Planning travel in 2026 should feel exciting, not like a puzzle you have to solve before you even book a trip. For wheelchair users and their travel partners, accessibility plays a huge role in where you go, how confident you feel once you arrive, and whether the experience feels relaxing or exhausting.
The good news is that more destinations are continuing to invest in accessible infrastructure, mobility-friendly attractions, and inclusive experiences, making travel more possible than ever. Whether you’re dreaming of warm weather, cultural experiences, or scenic outdoor spaces, there are destinations that balance accessibility with enjoyment without constant workarounds.
This guide highlights practical, wheelchair-accessible travel ideas for 2026, focusing on places where mobility, comfort, and flexibility come together. Each destination includes real-world accessibility considerations to help you plan with confidence, not guesswork.
Top Wheelchair Accessible Travel Destinations for 2026
1. Tampa, Florida
Tampa continues to stand out as one of the most wheelchair-friendly destinations in the country, making it a strong choice for travelers looking to start the year somewhere warm, welcoming, and easy to navigate. The city offers a mix of waterfront scenery, cultural attractions, and thoughtfully designed public spaces that support mobility without feeling restrictive.
Across Tampa, travelers can expect:
- The Tampa Riverwalk is a smooth, paved waterfront path stretching over two miles and connecting museums, parks, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- Accessible beaches nearby, including Clearwater Beach and St. Pete Beach, which offer seasonal beach wheelchairs, mobility mats, and ADA parking close to boardwalk access.
- Barrier-free museums and cultural attractions, with wide galleries, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
- Reliable accessibility across downtown, including curb cuts, ramps, and consistent sidewalk surfaces.
Tampa works especially well for travelers who want variety without long travel distances. Many attractions are clustered close together, which helps conserve energy and keeps days flexible.
What to know:
Crowds are lighter outside of peak spring and summer seasons, making winter and early-year travel especially comfortable for wheelchair users. Check out this Wheelers Tampa Travel Guide to learn about more travel opportunities!
2. Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona
Phoenix and Scottsdale continue to be favorite destinations for accessible travelers heading into the new year, especially those looking for comfortable winter temperatures, scenic desert landscapes, and attractions designed with mobility in mind. Together, these cities offer a mix of outdoor beauty, cultural experiences, and resort-style relaxation without the physical demands found in more rugged destinations.
Across Phoenix and Scottsdale, travelers can expect:
- Botanical gardens with fully paved pathways, including the Desert Botanical Garden, which offers more than ⅓ mile of smooth, wheelchair-accessible trails and plenty of seating.
- Accessible outdoor attractions and parks, with level paths, shaded rest areas, and drive-up viewpoints that allow visitors to enjoy the desert without navigating uneven terrain.
- Scenic drives through Papago Park and surrounding desert preserves, offering expansive views without leaving the comfort of your vehicle.
- ADA-compliant resorts and spas in Scottsdale, many featuring roll-in showers, pool lifts, zero-entry pools, and step-free pathways throughout the property.
- Wide roads and accessible parking make driving-based exploration stress-free and straightforward.
Phoenix and Scottsdale work especially well for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, shorter outings, and the flexibility to explore throughout the day without committing to long distances or physically demanding activities. Check out our guide for 10 accessible winter getaways in Arizona.
What to know:
Even in winter, outdoor areas can be sunny and dry. Planning activities earlier in the day and bringing sun protection helps keep outings comfortable and enjoyable.
3. San Diego, California
San Diego remains a strong choice for accessible travel in 2026, especially for travelers seeking mild weather, coastal scenery, and a walkable downtown that supports mobility. The city has invested heavily in accessible public spaces, making it easier to enjoy beaches, cultural attractions, and waterfront dining without constant workarounds.
Across San Diego, travelers can expect:
- Beaches with paved boardwalks and seasonal beach wheelchairs, allowing wheelchair users to enjoy coastal views and get closer to the shoreline at select locations.
- A wheelchair-friendly downtown and waterfront, with smooth sidewalks, curb cuts, and accessible crossings.
- Balboa Park’s wide, paved pathways connect museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo with clearly marked ADA entrances and elevators.
- The San Diego Zoo, which offers accessible tram tours, smooth internal pathways, accessible restrooms, and seating areas throughout the park.
- The Embarcadero and harbor area, featuring level paths, accessible public spaces, and waterfront restaurants with step-free entry.
San Diego works especially well for travelers who want a balance of outdoor time and cultural experiences, without needing to travel far between attractions.
What to know:
Beach wheelchair availability can vary by location and season. Confirming access points ahead of time helps avoid surprises once you arrive.
4. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston blends historic character with some of the strongest public accessibility infrastructure in the Northeast, making it a compelling destination for accessible travel in 2026. While the city is known for its age and history, many of Boston’s most popular attractions have been thoughtfully adapted to support wheelchair users.
Across Boston, travelers can expect:
- The Boston Harborwalk is a largely smooth, paved waterfront path that allows wheelchair users to explore the city’s harbor, parks, and waterfront neighborhoods without steep grades.
- Accessible portions of the Freedom Trail, with curb cuts, ramps, and clearly marked crossings that allow visitors to experience historic sites at a comfortable pace.
- The Museum of Science, which offers wide galleries, elevators to all levels, accessible restrooms, and hands-on exhibits designed to be enjoyed from seated height.
- Reliable public accessibility, including curb ramps, accessible pedestrian signals, and ADA-compliant public transportation throughout much of the city.
- Accessible dining and cultural venues, particularly in downtown and waterfront areas, where sidewalks and entrances are more consistently maintained.
Boston works especially well for travelers who enjoy history, museums, and waterfront scenery, and who want the option to explore without relying exclusively on a car.
What to know:
Some historic areas still include brick sidewalks and uneven surfaces. Sticking to the Harborwalk and clearly marked accessible routes along the Freedom Trail helps avoid unnecessary challenges.
5. National Parks with Growing Accessibility
Many US parks are investing in improved accessibility. Among the most accessible for 2026:
Grand Canyon South Rim
The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is one of the most accessible national park experiences in the country, offering breathtaking views without requiring backcountry travel.
Accessible features include:
- Paved Rim Trail segments, allowing wheelchair users to roll between multiple overlooks with minimal elevation changes.
- Accessible viewpoints such as Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and Hopi Point, each with nearby ADA parking or shuttle access.
- Fully accessible visitor centers, including restrooms, exhibits, elevators, and seating areas.
- Accessible shuttle buses, which run seasonally and connect key viewpoints and facilities.
The South Rim works well for travelers who want iconic scenery paired with predictable access and short distances between stops.
What to know:
The weather can change quickly, even in warmer months. Checking seasonal shuttle schedules and road conditions helps avoid surprises.
Yosemite Valley
Yosemite Valley offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the national park system, and it’s also one of the most accessible areas within Yosemite National Park.
Accessible features include:
- Paved, level paths throughout Yosemite Valley, including routes to Yosemite Falls (lower section), Bridalveil Fall viewing area, and meadow overlooks.
- Accessible viewpoints and pullouts along scenic drives, allowing visitors to enjoy iconic views from El Capitan and Half Dome without hiking.
- Accessible shuttle buses with ramps or lifts connecting major stops within the valley.
- Wheelchair-accessible visitor centers, lodges, and restrooms.
Yosemite Valley is ideal for travelers who want a classic national park experience while staying within well-maintained, accessible areas.
What to know:
Peak seasons can be busy. Visiting earlier in the day or during shoulder seasons helps reduce crowd-related challenges.
Zion National Park
Zion National Park is known for towering canyon walls and dramatic landscapes, and while much of the park is rugged, several areas are highly accessible.
Accessible features include:
- The Pa’rus Trail, a fully paved, wheelchair-accessible trail running along the Virgin River with scenic views and minimal grade.
- Accessible shuttle buses, which are required during much of the year, connect visitors to trailheads and scenic areas.
- Accessible restrooms and visitor centers at major shuttle stops.
- Scenic drive access during off-shuttle seasons, allowing visitors to experience the park from their vehicle.
Zion works well for travelers who want a national park experience that includes an accessible trail rather than just viewpoints.
What to know:
Shuttle seasons vary. Checking shuttle schedules in advance is essential for trip planning.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains offer a quieter, more forested national park experience, with accessibility centered around scenic drives and select accessible facilities.
Accessible features include:
- Accessible visitor centers, including Sugarlands and Oconaluftee, with ramps, exhibits, and ADA-compliant restrooms.
- Scenic drives such as Newfound Gap Road and Cades Cove Loop, offering pullouts and overlooks with minimal walking required.
- Accessible picnic areas and restrooms at select locations.
- Paved paths and short accessible trails near visitor centers and historic sites.
The Smokies are a good fit for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and peaceful outdoor experiences without crowds.
What to know:
Cell service can be limited. Planning routes and stops ahead of time helps keep travel smooth.
Accessible Travel Tips for a Smooth 2026 Trip
Planning ahead can make your 2026 travels feel empowering, seamless, and full of freedom. With just a few thoughtful steps, you can remove uncertainty and make space for the moments that matter most. As you map out your next adventure, keep these accessible travel tips in mind:
- Confirm each destination’s accessibility before booking to avoid last-minute surprises.
- Rent a wheelchair-accessible van through Wheelers so you can explore independently and on your own schedule.
- Bring a simple accessibility checklist for lodging to ensure comfort and ease upon arrival.
- Choose attractions that share detailed ADA compliance information online, giving you clarity before you go.
- Double-check operating hours and seasonal availability for beaches and national parks so your plans line up with access times.
FAQs: Accessible Travel Ideas for 2026
What are the most accessible travel destinations for wheelchair users in the United States?
Tampa, Phoenix, San Diego, Boston, and several national parks offer excellent infrastructure for accessible travelers.
How early should I reserve an accessible van for a 2026 trip?
Most travelers book three to six months in advance to secure availability.
Are theme parks accessible for wheelchair travelers?
Yes. Disney parks, Universal parks, and SeaWorld all provide extensive accessibility services and mobility options.
Summary
Accessible travel is increasing across the world, making 2026 an exciting year for planning bucket list adventures. With thoughtful preparation, reliable accessible van transportation, and a destination built for mobility, you can enjoy the freedom to explore comfortably and confidently. Wheelers is here to support your journey with accessible van rentals that help you move with ease and independence.