Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in , USA!

Blue Ridge Parkway

Why Visit?

Embark on a breathtaking journey along the Blue Ridge Parkway, designed with accessibility in mind. This scenic route offers stunning vistas, charming stops, and tailored amenities, ensuring a seamless experience for wheelchair and mobile scooter users.

Starting Point: Asheville, North Carolina

Begin your adventure in Asheville, where you can rent a wheelchair-accessible van. Head to the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center. Here, accessible restrooms and routes are available. Dive into the interactive exhibits that detail the parkway"s history and natural beauty.

Milepost 384: Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center

Just a short drive from Asheville, this center is an ideal starting point. It features exhibits on Appalachian culture and an accessible theater showing a parkway documentary. There"s also a paved trail around the center, perfect for wheelchairs and scooters.

Milepost 316.3: Linville Falls

Linville Falls has an accessible overlook that provides a stunning view of the lower falls and surrounding gorge. The pathway to this viewpoint is paved and well-maintained, offering an easy route for all visitors.

Milepost 364: Craggy Gardens

Visit Craggy Gardens in the late spring or early summer when the rhododendrons are in bloom. The visitor center is accessible, and the short, paved trail gives you panoramic views of the blooms and mountains.

Milepost 382: Folk Art Center

Home to the Southern Highland Craft Guild, the Folk Art Transport is accessible, with exhibits and crafts from Appalachia. The center offers accessible restrooms and parking, making it easy to explore the crafts and artistry of the local culture.

Ending Point: Mabry Mill

Conclude your trip at Mabry Mill at Milepost 176, one of the most photographed spots on the parkway. The area around the mill features accessible paths, an interesting demonstration of old milling techniques, and a quaint restaurant.

Throughout your journey, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers numerous overlooks with accessible viewing areas, ensuring that you don"t miss any of the majestic scenery the Appalachian Mountains have to offer.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

River Arts District

Why Visit?

Explore the vibrant River Arts District (RAD) of Asheville, an accessible and creative haven that welcomes all, including those using wheelchairs and mobile scooters. This itinerary ensures you experience the best of RAD comfortably and efficiently.

### Getting There

Start your adventure at the centrally located Asheville Visitor Center, where accessible parking spots and restrooms are available. Here, you can also rent a mobile scooter if needed. Asheville has ADA-compliant public transportation, but for ease and comfort, consider using a wheelchair-accessible taxi or rideshare service directly to the heart of RAD.

### Morning Exploration: Art Studios and Galleries

Begin at the North Carolina Glass Center, where wide doorways and spacious interiors allow effortless navigation. Participate in a glass blowing demonstration designed to be observed from a seated position. Next, wheel over to the nearby Odyssey Co-op Gallery, featuring exhibits from local ceramic artists, with all displays at an accessible viewing height.

### Lunch at the RAD"s Eateries

For lunch, visit White Duck Taco Shop, where you’ll find wheelchair-friendly tables and an easy-to-navigate dining area. Enjoy a variety of tacos with unique flavors like Bangkok Shrimp and Banh Mi Tofu.

### Afternoon Delight: Riverside Art and Stroll

Post-lunch, enjoy the accessible greenway along the French Broad River, offering paved paths and stunning views of the riverbank artworks. Stop at various public art installations, which are placed at accessible viewing points.

### Late Afternoon: Interactive Art Session

Conclude your day at the Riverview Station, home to over 60 artists. Many studios, such as Jonas Gerard Fine Art, offer interactive art sessions adapted for accessibility, allowing you to engage directly in the creation process.

### Wrap-Up

Before heading back, don’t miss the chance to grab a coffee from the ultra-cozy Ultra Coffeebar, accessible with ample room for mobility devices. End your day enriched by the arts and the warm spirit of Asheville"s River Arts District, ensuring a memorable and hassle-free experience.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Biltmore Estate

Why Visit?

Biltold, a Wheelchair-Friendly Adventure at Biltmore Estate

Embark on an accessible exploration of the majestic Biltmore Estate, America"s largest home, nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville, North Carolina. This barrier-free journey promises a seamless experience through the grandeur of American history and Vanderbilts’ luxurious tastes.

Morning - Arrival & House Tour

Start your day at the accessible parking area near the Biltmore House, where you can rent a wheelchair or bring your own mobile scooter. Begin at the front entry, where an elevator, discreetly tucked away, allows you to marvel at the lavish rooms and art on the first and second floors. Don"t miss the Banquet Hall with its 70-foot ceiling and the Library with thousands of volumes collected by George Vanderbilt. An accessible restroom is conveniently located on the first floor.

Lunch - Conservatory Café

Around noon, head towards the Conservatory, enjoying the accessible paths winding through manicured gardens. The café offers light meals perfect for a midday break, with tables that are accessible for all.

Afternoon - Gardens and Grounds

Post-lunch, explore the estate’s gardens. The paths here are mostly flat and well-maintained, suitable for wheelchairs and scooters. The Rose Garden features varieties dating back to the 1890s, while the fully accessible Shrub Garden showcases seasonal blooms.

Evening - Antler Hill Village

Conclude your visit at Antler Hill Village. Accessible shuttles with wheelchair lifts run regularly from the house and gardens. Explore the village"s quaint shops and the Biltmore Legacy museum which highlights the Vanderbilt family’s stories. Enjoy a wine tasting at the Biltmore Winery, where accessible counters provide a comfortable experience.

Tips

- Reserve a wheelchair-accessible shuttle in advance.

- Check the Biltmore Estate"s website for any specific accessibility updates or guided tour options.

Discover Biltmore in comfort, soaking in the opulent atmosphere and stunning natural beauty, all accessible on wheels!

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Wheels Through Time Museum

Why Visit?

Day at Wheels Through Time Museum: A Wheelchair-Friendly Journey into American Motorcycle History

Embark on an unforgettable adventure at the Wheels Through Time Museum, nestled in the picturesque Smoky Mountains in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. This unique museum, dedicated to American motorcycles and automobiles, promises an accessible and enlightening experience for all visitors, including those using wheelchairs and mobility scooters.

Morning Arrival

Start your day by arriving at the museum, which is conveniently located at 62 Vintage Lane in Maggie Valley. Parking is ample and includes designated accessible parking spaces close to the entrance. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, ensuring all visitors can navigate the exhibits with ease.

Engaging Exhibits

Begin your tour with a self-guided exploration of the museum"s extensive collection, which features over 300 rare motorcycles. Each exhibit is thoughtfully designed to be accessible, with wide aisles and ramps ensuring that everyone can enjoy the displays. Don’t miss the famous "Traub," considered the world"s rarest motorcycle.

Interactive Demonstrations

The museum staff frequently conducts live demonstrations, breathing life into the vintage machines. These demonstrations are visible from accessible viewing areas, ensuring everyone can experience the excitement.

Lunch Break

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the museum’s designated eating area where tables are accessible for wheelchair users. You can bring your own snacks or explore nearby eateries in Maggie Valley, many of which are accessible and offer a taste of local cuisine.

Afternoon Exploration

Post-lunch, delve deeper into the museum"s offerings with a documentary showcasing the history of American motorcycling, screened in an accessible viewing area. Afterwards, browse the gift shop which features wide aisles and reachable shelves, perfect for picking up a souvenir.

Departure

As your day winds down, the museum’s easy exit routes make departure smooth and hassle-free. Leave Wheels Through Time with not just souvenirs, but memories of a journey through the heart of American motorcycling heritage, all made easily accessible for everyone.

This wheelchair-friendly tour promises a day full of discovery and nostalgia, ensuring that the spirit of the American road is celebrated by all.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.