Travelling by wheelchair can present some challenges that most people don’t experience during vacation.
However, just because you or your loved one has a physical handicap doesn’t mean that you should have to miss out on some of the country’s most breathtaking cities.
San Francisco is no exception!
Despite being famous for its hilly geography, the “City by the Bay” is actually a great place to visit if you require a wheelchair or other adaptive equipment.
How to Get Around San Francisco
The SF Bay Area is fortunate to have reliable transit systems. The BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) train, Muni (bus system), Caltrain (train) and ferries all have wheelchair accommodations. Paratransit services and accessible taxis are also available.
In addition, many tourist attractions and destinations are ADA-accessible and the staff is happy to help those who need to find ramps, elevators and walkways.
Here are just a few of the many amazing wheelchair capable destinations in the City of San Francisco:
Alcatraz
Alcatraz is a museum dedicated to the infamous prison located on one of the many islands in the bay. From the Embarcadero, the Alcatraz is accessible by ferry.
You don’t want to miss this attraction! The museum is incredibly interactive and features tours with rich history of the West Coast’s first lighthouse and fort. In addition to interesting stories about the inmates, Alcatraz also features natural beauty with stunning views of the city as well as the east and north bays.
More information: https://www.nps.gov/goga/planyourvisit/alcatraz—accessibility.htm
Aquatic Park Cove
Aquatic Park Cove is a curved beach and grassy park with incredible views of the Bay as well as the Marin Headlands. Spend a sunny afternoon strolling along the park’s curved pier and view historic ships.
Be sure to visit the Marine Museum, located at the center of the pier (right behind Ghirardelli Square). On your way out, stop and order a giant ice cream sundae at the Ghirardelli creamery.
More information: https://www.nps.gov/safr/planyourvisit/aquaticparkcove.htm
Embarcadero
On a sunny day, you’ll definitely want to check out the Embarcadero, which is a lovely flat stretch along the eastern part of the city with many markets, restaurants and views of the newly designed Bay Bridge. Visit the farmer’s market on Saturdays for food and goods from the city’s top culinary shops.
More information: http://embarcaderocenter.com/
Exploratorium by the Bay
Located at Pier 15 on the Embarcadero, the Exploratorium is a unique museum that combines science, and the arts to deliver an interactive experience. Young and old alike will enjoy the activities and expositions this unique museum has to offer.
Those with disabilities can purchase tickets at a discounted price. All restrooms and benches are wheelchair accessible. The staff is happy to help anyone who requires accommodations.
More information: https://www.exploratorium.edu/visit/accessibility
San Francisco is a lively city that shouldn’t be missed due to a mobility impairment. Plan your visit and enjoy all this city has to offer.
If you’re planning a visit to lovely San Francisco, be sure to check out the city’s free access guide.
Searching for a mobility van? Classic Vans is the Bay Area’s leading dealer of wheelchair vans, both mini and full sized. For over 30 years, we’ve been supplying the West Coat with high quality conversion vans. Browse our online inventory or contact us to get help finding your next van today.
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