Vacation time should be a relaxing, enjoyable experience for everyone. But when you’re older with mobility issues, planning the right activity can be challenging. You need to consider accessibility, available amenities, and many other factors. Fortunately, it can be easy to plan ahead to help your loved one have some fun.
If you’re thinking about planning a vacation for an older loved one with limited mobility, here are some wonderful choices:
- Hawaii
- Niagara Falls
- Las Vegas
- Washington, DC
- Cruises
- National parks
These all offer a way for your loved one to see new things, relax, and spend time doing something they love.
Hawaii
There’s no denying it—Hawaii is simply breathtaking! With its pristine beaches, mesmerizing sunsets, and unique culture, it’s a paradise that can’t be found anywhere else in the USA.
And it doesn’t stop there. Hawaii boasts numerous wheelchair-accessible beaches where your loved one can get close to the ocean and enjoy the view. You can even arrange local tours that cater to accessibility and your loved one’s interests!
Hawaii offers a chance for your loved one to see a beautiful, ancient island and be exposed to a culture that can’t be found anywhere else in the country—all while being accessible.
Niagara Falls
The majesty of Niagara Falls is something that everyone should witness at least once. It’s a trendy vacation spot that offers nearby hotels, guided tours, and tons of things to experience.
Niagara Falls can seem confusing at first. There are two sides to the attraction—one in the USA, and the other in Canada. Fortunately, it’s extremely easy to go between the two, with just a 20-minute walk across the beautiful Rainbow Bridge!
On the American side, you can check out:
- The Niagara Falls observation deck
- Visiting the ruins of the old Cave of Winds, a cavity behind one of the waterfalls with a walkway for up-close viewing
- The Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center, a museum dedicated to the Underground Railroad
- The Niagara Falls Aquarium
On the Canadian side, you can visit:
- The Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory: Close to Niagara Falls, it’s an indoor tropical paradise filled with butterflies. The paths are wheelchair-accessible, making it an excellent experience for seniors with mobility problems.
- The Botanical Gardens: These serene gardens are a wonderful place to relax and soak in the natural beauty and feature wheelchair-friendly paths.
- The Niagara History Museum: Learn about the history of the city and the falls in this accessible museum.
- The Bird Kingdom: The world’s largest free-flying indoor Aviary. It’s a peaceful place to enjoy the presence of various colorful birds. It is also wheelchair-accessible.
And don’t forget about the iconic Maid of the Mist boat ride. This boat offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to get up close and personal to the falls!
Las Vegas
Las Vegas. The city of lights and endless entertainment. Filled to the brim with attractions, tours, and shows, there’s never a dull moment.
Las Vegas offers an incredible number of accessible attractions, including casinos, games, live shows, entertainment, and poolside relaxation. But the Strip can be an extremely long walk, so plan ahead to find spots for your loved one to rest.
And remember: Las Vegas is in a desert, so aim to visit during spring or fall when the weather is pleasant.
Washington, DC
Is your loved one a history buff? An art lover? If so, Washington, DC, is the place to go.
The city’s overflowing with museums, and there’s a long list of art galleries to check out. There are even historic tours, all easily accessible, to see where the nation’s history was made.
Washington, DC, has a rich history and culture, and you can take it at your own pace. It’s an excellent vacation spot for those who want to experience history.
Cruises
Sometimes, walking and tours can feel like too much. So, why not suggest a cruise?
A cruise is an excellent idea for someone who’d rather spend their vacation on the open water. Many cruise lines prioritize accessibility and provide extra assistance for individuals with limited mobility. And most offer on-board medical care in case of an emergency.
Cruises offer tons of activities, classes, programs, shows, and events and often make stops at exciting ports so you can explore many different areas in a short period!
National Parks
Does your loved one love nature and want to spend all their time in the wild? If so, consider visiting a nearby national park.
Our national parks are truly a sight to behold. They span over 84 million acres and offer endless opportunities for sightseeing, exploring, bird-watching, and more. And the best part? Many of them have accessible trails and scenic drives that allow those with limited mobility to experience all their beauty.
They’re all over the country, with options available like:
- Yosemite National Park, California: Known for its iconic waterfalls, ancient sequoias, and vast meadows, Yosemite offers wheelchair-accessible trails and viewpoints, with shuttle services to navigate the park.
- Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming: As America’s first national park, it offers wheelchair-accessible boardwalks around geysers and hot springs, plus accessible trails, picnic areas, and visitor centers.
- Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona: The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is wheelchair-accessible, with paved pathways for viewing the mesmerizing landscapes of the canyon. Add it to your Las Vegas trip!
- Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado: Featuring the highest paved road in the US (the Trail Ridge Road), explore various accessible scenic overlooks.
- Acadia National Park, Maine: The park has several wheelchair-accessible carriage roads and trails, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful coastal landscapes.
Making the Most of the Golden Years
Traveling is just one of the many ways for your loved one to enjoy their golden years. But another way is finding the perfect place to call home—like The Lodge at Truitt Homestead. We offer a comfortable, caring environment tailored to residents with limited mobility. Book a tour with us today to see our community for yourself!
