Accessible Holidays in America
From the world’s first official Autism City to a theme park that is accessible to all needs, resorts and cities across the States are ensuring everyone is welcome
This is a feature from Issue 21 of Charitable Traveller Magazine.
In a world where travel is often synonymous with adventure, destinations across the United States are redefining the narrative by prioritising accessible tourism, ensuring that adventures are inclusive for all.
Morgan's Wonderland, San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio, Texas, is home to Morgan’s Wonderland, a pioneering ‘ultra-accessible’ theme park and universal playground. Born from a father’s love for his daughter, this 25-acre wonderland is a testament to inclusivity and is fully wheelchair-accessible. It features all kinds of theme park attractions, a Ferris wheel, and even a water splash park. This year, Morgan’s Wonderland is set to expand its existing 25-acre site and will be opening new rides and a 4D cinema too. The park’s success has caught Hollywood’s eye – a film is due to be made telling the story of the family’s challenges in raising a child with special needs and how that sparked their determination to create Morgan’s Wonderland as a beacon of joy for people of all abilities.
Mesa, Arizona
Holding the accolade of being the first autism-certified city in the U.S., Mesa in Arizona is fully committed to providing a welcoming environment for neurodivergent people. To earn this accolade, at least 80 per cent of guest- or public-facing staff (from healthcare professionals to hospitality staff) are trained in understanding autism and other neurodivergent needs, and so are certified to provide a better service.
Recognised as one of the most family-friendly cities in the US. Mesa’s hotels and attractions are rolling out the red carpet and offer a full-sensory experience for everyone.
Maverick Helicopters
For a bird’s eye view, Maverick Helicopters – operating in Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, California, and Maui – offers Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant tours for sky-high accessibility. Employing the highest qualified pilots in the industry, Maverick’s choppers can accommodate wheelchair users, ensuring that the breathtaking landscapes of America are accessible, even from the skies.
New England
A great playground for skiers and sporty people, there are a couple of organisations helping to empower people of all abilities to access activities. In Vermont, the Vermont Adaptive organisation has a year-round programme of courses, activities and lessons, while in Maine, Maine Adaptive was founded in 1982 and provides 3,500 lessons a year for adults and children with disabilities.
At least 80% of guest or public facing staff in Mesa are trained in understanding Autism and other neurodivergent needs
Fall colours in Tennessee
In Tennessee, which is known for its vivid autumnal scenes as the leaves change colour, colourblind visitors can enjoy the views too, thanks to the specially developed Viewfinders for the Colourblind. The world’s first scenic viewers designed to help people with red-green colour deficiency, allow everyone to enjoy the fullness of the state’s landscapes, scenic views, and fall colours.
New Orleans, Louisiana
For anyone visiting New Orleans with additional needs, the city provides an Accessibility Guide to help navigate its various sights and sounds, including details of how to get around on the public transport system, the accessibility options at museums and attractions, and advice on how to make the most of the city if you are blind, deaf-blind, or have low vision.
Outside the city, and across the state, Louisiana has has 22 state parks, which were all designed with accessibility in mind and have plenty of trails and boardwalks.
Tucson, Arizona
Two attractions in particular in and around Tucson are making the effort to increase their accessibility. The first is the visitor centre at the Saguaro National Park, just outside the city, where improvements have been made to welcome people of all abilities and mobilities. The second is the Children’s Museum Tucson, which is entirely accessible by wheelchair, and accessibility has been built into the exhibits. The museum also offers programming for families with children with autism, low-sensory needs and disabilities to provide a welcoming environment for all.
Feeling inspired?
Click on the links below to learn more about accessible holiday destinations and types, and America. Ready to plan your next adventure? Get in touch with our team of expert agents that are waiting to help you book the holiday of your dreams! Remember – every time you book a holiday with you can donate 5% of the price to the charity of your choice for free!
This is a feature from Issue 21 of Charitable Traveller.
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