As travelers continue to book U.S. vacations and chronicle their experiences online, it’s become increasingly clear that not every activity, destination or operator is designed to accommodate people with accessibility needs. For families in particular, this can present quite the challenge as they balance fun and affordable offerings with specific accessibility requirements. While it may not always be an easy obstacle to overcome, these four U.S.-based experiences are a great place to start for an inclusive vacation.
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum and Leslie Science & Nature Center – Michigan
You can never really go wrong with a museum and its quirky exhibits, which are entertaining for visitors of all ages. The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum has everything from interactive mechanical areas to experiments with light and optics, perfect for an engaging visit. More importantly, their mission is guided by one goal: reduce the barriers to STEAM and nature-based education. For instance, the museum not only provides free sensory kits for neurodivergent visitors but also enforces a “My Turn” initiative, offering quiet hours within the space for families affected by autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing disorder.
Outside, the Leslie Science & Nature Center is easily navigable by wheelchair, and that includes the playground too. The Nature Playscape features understated considerations like the inclusion of stainless-steel slides, a subtle change that allows users with a cochlear implant to effortlessly glide down without any interference.
Both the indoor and outdoor centers are verified as wheelchair accessible through Wheel the World, and links on the museum’s website show models of the space, helping reduce the anxiety some visitors feel towards exploring an unfamiliar place.
Adaptive Sports Center – Colorado
Home to all things outdoor sports, the Adaptive Sports Center is bringing classic Colorado activities to the world of accessibility. The operator is located in the popular ski resort town of Crested Butte and offers inclusive half- or full-day lessons for a rotating list of seasonal experiences. Think adaptive features on bikes, canoes, kayaks and paddleboards in the warm summer months or reconfigured skis and snowboards in the winter.
Travelers who are familiar with adaptive sports know the modified equipment often comes with a steep price tag, but with the center’s new “Access For All” program, guests can book a full-day experience at a discounted price of $95. Depending on when travelers look to visit the Adaptive Sports Center, friends and families can join in on the fun so that everyone can participate in the outdoor thrill together.
In an innovative twist, the Operation Rise and Conquer initiative also provides these adaptive activities to veterans, military service personnel and first responders with a disability. The program was created in 2013 to empower the wounded individuals and inspire a newfound sense of confidence in all those who participate.
Yosemite National Park – California
Accessibility may not be the first association travelers have with Yosemite, but the national park is doing its part to make the experience as inclusive as possible. From the jump, travelers will notice Yosemite’s numerous accessible parking spaces, restrooms and picnic areas upon entry, in addition to the shuttle buses equipped with lifts and tie-downs for wheelchairs.
No mobility device? No problem! Yosemite also offers wheelchair and scooter rentals for those who require additional assistance while exploring. Almost all of the paved trails winding through forests and along scenic rivers are accessible grade, ensuring every visitor has the opportunity to soak up the sights.
Travelers with auditory impairments will also find resources here that encourage a seamless visit, including free sign language interpreting and assistive listening devices for all park programs. Guests staying overnight in one of Yosemite’s lodges can request a free accessibility kit as well, equipping visitors with a smoke alarm, light flasher doorbell and shake-awake alarm.
Whether it’s building new facilities or renovating old ones, Yosemite has a wide range of programs and initiatives to help bridge the gap between guests and their accessibility needs. Physical and auditory impairments only begin to scratch the surface, so be sure to explore their accessibility webpage for more information.
Morgan’s Wonderland Theme Park and Inspiration Island – Texas
No one gets accessibility like the people who experience it firsthand, and that’s exactly the foundation Morgan's Wonderland Theme Park is built on. Located in San Antonio, Texas, the idea for an ultra-accessible theme park came to life after parents Gordon and Maggie Hartman watched their daughter, Morgan, navigate vacations with her own physical and cognitive disabilities.
Inside the park, guests will find 25 wheelchair-accessible rides. One of the crowd favorites is the carousel, which allows riders to experience the quintessential rise and fall of the ride from the comfort of their own chair. The Whirling Wonder Ferris Wheel operates in a similar manner, with carriages large enough to accommodate a variety of wheelchair sizes. Quiet activities such as Switch gaming, sensory experiences and tactile walls are available as well, offering guests a reprieve from the clamor of the theme park.
Over in Morgan’s Inspiration Island, the inclusive waterpark, similar inclusive experiences await. Specially designed pneumatic wheelchairs are provided, allowing users to power through the water play areas. Trained staff members are on-site to help with the fitting process, checking that each visitor has the necessary harnesses and cushioning for maximum comfort.
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