Mark Chilutti, a wheelchair user, loves to travel. Las Vegas is one of his favorite places to visit. He gives some tips for fellow wheelchair users who want to visit Vegas.
“I’ve been going to Vegas for more than 20 years, so that means both before and after my injury. In fact, my first flight after my injury was in March of 1997 to Las Vegas. It’s really amazing just how accessible this happening town was back then, and it’s even better now.”
Visit Bathroom Before Flight
Mark travels from Philly to Vegas. If you have to travel by plane, Mark suggests visiting the bathroom as close to your boarding time as possible. Wheelchair users are the first to board the plane and last to get off. “If you require a straightback and assistance to get on and off of the plane, you won’t be able to use the bathroom until you are off the plane, so plan ahead,” says Mark.
Wheelchair Taxis
According to Mark, Vegas has one of the shortest wait times for wheelchair taxis. He says, “Once you arrive in Vegas, just look for the blue wheelchair guy on the taxis to be able to tell which ones are accessible with a lift, or make a quick call to the dispatch service which represents six different taxi companies who are happy to pick up a passenger in a wheelchair!”
Reconfirm Your Needs For An Accessible Room
When checking into your hotel room Mark suggests reconfirming your need for an accessible room. Once in the room make sure it fits your accessibility needs before unpacking. “As far as accessible rooms go, that was very easy, as the casino hotels are very large and have lots of rooms that are accessible with roll in showers or a tub. Just specify what you need when making your reservation,” says Mark.
Accessibility
Mark states that if you are planning to visit the strip in Vegas be prepared to push your chair multiple miles. However, Vegas is very wheelchair accessible with plenty of ramps. “Plenty of ramps of all grades, lengths, and textures grace this town! While Las Vegas is known as the City of Lights, those of us in wheelchairs could also call it the City of Ramps,” he says.
“No matter what you like to do: eat, drink, play, or see a show, all of it is possible for those of us in wheelchairs in Las Vegas, and you will definitely have fun in this very accessible town!”
Share these tips with someone who wants to visit Vegas!