New York City: The Perfect Accessible, Wheelchair-Friendly Travel Destination

New York City is the perfect destination for accessible travel. A wheelchair user will have no problem enjoying NYC's culture and fun. Although accessible travel takes a little planning, especially for wheelchair accommodations, a person with a disability will find NYC very welcoming and easy to get around.

Where to Stay

To make it easiest to see and do the most in the least amount of time, you should choose a hotel in the center of Manhattan. You won't have to worry too much about getting around, as most of the theaters, museums, shops and attractions will be within walking [or rolling] distance. The most convenient area is the
Broadway/Times Square district.

Hotel Accommodations

Accessible travel takes a little extra planning, so book your hotel room in advance, especially if you require a roll-in shower. Call the hotel directly, rather than booking through an 800 number or chain Web site. Here are some of the larger hotels in the Times Square area and their direct phone numbers.

• Marriott Marquis (212) 398-1900

• Sheraton NY Hotel and Towers (212) 581-1000

• Hilton Times (212) 840-8222

• Millennium Broadway (212) 768-4400

• W Hotel Times Square (212) 930-7400

Most hotels in this area are relatively new, and all conform to ADA regulations.

For help, contact SATH - the Society for Accessible Travel and Hospitality http://SATH.org

Broadway Theaters

No visit to NYCis complete without seeing live theater. Every Broadwaytheater has a wheelchair section. But for the more popular plays and musicals, purchase tickets in advance, especially if you need a wheelchair spot. Broadway shows can be pricey, but wheelchair tickets are deeply discounted, and one companion pays the same ticket price as the wheelchair user. For tickets at face value [without expensive broker fees] go to telecharge.com. Make sure you specifically request wheelchair seating if you need it. Here is a You can also call 1-888-VISIT-NYand press 2 for Broadway, to book tickets.