Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Charlotte , North Carolina !

Wing Haven Garden and Bird Sanctuary

Why Visit?

Exploring Wing Haven Garden and Bird Sanctuary: A Wheelchair-Friendly Adventure

Unlock the serene beauty of Wing Haven Garden and Bird Sanctuary, a captivating retreat nestled in the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina. This picturesque sanctuary offers an accessible and enchanting experience for visitors on wheelchairs and mobile scooters.

Getting There

Wing Haven is located at 260 Ridgewood Avenue, easily reachable by car with dedicated handicap parking available close to the entrance. For those using public transport, the nearest bus stop is a short, accessible walk away, ensuring convenience for all visitors.

Tour Itinerary

10:00 AM - Arrival and Orientation

Start your visit at the accessible visitor center where you can grab a map specifically highlighting wheelchair-friendly paths. Bathrooms here are also wheelchair accessible.

10:30 AM - Guided Tour

Join the scheduled guided tour which begins at the entrance. The paths through the gardens are mostly flat and made of crushed gravel, ensuring smooth navigation. As you explore, relish the sights of meticulously curated flower beds and lush greenery.

11:30 AM - Bird Watching

Reach a comfortable and accessible viewing area to enjoy some bird watching. Wing Haven is home to over 150 species of birds throughout the year, so bring your binoculars! This spot is thoughtfully designed to ensure unobstructed views for everyone.

12:30 PM - Lunch Break

Head to the nearby picnic area equipped with accessible tables. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by the tranquil sounds of nature.

1:30 PM - Self-Guided Exploration

Spend the afternoon at your leisure. The Elizabeth Lawrence House and Garden, part of the sanctuary, offers a peek into the history of this enchanting place with accessible entrance and pathways.

3:00 PM - Departure

Wrap up your tour of Wing Haven, enriched with the lush views and melodious birdcalls, a peaceful conclusion to a perfect day.

Interesting Facts

- Wing Haven was created in 1927 by Elizabeth and Edwin Clarkson and has been a protected bird sanctuary since then.

- The gardens are not only a haven for birds but also support a variety of wildlife, including turtles and rabbits, perfect for nature enthusiasts of all abilities.

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

Bank of America Stadium

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte

Getting Started

Begin your adventure at the heart of Charlotte, North Carolina, with an unforgettable visit to the Bank of America Stadium, home to the NFL"s Carolina Panthers. This remarkable venue is renowned not only for its impressive architecture but also for its accessibility.

Arrival

Using Charlotte"s public transportation is seamless for those in wheelchairs or on mobile scooters. The LYNX Blue Line offers a smooth ride to the Stonewall Station, which is just a short, accessible route to the stadium. Parking is straightforward, with ADA-compliant spots available in nearby lots.

The Tour

Bank of America Stadium tours are tailored to be wheelchair-friendly, ensuring every participant enjoys full access to the Panthers’ den. Tours can be booked in advance through the Panthers’ website, with options including private tours that cater to special needs.

Highlights

- Panthers Statue: Upon arrival, marvel at the massive panther statues guarding the north entrance. These towering sculptures are a favorite photo op spot.

- Hall of Honor: Inside, visit the Hall of Honor where the team’s history and its stars are celebrated. It’s all on one level, ensuring easy navigation.

- Field Access: Roll down the same player tunnels onto the field, feeling the thrill of what game day must be like for the players.

Dining

Post-tour, grab a bite at one of the stadium’s accessible eateries or explore some nearby dining options in Uptown Charlotte, many of which are known for their accessibility and welcoming atmosphere.

Interesting Fact

Did you know? The stadium features over 50 ADA-compliant restrooms and listening devices are available for those who may need them during games or stadium events.

Wrapping Up

Your visit to the Bank of America Stadium is not just about exploring a sports venue; it’s about experiencing the spirit and accessibility of Charlotte itself.

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

SEA LIFE® – Charlotte-Concord Aquarium

Why Visit?

Embark on an awe-inspiring underwater journey at SEA LIFE® Charlotte-Concord Aquarium, a haven specially designed to be wheelchair-friendly, ensuring an inclusive experience for all guests. Located conveniently in the Concord Mills mall, the aquarium is easily reachable via I-85 with ample accessible parking spaces available near Entry 7.

Start your tour at the interactive touch pool, where you can feel the smooth shells of various sea creatures under the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable staff. The pathways here are wide and obstacle-free, making it easy for wheelchair users and mobile scooters to navigate.

Venture next into the Tropical Ocean exhibit, accessed via a spacious lift. The exhibit’s 180-degree ocean tunnel captivates with its floor-to-ceiling views, allowing you to come face-to-fin with sharks, rays, and gliding sea turtles. The tunnel’s design ensures that every visitor, regardless of their height or mobility device, gets an unobstructed view of the vibrant marine life.

As you continue, explore the Seahorse Mangrove exhibit, where delicate seahorses twirl elegantly in their lush, accessible tanks. This exhibit highlights the unique breeding program of SEA LIFE®, emphasizing conservation efforts and the protection of marine habitats.

Conclude your visit at the interactive Conservation Cove, a highly engaging area where you can learn about the aquarium’s rescue and protect initiatives. Engage with interactive displays that are positioned at accessible heights and equipped with audio descriptions.

Throughout your visit, make use of the numerous resting spots conveniently placed along the route and the accessible restrooms available at several points. The staff at SEA LIFE® Charlotte-Concord are always on hand to assist, ensuring a memorable and comfortable experience for everyone.

Interesting Fact: SEA LIFE® Charlotte-Concord is home to more than 5,000 sea creatures, highlighting the biodiversity of our oceans and the importance of their conservation.

Don’t forget to check the aquarium’s website for any special accessibility events or tours tailored specifically for visitors using wheelchairs or scooters, enhancing your underwater adventure.

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

Fourth Ward

Why Visit?

Explore the historic and vibrant Fourth Ward in Charlotte, North Carolina, with our specially curated wheelchair-friendly tour. This charming neighborhood, known for its rich history and beautifully restored Victorian homes, offers an accessible and delightful experience for everyone.

Start your day at Fourth Ward Park:

Begin at the heart of the Fourth Ward - the picturesque Fourth Ward Park at 301 North Poplar Street. It’s easily reachable via the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS), which offers accessible bus and light rail services. The park features wide, paved pathways perfect for wheelchairs and mobile scooters, and it’s a great spot for enjoying the open air and lush greenery.

Visit the Historic McNinch House Restaurant:

Just a short roll away is the McNinch House Restaurant at 511 North Church Street, housed in a 1892 Queen Anne-style home. This establishment offers a step-free entrance and an accessible restroom. Although it"s known for fine dining, reservations are recommended. Here, you can enjoy a sumptuous meal in a setting that echoes the grandeur of the past.

Explore the Levine Museum of the New South:

Next, head to the Levine Museum of the New South located at 200 East Seventh Street, a 10-minute ride on the accessible Gold Rush Red Line. The museum is fully accessible and provides a deep dive into the post-Civil War Southern history and Charlotte’s evolution. The wide aisles and elevator access ensure a comfortable visit for those on wheels.

Finish with a Stroll (or Roll) at First Ward Park:

Conclude your tour at First Ward Park, accessible via the 9th Street Station. This newer park offers smooth pathways, regular events, and a scenic view of the Uptown skyline, making it a perfect spot to reflect on your day in the Fourth Ward.

Each destination on this tour offers a slice of Charlotte"s history and culture with the convenience and accessibility to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for those using wheelchafirs or mobile scooters.

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

Mint Museum of Art

Why Visit?

Exploring the Mint Museum of Art: A Wheelchair-Friendly Guide

Welcome to the Mint Museum of In Charlotte, North Carolina! A cultural beacon with an exceptional collection of art and craft from around the globe, this destination is perfect for art lovers of all abilities.

Start Your Day: Arrival and Access

The Mint Museum is ideally located at 500 South Tryon Street. Arriving here is hassle-free with several wheelchair-accessible options. If you"re driving, handicapped parking is available directly in front of the museum. Alternatively, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) offers accessible buses equipped with ramps, ensuring a smooth ride to the museum.

Experience Art Without Limits

Upon entering, head to the guest services desk where you can inquire about wheelchair loan services — free of charge — if you haven"t brought your own. The entire museum is wheelchair accessible with elevators connecting all floors.

Must-See Exhibitions and Installations

Begin on the ground floor with the "Craft + Design" collection, showcasing fine contemporary craft. Don"t miss the stunning glass and ceramic works which are a highlight here. All display cases are at an appropriate height for visitors in wheelchorels or scooters, ensuring everyone gets a great view.

Next, take the elevator up to explore the "American Art" collection. Here, marvel at a variety of works from colonial to contemporary periods. The spacious galleries allow for easy navigation and unobstructed views of the art.

Interactive Features

The museum offers accessible interactive kiosks with touch screens located at a lower height, perfect for wheelchair users. These kiosks provide fascinating insights and additional context about the artworks on display.

End Your Visit with a Refreshing Break

Finish your tour at the museum"s café, which is fully accessible and offers a range of delicious snacks and beverages. The outdoor terrace, overlooking the beautiful museum grounds, is also wheelchair-friendly and makes for a perfect spot to reflect on your day of artistic exploration.

Enjoy your visit to the Mint Museum, where art is made accessible and enjoyable for everyone!

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