As a travel writer since 1977, Candy Harrington has been writing about accessible travel exclusively since 1996. She’s the founding editor of Emerging Horizons, and the author of the popular Barrier-Free Travel national park series. With thousands of bylines to her credit, Candy hits the road often, in search of new accessible travel finds. Candy and her travel photographer husband Charles Pannell reside in NE Washington, where they tend to their chicken flock and enjoy a rural lifestyle.
Located in Southwestern Utah, Zion National Park was the Beehive State’s first national park. Although a good percentage of the park is designated as wilderness, there are many developed areas which can be visited with a minimal effort. At the top of the list is Zion Canyon, a 15-mile drive bordered by spectacular sandstone cliffs. Over on the west side of the park, Kolob Canyons offers a more bucolic view of the Colorado Plateau; while the eastern Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway connects Zion with Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon. No matter where you look, there’s no shortage of breathtaking scenery in this national park.
Insider Tips
Don’t miss the free Ride with a Ranger Tours that are offered twice daily on the park shuttle buses. These two-hour narrated tours include several stops along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. Advance reservations are required, and they can be made up to three days in advance. And the good news is, all park shuttle buses are lift-equipped, so everyone can enjoy these tours.
If you want to dodge the crowds, then explore the five-mile long Kolob Canyons Scenic Byway, located in the northwestern corner of the park. This scenic route climbs 1,000 feet in elevation and offers great views of the red Navajo sandstone canyon walls along the way. There are a number of paved pullouts on the route, and although none of them are striped, they are strategically placed so you can get good windshield views.
For a very accessible place to rest your head, consider staying in cabin 529 at Zion Lodge. This historic cabin dates back to the 1920s, and it includes a queen-sized bed and a bathroom with a roll-in shower. As an added bonus, this lodge is one of the most scenic national park properties around, as it’s surrounded by Zion Canyon.
Set aside as a national park in 1890, Yosemite includes over 1,200 square miles of scenic beauty in the rugged Sierra Nevada Mountains. From glaciated granite formations to verdant meadows and ancient giant sequoias, there’s something for everyone in this Central California national park. And although Yosemite boasts a large wilderness area, there’s no shortage of accessible trails and attractions in Yosemite Valley, where the lion’s share of visitor services are located.
Insider Tips
The historic Yosemite Cemetery, which dates back to the 1870s, is often overlooked by visitors. Located across the street from the Yosemite Museum, it’s a must-see for history buffs. The hard-packed dirt paths through the cemetery are level, and although there are a few bumps near the entrance, the route is navigable for most wheelchair-users and slow walkers. A guide to the cemetery is available at the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center — and don’t miss the special ranger program and campfire at the cemetery on Halloween.
Although Hetch Hetchy Valley is the starting point for a number of inaccessible wilderness hikes, Hetch Hetchy Road also offers some beautiful windshield views along the drive. The road travels through gray pine, incense cedar and black oak forests, and features expansive views across the canyon once the road opens up. As an added bonus, you can catch glimpses of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir from almost the beginning of the road.
If you’d like a room with a spectacular view, then reserve room 421 at the Ahwahnee. Not only is this accessible room outfitted with a king-sized bed and a roll-in shower, but it also offers one of the best Half Dome views in the park.
America’s first national park spans nearly 3,500 square-miles, the bulk of which occupies the northwestern corner of Wyoming. Known for its geothermal wonders the park is a filled with gurgling geysers, bubbling mudpots and hidden hot springs. But Yellowstone is much more than geysers, as it also features dramatic canyons, lush forests, and fertile valleys that are home to bears, wolves, elk, antelope and an extremely healthy bison population. And with a handful of western highways leading to the park, there’s plenty of opportunity to explore this diverse ecosystem.
Insider Tips
Although there’s accessible parking near the Brink of the Upper Falls Viewpoint in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, the viewpoint itself is not accessible due to stairs and a steep grade. That said, you can get a better – and quieter — view if you continue along the North Rim Trail, past the left turnoff to the brink. And if you’d like a short hike through the woods that crosses Canyon Bridge and offers excellent views of the Yellowstone River and the Chittenden Bridge, then just continue along this accessible trail for another half-mile.
For a break from the congested traffic along the road to Old Faithful, take a short detour along Firehole Lake Drive. This one-way loop begins about a mile south of Fountain Paint Pot, and features accessible stops at Firehole Spring, Giant Fountain Geyser and Firehole Lake. As an added bonus, this route is pleasantly devoid of the bus loads of tourists that frequent the other area attractions, as larger vehicles are prohibited on this road.
If you’d like to overnight in the park in an accessible room with a great view, then choose room 202 at the Yellowstone Lake Hotel. This corner room, which features a bird’s eye view of Yellowstone Lake, is furnished with a 25-inch high king-sized bed and is equipped with an accessible tub/shower combination.
Located in the Southern Sierra Nevada Mountains, Sequoia National Park is home to a large grove of stately giant sequoia trees, including the 275-foot tall General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth. The park is about a four-hour drive from Yosemite Valley, via Highways 41, 99 and 198, through Visalia to the Ash Mountain park entrance. From there the Generals Highway travels through the foothills up to the Giant Forest, and then continues through the Sequoia National Forest and on to Kings Canyon National Park.
Insider Tips
The most accessible way to get to the General Sherman Tree is to park in the lower accessible parking lot on the Generals Highway, and take the quarter-mile paved trail over to the tree. And if you can’t manage the entire length of the trail, you can still get an excellent view of the towering giant about .1-mile up the trail.
You know you’ve found a good picnic spot when you see that the rangers also frequent it – and that’s exactly the case for Pinewood Picnic Area. Located on the Generals Highway just north of the Big Trees Trail, not only is this picnic area very pleasant, but it’s also one of the most accessible ones in the park. The shaded grove features a paved pathway over to the accessible tables and grills, with accessible vault toilets nearby. Additionally, there’s level access to many of the standard tables in the grove.
Wuksachi Lodge, which is located four miles north of the General Sherman Tree, offers a nice selection of accessible rooms. To be more specific, the property boasts eight accessible rooms, all of which have roll-in showers. There’s also good access to the main lodge building which houses the Peaks Restaurant, that offers patrons a panoramic view of the surrounding forest.
Jointly managed by the National Park Service and California State Parks, this park includes the original federal land plus three Northern California State Parks. The federal area — Redwood National Park — is located southeast of the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center in Orick. The California additions include Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. They are located along Highway 101 between Orick and the Oregon border. Highlights of this 131,983-acre preserve include several stands of ancient coastal redwoods, prairies dotted with Roosevelt Elk and 40 miles of scenic coastal drives. As an added bonus, there’s no admission charge or day-use fee for this park.
Insider Tips
Although there’s certainly no shortage of majestic redwoods along Newton B. Drury Parkway in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, make sure and stop at the nicely accessible Big Tree Wayside. Going south on the parkway it’s on the left and marked simply as “Big Tree”, and going north it’s not marked at all, but it’s the first turn on the right after Cal Barrel Road. From the accessible parking area it’s a short 100-yard walk on a paved level path to this 304-foot giant. And there’s even ramp access up to the tree.
Hop off of Highway 101 just south of Crescent City and enjoy a scenic drive along Enderts Beach Road. This winding route is lined with redwoods and offers a coastal view every now and then. It’s just a five minute drive to the end of the road, where there’s an accessible ocean overlook. Try and hit this short detour in the afternoon though, as the thick coastal fog hangs over the area in the mornings.
Spend the night in a redwood forest in one of four accessible cabins in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. Each cabin can each sleep six, with two bunk beds with a single bunk on the top and a double bunk on the bottom. Other cabin features include a small counter, electricity, lights and a heater. There’s also a raised grill, an accessible picnic table and a bear box in a level area outside each of the cabins. And the accessible showerhouse near the visitor center is equipped with a spacious roll-in shower.
Located east of the Salinas Valley between Hollister and King City, Pinnacles is California’s newest national park. Formed by an ancient volcanic eruption, the extruded magma was further sculpted over time by the wind and rain. Today these pinnacle-like geological features seem to magically rise out of the chaparral-covered ground. A healthy chunk of backcountry occupies the center section of the park, and serves as a divider between the more developed east and west sections. Wildlife – including everything from the common black-tailed dear to the endangered California condor – thrives in this rural location. And you just can’t beat the night skies, as the park is located miles away from the light pollution of the metropolitan cities.
Insider Tips
Pinnacles National Park is a prime site to spot some of the still endangered California condors. One location they seem to favor is the ridge just southeast of the campground. The best times to look for them are in the early mornings and late afternoons when they like to catch the thermals, or in the evenings when they come in to roost in the trees. And if you’d like a closer look at them, there’s an accessible viewing scope just across the street from the East Pinnacles Visitor Center.
The longest accessible trail in the park — the Prewitt Point Trail — is located on the West Side. This one-mile loop begins off the patio of the West Pinnacles Visitor Contact Station, and winds along the hillside and offers excellent mountain views. There’s about a 70-foot elevation gain along the way, with level spots to rest after each uphill stint. This hard-packed dirt trail passes the trailhead to the Jawbone Trail, then continues on to the Pinnacles Overlook, before it winds back down to the start. It’s best to take this trail in the morning though, as there’s precious little shade along the way.
Pinnacles Campground boasts 10 accessible tent cabins in loop B. They all have a ramped entry, as well as steps up to the wide front door. There’s level access over the thresholds and all of the tent cabins include two singles and a queen-sized bed, with ample room to maneuver a wheelchair inside. The solar powered units also include a fan and a light. Outside there are two Adirondack chairs, an accessible picnic table, a grill and a bear box at each site. And although the cabins contain beds with mattresses, guests must provide their own bedding.
Located on Washington’s Olympic Peninsula, Olympic National Park occupies nearly one million acres filled with sub-alpine forests, wildflower-filled meadows, rainforest habitat and a rugged coastal shore. The entire park can be accessed from Highway 101, which circumnavigates the Olympic Peninsula; and each area of the park features a small visitor center or ranger station which offers exhibits on the local ecosystem and the history of the area.
Insider Tips
Save some time for a soak at Sol Duc Hot Springs when you visit the park. There’s ramp access to the Sol Duc Hot Springs front office, with barrier-free access to the pools in back. The mineral wading pool is reserved for children under three, but the Large Mineral Fountain Pool and the Freshwater Pool feature ramp access. There is also a portable pool lift available for these pools or for the Medium Mineral Pool, which isn’t ramped.
One of the most accessible waterfalls in the park — Madison Falls — is located on Olympic Hot Springs Road, just south of Highway 101. A .1-mile paved level trail leads from the picnic area through the forest to the base of Madison Falls. The overlook features lowered railings for optimal wheelchair viewing, as well as a bench for slow walkers.
For a very comfortable – and romantic – overnight in the park be sure and book a cabin at Kalaloch Lodge, which is located on the Pacific Coast. This remote lodge offers an accessible cabin, with a great coastal view, as well as a small restaurant and grocery store. Everything you want and need for a blissful getaway!
Located 100 miles southeast of Seattle, Mount Rainier National Park is situated in one of the most rugged areas of Washington state. At 14,410 feet, the namesake mountain towers over the park; and not only is this active volcano the most glaciated peak in the contiguous US, but it’s also a popular climb, with over 10,000 attempts each year. That said, you can certainly enjoy the park without attempting the summit, as there are also several developed areas that offer accessible trails, museums, campsites and overnight lodging.
Insider Tips
Be sure and stop at Christine Falls, which is located just past Longmire on the left side of the road. It’s easy to miss, and if you take time to admire it from the road, you’ll drive right by the pullout on the right side, which offers the best view of the falls. Unfortunately there are only stairs down to the lower viewing area, but you can still get a nice view of the top part of the 40-foot high waterfall from the 1928 masonry bridge near the pullout.
The most accessible trail in the park – the Kautz Creek Trail – is located across the street from the Kautz Creek Picnic Area. This level boardwalk trail winds through a section of the forest which was devastated by a 1947 glacier generated debris flow, and leads out to an overlook that offers an excellent view of Mount Rainier.
A timed entry reservation is required for visits to the Paradise Corridor and the Sunrise Corridor of the park, during the peak summer season. Reservations are released 90 days in advance and are available a www.recreation.gov. Plan ahead, because entry reservations are not available at the park; and if you don’t have one you won’t be admitted. And remember, even if you have a national park pass, you still need an entry permit.
In most cases a national park visit requires a vehicle, which can add extra time and expense to a fly-drive itinerary. Factor accessibility into the equation and it becomes even more complicated, as adapted rental vans are sometimes not readily available at gateway airports.
So what’s a traveler to do? Well if Glacier National Park (www.emerginghorizons.com/glacier-national-park) is on your bucket list, it’s now possible to enjoy a seamless accessible national park visit without a car, van, or even an airplane. Thanks to accessible rail connections, as well as a local network of accessible transportation providers, wheelchair-users and slow walkers can now get to, get around and get out and enjoy Glacier National Park without a car.
All Aboard
The first step to visiting Glacier National Park without a car is finding accessible transportation. To that end, wheelchair-accessible rail service is available to Glacier National Park on Amtrak’s Empire Builder train that runs from Chicago to Spokane. The train stops in West Glacier and East Glacier, and also connects to Portland and Seattle from Spokane. The Empire Builder train features an on-board lift, but station lifts are also available at both Glacier park stations.
The east-bound train departs Seattle in the late afternoon and rolls into West Glacier the next morning. The west bound journey is considerably longer — it takes almost 30 hours to reach East Glacier from Chicago. And although the West Glacier station is open year-round, the East Glacier station is closed during the winter months.
Accessible shuttle service is available at both stations to select park lodges. On the west side, Xanterra operates an accessible shuttle to and from Lake McDonald Lodge and the Village Inn at Apgar (both of which have accessible rooms). For more information or to make shuttle reservations, call (855) 733-4522. The East Glacier Train Depot is conveniently located across the street from Glacier Park Lodge; however accessible transfers are available to lodge guests with 24-hours notice. This lodge also has wheelchair-accessible rooms. For more information, contact Pursuit at (844) 868-7474.
Getting Around Glacier
Getting around Glacier National Park without a car is fairly easy too, thanks to a number of accessible shuttles and tours. The National Park Service operates the free Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle on both the east and west sides of the park. The wheelchair-accessible shuttles depart from Apgar Visitor Center and St. Mary Visitor Center during the summer months. Both routes stop at the major viewpoints along the way, and visitors can transfer at Logan Pass, to see both sides of the park.
It’s just a short walk to the shuttle stop at Apgar Visitor Center from the Village Inn at Apgar; and the East Side Shuttle connects Glacier Park Lodge guests with the Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle at the St. Mary Visitor Center. Wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available with 24 hours notice on the East Side Shuttle (844-868-7474).
Take a Tour
Accessible Glacier Red Bus Tour vehicle
Although the historic Red Buses of Glacier National Park are not wheelchair-accessible, Xanterra Parks also has two wheelchair-accessible vehicles in their fleet. These lift-equipped vehicles have two-wheelchair spaces with tie-downs, and can accommodate a total of 14 passengers.
The accessible tours generally follow the same itinerary as the standard tours; however they tend to spend more time at the accessible stops, such as the Trail of the Cedars and Logan Pass. The western tours depart from the Apgar Visitor Center and Lake McDonald Lodge, and the eastern tours depart from the St, Mary Visitor Center. For more information, visit www.glaciernationalparklodges.com. Remember to book early though, as these popular tours sells out quickly.
Additionally, Glacier Sun Tours also offers tours of the west and east sides of Glacier National Park in air-conditioned vehicles during the summer months. The tours depart from Apgar Visitor Center and St. Mary Visitor Center. Tour guides are lifetime residents of the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, and they offer visitors a good overview of the natural history of the park, and also integrate their own tribal history and culture into the interpretation. Advance reservations are required, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles are available upon request. For more information on Glacier Sun Tours offerings, visit www.suntours.co/.
Barrier-Free Travel Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks for Wheelchair-Users and Slow Walkers
Located about three hours northeast of Sacramento, Lassen Volcanic National Park offers visitors a diverse landscape dotted with active geothermal features. Dominated by Mount Lassen which erupted in 1915, the park boasts an impressive collection of steam vents, mudpots and boiling springs, many of which are readily accessible. Add in wildflower-filled meadows, pristine mountain lakes, and the ruins of the last eruption and you have a park that truly stimulates all of the senses.
Insider Tips
Sulphur Works, which is one of the most active geothermal areas in the park, is a must-see for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. There’s accessible parking in the paved lot, with barrier-free access to a level sidewalk that leads past mudpots, steam vents and boiling springs. The crosswalk has curb-cut access, so wheelchair-users can enjoy the geothermal features on both sides of the street. All in all it’s a quarter-mile out-and-back jaunt; and although other areas of the park boast these geothermal features, this is the only accessible option.
One of the most accessible trails in the park is located in the Devastated Area, about 10 miles south of the Loomis Museum. The hard-packed dirt trail leads past the area devastated by the 1915 eruption of Mount Lassen. Interpretive plaques with audio descriptions are located along the trail, and signs of the eruption and the subsequent rebirth of the forest are evident along this easy half-mile loop. Additionally there are a few accessible picnic tables located near the trailhead, so it also makes for a nice lunch stop.
Spend the night on the shore of Manzanita Lake in one of four accessible camping cabins. All of the accessible cabins have parking in a level area with ramp access up to the front porch. They include level thresholds, wide doorways and adequate pathway access. The one-room cabins are furnished with a 19-inch high double bed, while the two room cabins include a 19-inch high double bed and three single beds. They all include a dining table with chairs, and a propane heater. Each cabin has a locking door, screened windows and a bare wood floor. Add in an accessible picnic table and a fire ring and you have everything you need to rough it in style.
In 1993 Artist Olin Calk crafted this Recycled Roadrunner at the Las Cruces Foothills Landfill, out of junk salvaged from the dump. It was meant to call attention to “consumption, recycling, and just looking at stuff we throw away.” In 2001 the old junk was stripped away and replaced with new junk, and the bird was relocated to a rest area off Interstate 10. Sadly the harsh desert climate took a toll on the old bird, and in 2014 it was once again refurbished. This time the bird was covered with “new salvage” from recycling centers and thrift stores.
Today the 20-foot tall and 40-foot long Recycled Roadrunner is once again an icon along Interstate 10. Although you can see it from the highway, you can only get a closer look at it from the eastbound rest area. Just take exit 135 and follow the road around to the picnic shelters. Accessible parking is available near the restrooms, and the best view of the roadrunner can be had from the first picnic shelter. Alternatively you can roll out on the dirt for a better view (watch for rattle snakes), but the optimal view of this work of art is actually from afar.
This well curated little museum, which is located along historic Route 66, is well worth a stop on any Interstate 40 road trip. There’s accessible parking next to the museum, with level access to the building. Inside, there’s plenty of room to wheel around the large gallery filled with vintage cars, old signs, Route 66 memorabilia and the largest public collection of Route 66 photographs in the US. Photographer Michael Campanelli’s images line the walls, and take visitors on a virtual Route 66 tour from California to Illinois. The cars, which are from local collections, are rotated throughout the season; and the volunteers that staff the museum are very knowledgeable – and enthusiastic – about Route 66. This nostalgic roadside attraction is open limited, so check the website for the current operating schedule to avoid disappointment.
19 Carlsbad Cavern Highway Whites City, New Mexico
Although they seem a bit out of place, these Green Aliens sit in front of Whites City Information Center, just off Highway 7, on the way to Carlsbad Caverns. There’s no interpretive plaque at the site; however locals say that the they are a tribute to the old Million Dollar Museum which formerly occupied the space, and had an “alien baby” on display. Today the aliens offer a good photo op on the way to New Mexico’s only national park. Accessible parking is located in front of the post office, with level access over to the aliens next door. It’s a fun stop, especially if you have kids in tow.
A must-stop along Interstate 40 is the Giant Kachina in Gallup, NM. At one time this classic Route 66 icon welcomed weary travelers to Gallup, but sadly the welcome signs are gone today. Just take exit 22 from Interstate 40, drive north on Ford Drive, then make a left on Montoya Boulevard. The statue is on the right, next door to the Fire Prevention Office, There’s plenty of room to park, and a nice level area to get out and take in this beauty. There are even a few covered picnic tables in the parking lot if you’d like to take a longer break. And while you’re in the area, don’t miss the historic El Rancho Hotel.
1000 E. Route 66 Gallup, NM elranchohotelgallup.com
Built in 1936, the El Rancho Hotel entices prospective guests with the phrase “The charm of yesterday and the conveniences of tomorrow” emblazoned across its front portal. The main building is constructed largely of brick, with stone and wood finishing touches. Inside it’s like a step back into another century – from the vintage shoe shine stand to the cigarette machine near the front door. Add in the lush bordello-like furnishings and the massive wood staircase, and you have a real blast from the past.
And even though access wasn’t an issue when the property was built, there’s an accessible parking space near the front entrance, with curb-cut access up to the porch. From there, it’s an easy roll inside the lobby. There’s also a small gift shop and restaurant on site, if you’d like to extend your stay. Unfortunately the elevator up to the mezzanine gallery looks like it hasn’t worked for decades, so the only way to view the portraits of the stars that stayed there is to climb the stairs. Still, it’s worth a quick stop just to see the outside of the building and the front lobby, which has a few display cases filled with film memorabilia. And it goes without saying, that it’s a must-see for movie buffs, as the El Rancho Hotel was once home bas to the movie stars that filmed westerns in the area. .
This life-size Brontosaurus Family can be found just outside of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Believed to be the work of the late Larry Wilson who made a name for himself by crafting dinosaurs out of polyurethane foam, this out-of-the-way roadside attraction is a bit tricky to find, but well worth the effort.
From Interstate 25, take exit 278, then go south on Highway 14. Turn left at the first light (Rancho Viejo Boulevard), then go left at the Bureau of Land Management sign on Dinosaur Way. The family is located about a mile down the road on the right, next to a green metal building at M&M Garage Door & Gates. The sculptures are located on private property but there is a level grassy pullout along the road where you can get a good look at them. There’s no accessible parking or pathway to the sculptures, but truly there’s a great windshield view from the pullout. As an added bonus, there’s also a T-rex busting out of the adjacent metal building, which made the news in 2001, when the sculptor put an Osama bin Laden dummy in its jaw. This roadside attraction is just a short detour off the highway, and a definite must-see on the drive between Albuquerque and Santa Fe.
Located just outside Omaha, Boys Town was the dream-come-true of Father Flanagan. He began his home for orphaned and neglected boys with just $90 of borrowed capital in 1917. Today the Omaha campus is just one of many across America.
The campus itself is open for self-guided tours, but the real roadside attraction draw at this stop is located in the Visitor Center. That’s where you’ll find the World’s Largest Ball of Stamps in the Leon Myers Stamp Center.
There’s accessible parking in the Visitor Center lot, with ramp access up to the building. Inside, there’s barrier-free access to the information desk, and the sizable gift shop. The small stamp museum is located inside the gift shop, but if you can’t find it, just ask, as the employees are very helpful.
The stamp museum contains a number of themed displays that highlight stamps depicting children from around the world; but the piece de resistance is located in a small alcove in the back of the museum. The 600-pound stamp ball, which was crafted by students, is composed of over 4 million stamps and is recognized by Guinness as the World’s Largest Stamp Ball. The stamp collage in the background is an impressive piece on its own, but the stamp ball definitely takes center stage.
As an added bonus, if you are collector you can pick up foreign and domestic stamps for just a penny a piece at a small table near the stamp ball. Of course there is one caveat – “Please don’t add stamps to the stamp ball.”
Located near the eastern terminus of the Outlaw Scenic Byway, this collection of vintage windmills is must-see on any Cornhusker State road trip. The open-air museum features nearly 30 windmills that date back to 1880 – 1930, many of which are in working condition. This quirky roadside attraction was made possible by the local Leonard Gill Family, in an effort to preserve a piece of prairie heritage.
Most of the windmills are from the Howard and Barvetla McLain Collection of Carroll, Nebraska. They were moved to the site and restored by Marvin Baker of Pender, Nebraska. In some cases restoration was an arduous process, as parts had to be fabricated, because they were no longer available commercially. The result is an impressive and very rare exhibition of what’s billed as one of the finest collections of vintage windmills in the world.
The windmills are located on the south side of Highway 20, in front of the LP Gill Landfill. There’s no real parking area, but there is a wide level dirt space where you can pull over to get a better view of the site. In dry weather it’s possible to walk around the grassy area where the windmills are planted, but after a rain it can get pretty muddy. Even if you can’t manage the walk over the grass, it’s still worth a stop to catch a panoramic view of the windmills on the horizon. It’s an impressive sight indeed.
Located in Lincoln, Nebraska, Lee’s Restaurant first opened in 1945 as a twelve-seat beer joint. Apparently one of the regulars got a hankering for fried chicken, so Alice Lee went out back, slaughtered one and fried it up. And although they’ve added burgers, sandwiches and even lobster to the menu over the years, people still come for miles for their yummy fried chicken. No matter when you go, you’ll find the place filled with locals — a sure sign you’ve made the right dining choice. To add to the quaint atmosphere. there’s even a piano player who takes requests. There’s accessible parking in the lot, with level access to the building. Just take exit 397 off Highway 77, drive two miles west and look for the big chicken. You can’t miss it!
No trip through the Cornhusker State is complete without a stop at Carhenge, located about three miles north of Alliance on County Road 59. Not to be confused with Cadillac Ranch <link to Cadillac ranch entry>, this structure was built to replicate Stonehenge in England. It was erected at a 1987 family reunion, as a memorial to Jim Reinders’ father, and was appropriately dedicated during the summer solstice later that year.
The cars that comprise the sculpture are largely from the 50s and 60s and they are all American made. Previously there were three foreign models included, but they have since been removed and buried at the site. The circle of implanted cars replicates the placement of 38 of the major stones at Stonehenge. Originally Carhenge was unpainted, but it was subsequently painted flat gray to more closely resemble the British structure. In contrast, the Car Art Preserve, which is also located at the site, features a variety of colorful sculptures made from old cars and car parts.
There’s no striped parking at the site, but the lot is level, and is made of hard-packed dirt with bits of large gravel on top. The best place to park is over near the concrete pad at the Pit Stop, as it’s easier to access the level dirt trails around Carhenge from there. The pathways that lead through the Carhenge site are made of hard-packed dirt, and they are mostly doable in dry weather. There’s also level access to the Pit Stop, which sells souvenirs during the summer months. It’s a fun road trip stop.
If you’re heading up to the Two Medicine area of Glacier National Park, be sure and stop in at East Glacier Park Village to see the World’s Largest Purple Spoon. Located next to the Spiral Spoon (www.thespiralspoon) on MT 49, this local landmark is affectionately known as Big Martha. Crafted by Charlie and Jo Wagner, the 25-foot high utensil, which is made of plywood and Styrofoam, was unveiled on May 20, 2005.
There’s level parking in a dirt area next to the spoon, and a level path over to the Spiral Spoon. The shop itself has two small steps up into it, and if you can manage those, it’s definitely worth a look inside. This quaint shop offers a good selection of spoons and other implements carved by local artists. And in the back room, there’s an interesting display of vintage spoons on the ceiling, and a prop spoon that was used on the television show Bonanza in a case on the back wall.
All in all it’s a fun stop, if only for the photo op. It may or may not be the world’s largest purple spoon (hence the “maybe” etched on the plaque) but it’s definitely the largest one in this tiny village.
Not to be confused with the Cawker City Twine Ball <insert link> the Darwin Twine Ball is the largest ball of twine made by one person. While the Cawker City Twine Ball has visitors continually adding twine, the Darwin Twine Ball was made entirely by Francis Johnson. Johnson began work on the twine ball in 1950, and worked on it for the next 39 years. After his death in 1989 it was moved in a Plexiglas kiosk on the corner of William and I Streets. The finished product weighs 17,400 pounds and stands 13 feet tall. You can’t miss it — just look for the water tower.
There’s no parking lot, but it’s not a busy town so you can usually snag a parallel spot on the street. There’s curb-cut access up to the sidewalk which leads to the twine ball. There’s also a small museum in the former railroad station, which is located right behind the twine ball. There’s ramp access up to the building, which features information about Francis Johnson, and includes some of his prized possessions. It also houses some old town artifacts, railroad timetables and photos. And don’t forget to pick up a twine ball hoodie in the gift shop.
22275 Highway 36 Abita Springs, LA https://abitamysteryhouse.com/
Located across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans, the Abita Mystery House is a must-see on any Big Easy visit. Although it began as the UCM Museum, it’s now grown; and with that growth came the new name. Housed in an odd assemblage of old buildings the collection includes found objects, hand-made inventions and even a miniature town. Highlights include Curator John Preble’s collection of handmade animated scenes constructed from recycled objects, the world famous Bassagator, a collection of paint-by-number treasures, the bicycle house, and the RV for aliens. Patterned after Tinkertown in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the Abita Mystery House also features a vintage service station, a hand crank organ, a comb collection and the much photographed House of Shards. And although there are a few tight spaces, the majority of the museum is doable for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. And don’t miss the gift shop, as that’s almost an exhibit by itself.
If a road trip takes you along Highway 281 in Southern Kansa, then be sure and stop for a quick photo op in Pratt. Although there’s not much to the town, they do have have a unique set of water towers. The Hot & Cold Water Towers are located at the intersection of Highway 281 (Main Street) and Green Street. You can get a good view of them from the Pratt Community Center parking lot (which has accessible parking), located just across the street. What supposedly began as a high school prank when students graffitied the towers in the 1940s, led to the town formally adopting — and accepting — the designations, and repainting the towers in a more formal and permanent way. Yes, other towns in Kansas also have similar water towers, but the story behind these sends them to the top of the list.
The Cawker City Twine Ball is definitely off the beaten path, but that’s part of the charm of it all. Located about an hour-and-a-half northwest of Salina, you definitely have to go out of your way to visit this Kansas roadside attraction. It was started by Frank Stoeber in 1953 with sisal twine from his hay bales. Frank had been a bit under the weather and he thought twine winding would be a good way to pass the time. After he recovered, he found he had a new hobby, so he decided to keep it up.
Today this massive twine ball sits in an open-air pavilion on Highway 24 between Maple Street and Lake Drive. Accessible street parking is available on the corner of Highway 24 and Lake Street. There are steps up to the twine pavilion from Highway 24, so it’s best to head up Lake Street and cross over the grassy area next to the building with the mural on front, to get to the twine ball. And depending on the upkeep of the grounds, some wheelchair-users may need a bit of assistance bumping up the cement slab where the twine ball sits. Still you can get a good view of it from anywhere on the grass.
And this isn’t a static exhibit — it’s still growing. Every August there’s a twine-a-thon, where visitors are encouraged to add to the twine ball. So if you’re in the area during that time, make plans to become an official twine winder.
Most folks know that potatoes are the number one crop in Idaho; however many visitors completely pass up an unusual museum that celebrates the origin and versatility of this ubiquitous cash crop. Located in a 1912 railroad station off Interstate 15, this roadside attraction makes a nice diversion on the route between Pocatello and Idaho Falls. You can’t miss it — it’s the only building on Main Street with a giant potato in the front.
There’s accessible parking near the front door, and level access over to the main entrance of the Idaho Potato Museum. Inside there’s plenty room to maneuver a wheelchair around the exhibits, and ample space for wheelchair seating in the adjacent restaurant.
The exhibits present an excellent history of the spud, tracing its origins back to South America, and illustrating the factors that make Idaho an excellent place to cultivate the crop. Interestingly enough, the timeline also notes that it took western cultures 450 years to realize the advantage of dehydrated potatoes — something that the Incas knew all along. The museum is also filled with display cases that contain collections of potato peelers, potato mashers and even potato sack clothing. And if you’d like a little more education about taters, there’s room for a wheelchair in the small theater where you can view an interesting selection of potato themed videos.
There’s ramped access — although some folks may need a bit of assistance because of the steep pitch — to the second gallery, which includes a collection of machinery, including a potato sorter, a tractor, a potato sack sewing machine and a number of scales. There is also a small children’s hands-on area, but there are five steps up to it. And don’t miss the world’s largest potato crisp, which is 25 inches long and weighs in at 5.4 ounces.
The Idaho Potato Museum also makes a good lunch stop as the cafe serves up a baked potatoes with a variety of toppings, and sandwiches on potato rolls. And if that’s not enough to lure you in, the restored railroad depot is a hidden gem, and certainly worth more than a cursory a drive-by glance.
Although there are many contenders for the World’s Largest Peanut, the true winner resides in Ashburn, GA. You can spy the stately goober from I 75, just south of exit 82 on the west side of the highway. And if you’d fancy a closer look, then take the Washington Drive exit and turn west, then make a left on Sylvia/Whittle, between Zaxby’s and the Pizza Hut. The big nut can be found on a small service road on the left, about a half-mile from the turn. Although it was knocked from its perch in Hurricane Michael in 2018, it was replaced and renovated in 2023. During that interim phase, several other peanuts claimed “largest” status, but after the replacement the Ashburn giant regained the title.
There’s a small paved parking lot, and although it’s not striped it is level and seems adequate for the amount of traffic the peanut gets. There’s level access over to the nut, but if you are expecting a big peanut gift shop filled with tasty treats, coffee cups and t-shirts, you will be sorely disappointed, as the only thing at this stop is a commemorative plaque, and the World’s Largest Peanut. Still it’s a fun stop, and there’s a journalistic twist to the nut too, as it was erected in memory of Nora Lawrence Smith, the former editor and co-publisher of the Wiregrass Farmer, Turner County’s award-winning newspaper. So why a peanut? It is of course Turner County’s most important agricultural product. As an added bonus, if you hit this site after dark, it’s also lighted.
This vintage Route 66 attraction lies along one of the few intact strips of the Arizona Mother Road. Located in Peach Springs, you can’t miss this kitschy attraction as a flag-lined driveway leads to the official entrance marked by a giant dinosaur. Although none of the tours are technically wheelchair-accessible, the 45-minute guided tour may be doable for some wheelchair-users and slow walkers. There’s elevator access down the the cavern entrance, and although there’s a short stairway, there’s also an alternative step-free pathway. The trails through the cave are paved, but manual wheelchair-users may need a bit of assistance in a few of the steeper sections. And if you can’t manage the tour, there’s level access to the restaurant which serves up “The Best Burgers on Route 66”.
This modest 9-11 memorial is located at the east end of town, along historic Route 66. There’s accessible parking on both sides of the memorial, with a level sidewalk over to the viewing area, which contains two pieces from the wreckage of the World Trade Center. There’s ample evidence of the reverence of the site, as past visitors have left flags, messages and notes at the memorial. There’s also a medallion from the former Winslow Bridge which once spanned the Little Colorado River on Route 66, at the site.
Located on the corner of 2nd Street (Route 66) and Kinsley, this roadside attraction brings the lyrics of the Eagles 1970 hit — Take it Easy — to life. It features a mural by John Pugh, which depicts the famous lyrics. “a girl, my lord, in a flat bed Ford slowin’ down to take a look at me.” There is also a bronze sculpture by Ron Adamson of a musician with a guitar “standing on a corner in Winslow, Arizona” in front of the mural. There’s level access along the walkway in front of the mural, and barrier-free access to the surrounding stores which hawk some kitschy Route 66 souvenirs. And if you’re lucky, you’ll also hear strains of the hit tune coming from one of the stores.
Opened in 1996 by Dan Wright and Jake Raeney, this compact museum measures in at a tiny 134 square feet. It’s more of a gimmick to get passing motorists to stop at the adjacent Buckboard City Cafe; but it’s still a fun and quirky roadside attraction, regardless of your dining plans. The museum is located about a half-mile west of the rest area on Highway 60, in Superior, Arizona
There’s one accessible parking spot in the unstriped dirt parking lot, with level access over to the museum, which is housed in a small shed. There’s level access to the museum, and room for a wheelchair to maneuver down the single aisle that’s lined with glass display cases on each side. Exhibits include a collection of items curated by the founders, including a 1984 Compaq home computer, a Beatles concert poster, a 1960 letter from president-elect John F. Kennedy, and the world’s largest fake Zippo lighter. And don’t miss the tire sculpture and wheelbarrow fountain in front Even if it’s closed, there’s still an impressive collection of junk in the yard. It’s not something to go our of your way to visit, but it makes a good rest stop on they way to the Boyce Thompson Arboretum.
Located along Highway 89A near Mile Post 538, Navajo Bridge is a must-stop on the way to Grand Canyon North. This Northern Arizona landmark is easy to spot, as the historic bridge parallels the current model along the main road. There’s accessible parking near the old bridge — which was replaced with the current incarnation in 1995 — and level access to the accessible restrooms, visitor center and gift shop. There’s also an accessible picnic table in the shaded picnic area near the historic bridge.
Access is excellent at this roadside stop, and it’s easy to roll across the 834-foot — now pedestrian — bridge which was constructed in 1928. And although bridge buffs will love this site, it also offers an impressive view of the canyon with the Colorado River below. The far side of the bridge is located on Navajo land, and it features a few trinket stands.
Over in Holbrook, Arizona, the Wigwam Motel is also worth a stop. Just take exit 285 and head east on Hopi Drive — trust me you can’t miss it. This hotel, which features 15 individual “wigwams”, first opened in the 1950s and was very popular in they heyday of Route 66. Although the Wigwam Motel is still in operation, they don’t have any accessible rooms. That said, it’s still worth a stop for the photo op, as there’s a nice collection of vintage cars parked in front of the wigwams. Access is good around the property too, as it’s all level. Additionally, the property is still owned by the same family that built it, and they love to chat about Route 66 history.
Although there’s no shortage of rock and petrified wood shops in Holbrook, the Rainbow Rock Shop is worth a stop, just for the photo op. Although the fenced yard is filled to the brim with rocks of every size and shape, the real stars at this stop are the giant fiberglass dinosaurs.
The best place to park is on the right side of the shop, which has a small paved unstriped lot, but parking is also available in a level gravel area in front. It doesn’t matter if the shop is open or not, because the real photo ops are from outside. Unfortunately the shop and the yard are so filled with rocks and petrified wood, that it’s not even remotely wheelchair-accessible. Still you can just roll up to the front to catch a glimpse of the dinosaur collection – you don’t even have to get out of your car. It’s easy to find too – just take exit 286 off of Interstate 40 and head south. The rock shop is located on the west side of the road just south of Hopi Drive.
Cano’s Castle is constructed almost entirely of beer cans. Owner Donald “Cano” Espinoza actually claims that God constructed this masterpiece. The main structure — a four story house (the king) — was damaged by a fire in 2022. The towers (the queen and the rook) survived undamaged, and they are covered in beer cans, hubcaps and scrap metal. The whole property is surrounded by a structure called the crown, and everything is covered in shiny — sometimes blinding — scrap metal. According to Espinoza this monument serves as a thank-you to the powers-that-be for sparing his life during the Vietnam War. He also notes that he received his inspiration for the structures from Vitamin Mary Jane and Jesus. It gets pretty strange after that, and let’s just say that if you happen to run into Cano, he will give you an earful. Cano’s Castle is located on State Street, between 10th Avenue and 11th Avenue, about three blocks east of Highway 285. Although it’s not wheelchair-accessible, there’s room to pull of and take a few photos.
Opened in 1911, Casa Del Desierto was considered the crown jewel of the infamous Harvey House chain. This Barstow icon provided elegant meals and comfortable overnight accommodations for passengers of the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe Railway; and also housed an elegant ballroom for dances and other social events. Today this stately structure not only offers visitors a glimpse into the past, but it also houses the Western America Railroad Museum.
The museum’s collection is comprehensive — some claim it borders on eclectic — while a cadre of enthusiastic volunteers eagerly await the opportunity to share their collective railroad knowledge with visitors. Exhibits include everything from railroad tools and machines, to vintage schedules, uniforms, dinnerware and signs. And then there’s the model railroad. Access is excellent at the museum too, with accessible parking in the adjacent lot and plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair throughout the galleries.
There’s also a nice collection of rolling stock out in the yard, with level access around the cars. Highlights include an Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe caboose and diesel engine, a 1968 Cline wheel truck, and a Union Pacific caboose. There’s also a large Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe horse car, that was used to transport race horses and their owners across the country. And although the cars themselves do not offer wheelchair access, most of them are better admired from afar.
Although this Southern California artistic creation is located about 35 miles off Interstate 8, it’s definitely worth the detour. Just take exit 118 B, east of El Centro, and follow Highway 111 north. When you hit Niland, make a right on Main Street, which soon turns into Beal Road. Once out in the desert, you’ll pass the city dump and the makeshift community of Slab City, before you spot Salvation Mountain on the right.
This colorful masterpiece was crafted by Leonard Knight, who sadly passed away in 2014. His vision was to create a piece that reflected God’s love; and the 100-foot wide concrete mountain colorfully announces that belief to all who visit. And although age has taken it toll on this desert masterpiece, it’s still worth a visit. There’s no striped parking at the site, but there’s plenty of room to parallel park an adapted vehicle in the dirt parking lot. Although there are steps up to the top of the mountain, you can get an excellent view of the entire piece from below.
If you happen to be driving around Northern California on Highway 101, then plan to stop in for a brief photo op with Paul Bunyan and Babe. These massive sculptures are located in the Trees of Mystery (emerginghorizons.com/explore-californias-wheelchair-accessible-coastal-redwoods/) parking lot; and although there is a charge to visit the forest, you can take a selfie with the larger-than-life duo for free. Paul stands over 49 feet high, and Babe measures 35 feet between her horns. You definitely can’t miss them. And for added entertainment, Paul Bunyan waves his hand and says hello, tells a variety of jokes and even asks kids questions. All in all it’s a fun stop, and there’s plenty of accessible parking with ample room to roll over to the iconic duo.
Built in 1924 Kelso Depot was more than just a train depot, a it also included employee sleeping quarters as well as a full-service restaurant. The Los Angeles & Salt Lake Railroad constructed the facility in order to compete with the popular Harvey Houses operated by the Santa Fe Railroad. Kelso Depot was upscale for the time, and it even had a billiard room and a library. The depot ceased functioning in 1962, although the restaurant remained open until 1985. Today it houses the visitor center for the Mojave National Preserve.
Kelso Depot is pretty easy to find — just take Kelebaker Road from Baker, and continue on through the desert for 34 miles until you reach the historic site. Accessible parking is located in front of the depot, with level access over to the visitor center and the nearby accessible restrooms. Inside there’s barrier-free access throughout the facility, which includes interpretive exhibits about the Mojave National Preserve. Additionally the baggage room, ticket office and two dormitory rooms are furnished as they would have been in the 1920s. Even if the visitor center is closed, you can still get a gander at the lunch counter, vintage desks and old equipment through the large front windows. It’s definitely worth a stop while exploring the Mojave National Preserve.
36005 Highway 99 Traver, CA www.bravofarms.com Located in sleepy little Traver, Bravo Farms offers a much needed break from California’s monotonous Highway 99. To be fair, this gift shop-restaurant-farm-cheese factory has three other locations; but since the Traver one is the flagship, it’s also the kitschiest.
Accessible parking is located near the restaurant, and there’s level access to the restaurant, ice cream shop, gift shop, fudge shop and saloon. The gift shop has a wide selection of local products including Bravo Farms Cheese, (they have samples) and there’s even a wine tasting bar at the far end. And if you arrive at the right time you can also get a gander at the cheese-making process. Out back there are level pathways around a shooting gallery, a treehouse, a playground, a petting zoo, and a collection of old wooden buildings that are lined with vintage road signs and filled with memorabilia. It’s a great stop for kids of all ages!
Located in the middle of the California desert midway between Barstow and Las Vegas, the World’s Tallest Thermometer makes a nice stop on the way to Sin City. The brainchild of local businessman Willis Herron, the 134-foot tall thermometer was constructed in 1990 as a tribute to the record high temperature in the US — 134 degrees in nearby Death Valley. Unfortunately Herron didn’t account for the high winds in the area in his original plans, and as a result a strong gust brought the monument down, smashing a nearby gift shop that was under construction.
Undaunted Herron rebuilt the thermometer, and filled the second model with concrete to keep it steady. And although the thermometer was shut down for a while after Herron’s death, today it’s up and running again. It’s easy to find too — just take the Baker exit on Interstate 15 and follow the main drag until you see it on the south side of the street. To be honest, you can see it towering over the hamlet long before you even exit the freeway.
The best vantage point is from the fast food restaurant parking lot next door, because once you pull up too close to the thermometer, it’s hard to get a good photo. There’s lots of accessible parking is available in that lot, and it’s a nice level roll over to the far end, where you’ll get a good view of it all. After you’ve gotten your photos, you can just roll on over to the thermometer, go inside and check out the gift shop and photos of the construction of the thermometer.
Located off of Highway 93 about 25 miles north of Kingman, the Chloride Murals are a must-see on the way to Las Vegas or Grand Canyon West. Just take Road 125 (exit 53) and head east for four miles to reach the town proper. The murals are actually located on the other side of town in the hills. Continue along the main drag (Tennessee Avenue), cross a second cattle guard and then follow the dirt road 1.4 miles up to the murals.
A word of warning about the road — it’s not doable in a low-clearance vehicle, and there’s certainly ample evidence of oil pan damage along the route. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is not required though, and most SUVs and trucks will manage quite nicely. And once you arrive at the murals, there’s a wide level spot to park right next to the art work.
Artist Roy Purcell painted the boulder murals in the mid 60s, and the vibrant colors have definitely stood the test of time. Titled “The Journey” the murals include images of a snake eating the sun, a talon grabbing at Chloride, fertility images, pieces with a definite Yin and Yang side, astrological signs and many scenes that are open to interpretation. Take some time to study the murals, as the longer you look at them, the more hidden details you’ll spot.
If you’re a Kevin Costner fan, you’ll definitely want to make a stop at the Field of Dreams Filming Site on your next road trip to Chicago. The site is located in rural Iowa, about 25 miles west of Dubuque off of Highway 20. It’s pretty easy to find with GPS, and it’s only five miles off the highway, but if you get lost just follow the signs.
There’s good access to the site, which is located on the Lansing family farm. Accessible parking is available near the entrance with level access over to the large gift shop. There’s also good access over to a vantage point of the field itself, and to the restaurant, concession stand and ice cream stand. Admission is free and for the most part, everything is flat, level and accessible. And although this site has been developed a bit since the filming of the1989 movie, the nearby cornfield helps put it all into perspective. It’s a good stop for movie buffs or anyone who likes baseball.
Most Trekkies know that Captain James T. Kirk hails from Riverside, Iowa; but few folks realize that there’s already a commemorative plaque marking his future birth in this sleepy little Midwestern town. And I say “future”, because as we all know, Star Trek is set in the future, and the popular Enterprise Captain won’t make his blessed appearance until March 22, 2228 (according to The Making of Star Trek, by Gene Roddenberry).
A plaque commemorating the Future Birthplace of Captain James T. Kirk is located to the left of City Hall on Greene Street. It was relocated from nearby First Street in 2021. There’s accessible parking in front of City Hall, with a paved pathway over to the plaque,
Trekkies should also visit the Voyage Home Riverside History Center (www.voyagehomemuseum.org), which features a mixture of displays about Star Trek and Riverside. You can’t miss it as there’s a model of the Constitution-class USS Riverside on a trailer in the parking lot. There’s level access to this combination museum and gift shop, and plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair inside. And while you’re in the area, check out Railroad Park, which is across the street from the museum. Not only does this green space boast a bronze statue of Captain Kirk, but it’s also a nice spot to enjoy a picnic lunch.
Established in 1937 when Key Underwood laid his dog Troop to rest at his favorite hunting camp, the Key Underwood Coon Dog Memorial Graveyard now has more than 185 hounds buried there. It’s located in Northern Alabama about 30 miles from Tuscumbia, just 13 miles south of US Highway 72.
There is a small gravel parking area, and the terrain is fairly level and in dry weather it’s doable for most wheelers and slow walkers. You’ll see a little bit of everything at the graveyard, from marble monuments and wooden headstones to dog collars and even a plastic raccoon grave marker.
It’s still an active cemetery, as true coon dogs are eligible to be buried there. And they do stick to those restrictions. As the former caretaker elaborated, “A dog can’t run no deer, possum — nothing like that. He’s got to be a straight coon dog, and he’s got to be full hound. Couldn’t be a mixed up breed dog, a house dog.” All in all it’s a fun stop, and some of the headstones and memorials are priceless.
Located on an original stretch of Route 66, this combination gas station and souvenir shop is definitely a blast from the past. Take some time to explore the vintage cars, signs, tools and assorted junk outside, before you catch a glimpse of the vintage pinups in the men’s restroom inside at the Hackberry General Store. There’s plenty of room to park an adapted van in the dirt parking area, and there’s a level entry to the souvenir shop. And although there are a few steps inside, you can still get a good feel for this vintage attraction without navigating them. A must-stop on any Route 66 road trip! (emerginghorizons.com/wheelchair-accessible-route-66-a-great-grand-canyon-side-trip/)
In most cases a national park visit requires a vehicle, which can add extra time and expense to a fly-drive itinerary. Factor accessibility into the equation and it becomes even more complicated, as adapted rental vans are sometimes not readily available at gateway airports.
