Visiting New York City can be as overwhelming as it is exciting! There are so many places to visit, iconic landmarks to see, and cultures to experience, it might be difficult deciding what to do first!
If you are a wheelchair user or need mobility aids to get around, you’ll want to visit Big Apple Greeters where you can get all of your questions answered and a sight-seeing schedule mapped out by volunteers. According to accessibleGO, Big Apple Greeter “runs an Access Program to inform travelers with disabilities of accessible travel options within New York City, and to help travelers with disabilities get the most from their visit by matching them with a volunteer Greeter who will show them a favorite section of the city.” Be sure to fill out and submit the Visit Request Form at least four weeks before you plan to visit the city.
With so many options available when visiting NYC, here’s a few that wheelchair users and individuals with special needs may find interesting:
Lincoln Center
You can catch a variety of shows at one of the buildings of Lincoln Center. All buildings are wheelchair accessible and offer designated aisle transfer seats. Many performances have large print and braille programs available, and select performances offer ASL interpretation and audio assistance.
Coney Island
If the weather is nice, head over to Coney Island for a stroll or roll along the boardwalk. There’s accessible beach mats at the following locations: West 33 St, Stillwell Ave and West 5th St. And beach wheelchairs are available for rent along the boardwalk and at West 22nd Street.
Central Park
How about spending a quiet afternoon at Central Park? You can visit the Central Park Zoo or the Conservatory Garden while there. And there are plenty of wheelchair accessible restrooms located throughout the park.
Broadway
You may want to spend at least one evening taking in a Broadway show. Accessible Go states that “all Broadway theaters must provide a “reasonable accommodation” for wheelchair users.” It’s recommended you contact the venue ahead of time to ensure your needs can be met.