North Carolina, known for its diverse landscapes ranging from mountains to coastlines, provides a wealth of accessible options for wheelchair travelers. Here’s a guide to wheelchair-friendly attractions, outdoor activities, and accommodations across the state, including details on accessibility features and restroom availability.
Charlotte
- NASCAR Hall of Fame: Explore exhibits on NASCAR history, race cars, and interactive displays. Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs are available for use
- Discovery Place Science: Enjoy hands-on science exhibits, a 3D theater, and interactive educational displays. The museum is fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs are available for use.
- Freedom Park: Enjoy walking paths, picnic areas, and sports fields in this expansive urban park. Features paved paths, accessible playgrounds, and restrooms. Some areas may have uneven terrain.
Accommodations
- The Westin Charlotte: Centrally located with modern amenities, including a pool, fitness center, and on-site dining. Offers rooms with roll-in showers and accessible tubs. Rooms can sleep up to four people.
Asheville
- Biltmore Estate: Explore the largest privately-owned home in the U.S., including beautiful gardens and a winery. Features accessible tours, ramps, and elevators. Some historic areas may have limited access due to their age. Accessible restrooms are available throughout the estate.
- North Carolina Arboretum: Enjoy diverse plant collections, scenic gardens, and educational exhibits. Offers accessible trails and gardens with paved paths. Some natural trails may have uneven terrain. Accessible restrooms are available at visitor centers and major trailheads.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Experience stunning mountain views, scenic drives, and accessible viewpoints along this famous parkway. Some scenic viewpoints and visitor centers are accessible. Many trails have uneven terrain. Accessible restrooms are available at major overlooks and visitor centers.
Accommodations
- The Omni Grove Park Inn: Historic resort with modern amenities, including a spa, golf course, and several dining options. Provides rooms with roll-in showers and accessible tubs. Rooms can sleep up to four people.
Raleigh
- North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: Explore exhibits on natural history, including wildlife, minerals, and interactive displays. Fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs are available for use.
- JC Raulston Arboretum: Enjoy diverse plant collections, themed gardens, and educational programs. Features accessible pathways and gardens. Some natural trails may have uneven terrain. Accessible restrooms are available at the visitor center.
- Raleigh City Museum: Learn about Raleigh’s history and culture through exhibits and local artifacts. The museum is fully accessible with ramps and elevators. Some historic areas may have limited access. Accessible restrooms are available within the museum.
Accommodations
- The StateView Hotel: Modern amenities including a pool, fitness center, and on-site dining. Offers rooms with roll-in showers and accessible tubs. Rooms can sleep up to four people.
Wilmington
- Battleship North Carolina: Explore the historic battleship and learn about its role in World War II through exhibits and tours. The ship is partially accessible with some areas requiring stairs. Accessible restrooms are available at the visitor center.
- Wilmington Riverwalk: Enjoy scenic views, shops, and restaurants along this popular waterfront area. Features a paved path along the river with accessible restrooms. Some areas may have limited space.
- Airlie Gardens: Explore beautiful gardens, seasonal exhibits, and historic structures. Features accessible paths and some accessible gardens. Some natural areas may have uneven terrain. Accessible restrooms are available within the gardens.
Accommodations
- Hampton Inn Wilmington Medical Park: Convenient location with modern amenities including a pool, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast. Provides rooms with roll-in showers and accessible tubs. Rooms can sleep up to four people.
