Rollin' in the Windy City
By Cory Lee, CurbFreeWithCoryLee.com
Chicago is known for being the Windy City, having great food, shopping, and of course the hustle and bustle. No wonder it is such a popular tourist destination. However, it is also quite wheelchair friendly too. Following are the top things to do the next time you find yourself in Chicago.
Navy Pier
This is perhaps one of the most iconic places in Downtown. It is essentially a carnival featuring rides, games, shops and restaurant chains. It is one of the few places where you can feed an adrenaline junkie as well as an impulse buyer, as it is lots of fun and very easy to navigate. One of the best parts…there is a fireworks show every Wednesday and every Saturday between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Adler Planetarium
This is one of the few planetariums that is hands on. It also has the distinction of being the first planetarium in the west, and is thought to be the oldest as well. If you want to access it easily, use the entrance to the south. Otherwise, you're going to be dealing with a lot of stairs. In addition, there are three separate elevators inside to take you to the various levels. Be sure to check out the theaters as they have some pretty outstanding experiences. You will not be disappointed!
Willis Tower
You might know this place better as Sears Tower. It's pretty accessible and easy to navigate. Simply find the main elevator and it will take you all the way up to the observation deck, known as the Sky Deck. It's a little creepy, so you have fair warning. The floor is essentially a massive clear window that let you see straight down. If you have vertigo, it might not be for you. However, the ride up is worth it just to get the historical information they have on display.
If you are on a budget, there is another way to view the building. Simply go to the restaurant located on the 95th floor, and snap a few photos while enjoying a cocktail or four.
Wrigley Field
Of course, you can't go to Chicago and not take in a Cubs game. The stadium is really accessible, and the restrooms are a bonus. They are large and really easy to access. Of course, if the Cubs win it's a bonus, but I can't guarantee anything!
Grant Park
Where do you go in Chicago to find 319 acres of wide-open space? Well, the answer is Grant Park. It's surprisingly accessible too. The park features paved walkways that crisscross and wind through the area. In addition, it also features the Art Institute of Chicago, as well as the Museum campus. Furthermore, some of the most iconic landmarks of the city, such as Buckingham Fountain, are located therein. You might also know Grant Park as Millennium Park.
Soldier Field
Finally, if you are going during football season, a trip to Soldier Field is in order. The stadium is easy to access even though it is the oldest NFL stadium in the country. The walkways are wide and the incline is not too steep. Restrooms are onsite, and are wheelchair friendly as well. Be sure to enjoy some of their stadium food, as they have some of the best in the country.
Shedd Aquarium
If you're looking to cool off on a hot day, head over to the aquarium. They have some pretty amazing wildlife on display. The walkways are wide and easy to navigate. Restrooms are located in the courtyard adjacent to the main attraction, and they are quite wheelchair friendly. Also, there is a café in the courtyard as well featuring finger foods such as pretzels, hotdogs and ice cream. It's the perfect way to spend an afternoon.
Have fun in Chicago enjoying these attractions. They are some of the best, and are known the world over. No matter what your taste or thrill, there is something in the list above that is sure to please you.
About the author:
After being diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy at the age of two, Cory Lee's desire to explore never ceased. He has been to fourteen countries so far and has plans to visit many more. Join his worldwide adventures at CurbFreeWithCoryLee.com, where he shares his accessible, and sometimes not so accessible, travel experiences with others. His hope is to inspire you to start rolling around the world! Pre-Register for Abilities Expo Today...It's Free!