Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Austin, Texas!

6th Street

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating wheelchair-accessible exploration of Austin"s iconic 6th Street, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and bustling atmosphere. This itinerary ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for those on wheels.

Morning Start: Driskill Hotel

Begin your day at the Driskill Hotel (604 Brazos St), not only a pinnacle of luxury but also a landmark of Texas history, built in 1886. The hotel offers accessible entrances and elevators. Wander through the opulent lobby and if you feel like indulging, their café is perfect for a morning treat, complete with ADA-compliant seating areas.

Mid-Day Exploration: Mexic-Arte Museum

Roll down to the Mexic-Arte Museum (419 Congress Ave), just a short journey from 6th Street. This cultural gem features exhibits dedicated to traditional and contemporary Mexican and Latino art and culture. The museum is fully accessible, providing a barrier-free environment for all guests. Check out their vibrant exhibitions and perhaps catch a docent-led tour which is available upon request.

Afternoon Delight: Easy Tiger

For lunch, head over to Easy Tiger (709 E 6th St) where you can enjoy artisan bread, locally sourced meats, and a serene creek-side beer garden. Accessibility is prioritized with ramp access and ample space for mobility devices.

Evening Fun: Esther"s Follies

Cap off your day with a laugh at Esther"s Follies (525 E 6th St), a vaudeville-inspired theatre known for its magical acts and political satire. The venue offers accessible seating ensuring everyone enjoys their innovative performances.

Getting Around

Navigating 6th Street is a breeze with many sidewalks offering curb cuts and well-maintained paths. For longer distances, consider using Austin"s accessible public transportation or wheelchair-friendly taxis.

This itinerary not only highlights the cultural thrills of 6th Street but also ensures comfort and accessibility, making it a delightful experience for those using wheelchains or mobility scooters.

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

Driskill Hotel (The Driskill)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of the Driskill Hotel

Morning Arrival & Exploration

Kick off your day at the grand Driskill Hotel, a beacon of Texan hospitality and a historical gem located at 604 Brazos St, Austin. Wheelchair access is convenient via the Brazos Street entrance, which leads you directly into the opulent lobby. Built in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill, the hotel"s blend of Romanesque architecture and luxurious interiors is a sight to behold. The lobby and public areas are wheelchair accessible, allowing you to soak in the rich history and elegant ambiance seamlessly.

Art and History Tour

Delve deeper into The Driskill’s charm with a self-guided tour starting from the lobby. Accessible routes will guide you through the hotel"s art-filled hallways, showcasing portraits and artifacts that narrate tales from the Old West to the glamour of early Texas high society. Don"t miss the grand staircase, an iconic photo spot; though it"s not wheelchair accessible, the view from the bottom is just as impressive.

Lunch at The Driskill Grill

For lunch, head to The Driskill Grill, accessed via elevators near the lobby. The restaurant offers a sumptuous menu with options that cater to various dietary needs, all served in a setting that speaks of old-world charm. The wide aisles and spacious seating arrangements ensure comfort for mobility scooter and wheelchair users.

Afternoon Tea & Relaxation

Post-lunch, participate in the traditional Afternoon Tea in the Victorian Room. Sip on fine teas and nibble on delicacies amidst the stunning interiors, with accessible tables ensuring a comfortable experience.

Departure

After a memorable day, exit through the same Brazos Street entrance. The central location offers easy access to public transportation and nearby parking, making your departure as smooth as your arrival.

This wheelchair-friendly tour not only promises accessibility but also an enriching glimpse into Austin"s historic elegance at The Driskill Hotel.

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

Lady Bird Lake

Why Visit?

Discover the serene beauty of Lady Bird Lake, an accessible oasis in the heart of Austin, Texas, perfectly suited for a wheelchair or mobile scooter tour. Here"s how to enjoy a day at this picturesque locale:

Morning: Arrival and Boardwalk Excursion

Start your day at the eastern end of Lady Bird Lake by parking at Festival Beach (accessible parking available). From here, access the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, a 10-mile loop that is mostly flat and paved, ideal for wheelchairs and scooters. Head towards the Boardwalk; this newer addition to the trail offers stunning views of the downtown skyline and the lake. The Boardwalk features several viewing areas with railings designed for accessibility, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery.

Midday: Picnic at Auditorium Shores

Continue west to Auditorium Shores, a perfect spot for a midday break. Bring a picnic or grab a bite from one of the nearby food trucks, which you can find at the Long Center for the Performing Arts, just a short ride away. Auditorium Shores has accessible picnic areas where you can relax under the shade and enjoy the cityscape.

Afternoon: Explore Zilker Park

Cross the river via the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge – a fully accessible route with impressive architecture. Once you reach Zilker Park, explore its many accessible paths and gardens. Don"t miss the Umlauf Sculpture Garden nearby, featuring accessible pathways that wind through a collection of Charles Umlauf"s sculptures.

Late Afternoon: Sunset at Lou Neff Point

Finish your day back near the trail at Lou Neff Point for a memorable sunset. This spot offers a panoramic vista of Lady Bird Lake, the downtown skyline, and the lush Texas hill country.

Interesting Fact: Lady Bird Lake was named in honor of Lady Bird Johnson, the former First Lady who championed beautification and conservation projects in Austin and across the nation.

Getting Around

Lady Bird Lake and its surrounding attractions are reachable via public transportation with Capital Metro, which offers accessible bus and rail options. Check the CapMetro app for the best routes and ADA accessible vehicles. Have a lovely day exploring the tranquil yet vibrant Lady Bird Lake, all from the comfort of your wheelchair or scooter!

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

Barton Springs

Why Visit?

Accessible Adventure at Barton Springs, Austin

Welcome to Barton Springs, the jewel in the crown of Austin"s Zilker Park, where the great outdoors meets city culture. This incredible natural spring-fed pool, with its year-round 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit waters, is not just a refreshing retreat but also a haven for wheelchair and mobile scooter users seeking adventure.

Getting There

Start your day by heading to Barton Springs in Zilker Park. If you’re driving, the easiest access is through the south gate entrance where parking is ample and includes designated ADA-compliant parking spots. Public transport options are also wheelchair-friendly; buses are equipped with ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs. The nearest bus stop is just a short, paved path away from the entrance of Barton Springs.

Exploring Barton Springs

Once you arrive, the main entrance and the surrounding paths are well-paved, making it easy for wheelchairs and scooters to navigate. Rent a pool wheelchair available free of charge to enjoy the water. The gentle slopes leading into the pool ensure seamless access.

Attractions and Facilities

Don’t miss the Eliza Spring Amphitheater, just a short roll away. It’s fully accessible and offers serene views of the springs and lush greenery. The nearby Barton Springs Bathhouse, built in the 1940s, not only has accessible restrooms but also showcases fascinating exhibits on the history and ecology of the springs.

Lunch with a View

For a bite to eat, head over to Barton Springs Picnic, which is accessible and offers a variety of local eats from food trucks, all with accessible ordering windows and seating areas.

Did You Know?

Barton Springs is home to the endangered Barton Springs Salamander. The pool and surrounding park are designed to protect this rare species while still providing incredible recreational opportunities for all visitors.

Leisure and Return

After a relaxing day, the paths around the park allow for a leisurely stroll or roll before heading back via the same convenient and accessible transport options.

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

LBJ Presidential Library

Why Visit?

Embark on a memorable, wheelchair-friendly journey through American history at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin, Texas, a shrine to the ambitious era of Lyndon Baines Johnson, the 36th President of the United States.

Getting There

The LBJ Library is located at 2313 Red River St. If driving, accessible parking is available in lot #38, directly in front of the library. For those using public transit, the Capital Metro Bus has routes stopping near the library, and all buses are equipped with accessibility features.

Start Your Tour

Begin your adventure in the grand lobby, where the entire space is wheelchair accessible. Here you can collect a map designed specifically for visitors with mobility needs. Start with the "Oval Office," a meticulous replica of President Johnson’s White House office. The space is spacious enough for maneuvering mobility scooters and wheelchairs, letting you soak in the atmosphere of presidential decision-making.

Main Exhibits

Roll through the permanent exhibits on the upper floors, accessible via elevators. The interactive ‘Telephone Room’ features recordings of President Johnson"s phone calls, offering a unique glimpse into his presidential dealings and day-to-day affairs. Another highlight is the ‘Legislative Gallery,’ where you can learn about the significant laws passed during Johnson’s administration, such as the Civil Rights Act and Medicare, all showcased in an accessible, engaging format.

Pause and Reflect

The tranquil ten-acre grounds surrounding the library are perfect for a leisurely break. Paved paths allow you to appreciate the serene setting and the towering statue of LBJ.

Practicalities

Admission is free for visitors with disabilities, and the library offers complimentary wheelchairs on a first-come, first-served basis. Restrooms are fully accessible, ensuring a comfortable visit.

End your tour enriched with the knowledge and legacy of one of America’s most consequential presidencies, all made accessible in this thoughtful, inclusive setting.

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