10 Best Wheelchair Accessible Activities In Florida

Florida is a notoriously sunny state, bustling with activities and scenery ready to be explored. But for individuals with disabilities, finding enjoyable and accessible activities can be a challenge. Whether you are a resident or a tourist, you want to make the most of your time in Florida. Well, worry no more! We have compiled a list of the 10 best wheelchair accessible activities in Florida. So, hop on your wheels, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Walt Disney World Resort - Orlando

Characteristic	Description
Name	Walt Disney World® Resort
Type	Theme park in Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 237,523
Address	Orlando, FL
Phone	(407) 939-5277
Hours	Tuesday - Open 24 hours Wednesday - Open 24 hours Thursday - Open 24 hours Friday - Open 24 hours Saturday - Open 24 hours Sunday - Open 24 hours Monday - Open 24 hours
Profiles

Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is one of the world's most popular tourist destinations. Millions of visitors flock to the park every year to enjoy the magical theme parks, thrilling attractions, and spectacular entertainment. The good news is that the resort is also a wheelchair accessible destination, making it possible for everyone to experience the Disney magic. Here is an overview of wheelchair accessibility at Walt Disney World Resort.

Accessible Parking:

Walt Disney World provides accessible parking spaces for guests with disabilities in all of its theme parks and resort hotels. If you have a disabled parking permit, you can park your vehicle in one of these specially marked zones close to the main entrances. Shuttle service is also available for guests with mobility issues.

Accessibility in the Theme Parks:

All four of Walt Disney World's theme parks - Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios - offer wheelchair accessibility. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are also wheelchair-friendly, with designated entrances, wider walkways, and low-height counters. The parks also rent manual wheelchairs, electronic conveyance vehicles (ECVs), and strollers to guests with disabilities or those who need assistance.

Guests with hearing and visual impairments can enjoy audio descriptions, assistive listening, and sign language interpretation services for many attractions and shows. The park maps and guides are available in Braille and large-print formats.

Accessibility in the Hotels:

Walt Disney World's resort hotels offer wheelchair-friendly features such as accessible rooms with wider doors, roll-in showers, and grab bars. The hotels also provide TDD phones, hearing-impaired kits, and visual smoke detectors for guests with hearing or visual impairments.

The resorts' transportation system is also wheelchair accessible, with ramps, lifts, and designated seating areas on buses, boats, and monorails.

Assistance from Cast Members:

Disney's trained Cast Members are always available to assist guests with mobility issues or disabilities. They can provide information and assistance on accessibility, offer special permits and passes for those who need them, and help with any other needs or concerns.

Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is a magical place for people of all ages and abilities. The park and its staff are committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive experience for guests with disabilities. With wheelchair-accessible parking, attractions, hotels, and transportation, Walt Disney World is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unforgettable vacation.

Kennedy Space Center - Titusville

The Kennedy Space Center, located in Titusville, Florida, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in space exploration. This attraction offers a unique experience for visitors of all abilities, making it an ideal vacation spot for wheelchair users.

One of the primary concerns of wheelchair users is accessibility, and the Kennedy Space Center ensures that anyone can enjoy their exhibits. All of the exhibits at the Kennedy Space Center are wheelchair accessible, and there are even designated wheelchair spaces in the IMAX theater. Additionally, the Kennedy Space Center offers several wheelchair-friendly tours, including a bus tour that takes visitors past historic launch sites and NASA’s enormous Vehicle Assembly Building.

The Kennedy Space Center also offers wheelchair-friendly shuttle buses that transport visitors from various locations around the complex. These buses are equipped with wheelchair lifts and are free to use for anyone who needs them. The Kennedy Space Center also offers wheelchair rentals for visitors who need them.

One of the major highlights of the Kennedy Space Center is the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit. This exhibit, which features the actual Space Shuttle Atlantis, is fully accessible and includes touchable displays, immersive simulators, and interactive exhibits. Every area of the Space Shuttle Atlantis exhibit is wheelchair accessible.

Another exciting exhibit at the Kennedy Space Center is the Rocket Garden, which features giant rockets dating back to the early days of space exploration. This outdoor exhibit is wheelchair accessible, and visitors can even take a self-guided tour through the garden.

The Kennedy Space Center is committed to making its exhibits and attractions accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. From accessible transportation to fully wheelchair-friendly exhibits, the Kennedy Space Center is a place where anyone can experience the wonder of space exploration.

Clearwater Beach - Clearwater

Clearwater Beach in Florida is a popular destination for tourists looking for fun in the sun. But, for those with disabilities, navigating an unfamiliar area can be challenging. Fortunately, the beach is wheelchair accessible, allowing for everyone to enjoy the sandy shore and crystal blue waters.

Wheelchair-accessible parking spaces can be found near entrances to the beach. Once you arrive, you will notice concrete paths leading to the sand and water. The beach also features multiple beach-accessible wheelchairs that can be borrowed at no charge, allowing those in wheelchairs to easily get to the water's edge.

Additionally, the beach features accessible restrooms and showers with grab bars for added safety and support. There are also multiple beachfront restaurants and shops that are accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy all aspects of Clearwater Beach.

Beyond the beach, visitors can take advantage of other wheelchair-accessible activities offered in the area. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium offers wheelchair-accessible tours, allowing visitors to interact with marine animals and learn about their habitats. The nearby Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, also offers wheelchair-accessible seating for baseball games.

When planning a trip to Clearwater Beach, visitors with disabilities can rest assured that all aspects of the area have been designed with accessibility in mind. From the beach to the nearby attractions, everyone can enjoy the beauty of Florida's beaches.

Everglades National Park - Homestead

Everglades National Park is a must-see destination in Florida, and if you're looking for wheelchair accessible options, you're in luck! While the park is vast and largely wild, there are areas that are accessible to those with mobility challenges. Homestead, located on the eastern side of the park, is one such area.

One of the primary attractions in Homestead is the Anhinga Trail. This popular boardwalk trail allows visitors to get up close and personal with alligators, turtles, and other wildlife. The trail is fully paved and level, making it accessible to wheelchairs. There are also a number of benches along the trail for those who may need to rest during the walk.

Another highlight of Homestead is the Royal Palm Visitor Center. This center is fully accessible and provides a great starting point for your Everglades adventure. It offers exhibits, maps, and information about the park as well as accessible restrooms.

For those looking to explore the waterways of the Everglades, Homestead also offers accessible boat tours. These tours are conducted on pontoon boats that have been modified to accommodate wheelchairs. You'll have the chance to see manatees, dolphins, and other marine wildlife during your tour.

If you're interested in camping in the Everglades, Homestead has accessible campsites available. These sites are equipped with paved parking spots, level camping pads, and accessible restrooms. There are also picnic tables and grills at each site for cooking and relaxing.

Whether you're looking for a day trip or a longer stay, Homestead in the Everglades has plenty to offer. From accessible trails and exhibits to boat tours and camping, there are options for visitors of all abilities. Be sure to check with the park for the latest information on accessibility and availability before your visit.

Universal Studios Florida - Orlando

If you're visiting Orlando, Florida and have mobility needs, Universal Studios Florida is a great theme park option. The park offers a variety of services and amenities to ensure all guests, including those who use wheelchairs, can enjoy their visit.

Firstly, Universal Studios Florida provides complimentary wheelchairs and ECVs, or electric conveyance vehicles. These can be used in the park and can also be rented for guests to take to Universal CityWalk, a nearby shopping and dining area. Guests must be at least 18 years old to rent an ECV and guests using wheelchairs or ECVs must be accompanied by someone who is able to assist them.

All attractions at Universal Studios Florida are wheelchair accessible, with many having designated seating areas for guests who use wheelchairs. For some attractions, guests may need to transfer from their wheelchair into a ride vehicle. The park offers a guide map that indicates which attractions require transfers.

In addition to wheelchair accessible rides, Universal Studios Florida also has wheelchair accessible restrooms throughout the park. These restrooms are located near each attraction and are marked on the park guide map.

If you have hearing or visual disabilities, Universal Studios Florida offers accommodations for those needs as well. Guests can inquire at Guest Services about sign language interpretation and assistive listening devices.

Overall, Universal Studios Florida is a great theme park for guests with mobility needs. With complimentary wheelchair and ECV rentals, accessible attractions and restrooms, and accommodations for hearing and visual disabilities, all guests can experience the magic of the park.

South Beach - Miami Beach

South Beach – Miami Beach: A Wheelchair Accessible Paradise!

South Beach in Miami Beach, Florida, is a world-renowned destination that attracts tourists from around the globe. With its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historic Art Deco architecture, it’s no wonder South Beach is a top pick for many looking to vacation in Florida.

But what about wheelchair users or those with limited mobility? Is South Beach accessible for them? The answer is yes, and here’s how.

Getting to South Beach

Miami International Airport is the nearest international airport to South Beach. For wheelchair users, Miami International Airport has wheelchair assistance for those in need of additional support. There are also a few transfer options available for wheelchair users including Uber, Lyft, and taxis.

Accessible Accommodations

Finding accessible accommodations in South Beach is not difficult. Many hotels offer wheelchair accessible rooms with amenities like roll-in showers, grab bars, and lowered counters. Some of the popular ones include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, The Betsy - South Beach, and The Confidante Miami Beach.

Beach Access

Miami Beach has numerous access points for the beach. There are many wheelchair accessible beach entrances that make it easy for wheelchair users to enjoy the beach and ocean. The beach wheelchairs are available, free of charge, on a first-come, first-served basis. They can be borrowed from various access points and used up to two hours at a time.

Accessible Attractions and Activities

South Beach has a range of attractions that cater to people with limited mobility. The Wolfsonian-FIU Museum can be easily accessed by wheelchair users and has an extensive collection of Art Deco artifacts. The Bass Museum of Art has ramps and elevators, making it easy for wheelchair users to get around and enjoy the exhibitions.

There are also several wheelchair accessible tours available, like the Miami Duck Tour, which offers a fun amphibious tour of the city - on land and water.

Accessible Dining

Accessible dining options can be found all over South Beach. Many restaurants have ramps and wheelchair accessible bathrooms. Some, like Big Pink, offer door-to-door wheelchair assistance.

Final Thoughts

South Beach – Miami Beach indeed offers a lot of wheelchair accessible activities, attractions, and accommodations. Indeed, wheelchair users can expect to have a wonderful experience in South Beach on their next vacation. In general, public transport is also wheelchair accessible, so getting around is easy without the need of a vehicle. Ensure to check in advance for accessible amenities and wheelchair access to ensure that your visit is smooth and enjoyable.

Miami Seaquarium - Miami

Characteristic	Description
Name	Miami Seaquarium
Type	Aquarium in Miami-Dade County, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	3.7 / 13,627
Address	4400 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne, FL 33149
Phone	(305) 361-5705
Hours	Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

Miami Seaquarium, located on the beautiful Virginia Key in Miami, Florida, is a must-visit attraction for everyone who loves marine life. With its wide array of marine animals and exciting shows, the Seaquarium promises a fun-filled and immersive experience for all. The facility also takes accessibility seriously and ensures that wheelchair users have easy access to all areas of the park.

The Miami Seaquarium features a wheelchair accessible entrance that leads visitors to the park's main building. The entrance doors are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs, and the pathways are flat and smooth. Visitors can also choose to borrow a wheelchair from the park if they need one, although it's best to book in advance to ensure availability.

One of the main attractions of the Seaquarium is the dolphin show, which is open to all visitors, including wheelchair users. The arena offers designated wheelchair spaces that provide unobstructed views of the show, and the ramps leading up to these areas are smooth and easy to maneuver. Similarly, the Sea Lion and Orca whale shows have wheelchair spaces as well.

Another area of the Seaquarium that is accessible for visitors with disabilities is the Penguin Isle, which features a boardwalk that is flat and easy to navigate. The boardwalk leads to a viewing area where you can observe the penguins in their natural habitat up close.

The park also offers accessible restrooms, which are located throughout the facility. These restrooms have ample space for wheelchair users to maneuver and grab bars for support. The park team ensures regular cleaning and sanitization to ensure that the facilities are safe and hygienic for all visitors.

The Miami Seaquarium is a fun-filled and educational attraction that offers an experience for all visitors regardless of mobility. The park's commitment to accessibility ensures that wheelchair users can enjoy the same thrills and excitement as everyone else. It's the perfect destination for an unforgettable day out, and the team at the Seaquarium warmly welcomes all.

St. Augustine Historic District - St. Augustine

St. Augustine, located in northeast Florida, is a beautiful and historic city that attracts millions of visitors each year. As the oldest city in the United States, it offers a rich cultural and architectural legacy that includes beautifully preserved European-style buildings, stunning beaches, and an all-around pleasant ambiance. However, for visitors with mobility impairments, navigating this historic district could be challenging. In this article, we aim to provide you with information on what you need to know to make your visit accessible and unforgettable in St. Augustine Historic District.

First and foremost, finding a suitable place to stay in St. Augustine is crucial. Thankfully, there are a variety of hotels, resorts, and other accommodations that cater to people with different accessibility needs. Many hotels offer rooms with roll-in showers, grab bars, lowered mirrors, and other accessibility features to ensure your comfort and convenience while staying there. Be sure to check with your hotel in advance about the level of accessibility that they offer, and make sure to specify your needs so that they can make appropriate accommodations.

Moving around in St. Augustine Historic District can be a breeze if you plan in advance. Renting a wheelchair is an excellent way to ensure that you can easily move around the city's cobbled streets. Several rental companies offer affordable and efficient wheelchair rental services to help you navigate the ancient streets and attractions without any problems.

Another important consideration is to plan your itinerary in advance, considering the accessibility of each location. Some notable attractions may have barriers to entry such as steep stairs or narrow doorways that make access difficult. Even so, most of the historical sites and landmarks have been adapted to accommodate visitors with mobility impairments. Be sure to check the official websites of the various attractions you plan to visit in advance to confirm their level of accessibility.

Finally, St. Augustine offers many exciting activities for visitors with mobility impairments. From beaches to museums to well-known attractions, there is something for everyone. You can take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful beaches of the city, visit the famous Castillo de San Marcos, or spend time at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, which is fully accessible. St. Augustine offers an opportunity to revel in its rich history, enjoy the picturesque scenery, and experience the best the city has to offer in Florida.

In conclusion, St. Augustine Historic District is a great location to visit, with plenty of exciting things to see and do, even for persons with mobility impairments. Make sure to plan your itinerary in advance and choose an accessible hotel to make your stay as comfortable and hassle-free as possible. Renting a wheelchair is an excellent idea, and you can easily find rental companies in the area by doing some simple online research. Don't let mobility limitations hold you back from experiencing the magic of this charming historic town. With proper planning, you can enjoy an unforgettable visit to St. Augustine Historic District, Florida.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay - Tampa

Characteristic	Description
Name	Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
Type	Theme park in Tampa, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.5 / 79,570
Address	Tampa, FL 33612
Phone	(813) 884-4386
Hours	Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 9 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 9 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 9 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM Saturday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM Sunday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 9 PM Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 9 PM
Profiles

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay – Tampa: A Wheelchair Accessible Adventure

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip to Florida. This popular theme park is known for its thrilling rides, exotic animals, and amazing entertainment. But for people with disabilities or mobility impairments, planning a trip to Busch Gardens can be quite challenging. In this article, we'll explore some tips and information on how to make your visit to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay a wheelchair accessible and unforgettable adventure.

Park Accessibility Overview

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors, regardless of their disability or special needs. The park has ADA compliant facilities and services to ensure that everyone can access and enjoy the park's attractions and entertainment.

Wheelchair Rental

For visitors who require a wheelchair, Busch Gardens offers rental services at the park entrance. Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and a valid photo ID and deposit (credit card or cash) are required to rent one. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a wheelchair rental, as they can go quickly during peak times.

Accessible Rides

Many of Busch Gardens' rides are accessible for guests who use a wheelchair or ECV (electric convenience vehicle). The park provides boarding instructions and assistance as needed. The following attractions have accessible entrances and boarding areas:

• Air Grover – Sesame Street roller coaster
• Cheetah Hunt – High-speed coaster
• Cobra's Curse – Family-friendly coaster
• Falcon's Fury – Tallest free-standing drop tower in North America
• Scorpion – Classic coaster
• SheiKra – Floorless dive coaster
• Stanley Falls – Log flume ride
• Tigris – Triple launch coaster

Accessible Entertainment

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has a variety of entertainment shows and events that are accessible for guests with disabilities. All theaters have wheelchair accessible seating, and ASL interpretation is available upon request. The park also offers assistive listening devices and audio descriptions for some shows and attractions.

Restrooms and Other Facilities

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has accessible restrooms located throughout the park, with some being specifically designated as family restrooms. The park also provides accessible parking, entrances, and seating areas for dining and relaxation.

Accessibility Guide

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers an Accessibility Guide which provides detailed information about accessible attractions, services, and facilities. This guide can be accessed online or at the park entrance and is available in both English and Spanish.

Visiting Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is an adventure for everyone. With its commitment to ensuring accessibility for all, this park makes it easy for guests with disabilities or mobility impairments to enjoy all the attractions and entertainment. From accessible rides and entertainment to wheelchair and ECV rentals, Busch Gardens provides a memorable experience for all visitors.

Gulf World Marine Park - Panama City Beach

Characteristic	Description
Name	Gulf World Marine Park
Type	Aquarium in Panama City Beach, Florida
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.2 / 4,653
Address	15412 Front Beach Rd, Panama City Beach, FL 32413
Phone	(850) 234-5271
Hours	Tuesday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 5:30 PM Wednesday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 5:30 PM Thursday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 5:30 PM Friday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 5:30 PM Saturday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 5:30 PM Sunday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 5:30 PM Monday - opens at 9:30 AM and closes at 5:30 PM
Profiles

One of the primary reasons why Gulf World Marine Park is an excellent choice for visitors with disabilities is because the park has a range of wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout the area. The paths are well-maintained and smooth, providing easy access for wheelchair users. Additionally, the park has wheelchair-accessible restrooms, allowing visitors to take breaks as needed.

If you're planning a visit to Gulf World Marine Park, you'll be happy to know that the park also offers wheelchair-accessible shows. The shows feature well-trained marine animals performing various stunts and tricks that are sure to entertain visitors of all ages. The shows are located in covered amphitheaters, ensuring that wheelchair users are protected from the sun and rain.

Moreover, Gulf World Marine Park also provides wheelchair-accessible encounter programs. These programs allow visitors to interact with the animals up close and personal, including dolphins, sea lions, and rays. The programs are safe, fun, and educational, providing visitors with a unique and memorable experience.

Overall, Gulf World Marine Park is an excellent destination for wheelchair users looking for an exciting and enjoyable day out. With its range of wheelchair-accessible facilities, visitors can explore the park with ease, participate in shows, and engage with the marine life. Don't hesitate to plan your visit to Gulf World Marine Park - Panama City Beach, as it is perfect for disabled visitors looking to enjoy the best of Florida's marine life.

Frequently asked questions