Minnesota Wheelchair Travel Guide

Minnesota, known as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” offers a diverse range of attractions, from bustling cities to serene natural landscapes. With increasing efforts to improve accessibility, Minnesota is a welcoming destination for wheelchair travelers. This review provides essential information on accessible travel in Minnesota, including attractions, bathrooms, hotels, transportation, and adapted recreation programs.

Accessible Attractions

• Mall of America: The Mall of America in Bloomington is one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in the United States. It features wide, accessible pathways, elevators, and ramps throughout the facility. Accessible restrooms are available on all levels, and there are numerous accessible parking spots and entrances.
• Minnesota Zoo: The Minnesota Zoo in Apple Valley offers a variety of accessible exhibits and attractions. The zoo has paved pathways, ramps, and elevators to ensure easy access. Accessible restrooms are located throughout the zoo, and there are accessible parking spots near the entrance.
• Como Park Zoo & Conservatory: Located in Saint Paul, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory offers free admission and features accessible pathways and exhibits. The conservatory has ramps and elevators, making it easy to explore the beautiful gardens. Accessible restrooms are available near the entrance and throughout the park.
• Minneapolis Institute of Art: The Minneapolis Institute of Art is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and wide pathways throughout the museum. The museum offers wheelchairs for visitor use and has accessible restrooms on each floor.
• Science Museum of Minnesota: The Science Museum of Minnesota in Saint Paul provides interactive exhibits and activities with full accessibility. The museum features ramps, elevators, and wide pathways. Accessible restrooms are available on all floors, and there are accessible parking spots near the entrance.
• Minnehaha Park: Minnehaha Park in Minneapolis features beautiful trails, gardens, and the iconic Minnehaha Falls. The park has accessible pathways made of asphalt and concrete, making it easy for wheelchair users to navigate. Accessible restrooms are available near the falls and throughout the park.
• Split Rock Lighthouse: Located on the North Shore of Lake Superior, Split Rock Lighthouse offers accessible viewing areas and pathways. While the lighthouse itself has stairs, the visitor center and surrounding grounds are accessible. Accessible restrooms are available at the visitor center.
• Duluth Lakewalk: The Duluth Lakewalk is a scenic pathway along the shores of Lake Superior. The pathway is paved and wheelchair accessible, offering stunning views of the lake and city. Accessible restrooms can be found at various points along the Lakewalk.

Accessible Hotels

• Radisson Blu Mall of America: Connected to the Mall of America, this hotel offers accessible rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, and spacious layouts. The hotel has ramps and elevators throughout the property, ensuring convenience for wheelchair users. Accessible restrooms are available in public areas.
• Hyatt Regency Minneapolis: Located in downtown Minneapolis, this hotel provides accessible rooms equipped with necessary amenities for wheelchair users. The hotel has ramps, elevators, and accessible common areas, ensuring a comfortable stay. Accessible restrooms are available in public areas.
• Hilton Minneapolis: This hotel offers accessible rooms with roll-in showers and other amenities. The hotel has accessible pathways and ramps throughout the property. Accessible restrooms are available in common areas.

Accessible Transportation

• Airports: Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) is the main gateway to Minnesota. The airport offers accessibility services, including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and elevators.
• Taxis and Transfers: Several companies in Minnesota offer accessible transportation services. Reliable options include SuperShuttle which provides wheelchair-accessible vans equipped with ramps and securement systems and Metro Mobility which offers accessible transportation for people with disabilities throughout the Twin Cities metro area.
• Public Transportation: Metro Transit in the Twin Cities offers accessible buses and light rail services. All buses are equipped with lifts or ramps, and the light rail system has accessible stations and vehicles.

Adapted Recreation Programs

• Adaptive Sports Programs: Minnesota offers a variety of adaptive sports programs, including wheelchair basketball, sled hockey, and adaptive skiing. Organizations like Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute provide adaptive sports and recreation opportunities for people with disabilities.
• Accessible Boating and Fishing: Accessible boating and fishing programs are available on many of Minnesota’s lakes. Accessible docks, fishing piers, and boat launches can be found in state parks and recreation areas.
• Accessible Trails and Parks: Minnesota has numerous accessible trails and parks, offering opportunities for wheelchair users to enjoy the outdoors. State parks like Itasca State Park and Gooseberry Falls State Park have accessible pathways, picnic areas, and restrooms.