Accessible Road Trip Destinations

Summer is officially here and that means it’s time to hit the road! Time to fire up the wheelchair accessible van and plan a great trip! But what destinations have the best accessibility? Don’t worry, we’ve done the research and picked the top-five destinations for an accessible summer vacation! All of the locations listed below are within a 1-3 hour drive from Gainesville, and make for a quick and fun getaway.

1. Silver Springs State Park (≈ 1.5 hours Southeast)

This iconic Florida park is home to the famous glass-bottom boat tours, including one specifically designed for wheelchair access—the Chief Potackee. The park also features smooth boardwalks, ADA-compliant restrooms, and shaded picnic areas. It’s a peaceful spot for nature lovers to enjoy views of Florida’s crystal-clear spring waters and wildlife.

2. Ponce de León Springs State Park (≈ 1.5 hours Northwest)

Known for its refreshingly cool springs, this park offers a wheelchair lift into the spring itself, making it one of the few places in Florida where everyone can enjoy a swim. You’ll also find paved nature trails, accessible picnic pavilions, and a charming on-site restaurant where you can make-your-own pancakes on griddles right at your table.

3. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens (≈ 15 minutes West)

Just minutes from Gainesville, Kanapaha offers over 1.5 miles of paved, wheelchair-friendly paths winding through 60+ acres of themed gardens. From bamboo groves to butterfly and herb gardens, it’s an ideal spot for a quiet and beautiful afternoon. Benches and gazebos offer frequent places to rest and take in the scenery.

4. Ichetucknee Springs State Park (≈ 1 hour Northwest)

A favorite for tubing and wildlife viewing, Ichetucknee also provides accessible boardwalks, paved trails, and floating docks that make it easier for those with mobility challenges to enjoy the water. With a chairlift located at the Headspring, and shaded paths throughout, Ichetucknee is worth the visit.

5. Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park (≈ 20 minutes North)

This fascinating sinkhole offers a rare geological experience that includes a boardwalk trail and overlook at the top which are wheelchair-accessible. While the descent to the bottom of Devil’s Millhopper Sinkhole is only accessible via stairs, we still think it’s a great spot for a short, educational outing close to home with interpretive displays and picnic areas nearby.

 

We encourage you to check out these locations, and to call ahead for wheelchair lifts and for questions about accommodations and amenities. Wherever you decide to head for your next trip, we here at ADS can find you the perfect wheelchair van for your journey, or we can give your wheelchair van the once over to make sure it’s prepared for your trip! Stop by Gainesville’s mobility experts and let us get you on the road!