Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in New York!

Dumbo

Why Visit?

Welcome to DUMBO, Brooklyn - a vibrant neighborhood where old industrial spaces have transformed into art galleries, eateries, and some of the best river views in New York City. This wheelchair-friendly guide will help you explore all that DUMBO has to offer with ease and comfort.

Morning: Arrival and Breakfast

Start your DUMBO adventure at the York Street subway station, which is equipped with elevators for accessibility. Wheel your way to the beloved local bakery, Almondine Bakery, on Water Street. Enjoy a coffee and one of their delicious pastries as you soak in the neighborhood"s quaint vibes.

Mid-Morning: Art and Culture

After breakfast, head to the DUMBO Archway, an iconic spot that hosts a variety of public art installations and events throughout the year. The area is completely accessible, offering smooth and flat surfaces perfect for wheelchairs and scooters. Check out the latest art installations or simply enjoy the historic architecture of the surrounding buildings.

Lunch

For lunch, roll over to Front Street Pizza, where you can grab a slice of New York-style pizza. Their space is accessible, and they offer outdoor seating if you prefer to dine al fresco.

Afternoon: Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park

Post-lunch, make your way to Brooklyn Bridge Park, a sprawling park with spectacular views of Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge. The park’s paths are wheelchair-friendly, offering easy access to the waterfront. Don"t miss the chance to visit Jane’s Carousel, which is housed in a glass pavilion and fully accessible.

Evening: DUMBO Boulders and Dinner

As the evening sets in, experience the unique DUMBo Boulders—an outdoor climbing facility adapted for all abilities. Later, enjoy a hearty dinner at The River Café located right under the Brooklyn Bridge, known for its stunning views and accessible dining area.

Enjoy your visit knowing DUMBO is not just a feast for the eyes but also wonderfully accommodating for all.

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

Brooklyn Historical Society

Why Visit?

Embark on an enlightening journey to the Brooklyn Historical Society (BHS), a treasure trove of New York’s vibrant past, perfectly accessible for those on wheelchairs and mobile scooters.

### Start Your Day: Arrival at BHS

Kick off your exploration at the Brooklyn Historical Society located at 128 Pierrepont Street in Brooklyn Heights. The BHS is easily accessible via public transit. Take the subway to Borough Hall Station using lines 2, 3, 4, 5, or R. All these stations are equipped with elevators, ensuring a smooth transition for wheelchair users. From there, it’s just a short, flat walk to the society, making it convenient and hassle-free.

### Explore the Exhibits

Upon arrival, you"ll find BHS"s entrance is wheelchair accessible, with no steps to navigate. Inside, elevators provide access to all the public areas. Begin with the fascinating permanent exhibit, "Brooklyn Abolitionists/In Pursuit of Freedom," which explores the anti-slavery movement in Brooklyn. The exhibit is interactive and positioned at accessible heights for all visitors.

### Attend a Public Program

Check out BHS’s calendar for accessible public programs which often include talks, readings, and screenings. These programs are usually held in wheelchair-accessible spaces with available seating arrangements for those with mobility aids.

### Take a Break

Grab a bite at the nearby Vineapple Café, just a short roll away. This cozy spot offers space to accommodate wheelchires, and the neighborhood itself is known for its flat, easily navigable sidewalks.

### End Your Visit with a Stroll

Cap off your visit with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Brooklyn Heights Promenade, just minutes away and fully accessible, offering stunning views of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Enjoy your cultural and historical exploration at BHS, where accessibility is as prioritized as the rich history it represents!

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

Coney Island

Why Visit?

Coney Island Wheelchair-Friendly Adventure

Morning: Arrival and Boardwalk Bliss

Start your day at Coney Island by catching the D, F, N, or Q trains to Coney Island-Stillwell Ave Station, which is equipped with elevators for easy access. Once there, head straight to the famous Riegelmann Boardwalk. The boardwalk is fully wheelchair-accessible and offers a smooth ride with breathtaking ocean views. As you roll along, soak in the vibrant atmosphere and the iconic sights of the beach and amusement parks.

Midday: Lunch at Nathan"s Famous

Around noon, treat yourself to an iconic Coney Island experience at Nathan"s Famous (1310 Surf Avenue), just a short roll from the boardwalk. This legendary hot dog spot is accessible and provides ample space. Try the classic New York hot dog and crinkle-cut fries, a staple since 1916!

Afternoon: Wonder Wheel and Aquarium Visit

Post-lunch, head to Deno"s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park. The park offers accessible entrances and pathways, making it easy to navigate. Don"t miss the chance to ride the famous Wonder Wheel. The stationary cars are wheelchair accessible, letting you enjoy the fantastic views of the Atlantic.

Next, visit the nearby New York Aquarium at Surf Avenue and West 8th Street. The aquarium is fully accessible, featuring ramps and elevators across different exhibits. Be mesmerized by the aquatic wildlife and learn about marine conservation.

Evening: Stroll and Sunset

Cap off your day with a leisurely stroll back along the boardwalk. Position yourself near the pier for a stunning sunset view over the ocean, a perfect scene to reflect on a day well spent.

Useful Tips

- Restrooms with wheelchair access are available along the boardwalk and inside the aquarium.

- Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid large crowds for a more comfortable experience.

Experience Coney Island"s timeless charm, all from the comfort of your wheelchair!

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

Dyker Heights

Why Visit?

Discover the enchanting Dyker Heights neighborhood, famous for its festive Christmas light displays, in a tour tailored for wheelchair and mobile scooter users. This Brooklyn gem offers an accessible and joyous holiday adventure.

### Getting There

Start your journey by taking the accessible D train to 18th Avenue in Brooklyn, followed by a short, ADA-compliant bus ride on the B64 to 13th Avenue. The streets of Dyker Heights are generally flat and feature curb cuts, making them navigable for wheelchairs and scooters.

### Touring Dyker Heights

Begin your exploration at 11th Avenue and 83rd Street, where the twinkling lights start to shine. Roll along the sidewalks, adorned with elaborate Christmas decorations and life-size Santas. Most homeowners are considerate of accessibility, often leaving ample space for easy maneuvering.

### Must-See Highlights

- The Polizzotto Home: Located at 1145 84th Street, this house kickstarted the Dyker Heights Christmas tradition in the 1980s. The display is grandiose, featuring a 15-foot-tall Santa and a multitude of angels. The sidewalk in front is spacious for viewing.

- Lucy Spata"s House: At 1152 84th Street, witness the house that goes all-out with dazzling décor, setting the bar for the neighborhood. Lucy started decorating her house in the 1980s, sparking a communal light-up tradition.

### Dining and Rest

Refuel at Tommaso’s Ristorante Italiano, located at 1464 86th Street. This cozy spot offers wheelchair accessible entrances and restrooms. Indulge in authentic Italian dishes that will warm you up on your festive tour.

### Wrapping Up

Conclude your tour by heading back on the B64 to the D train at 18th Avenue, full of the joyous holiday spirit only Brooklyn can offer. This unique Dyker Heights experience combines accessibility with the magic of the season, making it a cherished outing for everyone.

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

Verrazano-Narrows Bridge

Why Visit?

Embark on an accessible adventure to the monumental Verrazano-Narrows Bridge, a marvel of engineering and a gateway between Staten Island and Brooklyn. Here"s how to enjoy a wheelchair-friendly tour of this iconic structure.

### Start Your Journey: Staten Island

Begin your day on the Staten Island side of the bridge where you can access the panoramic views from the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach. Parking is ample and accessible near the South Beach area, which lies just beneath the bridge’s grand arches. From here, you can admire the staggering span of the bridge overhead, reaching 4,260 feet between the towers.

### Verrazano-Narrows Bridge Park

Next, make your way to the recently improved Verrazano-Narrows Bridge Park. This park has smooth, flat pathways ideal for wheelchairs and scooters, offering closer views of the bridge and the New York Harbor. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sprawling green spaces, which are equipped with accessible picnic tables and restrooms.

### Shore Parkway Greenway

Incorporate a leisurely jaunt along the Shore Parkway Greenway. This paved trail offers a gentle, accessible route with spectacular seaside views and a direct sightline to the Statue of Liberty. The path is wide, well-maintained and provides several rest areas where you can pause to soak in the scenery.

### Fascinating Facts

- Engineering Marvel: When completed in 1964, it was the world’s longest suspension bridge span.

- Design Pedigree: Designed by Othmar H. Ammann, who also designed the George Washington Bridge.

- Cultural Icon: Featured prominently in movies like "Saturday Night Fever."

### Practical Tips

- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.

- Accessibility: All recommended spots offer wheelchair accessibility. Check local transit websites for accessible transportation options to and from Staten Island.

Capture the grandeur of this architectural giant all while enjoying a smooth, accessible experience tailored for everyone.

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