Romantic retreats come in all shapes and sizes, From a secluded cabin in the woods to a lakeside lodge, or even a Moroccan retreat, there’s something out there for just about everyone. And today slow walkers and wheelchair-users don’t have to be left out, as many of these choices are now accessible. So with Valentines Day just around the corner, here are some wheelchair-accessible romantic retreats to share with your sweetheart.
Skamania Cabin
Cabin 744 at Skamania Lodge
emerginghorizons.com/relax-in-a-skamania-lodge-wheelchair-accessible-cabin Located on the fringe of Skamania Lodge in Southwestern Washington, this cozy cabin is perfect for a romantic getaway. It’s got a nice fireplace in the living room, a compact kitchen, a large bedroom, and a bathroom with a roll-in shower. And you can even order room service and enjoy it on the private deck.
Mendocino Retreat
Sunset View from Room 166 at the Little River Inn
emerginghorizons.com/a-wheelchair-accessible-mendocino-coast-retreat Next up on our list of wheelchair-accessible romantic retreats is The Little River Inn on California’s Mendocino Coast. This wheelchair-accessible room overlooks the ocean and has a luxurious bathroom with a roll-in shower. And if you get a little chilly, there’s also a cozy fireplace in the front room. A great choice for folks who love the coast.
Tenaya Lodge Cabin
Cabin 9 at Tenya Lodge
emerginghorizons.com/wheelchair-accessible-explorer-cabins-at-tenaya-lodge If you prefer the mountains, then head up to Yosemite and spend a few nights in this accessible Explorer Cabin at Tenaya Lodge. The cabin is located on a remote slice of the lodge property, which is just a short drive from the national park. And it has two bedrooms, a compact kitchen and a living area with a fireplace. The bathroom is nicely accessible with a roll-in shower, and there’s also a cozy private deck off the master bedroom.
Historic Harvey House
Room 204 at the Castaneda Hotel
emerginghorizons.com/the-castaneda-hotel-a-wheelchair-accessible-harvey-house History buffs with love this former Harvey House property, which is located in Las Vegas, New Mexico. The Castaneda Hotel, which was originally opened in 1898, was restored and reopened in 2019. And although access wasn’t really a thing back in the days of the Harvey Girls, the new rendition has a nice accessible room with a roll-in shower. It’s a fun property in a historic town.
Crater Lake Lodge
Crater Lake Lodge
emerginghorizons.com/spend-the-night-at-wheelchair-accessible-crater-lake-lodge Next up on our list of wheelchair-accessible romantic retreats is a rustic lodge that sits on the shore of a mountain lake – Crater Lake to be more specific. The historic lodge is a great place to spend a romantic weekend. The spacious wheelchair-accessible room is located on the ground floor, just steps from the lobby, dining room and terrace. After a day of exploring the lake, settle in for a nice dinner and top it off with drink on the terrace. You just can’t beat the lake view. It’s also a great spot to enjoy a romantic sunset.
A Desert Oasis
Spa Garden at the El Morocco Inn
emerginghorizons.com/the-el-morocco-inn-a-wheelchair-accessible-oasis-in-the-california-desert For a taste of Morocco without leaving the US, check out the El Morocco Inn in the California desert. Located in Desert Hot Springs, this accessible oasis includes a nice wheelchair-accessible room with a roll-in shower. There’s also good access to the public areas, including the swimming pool and the spa. And if you’d just like to chill, you can kick back in the library and enjoy a book or DVD. Truly there’s something for everyone at this relaxing retreat.
Santa Fe Suite
Suite 102 at the Chimayo Hotel
emerginghorizons.com/a-wheelchair-accessible-santa-fe-lodging-choice This Santa Fe Hotel offers a nice wheelchair-accessible suite, just steps from the historic Plaza. The Hotel Chimayo features a spacious accessible suite with a large bathroom and a roll-in shower. And there’s also a cozy fireplace in the living room to snuggle up with your sweetheart. Don’t forget to stop in at the Low n’ Slow Bar while you are there. Not only do they have a wide selection of beverages and snacks, but you just can’t beat the retro low rider décor.
Red Canyon Cabin
Cabin 12 at Red Canyon Village
emerginghorizons.com/spend-the-night-in-red-canyon-village Last but not least on the list of wheelchair-accessible romantic retreats is this Bryce Canyon cabin at Red Canyon Village. Located just a few miles from the national park entrance along scenic Highway 12, this log cabin is just a short walk from the office. It includes a king-sized bed, a compact kitchen and a large bathroom with a roll-in shower. And if you’d like to dine al fresco there’s a picnic table outside and a few chairs on the front porch. A perfect Red Canyon getaway.
Barrier-Free Travel California National Parks Road Trips Travel Ideas for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Fred Harvey is a bit of a legend in the hospitality industry. Back in 1876, long before railroad dining cars were part of the rolling stock, he realized the need for restaurants along the major rail routes. To remedy the situation, he negotiated a contract with the Santa Fe Railroad, and opened the first of many Harvey Houses in Topeka, Kansas along the rail line. These restaurants were known for their generous portions and quality furnishings, and of course the Harvey Girls, who fed hungry passengers in the time it took to service the trains and change the crews. As time went on, Harvey expanded his empire to include hotels and resorts, and at the time of his death he operated 47 restaurants and 15 hotels.
And although many of these historic properties have faded into oblivion, you can still find remnants of the Harvey empire throughout the Southwestern US. Some buildings are in ruins, while others have been renovated; and there are even a select few where you can spend the night. And although access wasn’t a consideration during Fred Harvey’s lifetime, thanks to some access upgrades, today wheelchair-users and slow walkers can enjoy some of the remaining properties. So check out these historic Harvey Houses on your next road trip through the Southwestern US.
Casa Del Desierto Barstow, CA
Casa Del Desierto in Barstow, California
Located in Southern California, Casa Del Desierto was considered the crown jewel of the Harvey House chain. It opened its doors in 1911, and not only did it house a restaurant, but it also provided comfortable overnight accommodations for passengers on the the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe Railway. The building was renovated in 1999, and today it houses the local visitor center as well as the excellent Western America Railroad Museum (emerginghorizons.com/western-america-railroad-museum/) – both of which have good wheelchair access. And if you’d just like to stop by and glance at the exterior of the historic structure, you can do that too.
Kelso Depot Kelso, CA
Kelso Depot in Mojave National Preserve, California
Located in the Mojave National Preserve, Kelso Depot (nps.gov/moja/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm wasn’t a Harvey House, but it’s definitely worth a mention. It was constructed in 1924 by the Los Angeles & Salt Lake Railroad as competition for the popular Harvey Houses operated by the Santa Fe Railroad. Today it houses the visitor center for the Mojave National Preserve. It also has several restored rooms that are open to the public. These include the baggage room, ticket office and two dormitory rooms. Accessible parking is available in the parking lot, with level access to the depot buildings. And even if the building isn’t open, you can still get a gander at the lunch counter, vintage desks and old equipment through the large front windows. Additionally, the restrooms are always open, so it’s a good spot to take a rest break.
El Garces Needles, CA
El Garces Intermodal Transportation Facility in Needles, California
Named for Father Francisco Garces — the first European to cross the Mojave Desert — El Garces (nps.gov/places/el-garces.htm) was once said to resemble a Greek temple. This Southern California train depot housed a hotel and restaurant. After the depot was closed, it fell into disrepair and was subsequently shuttered. Fortunately the City of Needles came to the rescue in 1999, and purchased the building; which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2002. In 2014 the city embarked on an ambitious $5 million renovation project to restore this Needles landmark to its former glory. Today the finished project transports visitors back to the golden age of rail travel, and makes a nice stop on an Route 66 road trip.
There’s accessible parking on the side with level access over to the front of the depot, which is surrounded by tall palms and flanked by stately white columns. Although the building is only sporadically open, visitors can still get a look at the restored interior through the large glass windows. There’s also barrier-free access around to the back — track side — of the building, and level access to the back door. A majestic fountain dominates the courtyard near the back door, and it’s a pleasant spot to rest and admire the building. And like the front, large windows line the back of the building, so it’s easy to get a peek inside.
Santa Fe Depot Kingman, AZ
Santa Fe Depot in Kingman, Arizona
The beautifully restored Santa Fe Depot is located on the corner of 4th Street and Andy Divine Avenue in downtown Kingman. Unfortunately the Santa Fe Eating House, which was staffed by Harvey Girls, has been demolished. It once sat across from the Santa Fe Depot, but today all that’s left of it are a few remnants of the foundation. Still it’s worth a stop to see the depot.
Accessible Entrance Near Parking
There’s accessible parking in the small lot, with ramp access up to the 1907 depot. The Kingman Railroad Museum (kingmanrailroadmuseum.com) is located on one side of the building, while the Amtrak waiting room is located on the other side. There’s level access to the depot and the museum, and there are accessible restrooms inside the depot. It’s definitely worth a stop for history buffs, as the building is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Fray Marcos Hotel Williams, AZ
Depot at the Fray Marcos Hotel in Williams, Arizona
The Fray Marcos Hotel, and the adjoining depot were opened in 1908. This Harvey House had 43 guest rooms at its peak. Today the depot is still in operation, while the former hotel houses the Grand Canyon Railway (thetrain.com) administrative offices. Accessible parking is located near the Williams Depot, with level access to the track side of the station. Take some time to admire the exterior, then pop inside for a look at the former Indian Building — you can’t miss it, as it’s the room with the massive fireplace.
The old hotel lobby is adjacent to the Indian Building, next to the stairs that lead up to the Grand Canyon Railway offices. There are some old photographs in the lobby, and the room exudes a definite historic vibe. Although the depot is deserted most of the day, traffic picks up when the daily Grand Canyon train arrives and departs. Still with a little advance planning, you’ll have the place to yourself.
El Tovar & Bright Angel Lodge Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
El Tovar
Grand Canyon National Park, which is located north of Williams, is home to two historic Harvey Houses. Perched on the south rim of the canyon, El Tovar and Bright Angel Lodge both feature Mary Colter’s signature southwestern touches.
El Tovar (grandcanyonlodges.com/lodging/el-tovar-hotel) first opened in 1905, and although it was considered a luxury hotel, guests still shared one bathroom at the end of the hall. Today the property boasts modern access features, including a ramped accessible entrance on the canyon side, and several wheelchair-accessible guest rooms.
Harvey House Exhibit in the Bright Angel History Room
Bright Angel Lodge (grandcanyonlodges.com/lodging/bright-angel-lodge-cabins) was constructed in 1935 as a budget alternative to the El Tovar. Although there are no accessible rooms at the Bright Angel Lodge, it’s still worth a visit to see the Harvey House exhibit in the Bright Angel History Room. There’s good wheelchair access throughout the Bright Angel History Room, which features artifacts from the two Harvey Houses, as well as old photos, an 1880 Harvey House dinner gong, and even a vintage Harvey Girl uniform. It also includes information and photos from a Harvey Indian Detours excursion, which took train passengers on overnight trips to nearby Native American sites.
La Posada Winslow, AZ
The La Posada Hotel in Winslow, Arizona
Over in Winslow, Arizona, La Posada (laposada.org) was added to the Harvey family in 1929. And although Mary Colter received wide recognition for her Grand Canyon buildings, she always considered La Posada her masterpiece. Access is good throughout this historic property, with accessible parking in front, and a level sidewalk to the front entrance.
Even if you don’t overnight there, make sure to stop and enjoy a short walking tour, as the property is filled with lots of nooks and crannies that contain historic photos and artifacts. Although the building lacks an elevator, the majority of the artifacts are located on the first floor. Out back, the Affeldt Mion Museum is housed in the 1930 depot, and contains exhibits about the history of the Las Posada, Fred Harvey and Mary Colter.
The Turquoise Room, which faces the railroad tracks, once served as the Harvey House lunch room. Today the menu offers a good selection of southwestern and traditional favorites. And for a real nostalgic feel, the waitresses are even dressed in in traditional Harvey House uniforms. Additionally, if you’d like to spend the night at the Las Posada, they also have a nice wheelchair-accessible guest room on the first floor.
Painted Desert Inn Petrified Desert National Park, AZ
Painted Desert Inn in Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona
Located east of Winslow, the Painted Desert Inn (nps.gov/pefo/learn/historyculture/pdi.htm) officially opened in 1940 on the site of the former Stone Tree House, which once provided Route 66 travelers with food, souvenirs and lodging. Sadly the war brought an end to the boom days and the Painted Desert Inn was closed in 1942. Five years later the Fred Harvey Company took over management and hired Mary Colter to renovate the property; and the legendary Harvey Girls were brought to the Petrified Forest.
The property operated until 1963, but the inn was saved from the wrecking ball due to a massive public outcry. Finally in 1987 it was declared a National Historic Landmark, and the property was rehabilitated and returned to its former glory. Today you can see the old dining counter and lunch room, complete with vintage place settings. Access has also been improved over the years, with level access to most areas of the inn, and plenty of room for wheelchairs and scooters. After you’re done browsing through the inn, don’t miss the colorful desert view from the accessible viewpoint in back of the inn.
Belen Harvey House Belen, NM
Belen Harvey House in Belen, New Mexico
This 1910 Belen Harvey House (harveyhousemuseum.org) once contained a large lunch room, a formal dining room, a newsstand and an upstairs Harvey Girls dormitory. Today it houses a museum and an adjacent restaurant. There’s good access throughout the museum which contains lots of Harvey House memorabilia, including old photos, dishes, uniforms and even menus. There’s also a number of exhibits about the history of the railroad, and even some old railroad equipment on display. There’s no elevator access to the second floor, but the bulk of the exhibits up there focus on Belen history, rather than the Harvey Houses. As an added bonus the museum is staffed by volunteers who love to talk about the Harvey House heyday.
The Whistle Stop Café is also worth a stop while you are there. This casual eatery includes home made treats like muffins, carrot cake, cobbler and a variety of soups. Everything is delicious, and all proceeds from the café go to help support the museum.
Puye Rest House Espanola, NM
Puye Rest House in Espanola, New Mexico
Located well off the main train line in the Santa Clara Pueblo, this Harvey House was part of the Indian Detours program. Built on tribal land in the 1920s, the Puye Rest House (puyecliffdwellings.com/tours/harvey-house) hosted guests who traveled on the “Chili Line”, and were then transferred to the Santa Clara Pueblo in covered wagons in the early years, and in Model Ts in later years. The tours operated from 1925 to 1939, and the big attraction of this location was the hilltop cliff dwellings in back of the hotel.
Today the two buildings that made up the Harvey House are now an interpretive center and a gift shop, and although the cliff dwellings aren’t accessible, the buildings are very doable for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. Most of the exhibits in the interpretive center are focused on the history of the Santa Clara Pueblo, and the excavation of the cliff dwellings in 1907. Still it’s a chance to go inside the historic Harvey House building. There’s also a nice view of the cliff dwellings from the back porch. And if you just want to look at the outside of this historic building, it’s definitely worth the drive.
Castaneda House Las Vegas, NM
The Castaneda Hotel In Las Vegas, New Mexico
Last but certainly not least on our Harvey Houses of the Southwest tour is the Castaneda House (emerginghorizons.com/the-castaneda-hotel-a-wheelchair-accessible-harvey-house/), which opened in 1898. It closed in 1948 and was shuttered until a local investor purchased it in 2019. Today the restored property has the ambience of yesteryear, with the access features of modern times.
The Mission Revival style building once housed 37 guestrooms, a 108-seat dining room a 51-seat lunch counter, and a cluster of railroad offices. Today the renovated property has 22 suites; and if you look carefully in the rooms, you can see vague outlines of the former room borders on the floors. The hallway doors to the original rooms were also left intact — some now go to storage rooms, while others are merely decorative. And there’s also a nice wheelchair-accessible guest room with a roll-in shower. All in all, the Castaneda Hotel features the charm of the yesteryear, and the comforts and access features of today.
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
The best way to see old town Santa Fe is on foot. That said, there are more than a few access obstacles in the historic heart of the city near the Plaza — an area that dates back some 400 years. On the other hand, with a little advance planning and careful route selection, it’s still possible to see the cultural highlights of this area with minimal walking. With that in mind, here’s a barrier-free Santa Fe walking — or rolling — tour, with stops at a number of accessible cultural attractions along the way.
St. Francis Cathedral
Inside The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi
First up on the wheelchair-accessible Santa Fe walking tour is St. Francis Cathedral (cbsfa.org/), which is just a block from the Plaza. Just head east on Palace Avenue, then turn south on Cathedral Place. St. Francis Cathedral is on the left — you can’t miss it.
Built by Archbishop Jean Baptiste Lamy between 1869 and 1886, this Santa Fe landmark is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe. And although there are steps up at the front of this Romanesque Revival building, there’s also ramp access on the left side. Inside, there’s barrier-free access throughout the church, with accessible seating in the chapel.
The center aisle is lined with Corinthian columns, and accented with graceful arches. A massive baptismal fountain sits near the center of the church, and the intricately carved main altar is a sight to behold. Top it off with the stations of the cross, an impressive collection of historic paintings, and stained glass windows that were imported from France, and you have a truly magnificent sanctuary.
Museum of Contemporary Native Arts
The Museum of Contemporary Native Arts
The Museum of Contemporary Native Arts (iaia.edu/mocna/), which is located across the Street from St. Francis Cathedral, is often overlooked by visitors, but it’s truly a must-see on any Santa Fe visit. And there’s a discounted admission for disabled visitors, and no charge for caregivers.
Although there are steps up to the front entrance, there’s curb-cut access and a barrier-free pathway to that same entrance from San Francisco Street. Inside, there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair through the spacious galleries which display select works from a 7,500-object collection of contemporary native art. From paintings, textiles and cultural arts, to sculptures, ceramics and jewelry, there’s something for just about everyone.
There’s also level access out to the first-floor courtyard which boasts an impressive collection of public art, and to the adjacent galleries which host a wide variety of rotating exhibits. And if you like what you see, don’t forget to stop in at the well-stocked gift shop on the way out.
Loretto Chapel
The Miraculous Staircase of the Loretto Chapel
From the Museum of Contemporary Native Arts, head south on Cathedral Place and take a right on Water Street and a left on the Old Santa Fe Trail, to what many folks consider one of the most mysterious sights in town — the Loretto Chapel (lorettochapel.com/). There’s level access to this beautiful chapel, where visitors can also admire the stained glass windows, the stations of the cross, the Italian-made altar, and of course the famous staircase to the choir loft that lacks any visible support.
The story behind the creation of the staircase is an age-old mystery. According to legend, the sisters of the chapel prayed to St Joseph — the patron saint of carpenters — for a way to access the then stair-less choir loft. Shortly thereafter an unknown carpenter appeared and constructed the spiral staircase, and left without payment. That was in 1878, and although a railing was added over the years for safety, the staircase remains as it was constructed — without any center or side support. Visitors can linger on as long as they want in the chapel, and enjoy the beauty of it all.
Palace of the Governors
Old Governors Office in the Palace of the Governors
One of the highlights of old Santa Fe is the Palace of the Governors (palaceofthegovernors.org), which was constructed in the early 17th century as Spain’s seat of government over what’s now known as the American Southwest. Designated as a Registered National Historic Landmark in 1960, today this historic building houses part of the state’s history museum.
As an added bonus, the stroll from the Loretto Chapel is very scenic. Just follow the Old Santa Fe Trail north past San Francisco Street, along the Plaza and over to the Palace of the Governors. Alternatively, you can cut through the Plaza; however even though the Plaza pathways are wide and level, there are some uneven brick sections that may be problematic for wheelchair-users.
You can’t miss the Palace of Governors, as it’s usually lined with a gaggle of Native American vendors selling their wares. And although that’s certainly worth a stop itself, it’s also worth a look inside. Access to the interior of this historic adobe structure is through the Lincoln Street entrance to the New Mexico History Museum, which is located next door on Lincoln Street. So save some time to the peruse the inside of this historic building which is filled with objects that have been unearthed by archaeologists, including pottery, utensils and weapons. The exhibits span two floors, with elevator access to the second floor, and there’s always an interesting rotating exhibition or two in the mix.
New Mexico History Museum
Fred Harvey exhibit in the New Mexico History Museum
The New Mexico History Museum (nmhistorymuseum.org), which is located just around the corner, offers an equally impressive historic collection. There’s level access to the front door and ramped access to the exhibits. Wheelchairs are available for loan at the front desk, and there’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair through the exhibition spaces, which feature a variety of artifacts that chronicle the history of the state.
Starting with the early settlers and Coronado, and moving on to the Mew Mexico Missions, the Santa Fe Trail and even the Santa Fe Harvey House, the museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of the indigenous people, Spanish Colonization and early travel and commerce in New Mexico. And combined with the Palace of the Governors, this modern museum gives visitors a good overview of the colorful — and sometimes contentious — state history.
New Mexico Museum of Art
New Mexico Museum of Art
The New Mexico Museum of Art (nmartmuseum.org), which is located just a block west of the Palace of the Governors, is also worth a stop. It’s just a short level roll down the street, and there’s curb-cut access to the wide level sidewalk along Palace Avenue, and level access over to the museum’s front entrance. There’s barrier-free access to all the galleries, and elevator access to the second floor.
This museum first opened in 1917, and many of the works that were exhibited on opening day are still part of the permanent collection. A good variety of rotating exhibitions are also presented throughout the year. And don’t miss the courtyard, which is dotted with murals by William Shuster. These frescoes, which were commissioned by the Federal Emergency Relief Agency in 1934, were created to honor the Pueblo Indians. It’s quite an impressive collection.
Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
Georgia O’Keefe’s paint box in the Georgia O’Keefe Museum
Last but not least on this wheelchair-accessible Santa Fe walking Tour is the Georgia O’Keefe Museum (www.okeeffemuseum.org). From the New Mexico Museum of Art, continue west on Palace Avenue, take a right on Grant Street, and then turn left on Johnson Street. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum is just a half-block up on the right.
Although O’Keeffe was born in Wisconsin, she fell in love with New Mexico when she visited Santa Fe in 1917. By 1934 she was spending her summers at Ghost Ranch, about an hour north of Santa Fe; and in 1949 she took up permanent residence in the state. To say she was a local favorite is an understatement. The museum was opened 11 years after her death in 1997, to honor her art and share it with the public.
Today there’s excellent wheelchair access throughout the galleries in the adobe building, which is a work of art itself. Admission is free for people with a disability, and half-price for their caregivers. There’s also a loaner wheelchair available at the front desk.
The museum’s permanent collection consists of over 3,000 O’Keeffe works which span the length of her career, from 1915 to 1984. The galleries are divided by decade and the works include everything from paintings of her beloved New Mexico, and large scale depictions of flowers, leaves and other natural forms, to New York cityscapes. Add in some rotating exhibits and you have a truly spectacular museum — and reason enough to add Santa Fe to your cultural bucket list.
Stay Near the Plaza
Living Area in Suite 102 at the Chimayo Hotel
If you’re looking for an accessible hotel near this wheelchair-accessible Santa Fe walking tour, then look no further than the Chimayo Hotel emerginghorizons.com/a-wheelchair-accessible-santa-fe-lodging-choice/. It’s just a two-minute walk from the Palace of the Governors, on Washington Street. This historic property boasts a comfortable accessible suite, and it’s a great place to base yourself to explore old town Santa Fe. You can start this walking tour in the morning, have lunch, then take midday break at the hotel, before continuing your tour in the afternoon. Comfort, convenience and access, the Hotel Chimayo has it all. So check it out on your next Santa Fe visit.
Barrier-Free Travel Utah National Parks for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi on the Santa Fe Pick-Up Shuttle Route
If a trip to Santa Fe is in your future, then check out the Santa Fe Pick-Up (santafenm.gov/public-works/transit/santa-fe-pick-up), the free Santa Fe accessible shuttle.. Funded in partnership with Tourism Santa Fe, the Santa Fe Transit Department and NCRTD, this free shuttle bus runs from the the railroad station to downtown, with stops at popular sites along the way. A complete schedule is available on the website. The buses are all equipped with wheelchair ramps and tie-downs, and the drivers are available to assist wheelchair-users. So check out this free Santa Fe accessible transportation option on your next visit. And once you get off the bus, here’s a wheelchair accessible route to explore the Plaza area (https://emerginghorizons.com/a-wheelchair-accessible-santa-fe-walking-tour/).
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Located just a block from the historic Santa Fe Plaza, the Hotel Chimayo (www.hotelchimayo.com) takes its name from a Northern New Mexican town that dates back to the 17th century. And although this upscale boutique hotel offers a bevy of modern creature comforts, it also celebrates the history and culture of its namesake village with traditional architecture, hand-crafted furnishings and original artwork. And the good news is, historic and accessible aren’t mutually exclusive at the Hotel Chimayo. So check out this wheelchair-accessible Santa Fe lodging pick on your next southwestern sojourn.
Historic Yet Accessible
The Hotel Chimayo features brick steps that grace the historic front entrance; however there’s easy access to a ramped entrance on the left side of the building. Alternatively, accessible parking is located in an underground garage, with elevator access up to the lobby.
There’s barrier-free access throughout the lobby, which is adorned with Viga ceilings, hand woven-textiles and a collection of retablos — small religious paintings — that are incorporated into the design of the massive brick fireplace. Add in a large crucifix on the mantle, an adjacent hand-carved altar, and a collection of Spanish colonial wooden furniture, and you get a real feel for historic Chimayo.
A Comfy Accessible Suite
Living Room in Suite 102 at the Chimayo Hotel
Room 102 — an ADA junior fireplace suite — is located near the front lobby, just off a brick courtyard that’s accented with colorful bunches of hanging chilies. Access features in the spacious suite include wide doorways, lever handles, good pathway access, and low-pile carpet for easy rolling.
The large living room in this comfortable suite features a wood burning fireplace that comes complete with firewood. It’s surrounded by comfortable furniture, and it also include a refrigerator and a wet bar. A 28-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair access on the right side (as you face it), is located in a separate alcove. Other furnishings include a chest of drawers and a TV. Top it off with a lowered closet rod and you have a very accessible suite.
Bedroom in Suite 102 at the Chimayo Hotel
There’s barrier-free access to the adjacent bathroom, which has a tile floor and a full five-foot turning radius. It’s equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. The tile shower is nicely designed for access and it includes shower controls that are located within easy reach of the shower bench. The toilet grab bars are located on the back and left walls (as seated), and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink and an angled mirror.
Bathroom in Suite 102 at the Chimayo Hotel
It’s a very accessible and comfortable suite; and as an added bonus it also includes some historic photos and custom artwork. In fact more than 70 Chimayo artists created the artwork and furniture that adorns this property; and that’s quite a tribute to the small town.
The Public Areas
There’s good access to the public areas of this wheelchair-accessible Santa Fe lodging choice as well. There’s level access to the Low ‘n Slow Bar, which is located on the second floor. And the decor is worth a visit by itself. True to the low rider theme, it’s decked out with diamond-tuck upholstered seats, chrome chain-link steering wheel tables, hubcaps, vintage photos and the odd piece of car memorabilia here and there. It’s a fun place to stop for a cocktail or grab one of their yummy “hawt” pizzas
Best of all, you just can’t beat the location of the Hotel Chimayo, as it’s within rolling distance of all the major attractions. You can park your car for the duration of your stay, and explore the historic district on foot. And if you want to take a break during the day, your comfortable room is just steps away. Good wheelchair access, comfortable rooms, and a prime location makes the Hotel Chimayo is an excellent wheelchair-accessible Santa Fe lodging choice.
Barrier-Free Travel the Grand Canyon for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
“Shape” Balloons at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
Slated to run from October 4-12, 2025, the 53rd Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta (balloonfiesta.com/) will feature morning skies dotted with colorful balloons, special shaped balloon rodeos and evening balloon glows. Add in some fun exhibits, flavorful food and a variety of vendors, and you have all the ingredients for a fun-filled event. And the good news is, access hasn’t been overlooked at the Fiesta; in fact organizers have gone above and beyond to make sure that wheelchair-users and slow walkers can enjoy this colorful event.
The Basics
The Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta takes place in Balloon Fiesta Park, which is located close to Interstate 25 in the northern part of the city. That said, allow plenty of extra travel time, as traffic congestion is the norm in this area during Fiesta time.
General admission tickets are available on the Balloon Fiesta website or on site. A general admission ticket is good for admission to one session — morning or evening — on any day of the Fiesta. Accessible parking is available for $20 per session, and it is available on a first-come first-serve basis. Accessible parking is available in the Green, Blue, Turquoise, Brown and Yellow lots. Free accessible shuttles are also available from these lots to the entrance.
If you have an accessible parking placard, you can request a free reflective one, so the attendants can easily see you and direct you to the accessible parking section. To obtain one, send a copy of your placard to:
AIBF
4401 Alameda NE
Albuquerque, NM 87113
ATTN: ADA Placard Request
You can also request a reflective placard by e-mailing a copy of your placard to balloons@balloonfiesta.com, with “ADA Placard Request” in the subject line. Reflective placards are mailed out in late August.
Park and Ride
If you’d prefer to dodge the traffic, then take a Park and Ride bus from one of four remote lots. The busses are wheelchair-accessible ,but they cannot accommodate scooters. Tickets can be purchased at balloonfiesta.com/Park-Ride, and they also include general admission to the Fiesta. Park and Ride Shuttle tickets are not available at the parking lots, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment. If you encounter problems purchasing your tickets online, call 505-227-8737 for assistance.
There are four Park and Ride locations.
Hoffmantown Church
8888 Harper Road NE
Park in the northeast lot only.
Cottonwood Mall
10000 Coors Bypass NW
Park in the northeast parking lot near Seven Bar Loop and Coors Bypass NW.
Coronado Center
6600 Menaul Blvd. NE
Park at the southwest corner near San Pedro Dr. and Uptown Blvd.
Intel
1600 Rio Rancho Dr. SE, Rio Rancho, NM
Park in the southeast lot only. This route only runs on weekends.
The Park and Ride buses run from Thursday to Sunday during the morning and evening events. Morning service begins from the remote lots at 4:00 a.m. and ends at 7:00 a.m. Service from Balloon Fiesta Park to the remote lots begins at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 11:00, with straggler buses following until 11:30.
Evening service from the remote lots runs from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., with return service from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and straggler buses following until 10:00 p.m.
VIP Packages
Although there’s certainly adequate access to the Fiesta grounds; if you have problems with crowds, you might want to consider one of the VIP packages. For an extra fee, you’ll be able to sit or stand in a private viewing area, and enjoy a few other extra perks. If you have problems standing for long periods of time, or find it difficult to navigate through crowds, this might be just the ticket for you.
The Gondola Club offers barrier-free access to a private viewing area with outdoor seating and a good view of the field. Private accessible restrooms and VIP parking are also included. Additionally, patrons are treated to a breakfast or dinner buffet and an open bar, and they also receive a Gondola Club lapel pin and a special souvenir gift.
Alternatively, you can choose the the Chasers’ Club, which features guaranteed seating in a private patio next to the landing field. Patrons also have access to private accessible restrooms. Food and non-alcoholic beverages are included in the package, with alcoholic beverages available for purchase in the adjacent Chase Lounge. And like the Gondola Club, it’s completely barrier-free.
Last, but not least, the Albuquerque Balloon Museum Foundation, offers a fully catered breakfast or dinner and a spectacular view of the Mass Ascension or Balloon Glow from the museum balcony. There is elevator access to the observation deck, and accessible indoor restrooms are available to patrons. For more information, visit www.balloonmuseum.com.
In the end, no matter what package you pick at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, you’ll be treated to a great show. But make plans early, as some of the more popular packages have been known to sell out.
Balloons Galore
Each day brings a different schedule to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, but no matter when you visit, there are a few must-sees. On most days the Fiesta is divided into a morning session and an evening session, with a break in the action mid-day. The morning sessions usually start around 6:00 am, while the evening ones begin twelve hours later. It should also be noted that some mid-week days lack an evening session.
Make plans to see at least one mass ascension. They usually begin around 6:30 a.m., but get there early as traffic is very heavy, especially on the weekends. During this time hundreds of colorful balloons take to sky in two waves. It’s really a site to behold and a great photo opportunity. Although you can see the ascensions from many places around Albuquerque, there’s really nothing quite like seeing it from Balloon Fiesta Park.
The grassy area, which serves as the launch field, is level and easy to walk or roll over; and there is an asphalt pathway along the border. Alternatively, wheelchairs and scooters are available for rent on a limited basis near the information booth.
The special shapes rodeo is also a must-see. This morning event began in 1989 and it’s now the most popular event at the Fiesta. You’ll see everything from enchanted castles and dragons to bumble bees, cows and even a scuba diver.
The evening sessions are largely devoted to balloon glows, where the pilots inflate the balloons, but do not launch them. Seeing the balloons glow en mass, is only topped by the spectacular afterglow fireworks show presented at the end of the evening.
The Extras
Balloon Glow at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta
There’s more to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta than the colorful balloons. For starters, there’s the food. Most of the food vendors are located along Main Street, which features level access and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair. Food choices include everything from New Mexican cuisine to fair food, with a little bit of something for everyone. ATMs are also located along Main Street, and there are plenty of accessible porta-potties throughout the park.
Main Street is also home to the merchandise vendors, which offer t-shirts, pins, calendars and other souvenirs. And don’t miss the chainsaw carvers booth, which is located at the north end of Main Street. The Balloon Discovery Center, which is also located at the north end of Main Street, offers visitors a good primer on the sport of ballooning, with lots of hands-on activities. And don’t forget to stop by the Main Street Stage, which is located near the center of Main Street, to enjoy a wide variety of musical entertainment,
Finally save time for a visit to the Balloon Museum (balloonmuseum.com/) Located next door to Balloon Fiesta Park, this fun and educational museum features accessible parking, loaner wheelchairs, level access to the building and elevator access to all levels. And it’s filled with exhibits about everything from weather balloons to airship models, with videos, balloon equipment and even balloon pins. It’s the perfect way to top off your Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta experience.
Barrier-Free Travel
Utah National Parks for Wheelchair-users and Slow Walkers
Population 12,905
If you’re road tripping through Northern New Mexico, make sure and stop in Las Vegas, especially if you are a Harvey House aficionado. Head on over to the historic railroad depot first, which offers accessible parking and barrier-free access. Constructed in 1899, it’s still a working depot, and it also houses a small visitor information center. Next door the beautifully restored Castaneda Hotel is also worth a visit. There’s ramp access up to this former Harvey House, and level access around the lobby, which is dominated by a massive staircase. There’s elevator access to the second floor, which features 22 renovated rooms. There’s also level access to the downstairs bar, with barrier-free access to outside seating. Stop in and have a drink or some appetizers, and enjoy the view from the porch. And if you’d like to spend the night, room 204, which is wheelchair-accessible, is equipped with a roll-in shower.
Population 2,769
Located along the post-1937 incarnation of Route 66, Santa Rosa is a must-stop for car buffs on any Interstate 40 road trip. The big draw is the Route 66 Auto Museum (www.facebook.com/Route-66-Auto-Museum-584173181695140/). The brainchild of Bozo and Anna Cordova — who also own Bozo’s Garage & Wrecker Service — is the result of Bozo’s lifelong love affair with automobiles. He built his first car when he was just 12, and subsequently Bozo and his crew have custom built over 150 different vehicles. These restorations, many of which required some “out of the box thinking” have been subsequently displayed in the museum. There’s accessible parking in front, with level access to the museum, and plenty of room for even the largest wheelchair to navigate around the displays. The collection dates back to 1920; and there’s also a good collection of old signs, Route 66 memorabilia, photos and vintage vending machines on display. It’s a great blast from the past.
Population 5,123
No Route 66 road trip would be complete without a stop in Tucumcari. From a drive along the original stretch of the Mother Road, to an interesting collection of murals painted on the sides of buildings throughout town, and you’ve got a true remembrance of yesteryear. And if you’d like to spend the night in a modern hotel, the Best Western has a nice wheelchair-accessible room with a tub/shower combination.
Located at Interstate 40 Exit 369 on the Texas-New Mexico border, the TA Travel Center is home to the excellent Russell’s Auto Museum. Formerly Russell’s Auto Center, the property was sold to TA in 2023, but a lease agreement remains in place to keep Russell’s Auto Museum going for at least until 2028. Says Mark Russell, former Director of Operations at Russell’s Travel Center, “My mom and dad just wanted to keep the museum and keep people being able to look at the cars and stuff.”
Accessible parking is available near the truck stop entrance, with level access to the building. Inside there’s barrier-free access through the restaurant to the back of the building, where you’ll find the car museum. Highlights include a 1955 Corvette Roadster, a 1959 Ford Galaxie Skyliner and a 1957 pink T-bird convertible. There’s good pathway access around all the cars, which are surrounded by a plethora of memorabilia, from vintage photos, toys and gas pumps, to a nice collection of 1950s children’s push cars. Add in the vintage tunes playing on the juke box and you have the full nostalgic experience. Best of all, there’s no admission charge to this fun museum.
