Colorado Becomes a Top State for Accessible Travel

We spent a week in Denver, Colorado with a group of people with disabilities – ranging from 5 years old to 72 years old, from paralyzed advocates to blind creators to showcase something special:

The power of accessibility and community.

This was done through accessibility workshops, shared adventures and experiences, and making new friends along the way. Colorado is focused on making the state accessible for all, and this trip was a catalyst to further that mission.

The future of travel is accessible, and Colorado is showing how it’s done.

“Many people believe that traveling with disabilities is hard, almost impossible. On this trip, we proved them wrong.” - Alvaro Silberstein, CEO and Co-founder of Wheel the World

Colorado Leads the Way in Inclusive Travel

Colorado has always been known for its mountain views and outdoor spirit. That's what we all love about this incredible state. But now it’s earning another distinction: becoming one of the most inclusive destinations in the country.

Because everyone, regardless of disabilities, should be able to access the many enjoyable adventures to be had on either side of the Rockies.

The Colorado Tourism Office and their Accessible Travel Program launched in partnership with Wheel the World. It's a first-of-its-kind statewide initiative that’s changing what accessible tourism looks like – both in vision and in practice. The program helps destinations all across the state assess, verify, and promote accessibility for hotels, restaurants, trails, and attractions.

That means real, detailed information for hundreds of establishments and outdoor areas, not just a vague “ADA accessible” label.

Here's how it works: Wheel the World mappers visit each location, measure features like doorway widths, check shower setups, entrances, and document more than 200 data points for hotels alone. These, along with photos, are then added as listings on wheeltheworld.com so travelers can view and book the ones that suit their unique needs.

The program goes beyond logistics. It also includes accessible travel training for hospitality professionals, helping staff better understand and serve travelers with disabilities.

So far, six destinations across Colorado have earned "Accessibility Verified" status, with many more coming in the future.

“These communities are setting a powerful example that everyone — residents and visitors alike — deserves to explore the beauty and amazing opportunities across Colorado.” - Dianne Primavera, Colorado’s Lieutenant Governor

Accessibility is Not One-Size-Fits-All

All of this is a game-changer for people with disabilities who want to plan a visit to Colorado. According to a study by MMGY, 96% of respondents reported an issue with hotel accessibility — that’s almost everyone! And that’s just hotels, not to mention transportation, flights, and attractions.

This is why physically measuring and documenting accessibility details matters so much. It gives travelers accurate information to make choices that work for their needs, because accessibility isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s personal.

For example, more than half of respondents in MMGY’s study reported hotel beds being too high. The perfect bed height for wheelchair users varies. That’s exactly why expert mappers measure every accessible room’s bed height at every hotel. So when you’re browsing hotels in Denver, you can actually see the measurements and book the one that fits your needs best.

That’s what Colorado has done across the state — with many Accessibility Verified destinations continuing to come onboard.

Accessibility in Action

During the Accessible Travel Week in Denver, one of Colorado's verified destinations, this message came to life.

The group spent their days exploring the best of the city's art, nature, and community, and every experience proved that accessibility doesn’t have to mean limitation. Here are some of stops during the trip:

Brewability

Their first stop was Brewability, a brewery and pizzeria that employs staff with disabilities. The space is sensory-inclusive, has accessible restrooms and tables, and serves up craft beer and pizza in a space built for everyone. “It’s a community that celebrates diversity,” said Alvaro Silberstein.

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Next up was Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre, where travelers gathered to talk about the challenges and wins of accessible travel all while overlooking the city below. Large elevators, ramps, and accessible viewing areas make this world-famous venue open to all.

Adaptive Kayaking at Bear Creek Lake Park

At Bear Creek Lake Park, the National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD) led adaptive kayaking and paddleboarding. For some, it was their first time ever getting out on the water. The NSCD facilitated an incredible experience, supporting all the travelers in getting set up and ensured a safe, fun time on the water.

Meow Wolf Denver

At Meow Wolf Denver, the group explored 90,000 square feet of immersive art. Glowing tunnels, alien worlds, and sound-reactive rooms all designed with accessibility in mind. The space had elevators and ramps, sensory tools, and clear signage that made it an adventure for everyone to enjoy.

Guided by Humanity

One morning, the group joined Guided by Humanity, a nonprofit that makes yoga and wellness accessible to all abilities. “It was my first yoga session since my accident,” said Jerod Nieder. “It felt so good! It was relaxing, supportive, and empowering.”

These are just a handful of places that expert mappers visited to assess and measure accessibility details.

A Statewide Effort

The Accessible Travel Program isn’t just about Denver. It’s expanding to towns across the Rockies, from Durango to Estes Park to Beaver Creek.

Each destination receives site mapping and training resources, creating a ripple effect that helps local establishments become more accessible and provide the right details for travelers to make an informed decision for themselves.

Coming Soon: Colorado Adventure Fall Escape

For anyone inspired by these stories, Wheel the World is launching a new Colorado Adventure Fall Escape. This six-day accessible group tour takes you through Denver and the Rockies with many adventures included:

• Scenic drives to Red Rocks
• Adaptive kayaking at Bear Creek Lake Park
• Accessible gondola rides at Winter Park
• Track chair experience at Staunton State Park
• Every stop, hotel, and activity is verified for accessibility, with transportation and support provided the entire way.

It’s everything that makes Colorado special.

Why It Matters

Colorado isn’t just checking a box for accessibility sake, but it’s changing how other destinations should view travel: for everyone. They are ensuring that everyone can experience the unreal beauty you see when traveling through the state – mitigating the stress and worry that traveling with a disability can bring.

One family traveled with their 5-year old son Ezra, who has spina bifida, and watched him kayak for the first time. “It reminded me of myself when I was that age,” Anne Marie said. “He’s learning that he can do anything, and that’s powerful.”

The state’s leadership shows that inclusion can be part of every trail, museum, and restaurant. And when travelers know they can show up and belong, they don’t just visit, they fully live.

“Through travel, we can learn to be more independent, enjoy life, and feel that even having a disability, we can be the best version of ourselves." - Alvaro Silberstein

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