Jun 9, 2025 4 min read Accessible Travel News

How Dutchess County, NY is Building a More Inclusive Destination

Travel in Dutchess County, NY

Dutchess County, NY, has always been known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and vibrant cultural scene. But through its partnership with Destination Verified by Wheel the World, the county is now making a name for itself in accessible tourism—ensuring every traveler, regardless of ability, feels welcomed and included.

“The hospitality business is all about welcoming people, and as the county’s DMO, we’re here to welcome everyone.” — Melaine Rottkamp, President & CEO, Dutchess Tourism

Melaine Rottkamp discussing Dutchess Tourism's initiative enhancing accessibility — Melaine Rottkamp, President & CEO, Dutchess Tourism

Impact at a Glance

Let's take a look at the impact Dutchess Tourism has had already (and it's only the beginning).

✔️ 53 locations mapped & assessed for accessibility

✔️ 31 businesses engaged in accessibility training

✔️ 20 businesses fully completed WTW Academy (100% completion rate)

✔️ 7 businesses made physical accessibility improvements

✔️ 8 businesses improved accessibility details in their listings

✔️ 50% of front-facing staff required to complete accessibility training for certification

Dutchess County isn’t just talking about accessibility—it’s taking real action and making real changes that benefit both travelers and businesses.

Wheel the World mapper measuring bed height in a hotel room — Tina mapping and measuring a hotel for accessibility

Wheel the World collaborates with Dutchess County

Small Changes, Big Impact: Real Business Transformations

One of the standout results of this initiative has been on-the-ground improvements made by Dutchess County businesses.

“We really thought we were an accessible property, but there were so many little things we didn’t know that could make it better. Like adding a handle that’s a lever instead of a door knob. Something so simple and cheap to fix—but having that roadmap made all the difference.”— J. Barker, Marketing Director, Curry Estate

Fishkill Farms installed a new ADA-accessible ramp and improved pathways for wheelchair users.
The Curry Estate enhanced its accessible room features, ensuring better accommodations for travelers with mobility challenges.
Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome introduced accessible seating, making aviation history more inclusive.
Beatrix Farrand Garden upgraded its entrance to meet ADA accessibility standards.
Trevor Zoo introduced a folding wheelchair available for guest use, improving mobility access for visitors.
Walkway Over the Hudson added accessible seating areas, allowing visitors of all abilities to enjoy scenic views.
Fisher Center at Bard College upgraded its assistive listening devices for hearing-impaired guests.

Each improvement is a step toward a more inclusive tourism experience.

Talking about Dutchess Tourism's initiative with Wheel the World to enhance accessibility — Lets chat accessibility!

Accessibility Training & Industry Growth

One of the most powerful aspects of Dutchess County’s commitment to accessibility is its investment in training. Through WTW Academy, businesses learned how to better serve travelers with disabilities.

📌 Key Training Milestones:

31 partners engaged in WTW Academy training
20 businesses fully completed the course
Leading in WTW Academy course completion rates

As part of their commitment, Dutchess Tourism is also setting a strong standard: requiring at least 50% of front-facing staff at participating businesses to complete accessibility training in order to receive certification. This ensures a better, more inclusive experience for travelers with disabilities—because accessibility isn’t just about infrastructure, it’s about people.

“It’s a path, it’s a journey. Rome wasn’t built in a day, but we’re increasing accessibility because we want everyone to come and have a wonderful time here, enjoying all the things we love.”— Melaine Rottkamp, President & CEO, Dutchess Tourism

Wheelchair user and companion at Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site — Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site

Accessibility is Good for Business

Dutchess County businesses aren’t just making changes out of goodwill—accessibility is a smart business decision.

“With very small changes, you can open up so much to people. If everybody feels comfortable, you’ll include more people, get more people through your doors, and have more people talking about you. And that’s really the goal for any business.”— J. Heyward, Senior Brand Manager, Dassai Blue

When businesses invest in accessibility, they tap into a market of over 1.3 billion people worldwide. They attract new visitors, build customer loyalty, and create a more inclusive community.