As an ambulatory wheelchair user, it’s very important to me that the places that I go are always accessible. I might need the help of a mobility aid at any time, and have found myself in a position before where I think I can handle stairs and then I get trapped and need assistance. Since moving to Washtenaw County, I’ve been on the hunt for accessible locations to take my daughter to. You can find a preliminary list below to use as a travel guide or a check list of places to visit.
Matthaei Botanical Gardens
These botanical gardens have a ton of accessible areas. It is 841 acres, so of course there is going to be terrain that is simply not safe for a wheelchair or cane user, but they do have a lot that you can do. They have a specific webpage for accessibility services that states their public buildings are all wheelchair accessible as well as many gardens and trails. There are also wheelchair accessible bathrooms, which is so important because some places that consider themselves accessible forget this necessity.
You can also check out a wheelchair from here if you are ambulatory and don’t want to lug yours around, and there are trail chairs as well for users who want to better go over trail terrain, which is a really unique and awesome feature. If this is something that you’re interested in, I’d call ahead and reserve so you don’t miss out.
Kerrytown Market
Kerrytown Market is a cute building with multiple shops, restaurants, and even outdoor pop-ups. There’s clothing, toy stores, eateries, and even coffee shops. There are also multiple seating options, lots of ramps, and an elevator.
As someone who’s been here, I would say that while overall the market is accessible, not every store is. Some have narrow aisles that are difficult to maneuver around.
Restaurants
There are a lot of restaurants that are both family friendly and wheelchair friendly, though I have noticed that sometimes when a few of these are particularly full, their accessibility drops because the aisles get filled. That being said, here are a few that I recommend.
- Zou Zou’s
- Weber’s Restaurant
- Gandy Dancer
- Knight’s Steakhouse
- Erratic Ale Co.
- The Circ Bar
- Zingerman’s Roadhouse
- The Grateful Crow
- Dexter Brunch House
- Sam Hill
- Ricewood
- Sava’s
Gallup Park
I’m completely obsessed with Gallup Park’s Universal Access Playground. It’s a fairy world playground specifically made to include children of all abilities. There are different activities designed for a variety of age groups as well, which makes it a place you can visit for years. There aren’t many parks made with disability in mind, and I’m really proud that we have something like this in Washtenaw County.
Gallup Park itself is huge, and there is a large pedestrian bridge and multiple trails that are accessible, as well as beautiful river views.
Related article: Resources for Disabled Children in Washtenaw County
Museums
Museums are one of the most accessible parts of Washtenaw County, which is really exciting! Here are a few recommendations, with links that discuss their level of accessibility. Some are only accessible for those with physical disabilities, while others have more expansive programs.
- U-M Museum of Art and Museum of Archeology
- Hands-On Museum
- Yankee Air Museum
- Museum of Natural History
- Ypsilanti Automotive
The State Theater
The State Theater has Accessibility Devices for anyone who is hearing impaired, as well as open captions. They also have wheelchair seating that comes with a companion seat. There are accessible bathrooms, water fountains, parking and an elevator.
It has a mix of old and new movies, and they have free movie events and live events as well. It’s smack in the middle of downtown Ann Arbor, which makes it a great, easy place to visit.
Decode Ann Arbor Escape Room
Decode Escape Room was voted the second best escape room in the United States. They have multiple rooms with different themes like The Mezzanine, Around the World in 80 Days, and Finding Stella.
Every room except one is wheelchair accessible, and they also have closed captioning. The site mentions that if you have other needs you need met, you can give them a call and they’ll work to accommodate you. I love when businesses are willing to do that because disability is not a one size fits all, so this one is worth the trip.
Blue Llama Jazz Club
If you’re looking for a night activity, Blue Llama Jazz Club is a great choice. There’s sometimes a cover, usually around $25, but then you get to see different individuals or bands play. It’s also a restaurant, which means you can eat while you enjoy some awesome jazz.
This club has smooth flooring, accessible bathrooms, and is clear of obstacles. You can find out more information on them through the wheel the world site.
I’ll be actively looking for more accessible spaces and sharing what I can. In the meantime, Wheel the World is an incredible site that outlines accessible places in detail.
