hands-on exhibits that cater to a variety of mobility needs.
  

Travel Tip

Contact each park’s guest services team ahead of time to arrange any necessary accommodations, request accessibility guides, and inquire about services like DAS or ride transfer options. This extra planning step can help maximize your visit and ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience.

4. Chicago, Illinois — A City of Architecture and Accessibility

Chicago perfectly blends rich history, world-class museums, stunning lakefront views, and vibrant cultural experiences — all while offering exceptional accessibility for wheelchair users. The city’s ongoing commitment to inclusion has made it one of the most wheelchair-friendly urban destinations in the United States.

Millennium Park

One of Chicago’s most iconic public spaces, Millennium Park, offers a wide range of accessible experiences:

• The Cloud Gate (“The Bean”): Paved, level walkways provide easy access to one of Chicago’s most photographed landmarks, allowing wheelchair users to roll right up to the reflective sculpture for photos and unique views.
  
• Jay Pritzker Pavilion: Outdoor concerts are equipped with wheelchair-accessible seating and companion areas, as well as accessible restrooms nearby.
  
• Crown Fountain and Lurie Garden: Both feature smooth paths and ramps, allowing visitors to enjoy interactive art installations and beautifully maintained gardens.
  

Millennium Park’s entire design emphasizes barrier-free access, with ramps, wide pathways, plenty of shade, and seating options throughout.

The Art Institute of Chicago

The world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago is fully ADA-compliant and highly accommodating for visitors with mobility challenges:

• Accessible Entrances: The museum’s entrances feature ramps and automatic doors.
  
• Elevators & Galleries: All exhibit floors are wheelchair accessible with spacious galleries that allow easy navigation.
  
• Wheelchair Rentals: Complimentary wheelchairs are available at coat check.
  
• Additional Assistance: The museum offers assistive listening devices, tactile tours, and large-print guides upon request for visitors with multiple accessibility needs.
  

The Art Institute’s open layouts and thoughtful design ensure that guests in wheelchairs can easily view both permanent and rotating exhibitions.

Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most popular entertainment destinations, and it has been modernized to prioritize accessibility for all visitors:

• Flat, wide walkways throughout the pier allow for easy rolling access to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
  
• The Centennial Wheel: This iconic Ferris wheel offers fully accessible gondolas that accommodate wheelchairs, providing panoramic views of the Chicago skyline.
  
• Accessible Dining & Entertainment: Theaters, restaurants, and outdoor seating areas feature barrier-free entrances and accessible restrooms.
  

Navy Pier also offers accessible water taxi services and boat tours with ramps and lifts for boarding.

The Chicago Riverwalk

Stretching along the downtown Chicago River, the Chicago Riverwalk features gently sloped ramps and wide, paved paths that allow for scenic wheelchair-friendly strolls. Visitors can enjoy beautiful city views, outdoor cafes, art installations, and accessible boat tours along the river.

Museums and Attractions

Beyond its most famous landmarks, Chicago offers many additional accessible attractions:

• Field Museum: Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and complimentary wheelchairs. Dinosaur exhibits, cultural displays, and interactive experiences are designed for easy navigation.
  
• Shedd Aquarium: The aquarium features level pathways, elevator access, assistive listening devices, and service animal accommodations.
  
• Museum of Science and Industry: Offers wheelchair access throughout, along with accessible seating for IMAX films and interactive exhibits.
  

Transportation

Chicago’s public transportation system has made major strides toward full accessibility:

• Chicago Transit Authority (CTA): Most buses feature wheelchair ramps, securement areas, and priority seating. The majority of “L” train stations are also equipped with elevators, accessible platforms, and audio announcements.
  
• Paratransit Services: The city offers paratransit services for individuals who cannot use fixed-route transportation.
  
• Accessible Taxis & Ride Shares: Wheelchair-accessible taxis and Uber WAV options are widely available.
  
• Accessible Parking: Most downtown garages and public lots offer clearly marked ADA parking spaces near entrances.
  

Hotels & Accommodations

Whether you’re staying in a downtown luxury hotel or a budget-friendly property, most Chicago hotels offer ADA-compliant guest rooms with roll-in showers, accessible beds, visual alert systems, and lowered amenities.

Travel Tip

Chicago can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons in the summer and during large conventions. Booking your hotel and transportation in advance ensures you have full access to the accessibility features you need during your stay. Spring and fall are often ideal for milder weather and more manageable crowds.

5. Las Vegas, Nevada — Glitz, Glamour, and Great Accessibility

Las Vegas is known for its world-class entertainment, vibrant nightlife, luxurious hotels, and endless attractions — but what many don’t realize is how impressively accessible the city is for wheelchair users. Las Vegas has made significant investments in ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility challenges, can fully experience the magic of “The Entertainment Capital of the World.”

The Las Vegas Strip

The famous Las Vegas Strip — a 4-mile stretch of iconic hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues — has been thoughtfully designed with accessibility in mind:

• Wide, Flat Sidewalks: Smooth, spacious sidewalks line the entire Strip, making it easy for wheelchair users to navigate.
  
• Pedestrian Bridges: Dozens of pedestrian bridges connect hotels and attractions, all equipped with elevators or escalators.
  
• Hotel Accessibility: Most major hotels offer ADA-compliant rooms with features like roll-in showers, grab bars, lowered counters, and wide doorways. Accessible hotel lobbies, casinos, restaurants, pools, and spas ensure guests have full access to amenities.
  

Entertainment Venues

Las Vegas offers some of the world’s best entertainment — and makes sure that no one is left out:

• Theaters & Concert Venues: Whether you’re attending a Cirque du Soleil show, a headline concert, or a comedy performance, most venues offer wheelchair seating, companion seats, assistive listening devices, and accessible restrooms.
  
• Sports Arenas: T-Mobile Arena and Allegiant Stadium (home to the Las Vegas Raiders) are fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and ADA seating options throughout.
  
• Accessible Casinos: Most casino gaming tables, slots, and bars are designed with lowered counters and plenty of space for maneuvering wheelchairs.
  

Outdoor Attractions

While Las Vegas is known for its indoor entertainment, the city also offers accessible outdoor experiences:

• Bellagio Fountains: The famous fountain shows are easily viewable from multiple wheelchair-accessible locations along the Strip.
  
• High Roller Observation Wheel: The world’s tallest observation wheel has spacious, fully accessible cabins that provide breathtaking views of the city skyline.
  
• The LINQ Promenade: This open-air shopping and dining district features flat walkways, accessible shops, and barrier-free restaurant entrances.
  
• Red Rock Canyon: Just outside the city, Red Rock Canyon offers accessible scenic drives and some wheelchair-friendly trails for nature lovers seeking a peaceful desert escape.
  

Transportation

Getting around Las Vegas is easy and stress-free for visitors with mobility needs:

• Monorail: The Las Vegas Monorail is fully accessible, with elevators and level boarding at all stations.
  
• RTC Buses: City buses are equipped with ramps, securement areas, and priority seating.
  
• Accessible Taxis & Ride Shares: Wheelchair-accessible taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber WAV and Lyft Access are widely available and easy to book.
  
• Hotel Shuttles: Many resorts offer accessible airport shuttles and transportation to local attractions.
  

Hotels & Accommodations

Las Vegas is home to thousands of hotel rooms, many of which include a wide range of ADA-compliant features:

• Roll-in showers with built-in seating
  
• Lowered beds and counters
  
• Visual door knock and alarm systems
  
• Wide doorways and open floor plans for easy navigation
  

Luxury resorts such as The Venetian, Bellagio, and Wynn have gone above and beyond to create inclusive, barrier-free environments without sacrificing comfort or style.

Additional Accessibility Services

• Mobility Scooter Rentals: Several companies in Las Vegas offer affordable scooter and wheelchair rentals delivered directly to your hotel.
  
• Service Animal-Friendly: Most hotels, casinos, and attractions are welcoming to service animals and have designated relief areas.
  

Travel Tip

Las Vegas can get very crowded, especially on weekends and during major events. Booking shows, restaurant reservations, and accessible hotel rooms well in advance will help ensure a smoother trip. If visiting during the summer, be mindful of extreme heat — many attractions offer indoor, climate-controlled experiences to beat the heat comfortably.

References

• ADA.gov – Americans with Disabilities Act Resources
• WheelchairTravel.org – Accessible Travel Guides for U.S. Cities
• Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality (SATH)
• Smithsonian Institution Accessibility (Washington D.C.)
• San Diego Tourism Authority – Visit San Diego (Main Site)
• Walt Disney World Accessibility (Orlando)
• Choose Chicago – Visitor Info (Main Site, Includes Accessibility Info)
• Visit Las Vegas – Official Site (Includes Accessibility Info)