Is Sandy Springs Wheelchair Accessible? A Local Answers Questions

If you're a wheelchair user visiting Sandy Springs, this is for you. Brandon Winfield has lived nearby for four years, and as a manual wheelchair user, has the local perspective that is far more useful than most guides could be.

We asked him a few questions to get his insights, so you can know what to do, where to eat, and how to get around.

How would you rate Sandy Springs for accessibility overall?

Honestly, I'd give it a 7 out of 10. The main deductions are the rolling hills. Georgia's terrain is just naturally challenging in a manual chair (a power assisting device really helps) and you really do feel it around here. The other thing is transit. A lot of locals will tell you the same thing: the city is spread out in a way that makes a car pretty much necessary. That said, the infrastructure is relatively new. Most of the buildings have been built in the last 10 to 20 years, so curb cuts, parking, and street crossings are generally well thought out. And the food and entertainment scene is excellent.

Is there an area you'd tell a wheelchair user to head straight to?

Roswell Road has the most to offer as far as restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment. The food quality is next level. It does sit on a hill, so getting between places on your own in a manual chair can be tough. You'll want a car or rideshare to get there, but once you're in the area, you can move between spots pretty easily. That stretch is where I'd start. Make sure to try Rumi's Kitchen, one of my favorite spots.

What are the 5 things you'd tell a traveler with a disability they absolutely have to do or see in Sandy Springs?

1. Springway Trail is the first thing I'd say. It's a fully paved, accessible path with lake views and tree cover. Great place to be outside, meet people, be active. It's the kind of spot that feels like a real local experience rather than a tourist stop.
2. Battle and Brew is where I'd tell you to go for a night out. Drinks, wings, and games – it's a great spot and makes for a unique date night option.
3. Brooklyn Cafe is a cozy breakfast spot with great parking options out front in a shopping center with plenty to see. The food is incredible as well as an extensive wine list. A great place to enjoy a Saturday brunch or lunch after enjoying a stroll through the farmers market.
4. The Select – date night, date night, date night! Can not recommend this place enough for some of the best tasting food and decorations. They have all day happy hour on Mondays, Jazz on Wednesdays and other fun offerings throughout the week. This would definitely be a place for a memorable meal and an instagram worthy post.
5. Sandy Springs Farmers Market runs Saturday mornings from 8:30am to Noon, rain or shine. Head down to City Green to enjoy the park, water features and amazing local artisans, bakers and food. This area is generally flat, with accessible parking nearby, and restaurants and places to access a bathroom in case of an emergency. 

Any outdoor spots you'd recommend?

I very much enjoy being outside, especially in the flora and fauna of Sandy Springs. I would highly recommend anything by the water on the Chattahoochee River or at Morgan Falls Overlook Park. You can find accessible kayaking opportunities with Catalyst Sports – using the paddle shack rentals right there in the park.

What about cultural spots?

For cultural spots, Heritage Amphitheatre movie nights are great and you can never go wrong with catching a play at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center.

What would you tell a first-time visitor before they come?

Use MARTA North Springs Station if you want to access other parts of the city without a car. It's a convenient option. However, for getting around Sandy Springs itself, plan on a car or Uber between destinations. The good news is that wherever you end up, you'll find great food, good people, and a lot more to do than most people expect from a suburban city.

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