Top Tips for Planning Accessible New York Holidays

New York, New York! A city like no other that makes everybody's bucket list. And if you're travelling with a disability, we're pleased to say it can stay there. From accessible accommodation to transportation and attractions, here's how you can have a New York holiday without limits...
 

How to Find Accessible Accommodation 

Although the accessibility of buildings is established in New York law, finding the right accommodation still takes planning. As US holiday specialists, our Accessible Holidays provide a matching accommodation for mobility needs, visual impairments, hearing loss, or cognitive differences.



Some of the most popular choices are the beautiful Westin New York Grand Central or the great TRYP by Wyndham Times Square South. Both hotels are accessible for people with visual and hearing impairments and are wheelchair accessible. We also love the stylish Aliz Hotel Time Square, which is accessible for people with visual impairments and wheelchair accessible. And we really do mean that these hotels are accessible. For example, at the Aliz Hotel Time Square alone there are accessible routes, food and beverage outlets, guest rooms, restrooms, visual and audible emergency alarms, Braille signage throughout the property and an accessible fitness centre. Whatever your disability or taste, you can be confident of finding a suitable accommodation. 

Accessible Transport Options 

As the biggest metropolis in the United States, New York City, has several transport options. In our experience, NYC buses and ferries are a reliable option - especially as both options are always ADA compliant. 

If you were to take the subway, you could encounter some issues. Although NYC is endeavoring to make 95 percent of its metro stations fully accessible by 2055, it still has a long way to go to reach this goal. Currently, only around 30 percent of metro stattions are accessible. There are designated areas to border the subway but before choosing the metro as a transportation method, please make sure that the elevators are in service. There is also the possibility to apply in advance for a Reduced Fare MetroCard applicable to those with impairments.

When boarding a bus, you will find ramped entries usually at the front of the bus, or in some exemptions, at the mid-section. Each bus offers two designated spaces for wheelchairs.

When boarding NYC ferries, it is the main decks which are ADA accessible. 

When it comes to taxis, nearly one-third of NYC yellow and green taxis offer a ramped entry through the back. For wheelchair accessibility, the most recommended taxis are either a Nissan NV100 or a Toyota Sienna. There are various options for hailing yourself a taxi. Either by calling 311, through the Accessible Dispatch app or other apps like Curb.

Alternatively, consider Amtraks, accessible regional Commute Trains, paratransit or rideshares with accessible options. And if you ever need a helping hand, we recommend simply asking the friendly public of the city.

Accessible Attractions 

We are happy to confirm that most of the top New York sightseeing attractions are accessible. So be part of the city that never sleeps, and pack your days with wanderlust.

Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the city from the Top of the Rock, the Empire State Building, the One World Observatory and the Edge Observation Deck without a problem. We also love the accessibility of the Brooklyn Bridge and most parts of Central Park are wheelchair accessible. You could even take to the skies on a breathtaking helicopter tour, by letting them know of your requirements in advance.




For an educational day, you can visit New York's famous museums, including the 9/11 Museum, MoMA and the Met.

If you're a sports, fan, all of the major stadiums are wheelchair accessible. Then for a touch of culture, book a Broadway show. We're pleased to state Broadway theatres have recently increased their accessibility with audio description, closed captioning, and assistive listening.
 

FAQs for Accessible New York holidays 

How can I book my holiday without talking over the phone? 

Good news - we’re in the process of rolling out a new Live Chat feature that will enable you to confirm your booking online. In the meantime, all quotes and communication with your accessible travel specialist can also be made via email. 
 

How do I book an accessible villa or hotel? 

During your quote, you will be able to highlight your need for an accessible holiday. At this stage, we will request that you complete an Accessibility Checklist. We will combine your requirements with your travel wish list to provide a tailor-made holiday package. 

You can also see our handcrafted accessible holidays for specific dates and locations here. Our accessible accommodations will include features such as widened doorways for wheelchairs, hearing-impaired alert devices, low-sensory zones and more, for villa, resort, or cruise ship holidays. 
 

I need an accessible room, can you guarantee it will have the features I need? 

When you inquire about an accessible holiday, we will ask you to fill out a form covering all the possible modifications you might need to make your stay comfortable. We will then secure appropriate accommodation but should unforeseen circumstances cause your accommodation to change, we are unable to guarantee that every feature will remain available. 
 

Are there visual alarms available in my accommodation? 

If you have a specific request, such as a visual alarm or doorbell for your room, let us know and we will find accommodation that offers them. 
 

I have a disability which is not immediately obvious, what services are available? 

There are many services available for customers with hidden disabilities - including those on offer for immediately apparent conditions. Right from the start of your holiday, we can help arrange special assistance at airports – such as priority check-ins, pre-boarding or delayed boarding, and pre-assigned standard seats. 

We also recommend making airport staff aware of your circumstances by wearing a sunflower lanyard from Hidden Disabilities. It’s an internationally recognized symbol that discretely alerts people that you have a disability that’s not always apparent. As a member of the Hidden Disabilities scheme, we can send you a lanyard for free when you book your holiday – you only have to ask. 
 

We hope that by reading this, you found the perfect inspiration for your accessible holidays in New York City, and we would be glad to help you fulfil your travel dreams.

Get in touch today for a bespoke quote with expert guidance.