TOURING NEW YORK IN A WHEELCHAIR! HERE IS WHAT YOU CAN DO!
Over 61 million people visit New York City every year, according to the New York Times. From it’s iconic landmarks to amazing cultural diversity, it’s one of the most exciting cities to tour and certainly gets the senses going. Unfortunately, most people with mobility issues tend to skip it as they feel the busy streets, large numbers of people and lots of traffic will hamper their movement. But actually, most NYC attractions are easily accessible to those who use wheelchairs.
Over the last few decades, the authorities and businesses have taken impressive steps to make the City more wheelchair-friendly. The places below assure you of a memorable experience.
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most famous sites in the country. An imposing figure, this national monument is visited by over 3.5 million people every year. Thanks to its latest renovations, people with mobility challenges now have a far easier time accessing it. It has been fitted with specialized elevators to take you up to various points to enjoy the incredible views.
Guests with mobility issues can comfortably access the parking, refreshment building, restrooms and get to the information center where you can learn some interesting history. There are also a limited number of wheelchairs available where you can borrow one on a first come, first served basis. Although the crown is not accessible, you will get to enjoy the marvelous interior construction of the structure and the up and close view of the statue at point Fort Wood.
Central Park
It’s hard to imagine touring the Big Apple without going to Central Park. Opened in 1857 and covering over 3.5 square miles, it is a spectacular green space in the heart of the City, and it grants wheelchair users easy access to all the fun. Whether you want to relax on the edges of the Bethesda Fountain and Terrace, view wildlife in the zoo or enjoy the scenery at the Literary Walk, there are paved walkways throughout to facilitate your movement. There are subway stations that are in close proximity to different sections, and they adhere to the ADA Accessibility Guidelines.
American Museum of Natural History
One of the largest museums in the world, this place is rich with the diversity of the natural world. From dinosaur and early human skeletons to the unique Dzanga-Sangha Rainforest in the Hall of Biodiversity, you will get to see and learn much about some of the finest collections of natural specimen. There are accessible parking spots, restrooms, and food service areas. All theaters are installed with wheelchair spots and companion seats, service animals can join you and courtesy wheelchairs are available in the main entrance and the parking garage.
Getting Around NYC
Moving from one location to the next in NYC is now possible for people in wheelchairs. The streets are wider, and the sidewalks on the crossroads have low-cut curbs enabling you to easily access the other side of the road. The buses have been fitted with lifts to facilitate access, and there are reserved spaces for people on wheels.
You can also get around using the subway as many stations have ramps and elevators. Even better, people with disabilities can take advantage of the special rates when using the subway and buses. Wheelchair accessible taxis are also available 24 hours a day, and you can rest assured that New Yorkers are very helpful and compassionate in case you encounter a hitch.
Your wheelchair doesn’t have to be an obstacle when you want to explore New York City. Many amazing attractions are now fully accessible. If you have always wished to visit the Empire State Building, Times Square or Radio City Music Hall, these venues are now wheelchair friendly. By planning ahead, researching your route and hotels, and making inquiries ahead of time, you are set to have a fulfilling and unforgettable trip.
Leave a Reply