If you’ve never visited Washington, DC, then you should add it to your travel bucket-list, because this destination has it all.
From historic and cultural attractions to beautiful parks and outdoor activities to plenty of wonderful restaurants, there is so much to do there. And, if you use a wheelchair or mobility device then you’re going to find Washington, DC, a very welcoming city indeed. Pretty much everywhere you’d want to see in the city is accessible – and why shouldn’t it be? This was, after all, where the American’s with Disabilities Act was passed.
Here are ten must-see accessible attractions in Washington, DC.
- Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The Abraham Lincoln memorial is an iconic historic monument, and seeing it up close does not disappoint. Reading the quotes inscribes on the walls around the memorial serve to remind you why this president has remained so popular, and the views of and from the reflecting pool are just lovely. For a less busy and serene experience, try visiting the memorial at dusk or in the evening where you won’t have crowds to navigate your way through. This area is easy to navigate using a wheelchair, and there are some loaner chairs available on a first come first served basis.
- Arlington National Cemetery. This historic attraction serves as the final resting place of JFK and many other notable persons. It also houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a tribute to fallen soldiers of the First and Second World Worlds, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. It is a beautiful, and emotional, spot to visit. Spanning 624 acres, with more than 300,000 people buried there, the best way to explore is by renting an electric scooter or wheelchair. If you only want to see the highlights, then there is an accessible trolley tour that will take you around too.
- National Gallery of Art. Housing famous works by the likes of Van Gough (including his self-portrait), Monet, Cezanne, and too many other influential artists to list, this huge and impressive gallery is a delight to explore, especially if you get into the wonderful attached sculpture garden too. All areas of the gallery are accessible, and there are some wheelchairs available on a first come first served basis.
- Smithsonian Institution. As the world’s largest museum complex, the Smithsonian actually encompasses various attractions, where you can learn about the history of the US, culture, nature, space, and all manner of other interests. There are also art galleries, and a zoo to explore. All areas of the Smithsonian are accessible, and further information on each location is available here.
- Library of Congress. This beautiful building has plenty of exhibits to explore, including its stunning bible collection, and various other artifacts. Take one of the free one hour tours to get a better understanding of this important building and all that it houses. The building is fully accessible, and there are wheelchairs available to loan.
There is a lot to see and do in Washington, DC, and renting an electric wheelchair or mobility scooter will really help you to get the most out of your trip. Contact Scootaround to have a mobility device ready and waiting for you at your hotel when you arrive in DC.
Images Used in This Article
Article feature image, "Lincoln Memorial at Dawn" by Alex Lovell-Troy CC BY 2.0
