Discovering Accessible Adventures: Disability-Friendly Places in Philadelphia

At Harrell Homes Assisted Living, we believe in supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities to experience the joy and richness of their communities. Philadelphia, with its incredible history, vibrant culture, and beautiful green spaces, offers a wealth of disability-friendly attractions for everyone to enjoy.

As Disability Pride Month continues, we want to highlight some fantastic places in #Philadelphia that prioritize accessibility, ensuring a welcoming and enriching experience for all. Many of these locations offer specific accommodations like wheelchair accessibility, sensory-friendly programs, and helpful staff.

Here's a list of some of our favorite disability-friendly spots to explore in Philadelphia:

Museums & Educational Experiences:

• The Franklin Institute: A science wonderland! This museum is largely wheelchair accessible and even has sensory backpacks available for checkout, equipped with noise-reducing headphones and fidgets. They also offer "Sensory-Friendly Sundays" with modified exhibits and trained staff.

• Philadelphia Museum of Art: Beyond the iconic "Rocky Steps" (which are accessible from inside the museum), the museum offers wheelchair accessibility, assistive listening devices, and even specialized tours for visitors with various disabilities, including those with intellectual disabilities or visual impairments.

• Please Touch Museum: Designed for children, this museum is fully wheelchair accessible and hosts "Play Without Boundaries" events, adapting the environment for a relaxed, sensory-friendly experience.

• National Constitution Center: Learn about American history in a fully wheelchair-accessible environment. They offer wheelchairs for loan and various accessibility aids for their programs.

• Museum of the American Revolution: This museum offers a comprehensive and inclusive look at the fight for independence. It's fully wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators, and they offer "Relaxed Experience Mornings" with adjusted light and sound for those with sensory sensitivities. They also have touch guides and tactile graphics for blind or low-vision visitors.

• The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University: Enjoy fascinating natural history exhibits. The main building is wheelchair accessible, and they offer sensory-friendly mornings and welcome service animals.

  
  

Historical Sites:

• Independence National Historical Park (including the Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall): Many key sites within this historic park are wheelchair accessible. The Independence Visitor Center offers wheelchair loans, and Independence Hall's first floor is accessible (with a virtual tour for upper floors). The Liberty Bell Center is also wheelchair accessible.

• Eastern State Penitentiary: This historic prison offers a unique and intriguing experience, with much of the site being wheelchair accessible.

  
  

Outdoor & Recreational Spaces:

• Philadelphia Zoo: America's first zoo is wheelchair and stroller accessible, offering rentals and specialized tours. They are also a certified Sensory Inclusive™ venue with sensory bags available.

• John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum: This refuge offers a 0.6-mile accessible loop, providing a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature on paved paths and boardwalks.

• FDR Park (Anna C. Verna Playground): This park is home to a fantastic all-abilities playground, designed with ramps and inclusive features for children of all abilities.

  
  

Markets & Unique Experiences:

• Reading Terminal Market: A bustling indoor market with a wide array of food and goods. While it can get crowded, it's a vibrant experience and generally accessible.

  
  

When planning your visit, we recommend checking the individual attraction's website for the most up-to-date accessibility information and any special programs or events they might be hosting. Many sites also offer accessible parking and transportation options like SEPTA, which has many wheelchair-accessible stations.

Exploring these wonderful #Philadelphia destinations can be a fantastic way to celebrate diversity and inclusion during Disability Pride Month and throughout the year!