7 Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in Orange County, NY
Looking for fun, accessible experiences in the Hudson Valley? Orange County, NY, has you covered. From peaceful gardens to buzzing local attractions, this region offers a mix of charm, creativity, and comfort for travelers with disabilities. Whether you’re planning a day trip or exploring for the weekend, these wheelchair-friendly spots are worth checking out—and we’ve gathered the key details to help you do just that.
What's Ahead?
Is Orange County, NY Accessible?
If you’re wondering whether Orange County is a good choice for an accessible getaway, the answer is: absolutely, with a little planning. Many of the area’s top attractions offer step-free entry, accessible restrooms, and wide outdoor paths. That said, this is a largely rural destination, so having your own transportation makes a big difference. Still, if you’re up for some exploring, you’ll find that a number of Orange County spots have put real thought into inclusion.
Best Areas to Stay in Orange County, NY
Goshen
Goshen is a top pick for families, especially if LEGOLAND® New York is a key stop on your trip. It’s a small, charming town with a welcoming feel, and it’s home to a growing number of kid-friendly spots, restaurants, and green spaces. While the town itself is relaxed and not overly bustling, that’s part of its charm—Goshen is ideal for anyone looking for a slower pace while still being close to major attractions. Accessible hotels are more limited, so checking ahead and confirming room features is key.
Highland Falls
Located right near the United States Military Academy at West Point, Highland Falls is scenic and steeped in history. It’s an excellent choice if you want to explore the stunning views of the Hudson River Valley or hop on a guided West Point Tour. This area is ideal for visitors interested in military history, river views, and proximity to the Hudson Highlands. The town is compact and relatively easy to navigate, but some sidewalks may be uneven, so staying somewhere with good vehicular access is helpful. Dining options are casual and cozy, mostly mom-and-pop style.
Newburgh
Newburgh offers the most “urban” feel in Orange County, with a developing waterfront, great dining, and artsy vibes. It’s centrally located and makes a good hub if you’re planning to visit multiple attractions like Storm King Art Center, Angry Orchard, or City Winery. It’s especially great for couples or solo travelers looking for a mix of outdoor and indoor activities. Many hotels and inns are found here, and several offer step-free access and spacious rooms, though it’s important to confirm specific amenities. If you want restaurant variety and a vibrant weekend scene, this is the place.
Middletown
Middletown is a solid all-around base if you’re exploring more than one area in the county. It offers a variety of retail stores, chain hotels, and casual restaurants. It’s not particularly close to any one attraction but is centrally located enough to work well for travelers with a car. Middletown is also one of the more wheelchair-friendly towns in terms of modern infrastructure, so if predictability and ease are important, it’s a safe choice. It’s best suited for travelers who want convenience and comfort over charming aesthetics.
Getting Around Orange County
Orange County doesn’t have an extensive public transit system, and most destinations are best reached by car. The good news? Driving is easy, traffic is light, and parking is typically free and plentiful at most attractions. Many locations across the county provide accessible parking, step-free entrances, and smooth pathways.
If you’re a wheelchair user or travel with mobility equipment, it’s essential to have a vehicle that meets your accessibility needs. Wheel the World can help find you an adapted vehicle that suits your needs.
Accessible Things to do in Orange County, NY
West Point Tours
You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate West Point—it’s honestly just a stunning place to explore. Perched above the Hudson River in Highland Falls, this military academy is full of stories, scenic views, and serious wow factor. And the best way to see it? A narrated bus tour by West Point Tours.
The guides here are genuinely passionate, and they’ll take you to some of the academy’s most iconic spots—like Trophy Point and the Cadet Chapel—while sharing details that make the place come alive. You’ll roll through beautiful grounds, hear about cadet life, and get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most prestigious military schools in the U.S.
Accessibility Info: West Point Tours has wheelchair-accessible buses with lifts available, but you’ll want to call at least 48 hours in advance to reserve. The team is helpful, the tour is smooth, and it’s a great way to explore a secured site without having to navigate it all on your own.
LEGOLAND New York
If you’re in Orange County with kids (or just a deep love for LEGO), LEGOLAND New York is hard to beat. From larger-than-life brick sculptures to hands-on building zones and gentle rides, this place is all about creativity and fun. It’s colorful, energetic, and surprisingly relaxing with wide-open outdoor spaces and plenty of seating.
Accessibility Info: LEGOLAND features a step-free entrance, accessible parking and wide, smooth pathways made from surfaces like cement and rubber matting. Most attractions, including the Minifigure Skyflyer, have step-free access, and common areas like gift shops and restaurants are easy to navigate with clear turning space. Restrooms are fully accessible with step-free access, lever doors, grab bars, and turning space over 60 inches. The park also offers large print materials, assistive listening devices, closed captions, and QR codes for visitors with visual or hearing disabilities. A quiet room is also available for guests needing a break from sensory stimulation.
Storm King Art Center
Storm King Art Center is a place where nature and art meet in truly spectacular ways. Spanning over 500 acres of rolling hills, meadows, and forest, it’s home to one of the country’s largest collections of outdoor sculpture. Whether you’re admiring towering steel structures or quietly soaking in the scenery, it’s a place to slow down and feel inspired.
There’s no rush here—just wide-open skies, peaceful walking paths, and a rotating selection of world-class contemporary art. It’s perfect for those who love art, photography, or simply being outdoors.
Accessibility Info: The entire site features step-free access, accessible restrooms, and 12 designated parking spaces. The outdoor paths are smooth and gently sloped, with clear views from a seated position. Visitors with visual or hearing disabilities will find large print guides, QR codes, and helpful staff available. The on-site café is also step-free and easy to navigate.
Angry Orchard
If you’re into cider—or just enjoy relaxing in a scenic orchard with mountain views—Angry Orchard in Walden is a great stop. This is the home of the famous hard cider brand, and it offers way more than just drinks. You can take a tour of the cidery, learn about the cider-making process, enjoy seasonal events, or just hang out on the lawn with friends and a flight of ciders.
The Tasting Room is the main attraction, offering plenty of space to sip and savor, while the surrounding orchard is filled with picnic tables, shaded areas, and spots to soak up the view. Depending on the season, there might be live music or food trucks too.
Accessibility Info: The entrance is step-free, and there’s accessible parking and a smooth path to the main areas. The Tasting Room and restrooms are accessible, with grab bars and enough space to move around comfortably. For visitors with visual or hearing disabilities, printed information, QR codes, and on-site staff are available to assist.
City Winery Hudson Valley
Located in a restored historic mill overlooking the Wallkill River, City Winery Hudson Valley combines great wine, locally sourced food, and live entertainment in a truly unique setting. Whether you’re heading there for a wine tasting, a concert, or a cozy meal in the restaurant, it’s an ideal place to slow down and savor the moment.
The space feels modern yet rustic, with a warm indoor dining area and a stunning riverside backdrop. Seasonal events, tastings, and intimate music performances add extra reasons to visit throughout the year.
Accessibility Info: There’s a step-free entrance and accessible restrooms inside. While some paths outdoors may not be fully accessible, the main dining and tasting areas are. There’s also accessible parking available, though it’s not directly next to the entrance. Staff are knowledgeable and available to assist guests with visual or hearing disabilities as needed.
Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center
Whether you’re catching a stand-up comedy act, a musical, or a local community performance, Sugar Loaf Performing Arts Center brings culture and entertainment to the heart of Orange County. This venue is known for its intimate setting and diverse programming — it’s one of those places where you feel connected to the performance, no matter where you’re seated.
Surrounded by the charm of the Sugar Loaf Arts Village, it’s a great stop for an evening out after exploring nearby shops and galleries. Shows range from local talent to nationally touring acts, so there’s usually something exciting on the calendar.
Accessibility Info: The main theater has a step-free entrance and accessible seating. Bathrooms are wheelchair accessible, and there’s plenty of room to maneuver throughout the venue. Accessible parking is available right by the entrance, and both visual and hearing support options — like print materials and a sound system — are available to enhance your experience.
Orange County Arboretum
Tucked within Thomas Bull Memorial Park, the Orange County Arboretum is a peaceful escape filled with blooming gardens, seasonal displays, and scenic walking paths. Whether you’re a plant lover, photography enthusiast, or just looking for a quiet place to recharge, this is a must-visit spot. The themed gardens — like the Rose Garden and the Remembrance Walkway — offer beautiful backdrops for a stroll or a sit on one of the many benches.
The space is especially lovely in spring and fall, with colorful floral arrangements and changing leaves, but it’s open year-round for those who enjoy the calm of nature in every season.
Accessibility Info: The arboretum features step-free access and smooth, accessible paths throughout most areas, including packed gravel and cement walkways. Designated accessible parking is located near the entrance. While the restroom has a step-free entrance and grab bars, it’s not formally designated as accessible and has limited turning space, so it may not work for all visitors. Still, for a relaxed visit surrounded by nature, it’s one of the most welcoming outdoor spaces in the county.
Ready to Explore Orange County?
Whether you’re sipping cider in the Hudson Valley, rolling through open-air art installations, or soaking up the buzz at LEGOLAND®, Orange County, NY has something for every kind of traveler — and yes, that includes wheelchair users and travelers with disabilities.
With thoughtful accessibility features at top attractions, scenic small towns to base your stay, and support from Wheel the World to find transportation and lodging that fits your needs, you don’t have to wonder if Orange County is “doable.” It is.
So if you’re dreaming of your next weekend getaway or looking to explore somewhere new without the stress, we’re here to help make it possible — and joyful.
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