• Your destination is welcoming to visitors with disabilities
• Your destination cares about being inclusive
• Your destination is working to improve your accessibility
• Your destination sees the future of travel
• Your destination is actively engaging with stakeholders to raise awareness about the needs of the disability community
The TravelAbility Emerging Markets Summit focuses on improving travel experiences for people with disabilities through bringing together travel industry professionals, disability advocates, and travelers with diverse needs to discuss best practices and innovations for inclusive travel. The 6th annual conference in San Francisco showcased this vibrant convergence of innovative accessibility solutions.
New research presented at the conference took a deep dive into accessible travel. Check out some of the new research below!
The Impact of ADHD, Autism and Neurodiversity on Families that Travel - Chris Davidson
A Decade of Tracking the Growth of Disabled Travel Trends - Laura Van Horn
Happy Campers! Insights from “Camping and Outdoor Hospitality” Report - Ericka Travis
Presenters shared accessible marketing videos that incorporate real life experiences. Check out some of the videos below!
Most Effective Marketing Videos. Real Reels that Ooze Authenticity and Inspire Travel Andres Villagrán -Wheel the World
Accessibility Marketing Has Gone Mainstream- Josh Leobner, VML
Visit Fort Lauderdale Video - Attiyya Atkins, Visit Lauderdale
The Accessibility Playbook was created by TravelAbility, in partnership with Destinations International, as an end-to-end toolkit to equip destination organizations on their accessibility journey. The playbook offers customizable steps for developing and implementing practical accessibility strategies and initiatives, enabling all destinations to better welcome and accommodate people with disabilities, regardless of destination size, budget, or geography. Click here to take a virtual overview tour of the playbook.
Check out this excerpt on Accessible Meetings from the Accessibility Playbook:
ACCESSIBLE MEETINGS
Six tips to include on your registration form that will improve accessibility:
1. Ask attendees to communicate their needs: During registration, create a way for people who are registering to communicate that they have a disability. Ask what accommodations you can provide them. For example, does the person use a mobility aid and need an accessible hotel room? What accessible features are preferred? Do they need a wheelchair-accessible vehicle to transport them from the airport to the venue and off-site locations? Do they need a sign language interpreter? Do they need printed materials in braille?
2. Make online registration accessible: Ensure that attendees can register on a website that
is accessible to people with disabilities. This means all images are described with alt-text, form fields are clearly and consistently identified, and links are properly labeled.
3. Include an accommodation statement: Include a disability accommodation statement in all publicity and pre-registration materials, inviting participants with disabilities to request accommodations. This will enable the event planner to arrange most of the accommodations and services in advance.
4. Provide clear instructions: Provide clear instructions for the meeting, including the agenda, location, and time. Use simple language and avoid jargon.
5. Provide multiple avenues for registration: Provide multiple avenues for registration if registration is required; e.g. online, paper, in person.
6. Follow up on requests: Make sure you follow up on all requests received. If it appears you will be unable to meet a specific request, follow up with the individual who made the request to determine whether an alternative arrangement can be made.
“Thank
4.
Kia Lutte
By Jordan Bradley
The TravelAbility Emerging Markets Summit 2024’s InnovateAble Showcase PitchFest: Elevating Accessibility and Beyond! highlighted the technology of five companies at the forefront of inclusive travel solutions.
Attendees heard pitches from Be My Eyes, an AI app that guides travelers who are blind or low-vision through hotels and attractions; Aira, an app providing visual interpreting services; True Omni, an inclusive visitor kiosk that can be modified to suit any user; Hero Door Opener, a cost-effective automatic door opener that can be accessed through an app; and 360 Direct Video, an app providing deaf conference attendees with access to American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters.
Winners were chosen by a panel of judges, with 360 Direct Video taking first place. Hero Door Opener and Be My Eyes tied for second, while Aira took third.
During the session, each of the four companies shared a video exemplifying their product, offering three-minute pitches followed by seven minutes of follow-up questions from judges Ron Pettit, Director, Disability Inclusion and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Compliance, Royal Caribbean Group; Allison Rowe, Room Operations and Guest Experienc-
es, Marriott International; Paul Kent, Founder, disABLED Life Alliance; Jeff Ossenkop, General Manager, W Hotel San Francisco; and Matthew Harrinton, The Schoolhouse Hotel.
The 360 Direct Video app’s sign language accessibility tool reaches more than 70 million deaf sign language users globally, offering “deaf-friendly customer support and answering services tailored to the needs of the deaf and hard of hearing community,” according to Craig Radford, CEO of 360 and a deaf man himself.
The app currently has three main features: “Sign Live, where trained deaf representatives can communicate directly in sign language with deaf callers; Sign Message, where users can leave messages in sign language after hours; and Sign Bots, where quick answers can be delivered via AI sign bots or pre-recorded ASL messages,” Radford said.
According to Radford, miscommunications between businesses and deaf customers cause “frustration, escalations and disparities and cost companies millions of dollars every year.”
Radford described a frustrating experience being in an airport and attempting to change his flight. He spent 45 minutes waiting to connect to an ASL interpreter, then an additional 45 minutes waiting to connect with the airline’s English speaking representative.
“After all that, the interpreter made a mistake. I was booked on the wrong flight. For millions of deaf people worldwide, this is an everyday reality,” Radford said.
All representatives and employees of the app are trained to handle sensitive information,
such as credit card and medical data, and must adhere to strict security requirements, and the app provides ASL, Quebec Sign Language, and British Sign Language interpreters, is working on introducing French Sign Language “soon,” is “in conversations in both India and Japan,” and expects to have Spanish Sign Language in 2025, Radford said.
Joe Weber, Manager of Accessibility Solutions for Be My Eyes, presented the tied-for-second Be My Eyes app, sharing a video of Peter Tucic, a blind man and frequent traveler.
Be My Eyes partnered with Hilton Hotels in October. The pitch video showed Tucic navigating his hotel room with the help of a Hilton representative. Throughout the session, the representative guided Tucic to outlets near the bed, identified which refillable containers mounted in the shower were body wash, shampoo and conditioner, and located other items in the room.
Weber said the app began as a volunteer-only service when it launched in 2015. But in 2018, the app partnered with Google and Microsoft to provide customer support services from company representatives in addition to volunteer services.
Through the beta testing for its partnership with Hilton, Weber said Be My Eyes found that artificial intelligence was able to handle requests like Tucic’s well, but it was not able to handle requests related to the booking process. That’s where the dedicated customer service representatives come in, Weber said.
“Ultimately, the technology inte-
grates directly into the Hilton general Customer Care Center,” Weber said, “and that is who owns this relationship, the regular customer care team, who’s been advised by the Accessibility Team.”
Also tied for second, the Hero Door Opener was presented by owner Pierre Paul, and included several solutions, including: the Hero Door Opener, a cost-effective device designed to turn any door into an accessible door; the Push app, which operates the Hero Door Opener; a Push fob that opens compatible accessible doors from up to 20 feet away.
The average cost to install an accessible door is anywhere from $7,000 to $20,000 and often involves a structural change to the door and doorway, Paul said.
The Hero Door Opener, however, is battery-operated, does not require hard-wiring into the doorframe, and costs $1,750 to install.
“We create the Hero to ensure that there’s no excuse for a small business to not be accessible anymore, because we’re making it affordable and we’re ensuring that it is possible without ruining the integrity of the building,” Paul said.
Aira, which took third and was presented by Jill Ratliff, Vie President of Business Development, is an app that connects users who are blind, have low vision, are deaf and hard of hearing to trained visual interpreters and ASL interpreters in all 50 states. The app works by using “geofencing,” which creates a virtual boundary in a geographical space wherein the app can be used.
“I think the thing that that is exceptional about Aira is that our technology, through the geofencing systems that we use, allows the end user to have accessibility on their terms, not on the business or the organization providing access,” Ratliff said.
Throughout the United States, 250 organizations are already using the app to provide complimentary access to the subscription-based app for
customers and employees, including Starbucks, Amazon, Microsoft, the Minnesota St. Paul Airport, Visit Salt Lake, and Visit Mesa.
Doug Ralston, CEO of True Omni, presented the accessible kiosk that allows users to customize their experience based on their accessibility needs. Currently, Ralston said, there are approximately 1,500 devices installed throughout the country, a majority of which are at visitor centers, regional airports, and convention centers.
True Omni kiosks in locations such as airports are “really upgraded,” Ralston said, with every accessible feature, including screens that adjust automatically to ADA-compliant heights for wheelchair users, ADA-compliant control modules for users who are blind or have visual impairments, and adjustable con-
trast, brightness, gray scale and font size settings, and the ability to share information from the kiosk directly to a personal phone.
Ralston said about 30% of their recent kiosk users have some sort of disability or impairment.
“We’re trying to make sure that that experience is actually very similar to the experience that anyone else would have, so I think that’s probably what’s driving that increase in engagement because it’s a much different experience than you would get at a typical kiosk or interactive screen,” Ralston said.
First Place:
360 Direct Video
See their award-winning pitch here.
Second Place (tie):
Hero Door Opener - See their pitch here. Be My Eyes - Be My Eyes pitch here Third Place: Aira. Find Aira’s pitch here.
How Waymo, a TravelAbility
Summit Sponsor, provides an accessible alternative to traditional ride-hailing services
Waymo is committed to improving inclusive travel experiences for the disability community through their autonomous ride-hailing service, Waymo One, available in Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. The app is packed with accessible features that restore a sense of ease and agency to car travel for many in the disability community. These features include:
● Educational riding tips: Before the ride, the app offers clear instructions on how to board, where to sit, and how to control the ride, ensuring a smooth experience for all riders.
● Inclusive Wayfinding Features: The app includes options, such as honking the car’s horn, to help riders with visual impairments easily find their vehicle during pickup.
● Audio Navigation Cues: The app provides verbal updates on important events during the ride, such as lane changes or upcoming stops, to assist visually impaired riders.
● Screen Reader Compatibility: The Waymo One app is designed to be fully accessible with screen readers, allowing riders who are blind or have low vision to navigate the app easily.
● Text-Based Communication: The app offers a chat feature that enables riders to communicate with Rider Support through text, providing an alternative to voice calls for Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing Riders.
These features give riders with disabilities a higher level of control over their ride and eliminate the obstacles often experienced with traditional ride-hailing apps. Waymo developed these features in collaboration with organizations like the National Federation of the Blind, United Cerebral Palsy, and United Spinal Association to ensure that its services meet the needs of people with disabilities. The company continues to research and enhance accessibility features based on ongoing rider feedback and insights gathered through the Waymo Accessibility Network.
To learn more about how waymo supports accessibility, check out this article from the San Francisco Chronicle and read this article by Rachel Kamen, Public Affairs Specialist for Waymo, on TravelAbility Insider.
These trends are rewriting the rules for inclusion in travel
by Jake Steinman
These scenes showcase a vibrant convergence of innovative accessibility solutions, inspiring discussions, and diverse participants dedicated to enhancing travel experiences for individuals with disabilities.
1.Smart Technology Integration
Leveraging technology is crucial for improving accessibility in travel. Innovations such as:
● Google Maps “Accessibility Routes”: This feature allows users to find routes that are wheelchair-friendly, making navigation easier for those with mobility challenges.
● Voice-Activated Hotel Room Controls**: These systems enable guests to control lighting, temperature, and entertainment through voice commands, enhancing comfort and convenience.
● Digital Assistants for Travel Planning**: Virtual assistants can help travelers plan their trips by providing information on accessible accommodations and attractions.
● Real-Time Accessibility Information Updates: Travelers can receive timely updates about accessibility features at various locations, ensuring they are well-informed.
2. Enhanced Transportation Solutions
Transportation is a critical aspect of travel, and ensuring it is accessible for all is essential. Key solutions include:
● Wheelchair-Accessible Ride-Sharing Services: While disabled advocates are applying pressure to Uber and Lyft to be more accessible, Waymo, which features driverless Jaguars, which was a huge hit for TravelAbility attendees in San Francisco, have embraced the disability community with open arms.
● Modified Rental Vehicles: Rental agencies are adapting their fleets to include vehicles equipped for individuals with disabilities.
● Enhanced Airport Assistance Programs: Airports are improving their services to assist travelers with disabilities, ensuring a smoother travel experience.
3. Sensory-Friendly Destinations
Creating environments that cater to sensory sensitivities is vital for neurodivergent travelers. Initiatives include:
● Quiet Spaces in airports and attractions: Designated areas where individuals can retreat to avoid sensory overload.
● Walmart Quiet Hours Prior to Store Openings: These hours allow individuals with sensory sensitivities to shop in a calmer environment.
● Specialized Tour Guides for Neurodivergent Travelers: Guides trained to understand and accommodate the needs of neurodivergent individuals.
● Streaming TV Shows feature life on the Autism spectrum. The latest entry is the release of “ Traveling on the Spectrum. ”This show, conceived by TravelAbility advisory board member, Stuart Butler, CMO of Visit Myrtle Beach, is now available on Peacock.
4. Increasing Emphasis on Inclusive Design in Accommodations
The concept of universal design focuses on creating spaces that are accessible to everyone. Notable advancements include:
● The Schoolhouse Hotel, an all-accessible room hotel in White Sulfur Springs, WV, recently affiliat-
ed with Windham Hotels, this establishment features accessible amenities.
● Height-Adjustable Furniture: This allows for flexibility in accommodation, making spaces usable for all guests.
● Wider Doorways and Corridors: Enhancements that facilitate easier movement for individuals using mobility aids.
5. Virtual Pre-Travel Experiences.
Utilizing virtual tools to prepare travelers for their journeys is becoming increasingly popular. Key offerings include:
● 360° Virtual Tours of Destinations:
These immersive experiences allow travelers to explore locations before their visit, helping them make informed decisions.
● Detailed Accessibility Previews: Travelers can access information about the accessibility features of various destinations, ensuring they are well-prepared.
● Virtual Reality Hotel Room Tours: These tours provide a realistic view of accommodations offered, allowing guests to assess their suitability.
6. Adaptive Outdoor Adventure Tourism
● Adventure travel is being adapted to ensure accessibility for all.
● Adaptive Sports Equipment: This equipment allows individuals with disabilities to participate in various sports and activities.
● Accessible Hiking Trails: Trails designed with accessibility in mind enable everyone to enjoy nature.
● Modified Water Sports Activities: These adaptations ensure that individuals with disabilities can safely engage in water sports.
● Inclusive Wildlife Viewing Experiences: Tours that cater to diverse needs allow all travelers to appreciate wildlife.
7. Personalized Travel Planning
● Tailoring travel experiences to individual needs is essential for enhancing accessibility. Key components include:
● Specialized Travel Agents: Agents trained in accessibility can provide valu-
able insights and recommendations.
● Custom Itinerary Development: Personalized itineraries ensure that travelers’ specific needs and preferences are met.
● Accessibility-Focused Tour Operators: These operators specialize in creating inclusive travel experiences.
● Detailed Accessibility Guides: Comprehensive guides provide essential information about accessibility features at various destinations.
8. Introducing the Universal Designed Beach
Enhancing beach experiences for all visitors is a growing focus. Key improvements include:
● Beach Wheelchair Availability: These specialized wheelchairs from Access Rec, (the original developers of the Mobi Mat), Mobi Mat, and Access Trax offer individuals with mobility challenges an opportunity to experience the beach.
● Accessible Boardwalks: Boardwalks designed for accessibility ensure that everyone can access beach areas.
● Modified Water Entry Points: Access points on piers and lakes facilitate safe entry into the water for individuals with disabilities.
● Sensory-Friendly Beach Areas: Designated spaces that cater to sensory sensitivities provide a more comfortable beach experience.
9. Enhanced Training & Service
● Training staff to better serve travelers with disabilities is crucial for creating an inclusive environment. Important initiatives include:
● Staff Disability Awareness Training: Training programs help staff understand the needs of travelers with disabilities.
● Sign Language-Trained Personnel: Staff trained in sign language can better communicate with deaf and hard-ofhearing guests.
● Accessibility Ambassadors: These individuals are dedicated to assisting travelers with disabilities, ensuring a positive experience.
● Specialized Concierge Services: Concierge staff trained in accessibility can provide tailored recommendations and assistance.
● The representation of individuals with disabilities in media is gaining traction. Key developments include:
● Accessibility-Focused Content: New streaming movies and television shows are increasingly featuring stories that
highlight accessibility.
● Whalar: This talent agency represents 80 disability content creators, promoting diverse voices in media.
● Travelability: Introduced speed-dating events with content creators at the 2024 EMS, fostering connections and collaboration.
The travel industry is making significant strides in enhancing accessibility through universal design, virtual tools, adventure tourism adaptations, personalized planning, improved beach access, enhanced training, and greater representation in media. These trends not only improve the travel experience for individuals with disabilities but also promote a more inclusive society where everyone can explore and enjoy the world around them.
TravelAbility Emerging Markets Summit 2025 isn’t just another industry conference—it’s your chance to gain the tools, insights, and inspiration needed to drive meaningful change. The Summit is designed with two key goals in mind: to energize you with actionable takeaways you can implement immediately, and to make you the smartest person in your organization when it comes to accessibility. With sessions that balance practical knowledge and visionary thinking, you’ll leave ready to lead the charge toward true inclusivity.
Mark your calendars! The Summit will be held October 12th-15th at Sunriver Resort in Oregon. This annual event is the premier gathering for travel industry professionals, featuring trailblazing leaders, innovators, and changemakers who are reshaping the travel landscape to ensure it’s welcoming for all.
One of the Summit’s highlights is the Master Class in Accessibility, designed to elevate your expertise and transform the way you approach inclusivity in travel. Attendees will dive into strategies for addressing accessibility challenges and have the opportunity to earn the coveted “Accessibility Leader” certificate.
This intensive session equips participants with practical skills and a framework to integrate accessibility seamlessly into their organizations. Not only will you gain the tools to make meaningful changes, but you’ll also position yourself as a thought leader in the accessibility space.
Technology is at the forefront of accessibility innovation, and this year’s Summit introduces the AI Companion to The Accessibility Playbook. This cutting-edge tool combines actionable insights with the power of AI, allowing destinations, hotels, and attractions to tailor their approaches to accessibility.
From generating accessibility checklists to providing real-time solutions, the AI Companion is a game-changer for travel professionals. Attendees will get a firsthand look at how this tool can streamline efforts to create more inclusive experiences, making accessibility not just a goal but a reality.
Get ready for some friendly competition at the Adventure Wheelchair Smackdown! This engaging event brings together three wheelchair users who will test and compare three different adventure wheelchairs. Each participant will share their unique experiences, offering valuable insights into the pros and cons of each model.
Expect honest feedback, lively discussions, and perhaps even a few surprises as these adventurers put the wheelchairs through their paces. Whether you’re a DMO, an attraction, or simply curious about the latest innovations, this event will leave you with a deeper appreciation for accessible outdoor recreation.
Building an Accessibility Stack can seem daunting, but this session provides travel professionals with a clear roadmap. Experts will share practical tips for DMOs, hotels, and attractions to start their journey, overcome barriers, and make reasonable accommodations. Through real-world insights from disabled travelers, attendees will gain a better understand-
ing of how small, thoughtful changes can lead to significant impacts. The Accessibility Stack isn’t just a checklist—it’s a mindset shift that ensures everyone feels welcome.
This year’s panels are packed with diverse voices, each bringing unique perspectives to the table:
Blind Travelers: Learn how they navigate the world and adapt through creative “world hacking.”
Wheelchair Users: Discover the wide range of needs and accommodations essential for seamless travel.
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Travelers: Gain tips on creating better travel experiences for those with hearing loss.
Autism Parents & Their Travel Nightmares: Hear firsthand accounts and practical advice from parents traveling with autistic children. These discussions offer invaluable insights for anyone striving to make travel more inclusive and accessible.
The Summit’s Content Creator Panels bring together some of the most influential voices in accessibility advocacy. Topics include creating impactful campaigns, addressing challenges faced by disabled travelers, and sharing authentic stories that resonate with audiences. The popular Influencer Speed Dating Sessions are back with a refined structure. These fastpaced networking opportunities allow destinations and influencers to connect, share ideas, and spark collaborations. Attendees will also learn best practices for working with disability influencers, courtesy of an agency representing over 80 creators.
Engage in meaningful discussions during the interactive roundtables, where participants tackle pressing topics alongside industry leaders. From brainstorming innovative solutions to sharing success stories, these sessions are an excellent platform for collaboration and idea exchange.
Accessible travel isn’t just about accommodations; it’s about creating memorable experiences. This session focuses on experiential products—think fishing excursions, adaptive boating, and more—that cater to diverse needs. Learn how to design activities that go beyond expectations and truly connect with travelers.
Innovation takes center stage at the InnovateAble Vendor Showcase. Attendees will discover groundbreaking products and services designed to enhance accessibility in travel. From assistive technologies to adaptive equipment, this showcase highlights the tools that will shape the future of inclusive tourism.
The TravelAbility Emerging Markets Summit is more than just a conference—it’s a movement. By bringing together industry professionals, innovators, and advocates, it pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in accessible travel.
Join us at the 2025 Summit and leave energized, inspired, and equipped to lead the charge toward a more inclusive future. Together, we can create a world where travel is accessible to all.
Then venture out.
When you bring your meeting to Oregon, you get more than just a place for all to gather. You get a place for all to adventure. With a strong commitment to accessibility and world-class accessible outdoor experiences, there’s something for everyone in Oregon—both at the meeting and after.
We’ve got both in Oregon. Business travelers increasingly want to mix business with leisure—it’s even got a name now: bleisure. And Oregon just might be the best spot for it.
After the meetings, your entire group can enjoy access to Oregon’s vast and diverse natural beauty. The state’s rushing waterfalls, verdant hiking trails and scenic viewpoints inspire people of all ages and ability levels.
Across Oregon, communities are striving to become more accessible and inclusive for people of all ages and mobilities. Recent innovations on the Oregon Coast include the introduction of Mobi-mats (short for mobility mats) at several beaches as well as free rentable beach wheelchairs and all-terrain track chairs to better access the sandy shores.
Across the state, work is underway to make trails, signage, lodgings, kayak launches, attractions and guided experiences more accessible and to transparently represent the visitor experience.
AdvenChairs help those with mobility challenges scale mountain trails. EnChroma glasses are available in select museums and at other attractions to help those with color blindness experience color in a way they haven’t had access to before. Cities and communities are working to help visitors find accurate information about what to expect.
Non-visible disabilities are also a focus. At the Portland International Airport, for instance, travelers with chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder, autism or epilepsy can wear a sunflower lanyard to signal to airport employees that they may need extra time, attention or support while at PDX.
When you host your meeting in Oregon, you get much more than just a place where all can gather— you get a place where all can adventure.
Visit us at TravelOregon.com
People say that all work and no play … well you know the rest. And there’s no reason for it when you find yourself in Las Vegas for work. When the conference is over, hit pause on that return ticket and spend another day (or two!) checking out some of the amazing adventures that are just minutes from The Strip.
Rent a car and choose a spoke or two from our Neon to Nature road trip. Highlights include Hoover Dam, Red Rock Canyon, Valley of Fire, and Boulder City Each of these spectacular sights is less than an hour from The Strip and are bucket list items you can’t afford to miss.
If you’d rather stay closer to your hotel, there’s still plenty to see and
do with your extra day. Looking for an offbeat adventure? Hit up the Mob Museum for some seriously gangster fun, then visit the speakeasy for a tasty beverage. The Punk Rock Museum is a love letter to anyone curious about the influence punk has had on music, fashion, and society. You can even play a guitar once played by one of your jukebox heroes. Other Vegas museums include the National Atomic Testing Museum where you can learn about Oppenheimer’s legacy, or check out Shelby Heritage Center where fast and sexy is the name of the game. Take a self-guided tour (and free) tour through Carroll Shelby’s incredible cars.
Whatever your pleasure, an extra day in Las Vegas is sure to be a winner.
With urban communities like Bend, Sunriver, and Redmond, and the rural charms of Sisters, La Pine, Prineville, Madras, Warm Springs, and Maupin, Central Oregon offers a perfect mix of thrilling recreation, culinary exploration, artistic and cultural experiences, and natural wonder. Located on the eastern slopes of the Cascade Range, where vast forests give way to the arid high desert, Central Oregon is characterized by year-round adventure, authenticity, inspiration, and environment.
Booking your meeting here means more than just business as usual. An outdoor oasis with unmatched scenery, recharge and
refresh in one of the Pacific Northwest’s premi destinations. With resorts and meeting venues to suit groups of all sizes, Central Oregon remains a top choice as a backdrop for meetings, retreats, and other essential planning sessions.
Central Oregon is “Destination Verified” by Wheel the World, and is home award-winning organizations and entrepreneurs such as Oregon Adaptive Sports and AdvenChair, providing their services that responsibly promote accessible offerings and experiences
With a great location near 3 major airports, Oakland is an ideal choice for your nex t meeting and event. You'll find beautiful traditional venues, industrial warehouse space, live mu sic and entertainment sp ots, lush park-like settings, outdoor options, and attractions.
Offering an award -winning culinary scene, artistic vibe, and numerous places for creative, interactive off-site events - Oakland has it all. To welcome visitors, Oakland has over 30 hotels with 5,500+ guest rooms from luxury to boutique prop erties representing the top names in lodging .
.e.eAN'L fflm\e, at: MEETINDAKLAND.CDM
throughout the region. Our natural wonders and unique experiences are those that we hope can be enjoyed by everyone of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds.
Industry partners around the state and in Central Oregon are excited to welcome the 2025 TravelAbility Emerging Markets Summit on October 12-15, 2025 at Sunriver Resort!
Just three hours from Portland, and with direct flights from 13 major markets into Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM), getting to Central Oregon has never been easier.
For more information go to www. visitcentraloregon.com.
Explore Central Oregon’s pristine alpine paradise, unforgettable with memorable moments beneath the stunning backdrop of the Cascade Mountains. Credit: Courtesy Wanderlust Tours
It’s a misconception that people living with a disability don’t want to, or can’t travel. They do and they can. Globally one billion people live with some sort of disability and while some experience a disability that is visible, for many their disability is not immediately apparent. Our aim, here at Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, is to help shape a world where people with non-visible disabilities feel confident to travel independently.
The Sunflower enables individuals with non-visible disabilities, conditions, and chronic illnesses to indicate they may need additional support, understanding, time or space. This discreet, voluntary symbol increases awareness of non-apparent disabilities and fosters a culture of empathy and inclusivity.
Sunflower wearers can find where they’ll receive support by using the Sunflower program’s interactive map. This map shows participating businesses in the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower network, including airports, hotels, and other venues that are dedicated to supporting people with non-apparent disabilities. By consulting the map, Sunflower wearers can confidently plan their journeys, knowing they’ll have access to the help they need along the way.
With its strong message of inclusivity, equity and accessibility, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is helping make inclusive travel the new normal, from leisure to business trips. Breaking down barriers not only benefits those directly impacted but also enhances the travelling experience for everyone.
Together, we can ensure that individuals with non-apparent disabilities experience the joys and opportunities that travel can offer. Become a Sunflower Member today: hdsunflower.com
• Save Time and Money: Our efficient and cost-effective solutions streamline the process of becoming more accessible, saving you resources in the long run.
• Grow Revenue: Tap into a new and expanding market of customers with disabilities. By making your business accessible, you open the door to a loyal and diverse customer base.
Accessibility Strategies: Tailored accessibility strategies for your business.
Training: Empower your team to serve all customers.
Marketing: Showcase your accessibility efforts to attract more customers.
ANAB Certification: Achieve certification to demonstrate your commitment.
Accessibility Master Plans: Develop a clear, long-term accessibility strategy
Secure Your ANAB Certification Today –Limited Slots Available
• Improve Customer Service: Accessibility isn’t just about compliance; it’s about creating a better experience for all customers. Our services help you deliver exceptional customer service that drives satisfaction and loyalty.
• Reduce Risk: Proactively address accessibility needs to reduce the risk of complaints, lawsuits, and potential legal issues. Ensure your business is compliant with all relevant regulations and standards.
Secure Your Sage Certification Today – Limited Slots Available!
Grow revenue in an emerging market
Improve customer service
Reduce risk of complaints and lawsuits
Don’t wait to set the standard for accessibility in your industry. Contact us today to learn how Sage Inclusion can help your business create an inclusive environment for all.
Visit www.sageinclusion. com or contact us at info@ sageinclusion.com to get started on your accessibility journey.
info@sageinclusion.com
Save time and money
Want to stay up-to-date on the latest accessibility features and initiatives from Google? We've got you covered!
Watch: Explore the "What's new in Google accessibility" video series: g.co/a11y/playlist
Read: Sign up for Google's Accessibility Newsletter: g.co/a11y/news
Connect: Get support from the Google Disability Support team: g.co/disabilitysupport
Contribute: Become an Accessibility Trusted Tester: g.co/a11ytt
Statement:
Google’s mission is to organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful. We are committed to making accessibility a core consideration from the earliest stages of product design through release. Our central accessibility team has a mandate to monitor the state of accessibility of Google products and coordinate accessibility training, testing, and consulting. Product teams are offered training to help incorporate accessibility principles into the design and release of products. We also strive to cultivate relationships with a variety of users and advocacy groups to solicit feedback. "When we say we want to build for everyone – we mean it. Accessibility is written into our mission statement and core to our values as a company. We don’t think a problem is solved until we’ve solved it for everyone. Technology’s great promise is to give everyone the same power to achieve their goals. As long as there are barriers for some, there’s still work to be done." - Sundar Pichai
Links:
● Check out the "What's new in Google accessibility" video series that is highlighting the latest accessibility updates from Google! Tune in today on g.co/a11y/playlist
● https://about.google/belonging/
● Sign up for Google's Accessibility Newsletter. Join an ever-growing community of accessibility enthusiasts by subscribing to our newsletter and get the latest Google accessibility news to your inbox. Sign up today on g.co/a11y/news
● Join one of our programs to help shape Google products
○ Accessibility Trusted Tester: g.co/a11ytt
○ User Research: userresearch.google.com
At Wheel the World, we believe in a world where everyone can explore freely, without limits. That’s why we created Destination Verified—to break down barriers in travel and ensure that every destination becomes accessible and inclusive for all.
As someone who uses a wheelchair, I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges of traveling to places that weren’t built with people like me in mind. These challenges go beyond inconvenience—they’re a reminder of how much work is still needed to make the world accessible.
Destination Verified isn’t just a verification process; It’s a commitment from destinations to go beyond accessibility
regulations and enhance accessibility for travelers with disabilities. It’s about working with cities, hospitality businesses, and destinations to identify opportunities for change and celebrate the progress already made. We partner with destinations to gather and share detailed accessibility information that empowers travelers with disabilities to make informed decisions about where to go and what to experience.
This work is deeply personal. Every step forward means more people can enjoy the freedom of travel, families can create unforgettable memories, and destinations can proudly say they’re welcoming to everyone.
We are proud to have 100 cities already enrolled at Destination Verified. Together, we’re not just making destinations more accessible; we’re fostering a world where inclusion is the norm.
Join us in making this vision a reality. Visit wheeltheworld. com to see how we’re transforming travel, one destination at a time.
Let’s dream bigger, travel further, and include everyone.
At We Hear You®, accessibility isn’t just a feature—it’s the standard. That belief drives everything we do, from creating the Hero Door Opener to developing Push™, tools designed to break down barriers and empower independence for all.
The Hero Door Opener
Inaccessible spaces aren’t minor inconveniences; they’re daily reminders of the inequities faced by individuals with disabilities. The Hero Door Opener and Push™ address this by offering affordable, adaptable, and user-friendly solutions for homes, businesses, and more. Whether you’re a renter seeking portability or a business aiming to accommodate all customers, our products make inclu-
sion simple and effective.
This mission is deeply personal. Every effortless door opening represents greater autonomy, reduced burdens for families, and businesses embracing inclusivity. Together, we’re building a culture where accessibility is the foundation of every space.
We’re proud of the progress so far, but there’s more to do. Join us in transforming spaces and creating a world where innovation and inclusivity go hand in hand.
Learn more at wehearyouopensdoors.com
Let’s open doors for all.
Discover Greater Fort Lauderdale, a vibrant destination where sun-kissed beaches and cultural treasures are accessible to everyone. Imagine a travel experience where every individual, regardless of body ability, can partake in the joys of exploration and adventure.
Visit Lauderdale stands at the forefront of accessible tourism, ensuring that every traveler and their companion feels welcomed and accommodated. With initiatives that cater to diverse needs, Greater Fort Lauderdale is more than a vacation; it’s an escape to a community that embraces everyone. Whether it’s navigating the pristine beaches in our eight coastal cities, enjoying a show at Broward Center for the Performing Arts, or the thrill of airboat adventure and alligator show
at Everglades Holiday Park, our experiences are designed with accessibility in mind.
We work with partners like Wheel the World and Access Now to map out our slice of paradise to remove barriers for all. It starts when you arrive at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, which offers the Hidden Sunflower Disability program, allowing those with non-visible disabilities to request extra assistance when traveling.
With downtown less than five miles from the airport, there is no reason to delay the good times in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Shop on Las Olas Boulevard, explore pet-friendly accommodations like the Plunge Beach Resort, or take a scenic kayak through the waters at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. Come, explore, and find your place in Greater Fort Lauderdale – an escape for Everyone Under the Sun.
Simple elegance gets a hometown welcome at The Schoolhouse Hotel... a bespoke, ultra-accessible hotel in the heart of wondrous West Virginia.
From spacious, uniquely appointed rooms to guideanimal facilities, our guest experience is crafted with your accessibility in mind. Come home to The Schoolhouse Hotel: it’s the smart move.
White Sulphur Springs, WV 304-536-0999 info@theschoolhousehotelwv.com www.theschoolhousehotelwv.com ©The Schoolhouse Hotel 2022
Modern elegance meets West Virginia charm in this ultra-accessible hotel
Travelers and event planners who are seeking small-town charm with modern amenities will find their heart’s desire in The Schoolhouse Hotel, a bespoke lodging in the Allegheny Mountains of White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. Renovated from the town’s beloved schoolhouse, the hotel offers guests a true community experience that’s perfect for every kind of personal or professional gathering.
People who hold their meetings, weddings, company retreats, and class reunions at The Schoolhouse Hotel will find a warm welcome in a small town that’s always ready for big occasions. There’s a wedding chapel mere steps away… not to mention a spacious ballroom, conference rooms, a firstclass restaurant, a rooftop bar, thirty custom-appointed rooms, and a whole town to explore. And, of course, there’s amazing local scenery to hike, bike, kayak, and simply enjoy.
ACCOMMODATE YOUR DREAMS
The Schoolhouse Hotel was built to exacting ADA standards. Lights and bathroom facilities are one-touch activated. All spaces offer plenty of room for wheelchairs and scooters. There’s even artificial grass for service animals.
CELEBRATE WITH CLASS
The Schoolhouse Hotel is small-town comfort with modern convenience. Guests love to talk about the personal service they receive. Supported by a vibrant local community, it’s a place to gather for any occasion, step away from distraction, and focus on what matters most. Visit www.theschoolhousehotelwv.com or call 304-536-0999 to begin your adventure.
• Lansing recognized by Accessible Journeys and Travel
Ability as one of the top three destinations in the country for those traveling on the autism spectrum.
• Lansing recognized as the first Able Eyes Certified Destination in the country.
Scan this QR Code and start planning your getaway.
Lansing.org
• Virtual tours allow people of all abilities to explore public places prior to visiting.
• Sensory Inclusive Activities & Calendar of Events.
Greater Lansing offers an exceptional destination for travelers seeking an inclusive and welcoming experience. Located in the heart of Michigan, this vibrant region provides diverse attractions and amenities for visitors of all abilities. Lansing has even been recognized by Accessible Journeys
Magazine as one of the top U.S. cities for autism families, showcasing its dedication to creating an accessible, supportive environment for all visitors.
Accessibility Highlights
The area boasts impressive accessibility features, including:
•Universally accessible attractions and infrastructure
•Specialized accommodations for diverse needs
•TravelAbility Destination Ally
•First city in the U.S. to be named an AbleVu Accessible City
Inclusive and Neurodiverse-Friendly Attractions
Visitors can enjoy unique experiences:
•Special programming and hours for neurodiverse visitors at attractions like Impression 5 Science Center, Abrams Planetarium, Potter Park Zoo, Wharton Center for Performing Arts and many more!
•Handicapable Go-Karts at High Caliber Karting
•Accessible kayak launches on the Grand River
•American Sign Language tours of the State Capitol Building
•Play Michigan! all inclusive playground
•Supportive restaurant and lodging options
Unique Community Features
The region stands out with:
•Central Michigan location
•Over 500 Certified Tourism Ambassadors
•Diverse population speaking 63 languages
•Home to Michigan State University and the State Capitol
•Midwestern hospitality and welcoming atmosphere
•Virtual tours of locations available on the website.
Whether you are looking to explore its rich cultural heritage, enjoy thrilling activities, or simply relax in a friendly setting, Lansing ensures that every traveler’s needs are met with care and consideration. Visit lansing.org to plan your getaway.
Streaming now on Peacock, “Traveling the Spectrum” invites viewers to experience the profound impact of sensory-friendly travel. Created in partnership with Visit Myrtle Beach and The WorkShop Content Studios, this groundbreaking series follows three families with members on the autism spectrum as they navigate unforgettable vacations in the Myrtle Beach area. Through their journeys, the show highlights the unique challenges and triumphs of sensory-friendly travel, showcasing the Myrtle Beach community’s commitment to inclusivity and connection.
Recognized as an autism-friendly destination since 2016, Myrtle Beach is a haven for families seeking tailored accommodations and welcoming experiences. From sensory-friendly attractions to quiet spaces and specialized programs, The Beach ensures every family feels at home. Explore 60 miles of pristine coastline, vibrant attractions, and family-friendly dining options that cater to all needs.
Looking to plan your own sensory-friendly getaway? Visit www. visitmyrtlebeach.com/autism to discover tips, resources, and accommodations designed for inclusivity. Plus, learn how author Lynda Farrington Wilson’s children’s book Splish, Splash, Squawk! Finding Joy in a Sensory-Friendly Vacation can help families prepare for a stress-free trip.
Ready to be inspired? Watch the trailer, meet the cast, and stream full episodes of “Traveling the Spectrum” at www.TravelingTheSpectrumShow.com. Myrtle Beach isn’t just a beach—it’s a community where everyone belongs. Plan your visit today and see how The Beach can transform your family’s next adventure!
Mesa, Arizona is a community that prioritizes accessibility and inclusion. From accommodations to attractions, you can confidently plan a trip where everyone feels welcome. Discover Mesa’s accessible adventures and start planning your trip today.
Mesa, Arizona, invites visitors to “Live Life Limitless” in a city where accessibility and inclusion lead the way. Celebrated as the first Autism Certified City in the world, Mesa sets a global standard for inclusive travel. This pioneering achievement reflects the city’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment where individuals of all abilities can thrive.
Mesa builds on this distinction by being recognized as the first Verified Destination by Wheel the World, a platform connecting travelers with disabilities to accessible destinations worldwide. Through their detailed accessibility information and experienced customer support, Wheel the World ensures unique, inclusive experiences tailored to diverse needs.
Initiatives like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program and Aira enhance Mesa’s inclusive offerings. Visitors with non-visible disabilities can choose to wear a sunflower symbol lanyard to signal their need for assistance or extra patience. Aira provides real-time, on-demand visual interpretation services, offering vital support to individuals with vision impairments. These resources, available citywide at no cost, make Mesa an exceptional destination for visitors seeking accessibility and inclusion.
Mesa exemplifies how destinations can embed accessibility into their travel experiences, setting a benchmark for inclusion and hospitality. With a clear vision for inclusion, a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, and the spirit of “City Limitless,” Mesa, Arizona, proves that when accessibility is prioritized, everyone wins.
There’s something for everyone in North Alabama, and the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association is dedicated to ensuring that all travelers can experience our region. With so many people living with disabilities, it is more important than ever that the attractions, restaurants, festivals, accommodations and businesses located throughout North Alabama are accessible to guests of all backgrounds. Our goal is to provide our visitors with accessible, enjoyable, and memorable experiences. To accomplish this, we are currently surveying our partners to understand the current state of accessibility in North Alabama. Information gathered will be organized and displayed in a new section dedicated solely to accessible travel on www.northalabama.org which we plan to launch in July during National Disability Pride Month! Stay tuned for updates on this initiative and together, we can create a welcoming environment for everyone.
gathered will be organized and displayed in a new section dedicated solely to accessible travel on www.northalabama.org which we hope to launch in July during National Disability Pride Month!
There’s something for everyone in North Alabama, and the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association (AMLA) is dedicated to ensuring that all travelers can experience our region. With so many people living with disabilities, it is more important than ever that the attractions, restaurants, festivals, accommodations and businesses located throughout North Alabama are accessible to guests of all backgrounds. Our goal at AMLA is to provide our visitors with accessible, enjoyable and memorable experiences. To accomplish this, we are currently surveying our members to understand the current state of accessibility in North Alabama. Information
AMLA has also partnered with Tourism All-A-Bama to provide front-line workers with free travel industry training centered around tools to help better welcome travelers with sensory sensitivities or those on the autism spectrum. To see a list of hotels in North Alabama that have already underwent training and to make reservations at these properties, visit tourismallabama.org/make-a-reservation.
Stay tuned for updates on this initiative and together, we can create a welcoming environment for everyone. In the meantime, check out this blog for things to do in North Alabama as a wheelchair user
The Palm Beaches are your canvas for stylishly-elevated meetings and artistic between-the-sessions experiences. Enjoy both the professional and the inspiring in one amazing place. Curate your most successful meetings at ThePalmBeaches.com/meetings.
In The Palm Beaches, business meetings and events strike the perfect balance between productivity and relaxation, offering accessible experiences for attendees of all abilities—both between sessions and after a successful day.
With state-of-the-art venues, thoughtful accommodations, and inclusive attractions, The Palm Beaches set the standard for hosting events in an inspiring, accessible destination. The Hilton West Palm Beach, directly connected to the Palm Beach County Convention Center, is a top choice for business travelers. Featuring accessible guest rooms, resort-style amenities, and a central location steps from downtown, the Hilton ensures a seamless, enjoyable stay for all guests. After meetings, attendees can unwind by the tropical pool or explore nearby accessible attractions.
Outside the boardroom, The Palm Beaches offer
enriching experiences for everyone. The Cox Science Center & Aquarium hosts Sensory Saturdays with quieter hours for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Nature lovers can enjoy wheelchair-accessible trails at Green Cay Nature Center and Wakodahatchee Wetlands.
At Loggerhead Marinelife Center, sensory backpacks and ASL-guided tours provide engaging opportunities for all visitors. For art and history enthusiasts, the Norton Museum of Art and Henry Morrison Flagler Museum offer wheelchair-friendly entrances, restrooms, and guided tours.
Discover The Palm Beaches takes inclusivity seriously as a Certified Autism Center, and by partnering with TravelAbility and Wheel the World to ensure visitors can find and book tailored accessible experiences.
Plan your next meeting in The Palm Beaches and discover a collection of accessible experiences.
See More Accessible Experiences
The Eugene, Cascades & Coast region of Oregon strives to enhance universal access to the region’s natural wonders, public facilities and accommodations. Known for its livability, walkability and sustainability, Eugene emphasizes inclusivity, promoting mobility for those who walk, bike or roll. Curb ramps are widespread, and paved paths connect centers of commerce to neighborhoods. The Lane Independent Living Alliance (LILA) identifies ADA-compliant businesses through the Blue Path initiative. Lane Transit District (LTD) offers accessible routes and lift-equipped buses across the metro area. The John G. Shedd Institute for the Arts ensures accessibility with wheelchair ramps and hearing loop systems. In fact, more than 35 hotels, attractions and performing arts venues have hearing loop technology. The Hilyard Community Center provides inclusive meeting spaces, rentable adaptive bikes and adaptive recreational opportunities like coastal visits and snow skiing.
The Adaptive Recreation Services program offers extensive recreational, social and educational opportunities. Numerous parks and trails are safe for wheelchairs and the visually impaired, and Salt Creek Falls has a wheelchair-friendly viewing platform. Through David’s Chair, two track chairs at Mount Pisgah Arboretum in Eugene and one in Florence on the Oregon Coast provide accessible adventures among the trees and on the beach. The Eugene, Cascades & Coast region’s commitment to accessibility is one of many great reasons to bring your group to meet and explore!
Welcome to Kissimmee, the perfect blend of work and play! Located in the heart of Central Florida, our sunny destination offers easy access to Orlando International Airport (MCO) and is connected to South Florida via Brightline Trains, providing seamless travel for attendees.
Accommodations That Fit Your Needs
Kissimmee offers a wide variety of meeting hotels, from the renowned Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center to boutique options like Meliã Orlando Celebration. Whether you’re hosting a large conference or an intimate board meeting, we can help you find the ideal space. From sourcing to services, our destination experts can help elevate your next event.
Where Meetings Meet Adventure
Kissimmee’s year-round sunshine isn’t just for outdoor adventures — many venues feature floorto-ceiling windows with access to inspiring outdoor spaces. For group outings, try footgolf at Reunion Resort & Golf Club or enjoy a reception at Eagle’s
Edge at ChampionsGate Entertainment districts Promenade at Sunset Walk, Disney Springs®, and ICON Park also provide endless dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
For unique team-building activities, explore the headwaters of the Everglades or zipline over alligators at Gatorland for an unforgettable experience!
Make Your Next Meeting Unforgettable
Kissimmee isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience waiting to unfold. From exciting team-building activities to unique venues, we offer everything to make your next meeting unforgettable. Tap into our local expertise by contacting us at meet@experiencekissimmee.com or source us in Cvent. Plus, eligible meetings can earn up to $10,000 cash back through our “It Pays to Meet in Kissimmee” meeting incentive — and for every room night booked, a tree is planted through Trees4Travel to help compensate carbon emissions. Let’s make your next event the best one yet!
Bend, Oregon has long been a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Located on the eastern flank of the Central Oregon Cascades, Bend is home to world class hiking, biking, skiing, and more!
Central Oregon is also a nationwide leader in the push towards accessible adventure, empowering those with mobility challenges to hit the trail and feed their sense of exploration! Local guiding outfit, Wanderlust Tours, has teamed up with AdvenChair and founder Geoff Babb to bring a host of accessible guided tours to those with mobility needs!
The AdvenChair is an all terrain, human powered, hiking wheelchair that allows people with mobility challenges to experience the serenity and grandeur of wild places. The AdvenChair provides the opportunity for a family to take in the sunset from a stunning vista, friends to reconnect on the trail, and so much more!
You can learn more about the AdvenChair, upcoming public accessible tours, and custom tours at www.wanderlusttours.com/ adventours-guided-accessible-tours-bendoregon
With a mobility-friendly, waterfront Convention District offering easy accessibility, it’s always go-time for dynamic meetings in Tampa Bay. All with a long-standing commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion that welcomes every guest.
tampa meetings .com
Tampa Bay invites visitors to experience a destination where accessibility and innovation come together to create an environment where all are welcome. From the stunning waterfront views at the Stella Award-winning Tampa Convention Center, boasting 600,000 sq. ft. of customizable event space, to citywide initiatives that prioritize inclusivity, Tampa Bay is redefining the standard for accessible travel.
Tampa is Florida’s first accessible city through its partnership with AbleVu. This milestone reflects a commitment to providing the information you need to make your visit as inclusive as it is memorable. Alongside this designation, Tampa Bay collaborates with Wheel the World, which connects travelers with disabilities to accessible destinations worldwide. Through detailed information and personalized support, you can plan trips tailored to your needs, ensuring comfort and confidence throughout your stay.
Supporting non-visible disabilities, Tampa Bay embraces the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. By wearing a sunflower symbol, you can signal any need for assistance or understanding, fostering a welcoming environment at attractions, hotels, and even Tampa International Airport. In addition, Tampa Bay has partnered with EnChroma to provide color-blind accessibility at select museums and the Unlock Tampa Bay Visitors Center, promising a richer experience for all.
Accessibility efforts extend across its scenic 2.6-mile Riverwalk, which features mobility-friendly pathways linking museums, parks, and restaurants. Wheelchair-accessible transportation options like the Pirate Water Taxi and TECO Line Streetcar make exploring seamless and enjoyable.
Whether planning a meeting or a personal adventure, discover a destination where inclusivity is at the heart of every experience.
SAN DIEGO, CA
Meetings in California are like no others. Around here, an anything-is-possible meets an everyone-is-welcome mindset. And with more open-air venues and sunny days, it’s no coincidence that California is always making waves when it comes to groundbreaking ideas. Dive into the land of innovators, freethinkers, and can-doers and discover the perfect setting for getting the most out of your next meeting or event.
Meet What’s Possible for your next meeting at VisitCalifornia.com/meetings.
From its stunning Pacific coastline to majestic mountains, the towering redwoods to the vibrant deserts and from metropolitan cities to unique small towns California is a magnet for meetings of all types and sizes.
Whether you’re looking for a remote vineyard setting for 25 guests, an oceanfront resort for a meeting of 250, or a state-of-the-art facility to accommodate a multi-day citywide event for 150,000 delegates, California has an unparalleled abundance of offerings, with safety and sustainability a cornerstone of each. Known for its pioneering spirit, anything-is-possible mindset and culture of inclusivity, California is a hub of innovation and home to titans of tech and bio-tech, healthcare and education. It is this climate of possibility that delivers a wholly distinct meetings and events experience that inspires potential in one and all.
That inspiration does not end when the meeting it over. From its yearround outdoor splendor and endless options for entertainment, to its cultural icons, boutique shopping and Michelin star chef-owned restaurants that showcase the state’s rich agriculture bounty, California holds great appeal for attendees with diverse interests.
The Golden State is ready to welcome your next meeting or event with a steadfast commitment to success.
Come to Meet What’s Possible in California at VisitCalifornia.com/ meetings.
In Charlottesville and Albemarle County, we believe that travel should be fun, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or planning a return trip, our region offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, vibrant culinary options, and scenic vineyards to explore. Learn more and start planning your trip today!
visitcharlottesville.org
In Charlottesville and Albemarle County, we believe that travel should be fun, enriching, and accessible for everyone. Situated in the heart of Central Virginia and nestled against the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, we welcome visitors from every corner of the globe to explore our diverse and vibrant area. Whether you’re here for a short stay or a long visit, we strive to ensure your experience is memorable, accessible, and inclusive.
No visit to the Charlottesville area is complete without enjoying one or several of the experiences below!
• Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello is a UNESCO World Heritage Site committed to providing assistance to guests of all abilities.
• Outdoor recreation lovers will enjoy discovering the Saunders-Monticello Trail, which leisurely winds its way to the visitor center at Monticello. The trail has a maximum grade of 5% making it fully accessible to walkers, cyclists, and wheelchair users.
• A visit to the Charlottesville area should include a stop at the historic Downtown Mall. Recently added to the National Register of Historic Places, this pedestrian-only avenue features a mix of restored and renovated buildings where visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Many of the shops and restaurants here have step-free and/or accessible entrances. A complete list of those businesses can be found here.
The Sunshine State’s renowned hospitality and diverse experiences enable travelers of all abilities to follow their sunshine.
Here’s a sampling of accessible things to do across Florida.
Pensacola Beach - Fort Pickens
Accessible fishing piers. Nature trails with tactile exhibits. Beach wheelchairs free for hire.
Ocala - Marion
Therapeutic Riding Association
Horseback riding experiences for guests of all abilities.
Tampa - The Florida Aquarium
Accessible to visitors with visual, hearing, physical, or sensory-processing needs.
Service dogs welcome.
Orlando - Orlando Museum of Art
Wheelchairs free for hire. Listening devices available. Guide dogs are welcome.
Florida Keys - Tranquil Adventures, Key Largo
Accessible boat charters for visitors of all abilities to fish, snorkel, and swim.
New Smyrna BeachAccessible Beaches
Beach wheelchairs free for hire.
Cocoa BeachKennedy Space Center
Park-wide services for visitors with mobility, vision, and hearing impairments. In-park guide for autistic guests.
Miami - Zoo Miami
Certified Autism Center. Specially trained staff and programs for guests with sensory disorders.
• The Charlottesville area is home to nearly 50 wineries in the surrounding Monticello American Viticultural Area – a region that was named Wine Enthusiast’s Wine Region of the Year in recent years.
• The Charlottesville area has a vibrant arts scene, with places like the Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection, the IX Art Park, and Live Arts offering accessible experiences for all visitors.
• Kindness Café + Play is a mission-driven coffee shop that employs adults with cognitive disabilities. Now with two locations, visitors can enjoy a diverse menu of coffee and espresso drinks as well as smoothies, protein shakes, baked goods, Bavarian pretzels, and more.
When it’s time to turn in for the night, Charlottesville and Albemarle County offer visitors a wide variety of places to stay. Many of our hotels were assessed by our accessibility partner, Wheel the World, in 2023. To learn more, or to book a room, click here.
Travel shouldn’t be stressful – and we are here to help every step of the way! Check out our accessible travel page to find all the infor-
mation you need regarding accessible experiences, businesses with step-free entrances, accommodations, medical equipment providers, and so much more. We can’t wait to welcome you to Charlottesville & Albemarle County, Virginia!
Northern Virginia offers exciting experiences for visitors of all abilities. With wheelchair access and other accommodations available at popular sites like Great Falls Park, George Washington’s Mount Vernon, and the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum, Fairfax County welcomes all to join the fun!
Visit FXVA.com to learn more.
Fairfax County welcomes visitors of all abilities to explore the memorable travel experiences available at area parks, historic sites, museums, and restaurants. Plan your next trip to Northern Virginia using Fairfax County’s accessibility resources and Accessible Travel Guides written by local accessibility experts. Then dive into these 10 Wheelchair Accessible Things To Do to expand upon the experiences below.
● Concerts Under the Stars at Wolf Trap: America’s only National Park dedicated to the performing arts.
● Accessible Outdoors at Great Falls Park: A beautiful 800-acre National Park with a jaw-dropping waterfall, just 15 miles from D.C.
● Find Your Zen at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens: Landscaped gardens and a oneof-a-kind Korean Bell Garden amongst 95-acres of lush property.
● Sip Virginia Wines at The Winery at Bull Run: A grape to glass farm winery with ties to the Civil War.
Historic Sites and Museums
• Presidential Excursions at George Washington’s Mount Vernon: The estate of America’s first president, George Washington.
• Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center: An accessible treasure trove of aviation history displaying thousands of aviation and space artifacts.
• A Humanistic & Interactive Look Inside the National Museum of the U.S. Army: Commemorating nearly 250 years of Army history through the eyes of America’s Soldiers.
With over 100 hotels to choose from, flanked by 3 major airports, and access to a robust accessible regional Metrorail system, your journey to and around the U.S. Capital Region serves you with many options.
Are You Staying On Trend?
Companies miss out on an audience of MILLIONS of deaf and hard-of-hearing customers.
Our complete, turnkey solution at 360 Direct Video is designed to make communication seamless for deaf and hard-of-hearing customers. With direct, in-house accessibility, we’re creating opportunities for businesses to save costs while serving a largely underserved market.
The 360 Difference
Unlike traditional English-based
A deaf customer is on a support call directly with a deaf representative, both communicating using American Sign Language.
A deaf customer is on a support call directly with a deaf representative, both communicating using American Sign Language. chat or third-party interpreter services, our platform offers direct communication in Sign Language—a distinct language—not simply “visual English.” This unique approach reduces call times by 42% and can expand reach to this underserved community by 533%.
Offer American, British, Quebec, French, & Mexican Sign Languages with our call center services. Learn more at www.360directvideo.com. Follow on LinkedIn
360 Direct Video is a deaf/minority/women owned business that is also DOBE (Disability-Owned Business Enterprise) Certified through Disability:IN.
Aira breaks down accessibility barriers with on-demand remote video interpreting for both the blind and low-vision community and the Deaf community.
Access to information is a human right. Despite this, many people in the blind and low vision community and Deaf community experience daily barriers when they can’t access information. This can result in them being excluded from opportunities to fully participate in the workplace, at school, or as a consumer. Aira helps remove some of these barriers with two distinct apps that provide on-demand remote video interpreting.
Aira’s blind and low-vision users can open the Aira Explorer app, and with one tap are connected to a professional visual interpreter who works with them to better access their surroundings by navigating, describing, narrating, and reading.
Plus, an AI image chat feature is free for anyone to use and receive instant image descriptions.
Aira’s users in the Deaf community can open the Aira ASL app and be instantly connected to a professional American Sign Language interpreter to facilitate better and more efficient communication, anytime, anywhere. This is a unique tool for enhancing communication between the Deaf community and hearing people.
Aira ASL and Aira Explorer are available for download in the iOS App Store and Google Play Store. Learn more here.
Aira is offered at thousands of Access Partner locations worldwide. These Access Partners are organizations that offer complimentary access to Aira’s services to their employees, students, and customers for free. These Access Partners who embrace video remote interpreting with Aira ensure everyone who interacts with their organization has equal access to information, thereby fostering stronger cultures of accessibility and inclusivity. Visit www.aira. io for more information, or contact or team at access@aira.io to learn about becoming an Access Partner.
