Vermont is renowned for its scenic landscapes, charming towns, and vibrant cultural scene, making it an inviting destination for wheelchair travelers. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the best wheelchair-friendly attractions, outdoor recreational activities, and accessible places to stay in Vermont.
Burlington
- Shelburne Museum: Explore a diverse collection of American art, folk art, and historic buildings across 45 acres. The museum is mostly accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Some historic buildings may have limited accessibility. Paths are a mix of paved and packed gravel.
- ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: Discover interactive exhibits on ecology, culture, and history, along with stunning views of Lake Champlain. ECHO is fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Waterfront Park: Enjoy scenic strolls along Lake Champlain, accessible boat rentals, and beautiful sunsets. The park features smooth, paved paths, accessible restrooms, and picnic areas.
Accommodations
- Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain: Located near the waterfront, this hotel offers modern amenities, a fitness center, and on-site dining. Offers rooms with roll-in showers and accessible tubs. Rooms can sleep up to four people.
Montpelier
- Vermont State House: Tour the historic state capitol building and learn about Vermont’s legislative history. It’s fully accessible with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
- Vermont Historical Society Museum: Explore exhibits on Vermont’s history, from its earliest days to the present. The museum is wheelchair accessible with ramps and accessible restrooms.
- Hubbard Park: Enjoy scenic walks, picnicking, and panoramic views from the observation tower. The park features accessible trails, picnic areas, and restrooms. Trails are a mix of paved and packed gravel.
Accommodations
- Capitol Plaza Hotel & Conference Center: Centrally located, this hotel features comfortable accommodations, a fitness center, and on-site dining. Offers rooms with roll-in showers and accessible tubs. Rooms can sleep up to four people
Stowe
- Stowe Mountain Resort: Enjoy adaptive skiing, scenic gondola rides, and stunning mountain views. The resort is partially accessible with some accessible trails, lifts, and facilities. Paths and trails are a mix of paved and packed dirt.
- Smugglers’ Notch State Park: Explore the beautiful notch, enjoy hiking, and experience accessible camping. AcceThe park has accessible trails, campsites, and restrooms. Trails are a mix of paved and packed gravel.
- Stowe Recreation Path: Enjoy a scenic 5.3-mile path through the countryside, perfect for walking, rolling, and cycling. Fully accessible with smooth, paved paths and accessible restrooms.
Accommodations
- Topnotch Resort: Luxurious accommodations, a full-service spa, and beautiful mountain views. Offers rooms with roll-in showers and accessible tubs. Rooms can sleep up to four people
More Natural Attractions
- Green Mountain National Forest: Experience the natural beauty of Vermont with accessible hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The forest has some accessible trails and campgrounds. Trails and paths are a mix of paved and packed dirt.
- Mount Philo State Park: Enjoy stunning views from the summit of Mount Philo and accessible picnicking spots.The park offers accessible trails, picnic areas, and restrooms. Trails are a mix of paved and packed gravel.
- Quechee Gorge: Explore Vermont’s “Little Grand Canyon” with breathtaking views and accessible picnic areas. The visitor center and some viewpoints are accessible with paved paths. The trail down to the gorge may be challenging for wheelchairs.
Accommodations
- 506 On The River Inn (Woodstock): Located near Quechee Gorge, this inn features comfortable accommodations, a pool, and scenic river views. Offers rooms with roll-in showers and accessible tubs. Rooms can sleep up to four people.
Tips for Wheelchair Travelers
- Accommodations: Numerous hotels across Vermont offer accessible rooms with roll-in showers or accessible tubs. Ensure to book in advance to secure the best options.
- Transportation: Vermont has limited public transportation options in rural areas, so renting an accessible vehicle is recommended for exploring the state.
