10 Amazing U.S. Vacation spots that are big on fun and easy on mobility

Last week I attended a conference for travel advisors. One of the educational sessions I chose to attend was all about accessibility. My sister has cerebral palsy and is in a wheelchair, and I have various other relatives with mobility issues as well. Chances are, you either face mobility challenges yourself, or someone close to you does. So, let’s talk about some vacation options for those with limited mobility!

Vacation planning can be exhausting, especially if you or someone you love has limited mobility. The last thing you want is to show up at your hotel and realize the “accessible” bathroom actually isn’t that accessible. Fortunately, plenty of U.S. destinations have figured out that adventure, comfort, and accessibility can (and should) go hand-in-hand.

Whether you roll, stroll, or ride a scooter, here are some great places where you can relax and explore without stressing over stairs, uneven sidewalks, or "surprise" hills.

1. Washington, D.C. – Where History Meets Ramps

This city is packed with stories, and you can actually get to most of them without climbing a single stair. The National Mall? Flat. The Smithsonian museums? Free and wheelchair-friendly. Most metro stations have elevators, and the city’s monuments are thoughtfully designed with wide paths and access points.

My tip: I can help arrange accessible hotel rooms near the Mall and book tours that take the legwork (literally) out of sightseeing.

2. San Diego, CA – Chill Beaches, Smooth Rides

This sunny city gets a gold star for weather and accessibility. La Jolla Shores has beach wheelchairs you can borrow, the zoo has accessible trams, and Balboa Park offers level walkways and curb cuts galore. Plus, San Diego drivers are so mellow, you might think they're on vacation too.

Need help getting there? I’ve got connections with resorts and rental services that offer mobility aids and beach-friendly gear.

3. San Antonio, TX – River Walk, Reimagined

This historic city isn’t just for history buffs—it’s for everyone, thanks to a fully accessible River Walk that lets you shop, dine, and people-watch without missing a beat. The Alamo, too, has made serious upgrades to accommodate all visitors.

Bonus: The Tex-Mex here is worth the trip alone (accessible restaurants included!).

4. Phoenix, AZ – Desert Done Right

Phoenix has embraced accessible travel in a big way. You’ll find wide paths at the Desert Botanical Garden, accessible trails at Papago Park, and plenty of wheelchair-friendly attractions (with A/C, thankfully). Winter is ideal—think “T-shirt weather” without the snowbirds crowding every bench.

Pro travel move: Let me set you up with a resort that includes accessible pools, spas, and shuttle service.

5. Daytona Beach, FL – Sand, Sun & Smooth Surfaces

Hard-packed sand + free beach wheelchair rentals = a Florida beach vacation you can actually enjoy from the shoreline. Daytona also has accessible boardwalks, beachfront hotels, and plenty of space to just breathe in that salty air.

Fun fact: Even the local amusement attractions and speedway tours offer options for guests with limited mobility.

6. Philadelphia, PA – Liberty and Accessibility for All

The birthplace of American freedom also offers freedom to explore. Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and most downtown museums are ADA-compliant. Bonus: the city is compact, which means less walking (or wheeling) between major sights.

Snack alert: Accessible doesn’t have to mean boring. Philly’s food scene is legendary—and yes, many cheesesteak joints have ramps.

7. Las Vegas, NV – Luck Be a Level Sidewalk Tonight

Sure, it’s flashy—but Las Vegas is also fabulously flat and full of accessible hotels, restaurants, casinos, and theaters. The monorail is wheelchair-friendly, and many shows offer reserved seating for guests with mobility aids.

High-roller secret: Let me help you score accessible hotel rooms with roll-in showers, lower beds, and prime elevator access.

8. Savannah, GA – Southern Charm with a Side of Inclusivity

Cobblestones aside (yes, they’re still around), Savannah has made great strides in accessibility. Many historic squares are now wheelchair-friendly, and popular attractions like the Telfair Museums and Forsyth Park have level entrances and paved paths.

Take it slow: This is a city made for leisurely sightseeing.

9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN/NC – Nature Without the Climb

Yes, national parks can be accessible! The Great Smokies offer paved trails like the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail and Cades Cove loop, plus accessible restrooms and visitor centers. You get all the natural beauty—minus the rocky terrain.

Let me book a cabin or guided tour that makes the most of these easy-access gems.

10. Cruising from the USA – Your Floating Resort Awaits

Not a specific city, but cruises deserve their own shoutout. Most of the major cruise lines offer wheelchair-accessible cabins, mobility-friendly excursions, and ships with elevators, ramps, and even pool lifts. You unpack once, but get to see multiple destinations—what’s not to love?

Cruise tip: I can match you with the right ship and itinerary based on your needs and interests (and even arrange a scooter rental for your entire trip).

Travel Tips for a smoother trip, no matter where you go:

• Call ahead (or let me do it for you) to hotels, attractions, and transportation providers about specific accessibility needs.

• Rent what you need: scooters, wheelchairs, or even portable ramps can be delivered to many destinations--let me know what you need and I can help you with this.

• Use the pros (like me!): I’ll handle the legwork and make sure you can focus on relaxing, not logistics.

Bottom line? You don’t need mountain goat legs or superhero stamina to have an unforgettable U.S. getaway. With the right planning—and someone in your corner who knows how to make it happen—your next vacation can be stress-free.

Want help planning your accessible adventure? I’ve got the resources, connections, and know-how to make sure it’s enjoyable and perfectly suited to you.