Scottsdale, Arizona Wheelchair Travel Guide

Scottsdale, Arizona, often referred to as “The West’s Most Western Town,” is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, luxurious resorts, and breathtaking desert landscapes. Nestled in the picturesque Sonoran Desert, Scottsdale offers an array of accessible attractions and activities, from world-class museums and shopping districts to scenic parks and adaptive recreation programs. Whether you’re exploring the historic Old Town or embarking on an outdoor adventure, Scottsdale ensures an inclusive and enjoyable experience for wheelchair travelers. This review provides detailed information on the city’s urban and outdoor attractions, accommodations, transportation options, and unique experiences, making it easier for visitors with mobility challenges to plan their trip.

Urban Attractions

Old Town Scottsdale: Explore the historic district with shops, galleries, and dining. Although there are paved sidewalks and streets, some older buildings may have narrow entrances. Accessible restrooms available in public areas and many businesses.
Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA): Discover modern art exhibits and installations on smooth floors with ramps; elevators available. Accessible restrooms with grab bars and wide stalls.
Scottsdale Fashion Square: Shop at a premier center with luxury and boutique stores. Smooth, wide corridors; elevators and escalators throughout. Accessible restrooms on each floor with grab bars and spacious stalls.
Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West: Learn about the American West’s history and culture. Smooth floors and ramps; elevators available. Accessible restrooms with grab bars and wide stalls.

Outdoor Attractions

McDowell Sonoran Preserve: Enjoy over 30,000 acres of accessible desert trails and scenic views. Accessible trails like the Bajada Nature Trail; hard-packed dirt and some paved paths. Some other trails may have loose gravel or steep inclines. Accessible restrooms at trailheads.
Butterfly Wonderland: Visit the largest butterfly conservatory in the U.S. Find smooth, paved paths throughout the facility and accessible restrooms with grab bars and wide stalls.
Scottsdale Civic Center Park: Relax in a lush park with sculptures, fountains, and open spaces. Smooth, paved pathways; some slight inclines. Accessible restrooms available.

Accommodations

Fairmont Scottsdale Princess: Experience a luxury resort with numerous amenities including golf courses and pools. Rooms with roll-in showers, lower beds, and wide doorways. King or queen beds available. Accessible pools with lifts, on-site dining, and spa services.
The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa: Enjoy a premier resort with scenic golf courses and spa services. Accessible rooms with roll-in showers and lower beds. King or queen beds available. Accessible pools, golf courses with adapted carts, and on-site restaurants.
Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch: Stay at a resort featuring a 2.5-acre water playground and luxury accommodations. Rooms with roll-in showers or accessible bathtubs, lower beds, and wide doorways. King or queen beds available. Accessible pools, on-site dining, and spa services.

Transportation

Valley Metro: The public transportation system serving the Phoenix metropolitan area, including Scottsdale. Bus routes, light rail, and Dial-a-Ride services for individuals with disabilities. All buses and light rail vehicles are wheelchair accessible with ramps and designated spaces.
Discount Cab: Offers wheelchair-accessible taxi services. 24/7 service across Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix area. Vehicles equipped with ramps or lifts and securement systems.
Uber and Lyft: Rideshare services that include wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAV) options. On-demand transportation with easy booking via mobile apps. WAVs equipped with ramps or lifts.

Unique and Random Attractions

Taliesin West: Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home and architectural school. Paved and gravel paths; some areas may have steps or uneven surfaces. Some historic areas may have limited accessibility. Accessible restrooms available.
Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show: Enjoy an annual event showcasing Arabian horses with competitions and exhibitions. Paved pathways and ramps in the main arena. Some areas of the showgrounds may have uneven terrain. Accessible restrooms available.
Penske Racing Museum: Explore exhibits on the history of Penske Racing with smooth floors and ramps throughout the museum. Accessible restrooms with grab bars and wide stalls.

Greater Scottsdale Area Attractions

Fort McDowell Adventures: Engage in outdoor activities including horseback riding and jeep tours. Mostly dirt paths; some may be uneven. Some activities may require additional assistance for accessibility. Accessible restrooms available.
Salt River: Enjoy tubing and rafting on the Salt River. Assistance may be needed for entering and exiting the water. Accessible parking and launch areas. Accessible restrooms at launch sites.
Cave Creek Regional Park: Explore a desert park with accessible trails and scenic views. Find paved and hard-packed dirt trails. Some trails may have loose gravel or slight inclines. Accessible restrooms available at the visitor center.

Adaptive Recreation Activities

Arizona Adaptive Watersports: Provides inclusive water sports experiences. Participate in kayaking, water skiing, and paddleboarding. Adaptive equipment and trained staff to assist.
Ability360 Sports & Fitness Center: State-of-the-art fitness center tailored for individuals with disabilities. Fully accessible facility with specialized equipment and programs. Engage in wheelchair basketball, adaptive yoga, swimming, and fitness classes.
Scottsdale Parks and Recreation Adaptive Services: Comprehensive adaptive recreation programs in Scottsdale. Take part in various sports leagues, outdoor adventures, and social events. Programs designed for all levels of mobility and abilities.

Organizations and Programs

Arizona Spinal Cord Injury Association (AZSCIA): A dedicated resource for individuals with SCI. Offers support, resources, and adaptive sports programs for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
Daring Adventures: Encourages outdoor adventure and inclusivity. Provides outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, kayaking, and cycling, designed for people with disabilities.
Phoenix Parks and Recreation Adaptive Recreation Services: Extensive recreational programs tailored for accessibility. Offers a variety of adaptive sports, fitness classes, and recreational activities for individuals with disabilities.