Why Oregon Is A Must-Visit Destination For Travelers With Accessibility Needs

From the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990 to wheelchair users depicted in pop culture, how we think about and accommodate people with differing abilities is an ever-changing aspect of society. How this relates to travel is significant. For example, New York City made a subway station accessibility upgrade in 2025. But one destination proving to be a trailblazer in accessible tourism is Oregon.

Wheel the World is a travel company that organizes group trips for people with disabilities, and works as a database for accessible hotels, activities, and more. After partnering with Travel Oregon to survey the accessibility of hundreds of hotels, restaurants, and tourism organizations, Wheel the World declared that Oregon is "Accessibility Verified," the first state to receive this distinction.

"Earning the distinction of being the first Accessibility Verified state reflects Oregon's deep and ongoing commitment to welcoming all travelers,"explained Kevin Wright, VP of Brand Stewardship at Travel Oregon, adding, "Through this designation, we're building a tourism landscape where inclusion is meaningful and central to the visitor experience." There's even an entire section on the Travel Oregon website dedicated to accessible travel. Whether a visitor uses a wheelchair, a seeing-eye dog, or requires any other adaptation, the Beaver State has done well to ensure that everyone can enjoy what it has to offer. 

Tree Climbing at Silver Falls brings visitors high into the treetops of Oregon's old-growth forests, including visitors with disabilities. In 2025, authors and content creators Shane and Hannah Burcaw visited this tour company on a trip with Wheel The World. Shane was born with spinal muscular atrophy, but with Tree Climbing at Silver Falls, he had the chance to ascend a 200-foot tree while remaining in his powered wheelchair. The couple showed off the company's adaptive technology and sang praises about the experience on their YouTube channel.

One of the most beloved places in Oregon is Crater Lake National Park, featuring the deepest lake in America. This massive park has multiple scenic trails either totally or partially accessible for wheelchairs. For example, Godfrey Glen Trail and Annie Creek Canyon Trail both offer amazing canyon views, while Pinnacles Trail allows you to see the park's famous volcanic spires.

At Rim Village you'll find paved paths with views of Crater Lake, especially around the Rim Café and Gift Shop. Rim Village also has accessible picnic areas, as does East Rim Drive. Additionally, service animals can go wherever humans can. 

One of Oregon's coastal highlights is Cannon Beach. Tolovana Beach State Recreation Site toward the southern edge of Cannon Beach offers an ADA access point and paved paths. From here you can also get views of Cannon Beach's iconic Haystack Rock. Slightly north of Cannon Beach are more amazing coastal views at accessible picnic areas within Ecola State Park. This park also has accessible parking and smooth terrain close to the beach for easier access.

Some of the best things to do in Portland are accessible as well. This vibrant and eccentric city is home to Powell's City of Books, one of the largest bookstores in the world. Aside from endless bookshelves, you'll find a large elevator that reaches every floor, and both building entrances are accessible.

Portland is also popular for its museums. Visitors to the Portland Art Museum can ask for a spoken-word tour or a tour with an ASL interpreter while the Oregon Historical Society museum offers audio descriptions. Both are wheelchair accessible. Getting around by bike is a great way to experience Portland too. Visit the Adaptive Biketown website to choose from hand-powered, multi-user, and more types of adaptations so you can rent a bike that fits your needs and start exploring.