Have you ever visited an ancient castle and daydreamed about royal feasts? Or strolled through a museum, wondering who wore that shiny but rusty armor? There’s no doubt that historical tours can spark your curiosity in the most fascinating ways!
There are plenty of accessible historical sites around the U.S. featuring interesting artifacts, lively reenactments, and untold stories that will provide a glimpse of American history and transport you back in time.
After enacting the American Disability Act, these venues have installed ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, clear signage, and enhanced audio guides, making it easier for everyone to join the adventure.
Top Accessible Historic Sites in the U.S.
Below are some of the top accessible historic sites and iconic monuments in the United States, where every cobblestone and cannonball has a story to tell:
Independence Hall (Philadelphia, PA)
Also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Independence Hall is where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitutions were signed, laying the groundwork for the creation of a unified nation. The hall’s red brick walls and iconic bell tower serve as a reminder of the pivotal moments that took place within its chambers. Just standing here will give you goosebumps!
Regarding accessibility, this wheelchair-accessible site has wide doorways and wooden flooring, helping you navigate with ease. They offer fantastic audio tours. If you have hearing impairments, you can ask for assistive listening devices or get a “Birthplace of a Nation” pamphlet containing the historical details about each room.
The Alamo (San Antonio, TX)
Located in Texas, the Alamo is a symbol of resilience and bravery. It was originally established by Catholic missionaries in 1718. Later, the Alamo served as the battleground in a legendary clash between Texan defenders and the Mexican army in 1836. After the intense and historic battle, the site was used as a fort and has since become a popular tourist attraction.
At The Alamo, you can visit the Church to learn about Texas history, meet the Alamo’s living historians to learn about life in the 1800s, or find artifacts from the Phil Collins Collection and the Donald and Louise Yena Spanish Colonial Collection.
If you’re traveling with kids, you can’t miss the 1836 Alamo Fort model made with over 50,000 LEGO bricks. You can also learn about the Alamo’s 300-year story on the richly illustrated Wall of History exhibit.
Alamo Church, Long Barrack, and the gift shop are accessible to guests with mobility issues. While the Church’s exit does have stairs, the friendly staff will gladly open the front door to assist wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and even strollers.
Mount Vernon (Mount Vernon, VA)
Mount Vernon is the perfect place for history buffs, families, and anyone curious about all things George Washington.
You can start your tour at the accessible mansion, wander through the beautifully maintained gardens where our first president once walked, visit the tomb of George and Martha Washington, head over to Washington’s whiskey distillery and gristmill, or check out the museum that showcases his life and legacy through interactive exhibits.
This wheelchair-friendly historic site has designated parking spots near the entrance with a convenient curbside drop-off location. The path to the main entrance is equipped with handrails and intermediate landings. Although motorized scooters and manual wheelchairs are welcome inside, the Ford Orientation Center provides complimentary wheelchairs for people who need to borrow one.
Seasonal shuttles run from April to October feature wheelchair lifts and can accommodate two wheelchairs at once. They stop at key points, making it easier to explore. Plus, there are accessible restrooms in multiple spots, including the Ford Orientation Center, the North Lane, the Donald W Reynolds Museum, the Education Center, and the Mount Vernon Inn.
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Colonial Williamsburg (Williamsburg, VA)
Nestled in Virginia, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation educates visitors about the 18th-century colonial era in America and the Revolutionary War through immersive reenactments and meticulously preserved architecture.
You’ll learn about the daily routines of the settlers, watch blacksmiths at work, see colonial cooking in action, and maybe even join a dance in the town square. Talk about hands-on history! They have also designed themed itineraries for military history buffs, Jane Austen lovers, Bridgerton fans, or couples seeking a romantic getaway.
One of the best things about Colonial Williamsburg is its ADA commitment. While they don’t have motorized chairs, folding wheelchairs are available at the Visitor Center on a first-come, first-served basis. Many of the historic buildings feature steps, but the interior doorways are generally wide enough for a wheelchair and feature ramps and wheelchair lifts at selected exhibitions.
You’ll also find accessible restrooms in convenient locations like the Williamsburg Lodge, Merchants Square Ticket Office, The Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, and more. Plus, Colonial Williamsburg’s buses are also wheelchair-friendly, so you can easily visit different locations.
Gettysburg National Military Park (Gettysburg, PA)
We all remember learning a thing or two about the Battle of Gettysburg in history class, but if you want more insight into this iconic event, Gettysburg National Military Park is the perfect place to start.
The Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War features relics from the Battle of Gettysburg and showcases vivid personalities who served in the Civil War. They have mobility-friendly exhibits and multimedia presentations describing the circumstances of the battle and its harrowing aftermath. While visiting, don’t miss the Battle of Gettysburg Cyclorama painting by French artist Paul Philippoteaux. This gigantic masterpiece immerses you in the heat of battle like nothing else.
Gettysburg National Military Park is just as accessible as it is informative. There are 26 miles of paved roads you can explore to your heart’s content in your vehicle. Additionally, the handicapped-accessible restrooms are located at the South End and West End Comfort Stations.
Visitors who use mobility scooters can roam anywhere open to the public, including roadways, walkways, mowed areas, and even established trails. Just keep an eye on the weather, as it might affect these areas and, ultimately, your plans.
Additional Accessible Historic Destinations
Still searching for your next vacation destination? Some other famous accessible historic destinations include Ellis Island, Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Boston’s Freedom Trail, The White House, Liberty Bell Center, Museum of the American Revolution, Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, and The Franklin Institute.
Explore Historical Landmarks with Wheelchair Getaways
With Wheelchair Getaways’ wheelchair-accessible rental vans, you can visit all the historical landmarks to learn about monumental events in America. Our accessible vans are equipped with top-notch features like easy-to-use ramps, lowered floors, removable front seats, spacious interiors, and state-of-the-art safety equipment.
We’re proud to serve 200+ locations nationwide, making it easier than ever to start your historical adventure from virtually anywhere. We also offer flexible rental plans to fit your unique travel requirements, whether it’s for a day trip or an extended tour. Plus, our simple and convenient rental process ensures you’re on the road in no time.
So why wait? Fill out a quote request to get a personalized rental quote, or call us at (866) 224-1750 for booking details.