Guide to Accessible Philadelphia

Getting Around

Travelers with disabilities have a range of options for navigating the city.

Not only is SEPTA (the city’s public transportation system) fully accessible, but multiple other transportation operators offer services for visitors with disabilities.

In addition, nearly all city parking lots and garages include designated disabled placard/plate parking, including for side-loading vans.

SEPTA Public Transit

Philadelphia’s public transit system — the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) — operates commuter trains, subways, elevated trains, buses, trolleys, light rail and paratransit services across the five-county region.

Over 60% of SEPTA rail, subway, trolley and bus stations are wheelchair accessible (with a goal of near-systemwide accessibility by 2034). Accessible stations feature the access symbol (♿) next to the line name on septa.org. The service offers an Elevator Status page and a 24-hour elevator status hotline (877-SEPTA4U).

Every SEPTA bus, trolley and trackless trolley is accessible, including a wheelchair elevator (lift) or ramp; the ability to kneel to street level upon request; and audible announcements vocalizing next stops, stop requests, route or line, connection, and when doors are opening and closing. All vehicles have designated seating for seniors and people with disabilities marked with a wheelchair symbol (♿). All Regional Rail cars are wheelchair accessible, and bridge plates are available at accessible stations. Individually trained service animals are welcome on all forms of transportation.

  — Photo courtesy SEPTA

SEPTA Key fare kiosks at stations have braille and raised lettering, and an audio function that converts on-screen text to spoken word. SEPTA’s website offers a text reader for travelers who are blind or experiencing low vision or vision loss and need to access schedules and fare information.

Half-price fare discounts on weekdays are available with a SEPTA Key Reduced Fare Card (available by appointment at SEPTA Headquarters or Suburban Station’s Accessible Travel Center) or PA Disability Transit ID Card. Registered Personal Care Attendants may ride with clients at no additional cost on buses, trolleys and subways.

SEPTA Access paratransit service (rebranded from CCT Connect) offers transit for people with disabilities who are not able to use regular service lines. Schedule trips by phone at (215) 580-7720.

Contact SEPTA at (215) 580-7800, (215) 580-7853 (TDD/TTY), [email protected] or septa.org.

Read More on Accessible SEPTA

Philly PHLASH Downtown Loop

The Philly PHLASH Downtown Loop is a quick, easy and inexpensive connection to key Philadelphia historic attractions and cultural institutions. The easily identifiable purple buses run a daily circuit from Penn’s Landing to the Philadelphia Art Museum, with over a dozen other visitor-friendly stops.

All PLHASH buses are wheelchair accessible — with lifts and wheelchair securement — and temperature-controlled, arriving at stops every 15 minutes daily during their May through September season (with weekend service until December).

Seniors, children under 4, and SEPTA Pass and SEPTA Key card holders ride free, and riders with a Reduced Fare Card or PA Disability Transit ID Card may ride at a discount. All others ride for $2 (or $5 for an all-day pass).

Contact the Philly PHLASH team at (800) 537-7676, [email protected] or ridephillyphlash.com.

Read More about Philly PHLASH

Other Public Transportation Options

A handful of other public transit services operate around Philadelphia.

• PATCO Speedline underground rapid transit between New Jersey and Center City
• New Jersey Transit bus service and Northeast Corridor commuter rail line
• Amtrak Northeast Regional and Acela lines from William H. Gray III 30th Street Station

Accessible Taxis, Rideshares, Tour Buses and Rentals

Taxicabs

By law, all Philadelphia taxicabs have passenger information monitors (PIM) in the backseat that provide cab and driver information, and fare amounts. Also by law, taxi dispatchers must accept requests for wheelchair accessible vehicles and coordinate service calls with other dispatchers.

Philadelphia Parking Authority-certified 2-1-5-Get-A-Cab dispatch service offers an easy way to hail an accessible taxi, via a form on their website or by phone. Get more info at (215) 438-2222, [email protected] or 215getacab.com

Accessible and wheelchair-ready certified taxis are also available from Germantown Taxicab Co. Get more info at (215) 438-8888, [email protected] or germantowntaxicab.com

Rideshare Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicles

Uber and Lyft, the two of the most popular rideshare services in the US, also offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles (WAVs) for users who utilize non-folding motorized wheelchairs and need a vehicle equipped with ramps or hydraulic lifts.

Riders using Uber’s app can request an uberWAV by entering the destination, selecting “WAV” at the bottom, then “Confirm WAV.” Get more info at (833) 873-8237, [email protected] or uber.com

Uber Wheelchair-Accessible Vehicle   — Photo courtesy Uber

In the Lyft app, enable the WAV option by choosing “Settings” from the left-side navigation drawer, then toggling “Wheelchair Access” to on. Request a WAV ride by entering the destination, selecting “Wheelchair” at the bottom, then “Acknowledge,” then “Select Wheelchair.” Get more info at (844) 493-9881, [email protected] or help.lyft.com

Tour Bus

Two major London-style open-top, double-decker bus companies operate hop-on/hop-off expert-guided sightseeing tours around Philadelphia, both with wheelchair accessibility.

The Philadelphia Big Bus company operates Big Bus Tours, which covers 27 stops near Philadelphia’s most popular attractions, all wheelchair accessible and operated year-round. Board or disembark anywhere along the 90-minute route (within valid single trip ticket time), but the company suggests wheelchair users contact them 48 hours prior to confirm plans and availability. Get more info at (215) 389-8687, [email protected] or phillytour.com.

Offering bus tours for over 25 years, City Sightseeing Philadelphia operates a 16-mile bus tour with 28 stops that covers the entire route in 90 minutes. Guests must check-in and start in front of the Bourse Building, but can board and disembark at any stop. The company offers accessible vehicles, but requires advanced notice and is subject to availability. Buses feature plug-in headphone audio, helpful for riders who are hard of hearing or experiencing hearing loss. Get more info at (215) 922-2300, [email protected] or philadelphiasightseeingtours.com

Van Rental

A number of companies, mostly national organizations, offer both side- and rear-loading wheelchair-accessible van rentals during your stay for a day, a weekend, several days or longer, including MobilityWorks, Wheelers Accessible Van Rentals and Cloud of Goods.

Vehicle Parking Resources

The City of Philadelphia allows up to 60 minutes of free street parking (except where parking is prohibited) for any vehicle displaying Disability Parking Placards or Plates when operated by or transporting a person with a disability. Unlimited free street parking (except where parking is prohibited) is permissible for vehicles with clearly identifiable wheelchair lifts or ramps.

Drivers and/or passengers with disabilities of any vehicle displaying Disability Parking Placards or Plates can park in designated disabled or van-accessible spaces throughout Philadelphia. Get more info at (215) 683-9746, [email protected] or philapark.org.

Residents of Philadelphia and other Pennsylvania counties can obtain a Disability Parking Placard through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Form MV145-A (for individuals with disabilities) and Form MV145-V (for veterans with disabilities) applications are available on PennDOT’s website. Get more info at (717) 412-5300, [email protected] or dmv.pa.gov.

Accessible Services And Organizations

Wheelchair and Device Rentals

Many sites, venues, and cultural institutions around Philadelphia have wheelchairs available or for rent on a first-come, first-served basis. However, the local organizations listed below can assist in acquiring wheelchairs and other equipment when visiting if needed.

Wheelchairs, scooters and other devices

Philadelphia-based Marx Medical Equipment offers manual and powered wheelchairs, lifts, scooters and other items for rent and can assist in emergency repair. Get more info at (215) 426-9242, [email protected] or marxmedicalequipment.com.

Visitors can also rent scooters, wheelchairs and other mobility devices from the local office of national company Scootaround, with a variety of options and rates. Get more info at (888) 441-7575, [email protected] or scootaround.com.

Assisted listening devices

The Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Act Program at Temple University, aka TechOWL, offers a wide array of equipment, assistive technology and demonstration resources for loan to Pennsylvania residents, including augmentative and alternative communication devices. Get more info at (215) 204-1356, [email protected] or disabilities.temple.edu.

Childcare gear

Visitors who do not own or cannot travel with strollers, cribs and car seats can rent those and other childcare gear from BabyQuip on a daily or monthly basis, deliverable to hotels, vacation rentals, private residences or the airport through third-party providers. Get more info at (201) 695-8094, [email protected] or babyquip.com.

Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities

The Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities serves the needs of Philadelphians with disabilities and ensures compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

It provides helpful information about many services, including traveling through Philadelphia International Airport and designated parking regulations. Get more info at (215) 686-2798, 311 (short code), [email protected] or phila.gov.

Art-Reach

Non-profit Art-Reach supports equitable access to the arts for people with disabilities and traditionally underserved audiences by creating accessible arts programming, maintaining public arts initiative ACCESS Philly (see below for discount card details), and advocating for underrepresented communities in the cultural sector of Philadelphia through training, consulting, community partnerships and programming. Get more info at (267) 515-6720, [email protected] or art-reach.org.

Art-Reach experience at the Rodin Museum   — Photo courtesy Art-Reach

Institute on Disabilities

The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University manages several programs, including assistive technology services, advocates for people with disabilities, and provides leadership, resources, education and training support to the Philadelphia disability community. Get more info at (215) 204-1356, [email protected] or disabilities.temple.edu.

Liberty Resources

An advocacy organization that champions and promotes independent living for all persons with disabilities, Liberty Resources offers services, peer support, and life skills training to ensure full independence while ensuring protected civil rights and equal access. Get more info at (215) 634-2000, (215) 634-6195 (TTY/TDD), [email protected] or libertyresources.org.

Philly Touch Tours

The Philly Touch Tours program coordinates inclusive and sensory cultural and historical tours and experiences at sites like the Penn Museum and South 9th Street Italian Market for visitors who are blind or experiencing low vision or vision loss. Get more info at (609) 760-8223, [email protected] or phillytouchtours.com.

Philly Touch Tours experience at the Penn Museum   — Photo courtesy Philly Touch Tours

VisionLink

For adults who are blind or experiencing low vision or vision loss, VisionLink (formerly Associated Services for the Blind & Visually Impaired) provides services and guidance to help people stay independent through advocacy, education and support services. Get more info at (215) 627-0600, [email protected] or visionlinkphl.org

Other accessible travel and hotel accommodation information can be found at WheelchairTravel, Accessible SEPTA and accessibleGO.

Museums & Attractions

Philadelphia is a city that came of age during the 17th century, but it now offers modern amenities to accommodate travelers and explorers of all abilities, from historic landmarks in Old City to cultural institutions on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway to the theaters along Avenue of the Arts.

Most museums, landmarks, attractions and venues welcome service animals as defined by the ADA, but visitors should contact individual destinations with specific questions, including inquiries about emotional support animals. Most also offer free entrance or admission to personal care attendants, complementary manual wheelchairs and specially designed organized tours and programming to meet individual or group visitors’ needs.

  — Photo courtesy Art-Reach

Individuals with disabilities may purchase an ACCESS Philly Card directly from Art-Reach via their website. The card allows people with disabilities to receive $2 admission to more than 80 museums, gardens, theaters and cultural sites throughout Greater Philadelphia. The same discounts are available to Pennsylvania residents with a state-issued PA ACCESS Card.

Please take note: Many historical sites across the city date back decades or centuries. While most have been retrofitted in some way to accommodate visitors with disabilities, some preserved locations are as they were 250 years ago, and not all rooms, floors and exhibits can accommodate wheelchairs and those with mobility or sensory issues. Please contact individual sites for details.

Independence National Historical Park

The more-than-a-dozen National Park Service sites within Philadelphia’s Historic District’s Independence National Historical Park offer visitors of all abilities a peek into the city’s — and the nation’s — exciting history.

• Many buildings and tours throughout the park system are accessible, including Congress Hall (first floor), Independence Hall (first floor), the Liberty Bell Center, Old City Hall and more. Each site offers Park Rangers who are trained in answering accessibility questions.
• As well, several buildings feature accessible restrooms, including Independence Visitor Center, Benjamin Franklin Museum (entrance fee applies) and the Portrait Gallery in the Second Bank of the United States.
• Accessibility aids and services are available at many park sites, including open captioning, assistive listening devices, printouts, American Sign Language interpretation, touch objects, audio descriptions, braille booklets, photo albums of public rooms which are not accessible and cognitive/learning disabilities assistance.
• All Park Ranger-led outdoor tours follow paved walks and use curb cuts. Most tours cover only three or four blocks.
• Braille users may download the braille file (for use with access to a braille printer). Park maps are available to use on-site in braille at Independence Visitor Center, the Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall, Congress Hall and the Benjamin Franklin Museum.

Independence Visitor Center

The first stop for visitors to Philadelphia’s Historic District is the fully accessible Independence Visitor Center, which offers maps, brochures, tickets, tour information, souvenirs, films and video presentations. 599 Market Street, (800) 537-7676, phlvisitorcenter.com

• Complementary manual wheelchairs are available at the Ranger’s Desk for use within the park from 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., with photo ID.
• Accessible restrooms are located near on the main level adjacent to Independence Gift Shop, just inside the main Market Street entrance.
• UbiDuo communication devices — which enable people who are deaf, hard of hearing or experiencing hearing loss to communicate using a set of keyboards — are available (point to the UbiDuo sign, if needed).
• Films and videos presented in the center are open-captioned.
• Assistive listening devices, receivers with headphones and a portable loop system (compatible with t-coil-equipped hearing aids, cochlear implants and induction loop receivers) and audio descriptions are available for films and videos.
• Touch objects and tactile reproductions include a model of Independence Hall.

Independence Hall

UNESCO World Heritage Site Independence Hall is where the Founding Fathers first defied the King of England, and later gathered to shape the U.S. Constitution. 520 Chestnut Street, (215) 965-2305, nps.gov

• The East Wing and first floor, including the Supreme Court Chamber, are wheelchair accessible. A touchscreen interactive photo album of the Assembly Room, which is only reachable via stairs, is available.
• The West Wing, home to the Great Essentials Exhibit — displaying original printed copies of the Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation and U.S. Constitution — is fully wheelchair accessible.
• Assistive listening devices to amplify tour audio and audio descriptions of tours are available. The Birthplace of a Nation pamphlet offers written information about the rooms on the tour.
• Free American Sign Language interpretation is available with timed tickets. Those wishing to utilize the program must reserve free tickets (877-444-6777 or recreation.gov) then contact the Park Service at (215) 597-7130 or via this form, with a two-week advance request.

The Liberty Bell Center

Home to one of the world’s most recognizable symbols of freedom, the wheelchair-accessible Liberty Bell Center offers visitors an up-close-and-personal experience with a (cracked) piece of American history. 6th and Market Streets, (215) 965-2305, nps.gov

• The center is wheelchair and stroller accessible. The bell itself is low to the ground and only cordoned off by security chains, with no obstructions to great pics and “bell-fies.”
• Films and videos presented in the center are open-captioned.
• Assistive listening devices and audio descriptions are available for films and videos.
• Touch objects and tactile reproductions include a replica of the Liberty Bell’s inscription with raised lettering.

  — Photo by D. Knoll for Visit Philadelphia

Benjamin Franklin Museum and Franklin Court Printing Office

Three city blocks from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, the Benjamin Franklin Museum is site of the inventor and statesman’s onetime home and workspace showcasing his many endeavors, including his newspaper printing office and post office. 317 Chestnut Street, (215) 965-2305, nps.gov

• The landmark has wheelchair-accessible entrances on Market Street and Chestnut Street. The Printing Office is wheelchair accessible through the courtyard entrance door only.
• An elevator to access the underground museum is available at the entrance to the museum area below the Franklin Court courtyard.
• Accessible restrooms, including a family restroom, are available on the lower level.
• Films and videos presented in the museum are open-captioned.
• Assistive listening devices and audio descriptions to amplify tour audio as well as audio descriptions of the tour and museum exhibits are available.
• Touch objects and tactile reproductions include replicas of items Franklin used or invented as well as more replica items in the Franklin Court Printing Office.

Betsy Ross House

The Betsy Ross House, the home of America’s most famous seamstress, offers a glimpse into the life of the woman best known for sewing the first Stars & Stripes flag. 239 Arch Street (215) 629-4026, betsyrosshouse.org

• The ground-floor courtyard — including Ross’s grave, museum store and exhibition gallery — is accessible. An accessible restroom is available in the gallery.
• The 300-year-old house itself has narrow passageways and steep stairs that may impede accessibility. However, some existing entranceway steps have been removed and a railing added to its breezeway to facilitate first-floor entry.
• The site offers a complimentary first-floor audio tour with photo guide and visual aids for visitors without physical access to the building — and Betsy herself has been known to leave her upholstery shop to greet guests outside in her courtyard.

Museum of the American Revolution

The Museum of the American Revolution, the country’s first museum dedicated to the United States’ War of Independence, offers an inclusive picture of the American Revolution through an extensive collection of art and artifacts, immersive displays and interactive exhibits. 101 S. 3rd Street, (215) 253-6731, amrevmuseum.org

• The museum is wheelchair accessible with elevators and ramps to all public spaces. The main entrance is accessible with automatic push-button doors.
• Complementary manual wheelchairs are available at the front desk.
• Accessible restrooms are available on each floor of the museum.
• Films presented in the galleries are closed-captioned
• Assistive listening devices are available at the front desk and audio transcripts are available for gallery and exhibit tours.
• American Sign Language interpreters are available for guided tours with a two-week advance request.
• Touch guides are available, and touch tours can be scheduled in advance.
• Touch objects and tactile reproductions include a 3D printing of Washington’s War Tent. Select gallery paintings feature tactile graphics as well.
• The museum is a Certified Autism Center, offering a sensory guide, noise-reducing headphones and a quiet room to view museum films in a private setting.

  — Photo courtesy Museum of the American Revolution

National Constitution Center

The only museum dedicated to the U.S. Constitution, the National Constitution Center offers exhibits and artifacts, a 360-degree live theatrical production telling the story of “We the people,” and life-size bronze statues of the Founding Fathers. 525 Arch Street, (215) 409-6600, constitutioncenter.org

• The museum is wheelchair accessible across all entrances and public spaces, with elevators throughout the building.
• Complementary manual wheelchairs are available at the Information Desk.
• Accessible restrooms are located on the first floor (behind the main staircase) and second floor (in the auditorium lobby).
• Most videos, audio soundtracks and interactive displays are open-captioned, and printed scripts are available.
• Assistive listening devices, large print scripts and iPod Touch captioning devices are available for programs in the Sidney Kimmel Theater, which hosts the hourly Freedom Rising show. Assistive listening devices are also available for the F.M. Kirby Auditorium.
• American Sign Language interpreters are available for guided tours with a five-day advance request.
• Touch objects and tactile reproductions include the life-size bronze statues of the 42 delegates who attended the 1787 Constitutional Convention.
• Sensory-friendly days are offered throughout the year.

Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History

One block from Independence Visitor Center, this contemporary, multi-story venue housing the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History tells the true, compelling stories of early to modern Jewish migrants to the United States and the 360-plus-year history of Jewish life in America. 101 S. Independence Mall East, (215) 923-3811, nmahj.org

• The museum is wheelchair accessible across all entrances, levels and public spaces, with elevators throughout the building.
• Complementary manual wheelchairs are available at the Admissions Desk.
• Films and video clips are closed-captioned, and assistive listening devices are available for special programs in the Dell Theater.
• Sensory backpacks are available which contain emotion, action and general museum communication cards, noise-reducing headphones, a weighted compression shoulder pad, fidget tools and tinted glasses.
• A social story is available to download for visitors with autism or sensory sensitivities

Barnes Foundation

One of the finest collections of impressionist, post-impressionist and early modern paintings in the world, Barnes Foundation boasts an impressive collection that features 181 Renoirs, 69 Cézannes and African art. 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, (215) 278-7200, barnesfoundation.org

• The museum is wheelchair accessible, with barrier-free entrances and elevators throughout the building. Due to the small size of the galleries, some larger mobility devices may not be accommodated in all spaces.
• Complementary manual wheelchairs are available at the front desk.
• Accessible restrooms are located on the lower level and in the Garden Restaurant.
• Most films and video clips are either open or closed-captioned.
• Assistive listening devices including headsets and t-coil loops are available for use in the auditorium and with the gallery tour.
• American Sign Language interpreters are available for lectures, workshops, special events and docent tours with a three-week advance request.

Barnes Foundation visitors with low vision or blindness can experience art multi-sensorially.   — Photo courtesy Art-Reach

Philadelphia Art Museum

The Philadelphia Art Museum has one of the largest art collections in the nation, spanning the ancient world, medieval times, the Renaissance, Impressionist movement and modern day. 26th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway, (215) 763-8100, philamuseum.org

• The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators throughout the building. The west and north entrances, café and store are barrier-free. There is seating in almost every third gallery.
• The famous Rocky Steps do not offer adjacent ramps, but visitors can access the top landing through the museum. The exterior area around the Rocky statue is accessible.
• All restrooms are accessible, and accessible water fountains can be found near Stir restaurant (first floor) and American Art Gallery No. 209 (second floor).
• Complementary manual wheelchairs and adjustable-height canes with rubber tips are available inside each entrance.
• Films and videos presented in the galleries are closed captioned.
• Free audio tours of the museum’s “greatest hits,” audio tour transcripts and FM-assistive listening devices with t-coil loops are available.
• American Sign Language interpreters are available for guided tours with a two-week advance request.
• Touch tours of selected works with guided visual descriptions are also available.
• Touch objects and tactile reproductions include 3D replicas of select masterpieces.
• Personally adapted tours for individuals and groups with disabilities with specially trained museum guides can be scheduled with a two-week advance request.

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA)

The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, affectionately known as PAFA, was the nation’s first art school and is considered the country’s oldest art museum. It is known for its permanent collection of 18th- and 19th-century American masters and contemporary American art from the 19th century to today. 118-122 N. Broad Street, (215) 972-7600, pafa.org

• The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators throughout the building.
• The Samuel M.V. Hamilton Building entrance on Broad Street is accessible. The Historic Landmark Building (closed through fall 2025 for renovations) entrance is accessible via street level elevator at Lenfest Plaza.
• Complementary manual wheelchairs are available at the front desk.
• In-person guided tours and large print labels are available by request.
• Accessible restrooms are located on both floors of the Hamilton Building and on the second floor of the Landmark Building (toward the rear of the building).

The Franklin Institute

The most visited museum in the tri-state area is all about science. The Franklin Institute covers all the fun of science from its namesake Benjamin Franklin’s experiments and discoveries to the latest in robotics, technology, astronomy, biology and more. 222 N. 20th Street, (215) 448-1200, fi.edu

• The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, with elevators throughout the building. Accessible entrances located at 20th Street or from the Bartol Atrium parking garage elevators.
• Complementary manual wheelchairs are available at the Ticketing Desk.
• Accessible restrooms are located on the first level by the Planetarium and lunchroom lobbies and on the second level by Wisdom Hall and the Atrium. Wheelchair-accessible seating is available in the second-floor Eatery.
• American Sign Language interpreters are available for guided tours with a three-week advance request.
• Sensory backpacks are available which contain sensory guide alerts, noise-reducing headphones, sunglasses and fidgets. If the experience becomes overwhelming, return vouchers are available within 30 minutes of ticket purchase.

  — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Penn Museum

The nearly 140-year-old University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (aka the Penn Museum) houses a million objects from around the globe, making it one of the world’s finest archaeological and anthropological museums. 3260 South Street, (215) 898-4000, penn.museum

• The museum is fully accessible, including the elevated Warden Garden by the main entrance.
• Complementary manual wheelchairs are available by the East and Main entrances.
• Accessible restrooms are located on all levels; however, restrooms do not feature power-assisted doors.
• Philly Touch Tours provides inclusive and sensory tours of the Ancient Egypt and the Roman World exhibits.
• Sighted arts staff are trained in verbal description methods and offer audio descriptions of lectures.
• Programs for adults experiencing dementia and students with developmental and intellectual disabilities are available.
• The museum notes that displays of light-sensitive objects contain low-light levels.

The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University

Philadelphia’s natural history museum, The Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University is home to a fully constructed Tyrannosaurus rex, butterflies and bugs from around the world and specimens that serve in biodiversity studies. 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, (215) 299-1060, ansp.org

• The museum’s main building is wheelchair accessible, but due to the institution’s age, it can be difficult to navigate for visitors with mobility impairment. A barrier-free entrance is available at 19th Street.
• The rear elevator near the 19th Street entrance provides access to all floors while the front elevator provides access to the main level, second level and mezzanine.
• Complementary manual wheelchairs are available by the East and Main entrances.
• All restrooms have accessible stalls with railings, and first-level restrooms offer automatic doors.
• Exhibits and activities of interest to explorers who are blind or experiencing low vision or vision loss include Outside In (featuring touchable live small animals) and Dinosaur Hall’s Big Dig (touchable bones and skulls).
• American Sign Language interpreters are available for guided tours with a two-week advance request.

Please Touch Museum

Boundless family destination the Please Touch Museum is dedicated to discovering the power of learning through play. Young children explore, discover, learn and engage the senses in interactive play spaces that include water tables, vehicles, rocket ships and more. 4231 Avenue of the Republic, (215) 581-3181, pleasetouchmuseum.org

• The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, including the vintage Woodside Park Dentzel Carousel.
• Complementary manual wheelchairs are available at the Admissions Desk.
• All restrooms are accessible, and the elevator in Roadside Attractions provides access to both floors.
• Quiet kits are available at the Admissions Desk, and a Sensory Guide can be found here.

Carousel at the Please Touch Museum   — Photo by J. Fusco for Visit Philadelphia

Philadelphia Zoo

The Philadelphia Zoo, America’s first and oldest zoo, is set among a 42-acre Victorian garden that stuns visitors with its Zoo360 experience — a campus-wide network of see-through mesh trails where animals roam freely around above the grounds. 3400 W. Girard Avenue, (215) 243-1100, philadelphiazoo.org

• The zoo is fully accessible both outside and within indoor exhibits.
• Manual wheelchairs are available upon request for a fee of $8 ($30 for scooters).
• Service animals are welcome, but guest relations requests notification upon arrival.
• Retractable leashes are prohibited, as are emotional support and therapy animals.
• Zoo education staffers are trained in cognitive and communication disabilities.
• Customized tours for groups of all abilities are available with two weeks advance request.
• Hands-on learning for an inclusive experience is available through the KidZooU program.

Ensemble Arts Philly (The Kimmel Center, Miller Theater and Academy of Music)

Ensemble Arts Philly, formerly the Kimmel Cultural Campus, is a collection of three of the city’s most prestigious institutions: the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts (home to The Philadelphia Orchestra), Miller Theater (previously known as Merriam Theater) and the Academy of Music, which together welcome a myriad of musicals, plays, orchestra performances and special events. 300 S. Broad Street, (215) 893-1900, ensembleartsphilly.org

• All venues are wheelchair accessible.
• Accessible entrances are available at The Kimmel Center east (Broad Street) and north (Spruce Street) entrances, Miller Theater main entrance (250 South Broad Street) and the Academy of Music south side entrance with direct entry to the main lobby.
• All venues feature wheelchair-accessible seating locations including stair-free access.
• Limited seating near the stage is reserved for patrons who are blind or experiencing low vision or vision loss.
• Accessible restrooms are located on all levels of the Kimmel Center, via elevator on the Academy of Music’s Canteen level and via elevator on the Miller Theater’s Mezzanine level.
• Live verbal narration Audio Description is available for select Broadway performances utilizing small earpieces for narration of stage action, facial expressions, sets, costumes, lighting and props.
• Assistive listening devices including over-the-ear headphones, open-ear earbuds or t-coil loops are available for all venues.
• Select film screenings are closed captioned.
• American Sign Language interpreters are available for select Broadway performances, with interpreters located aside the Parquet section.
• All venues offer large print and braille programs by request. Braille tickets are not available.
• Sensory-friendly performances, with mid-level house lighting, open house doors and a cool-down space, are available for select shows.
• Sensory backpacks, customized for adults or children, are available which contain noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys and a weighted bean bag. Personal Care Attendants of guests with disabilities are admitted free of charge.
• All venues welcome service animals, with ample space under each seat to accommodate.

Mural Arts Philadelphia

Even with its world-renowned art museums, Philly’s best art collection lives along the walls, bridges and sidewalks of the public city. Thanks to Mural Arts Philadelphia, the living gallery presented across the city features over 4,000 murals, sculptures and installations with canvases from giant building façades to intimate alleyway walls. 1727-29 Mt. Vernon Street, (215) 925-3633, muralarts.org

• Most mural arts installations are available for viewing from any public sidewalk, most of which are wheelchair accessible.
• Around a dozen ticketed guided tours are available by foot, by Philadelphia Trolley Works vehicle or by train, and can be arranged for visitors with disabilities with advance notice.

South Philadelphia Sports Complex

Coming into Philly to catch a game, show or concert? Whether cheering on the Phils, Birds, Flyers or Sixers (or the visiting team, it’s OK, we still love you), seeing a live entertainment event like the circus or WWE wrestling or hitting up a stadium festival, the venues at the world famous South Philadelphia Sports Complex are fully ADA accessible and welcoming sites for fans with disabilities. Pattison Avenue and South 11th Street

Below are direct links to the accessibility features, accommodations and services at each of Philly’s large venues.

• Citizens Bank Park (Phillies)
• Lincoln Financial Field (Eagles)
• Wells Fargo Center (Flyers, 76ers)
• Subaru Park, Chester (Union)

Staying Over

Philadelphia is home to scores of hotels accessible to visitors who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices, are in need of visual and hearing assistance, experience development or sensory processing issues, or have hidden disabilities, with accommodations spanning multiple neighborhoods, budgets and tastes.

All hotels welcome service animals as defined by the ADA, but guests should contact individual hotels with specific questions, including inquiries about emotional support or therapy animals.

This list includes several local favorites, but is not comprehensive. Visitors are always encouraged to contact a hotel directly to review specific needs or requests.

The Warwick Hotel, Rittenhouse Square Philadelphia

Visitors love the charisma of the historic, circa-1926 building and contemporary interior of The Warwick Hotel, Rittenhouse Square Philadelphia. The well-located hotel offers accessible rooms, including roll-in showers, tubs and toilets with grab bars and seat-to-tub transfer. 220 S. 17th Street, (215) 735-6000, warwickrittenhouse.com

Sofitel Philadelphia

Just one block from Rittenhouse Square and premier dining and shopping, Sofitel Philadelphia houses two French restaurants — Liberté Lounge and Chez Colette. The front entrance includes a wheelchair-accessible ramp, and accessible rooms feature marble bathrooms with roll-in showers and grab bars or separate tubs. 120 S. 17th Street,(215) 569-8300, sofitel-philadelphia.com

Philadelphia Marriott Downtown

On the east side of City Hall, the large Philadelphia Marriott Downtown hotel is located in the heart of the city — and in close proximity to Chinatown, Washington Square and Old City. Its accessible rooms have 32-inch-wide entryways, roll-in showers featuring handheld showerheads with grab rails or seats, flashing door knockers, alarm clock phone ringers, lowered beds, lowered locks and peepholes, lowered outlets and more. The business center, fitness center and on-site restaurants are all in accessible areas. 1201 Market Street, (215) 625-2900, marriott.com

  — Photo courtesy Marriott

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia

The boutique Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia, across the street from Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, offers a full suite of accessibility options. Its front entrance is level with the sidewalk, and the business center, fitness center and on-site restaurant are all accessible. Some rooms are equipped with roll-in showers, phone ring signalers and in-line amplifiers, visual alarm clocks and smoke detectors, bed shakers and door knock alerts. 433 Chestnut Street, (215) 925-2111, monaco-philadelphia.com

Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia

This accessible Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia is one block from Rittenhouse Square and surrounded by dozens of shops and restaurants. The boutique property’s entrance is sidewalk-level with 24-hour valet parking, and the exercise facility and on-site restaurant are accessible. Some rooms are equipped with roll-in showers, door knock alerts, and visual fire alarms and alarm clocks. Accessible amenities like beach wheelchairs are available by request. 117 S 17th Street,(215) 563-5006, hotelpalomar-philadelphia.com

The Inn at Penn, A Hilton Hotel

The busy University City neighborhood is home to The Inn at Penn, A Hilton Hotel, which offers easy access to the Penn Museum, Institute of Contemporary Art and Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. This Hilton property features select accessible rooms with 32-inch-wide entryways and either roll-in showers or bathtubs. The front entrance is ground level with an elevator to the lobby, with valet-only parking and an accessible concierge desk, business center, on-site restaurant and exercise facility. 3600 Sansom Street, (215) 222-0200, hilton.com

Holiday Inn Express Penn’s Landing

The Delaware River waterfront Holiday Inn Express Philadelphia Penn’s Landing — nearby popular seasonal attractions along the riverside including Independence Blue Cross RiverRink and Race and Cherry street piers — includes a ramp, automatic doors and designated parking in the hotel’s lot. The property’s six accessible rooms feature roll-in showers and accessible vanities. All elevators are accessible, as is the business center and a ballroom. 100 North Columbus Boulevard, (215) 627-7900, hiepennslanding.com

FAQ & More Resources

Where can I find assistance for visitors with sensory processing sensitivities?

Several organizations provide services and opportunities for individuals with sensory processing sensitivities, offering detailed lists of services, community activities, and programs in Greater Philadelphia. Some of these include:

Philadelphia Autism Project offers a centralized resource hub and a calendar of local sensory-friendly activities and events while fostering community collaborations. Get more info at (215) 571-3209, [email protected] or phillyautismproject.org.

KultureCity works with stadiums, museums and theaters in Philadelphia to create sensory-inclusive spaces with amenities like sensory bags, quiet spaces, and trained staff, plus visitor information. Some KultureCity venues include Citizens Bank Park, Lincoln Financial Field and City Hall. Get more info at [email protected] or kulturecity.org.

Autism Speaks, a national organization for individuals with spectrum disorders, offers a detailed list of services, community activities and programs. Get more info at (609) 955-2076, [email protected] or autismspeaks.org.

Autism Society Greater Philadelphia connects people to resources through education, advocacy, resources, and community programming. Get more info at (610) 358-5256, [email protected] or facebook.com/autismsocietygreaterphiladelphiaasaphilly.

AMC Theaters, in partnership with the Autism Society, offers sensory-friendly showings of select films, with locations at AMC Painters Crossing 9 in West Chester, AMC Marple 10 in Springfield (Delaware County) and AMC Neshaminy 24 and AMC Philadelphia Mills 14, both in Bensalem.

Visitors are encouraged to contact venues and institutions for specific information on sensory-friendly policies and programming.

Is ground transportation assistance available for visitors with disabilities?

Public Transportation: Whether traveling to and from different neighborhoods, the suburbs or the airport, SEPTA’s commuter rail, bus, trolley and subway services offer a variety of accessibility services and accessible stations and vehicles. Some reduced fare programs are available.

SEPTA’s website includes comprehensive, detailed descriptions of each service, such as which stations are accessible and the operational statuses of the elevators. It also offers a text reader for travelers who are blind or experiencing low vision or vision loss and need to access schedules and fare information.

SEPTA Key fare kiosks at stations have braille and raised lettering, and an audio function that converts on-screen text to spoken word.

Individually trained service animals are welcome on all forms of transportation.

Rideshares: Both Uber and Lyft in Philadelphia offer Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) users can request through their respective apps. For how to access the WAV option, visit uber.com or lyft.com.

Taxicabs: Accessible taxis can be ordered from 2-1-5-Get-A-Cab by phone at (215) 438-2222 or via a form on their website, or from Germantown Taxicab Co. at (215) 438-8888. By law, all Philadelphia taxicabs must feature backseat passenger information monitors (PIM) for cab, driver and fare information, and dispatchers must accept requests for WAVs and coordinate service calls with other dispatchers.

Does the Philadelphia airport offer assistance for visitors with disabilities?

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has a wide range of services available to travelers with disabilities, from the moment you arrive at the airport to the minute your plane departs.

The airport features 171 large easy-to-read LCD monitors throughout the terminals that visually convey information from the public address system, and offers video phone services for travelers who are deaf, hard of hearing or experiencing hearing loss. Each airline has personnel trained to accommodate fliers with disabilities in each of their terminals and at their gates.

PHL participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard program, which helps airport personnel identify passengers with non-visible disabilities when support may be needed. The program also integrates with the AIRA service, which connects travelers who are blind or experiencing low vision or vision loss to remote agents to assist in wayfinding.

The U.S. Transportation Security Administration provides additional assistance during the security screening process through its TSA Cares program.

The Philadelphia airport also offers Access for All, a detailed 65-page guide designed for travelers with disabilities (particularly first-time and infrequent fliers), covering every stage of the airport experience including packing, parking, shuttle bus and commuter rail service, elevators, accessible restrooms, mobility assistance, navigating security and more. It also incorporates guidance for fliers with less-common disabilities such as bladder or breathing issues.

Concerns and questions about accessibility can be addressed by the ADA Coordinator at Terminal D/E, Third Floor or via the contact info here. Get more info at (215) 937-5533, [email protected] or phl.org.

Where can I find interpreters for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or experiencing hearing loss?

Philadelphia has many options for travelers seeking sign language interpreters for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or experiencing hearing loss.

Hands Up Productions offers interpreters, in addition to many other services, primarily for performing arts and cultural events. Get more info at (856) 302-5115 (fax), [email protected], or handsupproductions.com.

Deaf-Hearing Communication Centre provides interpreting services for hire including for medical, educational and legal needs and at public events. Get more info at (610) 604-0450, (484) 477-0817 (videophone), [email protected] or dhcc.org.

Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing offers an extensive database of American Sign Language interpreters through the Department of Labor & Industry. Get more info at (814) 792-2381 (voice or TTY), (800) 233-3008 (videophone), [email protected], pa.gov.

Where can I find services for people who are blind or experiencing low vision or vision loss?

Travelers who are blind or experiencing low vision or vision loss and flying into Philadelphia International Airport can reference the airport’s Access for All guide for specific information on braille signage, elevators and ATMs. As part of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard program, PHL also offers access to the AIRA service assisting travelers who are blind or experiencing low vision or vision loss with wayfinding.

The airport welcomes service dogs individually trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities, including guide dogs. There are numerous animal relief areas (Pet Ports) throughout every terminal. As well, sighted guide services and assistance are available through airline personnel.

SEPTA Access paratransit service (formerly CCT Connect) from Philly’s public transportation authority provides transportation to visitors with disabilities (including vision-related). Get more info at (215) 580-7145 or septa.org

The Library of Accessible Media for Pennsylvanians (previously known as the Library for the Blind & Physically Handicapped) — run by the Free Library of Philadelphia and Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh — offers a variety of accessible media (including print, audio and digital), braille transcriptions, computers, screen-reading software and magnification tools, plus support and outreach, at branches throughout Philadelphia. Get more info at (215) 683-3213, [email protected], or freelibrary.org

Most area museums, cultural institutions and historic sites welcome service animals as defined by the ADA. Most also offer free entrance or admission to personal care attendants.

Can I use my PA ACCESS Card at Philadelphia attractions?

Public arts initiative ACCESS Philly — managed by non-profit organization Art-Reach — supports equitable access to the arts for people with disabilities. Pennsylvania residents with a state-issued PA ACCESS Card (plus up to three additional guests) are eligible for $2 admission to more than 80 museums, gardens, theaters and cultural sites throughout Greater Philadelphia.

Individuals with disabilities who do not have a state benefits card can purchase an ACCESS Philly Card directly from Art-Reach. Get more info at (267) 515-6720, [email protected] or art-reach.org