Arizona’s Wheelchair Accessible Destinations and Resources

For accessible fun in the southwest sun, Arizona offers a bevy of adventure and history in picturesque desert and mountain settings

One of the more unique aspects of accessible Arizona is the remarkable temperature range — offering everything from the ski resorts in the northern cities of Flagstaff and Alpine to the desert and mountain landscapes of the southern regions.

Outdoor Wheelchair Accessible Destinations

While it’s true that the Arizona atmosphere is an experience in extremes — with record-setting heat in the summer and frost-inducing winter months — this variation provides ample opportunities for wheelchair-accessible adventures punctuated by impressive visual splendor.

Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon's beauty is almost indescribable! There are many wheelchair accessible trails within the canyon--check out the canyon's accessibility pamphlet, which has maps of all the wheelchair accessible trails, restrooms, scenic views, and everything you need to know regarding accessibility.

Saguaro National Park, Tucson. The park is broken into east and west districts, which are separated by the city of Tucson. You are only charged the entrance fee once and can migrate to and from both locations. Take advantage of the ranger-led guided tours. There are wheelchair accessible tours, but it's best to make sure one is available before you visit.

Crescent Moon Ranch, Sedona. The red rocks are one of the many brilliant landforms that Arizona showcases. Although the walkways are wheelchair accessible, there's always a possibility that you might need assistance. Besides, it's more fun to share new experiences and breathtaking views with others.

Indoor Wheelchair Accessible Destinations

When the stifling heat and frigid cold are just a bit too much to take, wheelchair-users, their family members, and their caregivers can expect an exciting indoor itinerary that caters to a wide variety of interests.

The state’s thriving economy enables visitors to experience and appreciate a southwestern culture you have see to believe.

Heard Museum, Phoenix. View some of the world's best American Indian art and learn about the culture behind it at the Heard Museum. The Heard Museum is wheelchair accessible with ramps, elevators, and a chair lift. Manual wheelchairs are available for rent.

Art gallery in the Scottsdale ArtWalk. The event is pretty simple — show up and have a good time. And yes, it is wheelchair accessible. Despite the unique landscapes and terrain of Arizona, there is still an exuberant amount of wheelchair accessible attractions. Get ready to be blown away by breathtaking views!

Tempe Center for the Arts, Tempe. The Tempe Center for the Arts isn't just a venue, it's an architectural masterpiece. The state-of-the-art facility includes a 600-seat proscenium theater, a 200-seat studio theater, a 3,500 square-foot gallery, and a 17-acre art park. Not only is the center impressive, but the view of Tempe Town Lake, Rio Salado, and the Papago Mountains enhance the already gorgeous atmosphere!

Arizona’s Wheelchair Accessible Resources

For those wheelchair users planning on visiting Arizona in the near future, the collection of state and local resources are designed to make moving throughout the various environments easier and safer. This includes partner guides, public transportation, and motorized wheelchair attachments.

Society for Accessible Travel & Hospitality (SATH). Visit SATH at http://sath.org/arizona for a free digital copy of Accessing Arizona — an e-magazine designed to give people with disabilities a resource for finding out what's going on in Arizona.

Visit Arizona. Located at https://www.visitarizona.com/accessibility, Visit Arizona features many of the state’s lodging facilities, attractions, and events that are ADA compliant and suitable for people of all abilities, including those with mobility, visual, and hearing needs.

AZ Central. Because Limited mobility shouldn't keep anyone from exploring Arizona, AZ Central — at https://www.azcentral.com/story/travel/2015/02/02/wheelchair-accessible-arizona-attractions/22720507/ — highlights many attractions and activities around the state with trails and other facilities that comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act and are suitable for most people who have physical challenges.