Pennsylvania, a state rich in American history and diverse landscapes, offers a range of accessible travel experiences. From bustling cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh to the scenic beauty of its state parks, Pennsylvania is committed to providing inclusive attractions, accommodations, and outdoor recreation for wheelchair users.
City and Urban Attractions
- Philadelphia Museum of Art: Home to an extensive collection of art from around the world, including the famous “Rocky Steps.” The museum has wheelchair ramps and elevators available as well as smooth and wide pathways throughout. Accessible toilets are available on every floor, with spacious stalls. Accessible parking and public transportation options nearby.
- Independence National Historical Park: Explore key sites of American history, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. The attraction is fully accessible with ramps and elevators and paved and smooth pathways. Accessible toilets are located at the Visitor Center and other key locations.
- Carnegie Museum of Natural History: Features exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient Egypt, and more. The museum has accessible entrances, elevators, and restrooms along with smooth and wide indoor pathways. Accessible toilets are on each floor.
- The Andy Warhol Museum: The largest museum dedicated to a single artist, showcasing Warhol’s work and influence. Find ramps, elevators, and accessible exhibits as well as smooth and wide indoor pathways. Accessible toilets are on each floor.
- Longwood Gardens: Renowned for its extensive gardens, fountains, and conservatories. Smoothly paved accessible paths throughout the gardens, with shuttle service available. Accessible toilets are located throughout the gardens.
- Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: A Victorian greenhouse offering various plant exhibits and a beautiful outdoor garden. Find wheelchair accessible entrances and smoothly paved pathways. Accessible toilets are available throughout the conservatory.
- Hershey Gardens: Features themed gardens, a butterfly atrium, and seasonal displays. The garden has accessible smoothly paved pathways and entrances. Accessible toilets are located at the entrance and throughout the gardens.
- The Franklin Institute: A leading science museum offering interactive exhibits and planetarium shows. The museum has accessible entrances, elevators, and restrooms along with smooth, wide indoor pathways and accessible toilets on each floor.
- Reading Terminal Market: Historic indoor market offering a variety of food vendors and local goods. Pathways are smooth and wide and accesssible toilets are within the market.
- Eastern State Penitentiary: Historic prison offering guided tours and exhibits. Find accessible entrance and pathways, but some areas may have limited accessibility. Pathways are paved and gravel. Accessible toilets are located near the entrance.
Accommodations
- The Logan Philadelphia: A luxury hotel with modern amenities and a central location in downtown Philadelphia. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers or a bathtubs, two queen beds or one king bed (sleeps 2-4 people).
- Omni Bedford Springs Resort: A historic resort offering luxurious accessible accommodations and a serene setting. Rooms with roll-in showers and accessible bathrooms (2-4 people per room).
- Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh-Downtown: Conveniently located near Pittsburgh’s cultural district and major attractions. Accessible rooms with king beds and roll-in showers or bathtubs (2-4 people).
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lancaster: Offering modern amenities and easy access to Lancaster’s attractions, including Amish country. Accessible rooms with king beds or two queen beds and either a roll-in shower or bathtub (2-4 people).
Hiking Trails
- Presque Isle State Park – Karl Boyes Multi-purpose National Recreation Trail (13.5 miles): A scenic trail along the shores of Lake Erie, perfect for a leisurely walk or roll. The trail is paved with scenic views, benches, and rest areas. Accessible toilets are located at various points along the trail.
- Ohiopyle State Park – Ferncliff Peninsula Trail (1.7 miles): A beautiful loop trail offering views of the Youghiogheny River and diverse plant life. Partially paved and gravel trail, suitable for wheelchairs. Accessible toilets are near the trailhead.
- Ricketts Glen State Park – Lake Jean Beach Trail (0.5 miles): A short, paved trail with stunning views of Lake Jean and surrounding natural beauty. Accessible toilets are near the beach area.
- Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area – McDade Recreational Trail (32 miles with multiple accessible sections): A versatile trail offering picturesque views of the Delaware River. The accessible sections are paved or packed gravel. Accessible toilets are at various points along the trail.
- Hawk Mountain Sanctuary – Accessible Trail (0.1 miles): A renowned bird-watching destination with an accessible trail offering stunning views. It’s a short, paved trail to the South Lookout. Accessible toilets are at the Visitor Center.
Transportation
- Yellow Cab Company of Philadelphia: Offers wheelchair-accessible vans. (215) 333-3333
- Pittsburgh Transportation Group: Provides accessible taxi services in Pittsburgh. (412) 321-8100
- Unique Accessible Taxis: Accessible paratransit taxi service available.
- Capital Area Transit (CAT) Paratransit: Paratransit service providing door-to-door transportation for individuals with disabilities in the Harrisburg area. (717) 234-2828
Adapted Recreation Programs and Nonprofits
- Spina Bifida Association of Greater Philadelphia: Offers various recreational and social programs for individuals with spina bifida and other disabilities. (215) 744-5001
- Adaptive Sports Partners of the Mid-Atlantic: Provides recreational opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities, including skiing, cycling, and kayaking. (717) 231-2550
- The Arc of Pennsylvania: Supports people with intellectual and developmental disabilities through advocacy, recreation, and community involvement. (717) 236-4032
- Disabled Sports USA: Offers adaptive sports programs for individuals with disabilities, including various sports and recreational activities. (301) 217-0960
- The Center for Independent Living of South Central Pennsylvania: Provides resources and programs to support independent living and accessible recreation. (717) 731-1900