Planning Your Trip: Handicap Accessible New Orleans Options
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By: Inside NOLA
New Orleans captivates visitors from across the globe with its distinct culture, storied past, and mouthwatering cuisine. Although navigating this singular city can pose challenges for those with mobility limitations, New Orleans has made significant strides to enhance accessibility, ensuring all guests can fully immerse themselves in the city’s allure.
In This Article
TL;DR
Major attractions like the Audubon Zoo, National WWII Museum, and City Park offer wheelchair accessibility and rental mobility aids.
Public transportation options, including buses and streetcars, provide accessible ways to explore the city.
A variety of wheelchair-friendly hotels and restaurants accommodate visitors with disabilities.
Exploring Handicap Accessible New Orleans
New Orleans‘ commitment to inclusivity extends beyond its renowned hospitality. The city has implemented various initiatives to enhance accessibility, making it a welcoming destination for travelers with disabilities. Local organizations like the New Orleans Accessible Hospitality Association (NOAHA) collaborate closely with businesses to promote accessibility and provide resources for visitors.
Accessible Attractions in the City
Immerse yourself in the city’s distinctive character by exploring its iconic attractions, many of which offer exceptional accessibility features.
Audubon Zoo and Aquarium
The Audubon Zoo and Aquarium provide a delightful experience for visitors of all abilities. With wide, paved pathways, designated accessible parking, and rental wheelchairs and scooters available, exploring the zoo’s diverse animal exhibits is a breeze. Additionally, the aquarium features lowered viewing areas, ensuring an up-close encounter with the marine life.
The National WWII Museum
Ranked as one of the top museums in the world, the National WWII Museum offers a captivating journey through history. The museum’s design incorporates accessible entrances, elevators, and spacious exhibit halls, allowing wheelchair users to navigate with ease. Captioned videos and audio guides further enhance the experience for visitors with hearing or visual impairments.
City Park
Spanning over 1,300 acres, City Park is a verdant oasis. With paved paths winding through lush gardens and picnic areas, the park provides ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, featuring over 90 sculptures nestled among towering oak trees, is fully accessible and offers a serene escape.
Experience the French Quarter
No visit to New Orleans is complete without exploring the iconic French Quarter. While its historic charm is undeniable, navigating the area can be challenging for those with mobility impairments. However, with proper planning and awareness, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.
Street Navigation: The French Quarter’s sidewalks can be uneven and narrow, with some areas lacking curb cuts. However, many businesses offer alternative accessible entrances, and pedicabs or wheelchair-friendly tours provide a convenient way to explore the area.
Accessible Tours: Companies like Wheelchair NOLA offer guided tours specifically designed for wheelchair users, allowing visitors to experience the French Quarter’s rich history and architecture without barriers.
Key Venues: Iconic spots like Jackson Square and the French Market have made efforts to improve accessibility, with designated accessible entrances and pathways.
Public Transit: The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates a fleet of accessible buses and streetcars. All buses are equipped with ramps or lifts, and designated streetcar stops along the St. Charles Avenue line offer level boarding for wheelchair users.
Taxis and Rideshares: While traditional taxi services may have limited accessible vehicles, rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft offer wheelchair-accessible options through their apps, providing a convenient and affordable way to navigate the city.
Accommodations and Dining
New Orleans offers a range of wheelchair-friendly accommodations and dining experiences to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Hotels: Properties like the Hilton New Orleans Riverside and the Hyatt Regency New Orleans boast accessible rooms, roll-in showers, and amenities tailored to guests with disabilities. Many hotels also provide shuttle services to nearby attractions, further enhancing accessibility.
Restaurants: From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, New Orleans has a diverse culinary scene that caters to visitors with mobility needs. Restaurants like Emeril’s and Brennan’s offer accessible entrances, spacious dining areas, and accommodating staff to ensure a memorable dining experience.
Practical Tips for a Hassle-Free Visit
Planning ahead is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable visit to New Orleans. Early booking for accommodations and attractions is recommended, as accessible options may be limited. Additionally, contacting venues in advance to inquire about specific accessibility needs can help ensure a seamless experience.
Local organizations like the New Orleans Accessible Hospitality Association (NOAHA) and the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau provide valuable resources, including accessibility guides and rental services for mobility aids.
Engaging with Local Culture
New Orleans’ vibrant culture extends beyond its iconic attractions, offering a wealth of accessible events and activities for visitors to immerse themselves in.
Festivals and Events: Major events like Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival have implemented accessibility measures, including designated viewing areas, accessible restrooms, and transportation options.
Cultural Sites: Museums like the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art offer wheelchair accessibility, ensuring that visitors can appreciate the city’s rich artistic heritage.
Theaters and Music Venues: From historic theaters like the Saenger Theatre to intimate music clubs on Frenchmen Street, many venues in New Orleans provide accessible seating and accommodations for visitors with disabilities.
New Orleans is a city that celebrates diversity and inclusivity, and its commitment to accessibility ensures that all visitors can fully experience its unique charm. By embracing the city’s welcoming spirit and taking advantage of the available resources, travelers with disabilities can create unforgettable memories in this vibrant and culturally rich destination.
