Wheelchair rental in New York

Adaptability of New York

78%

Discover New York

Central Park

Statue of Liberty

Empire State Building

Big Bus Tours New York

9/11 Memorial & Museum

World Trade Center

The Museum of Modern Art

Central Park

Central Park is one of the world's most famous urban parks, located in the heart of New York City, with incredible dimensions of 4 km in length and 800 meters in width. This iconic green space is an oasis in the midst of the bustling metropolis, offering a variety of activities for all tastes and ages. But in addition to its beauty and entertainment, Central Park is also an inclusive and accessible place for people with reduced mobility. One advantage for people with reduced mobility is that Central Park has several accessible trails, allowing easy access to different parts of the park. Additionally, many of the pathways are paved with concrete and cobblestones, making it easier to use wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

There are also ramps and elevators in various locations to ensure access to the higher areas of the park, such as the viewpoints and terraces. Another advantage is that Central Park has a wide variety of accessible attractions, such as the famous Bethesda Fountain, the Central Park Zoo, the Butterfly Conservatory, the Shakespeare Garden, and many others. All of these attractions offer wheelchair access and other mobility devices, with ramps and elevators available at each one. In addition, Central Park has specific programs for people with disabilities. One of them is the "Accessibility and Special Services Program", which offers guided tours and activities for people with physical and cognitive disabilities. These visits focus on specific aspects of the park, such as fauna, flora, and the history of the place, and are carried out in small groups with a trained guide. In summary, Central Park is an inclusive and accessible place for people with reduced mobility, offering accessible trails, adapted attractions, and specific programs.

This iconic urban park in New York is an example of how public spaces can be designed to be accessible and welcoming to all people.

Entry:

Entry to the park is completely free, and it's open every day of the week from 6:00 am until 1:00 am.

Bathrooms:

Central Park in New York has accessible bathrooms for people with reduced mobility. Accessible public bathrooms are located at various points within the park, including the Welcome Center, the Central Park Zoo, Belvedere Castle, the Conservatory Center, and the North Bathhouse. Accessible bathrooms are designed to comply with accessibility standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and feature wide doors for wheelchairs, support bars, and accessible sinks.

It's important to note that due to the large size of the park, bathrooms may be located some distance from each other. Therefore, it's recommended to plan ahead and check the location of accessible bathrooms on the park map before your visit.

Accessibility:

There are several ways to get to Central Park in New York, depending on your location and transportation preferences. Here are some common options:

By subway: Central Park has several subway stations in its vicinity, including 59th Street-Columbus Circle (A, B, C, D, and 1 lines), 57th Street-Seventh Avenue (N, Q, and R lines), and 86th Street (4, 5, and 6 lines). You can use the trip planning tool on the website of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) of New York to plan your subway trip.
By bus: The MTA also has several bus routes that pass through Central Park. You can use the trip planning tool on the MTA website to see bus options.
By bike: Central Park has several bike lanes and bike rentals available in its surroundings. There are also bike parking facilities at several points within the park.
By car: Central Park has several nearby public parking facilities, although traffic in Manhattan can be congested and parking can be expensive.
On foot: If you are close to the park, you can walk there. The entrances to the park are located on major avenues, including Fifth Avenue, Eighth Avenue, and Central Park West.

Address and Contact:

The Arsenal, Central Park, 830 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10065
Telephone: 212-310-6600
Email: info@centralparknyc.org
Web: https://www.centralparknyc.org/

The Central Park Information Center can provide additional information about events, activities, and tours available in the park. Additionally, the official website is an excellent source of information about the park, including maps, schedules, and visitor recommendations.

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty, officially known as Liberty Enlightening the World, is located in the southern part of Manhattan on the small island of Liberty Island. It is important to note that when planning a visit, we should ensure that our trip is accessible for people with reduced mobility or disabilities.

The design of the statue is the work of Frenchman Auguste Bartholdi and was a gift from France to celebrate the centenary of the United States Declaration of Independence in 1886. The statue is a symbol of freedom and has multiple symbols. In her left hand, she holds a tablet with the engraved date of the Declaration of Independence, while in her right hand she raises a torch, the light that illuminates the way to freedom. There are also broken chains under her tunic, an additional symbol of freedom.

The visit to the crown of the Statue of Liberty is not accessible for wheelchair users. The stairs are very narrow and steep, so there is not enough space to maneuver a wheelchair.
If you plan to visit the base or pedestal of the Statue of Liberty, there is limited wheelchair accessibility. The entrance and exit to the base are wheelchair accessible, but the observation platform at the top of the pedestal is not wheelchair accessible.

The height of the statue is 46 meters, although if we count from the ground to the highest point of the torch, it reaches 93 meters. Although many travelers imagine it to be taller, it is important to note that to visit the crown of the statue, it is necessary to climb 162 narrow steps, which can be difficult for people with reduced mobility and impossible if you are in a wheelchair.

There are three types of tickets to visit the statue: basic, pedestal, and crown. All include the ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island, with self-guided tours of both islands and their museums. The difference between them is that only the pedestal and crown tickets allow access to the interior of the statue.

The basic ticket allows you to see the statue from below and visit the statue museum. The pedestal ticket includes access to the observation deck and a small museum, but spots are limited. The crown ticket is the most sought after and allows you to climb to the crown of the statue, but it is also the most difficult to obtain because spots are very limited and sell out months in advance.

It is important to note that to visit the crown or pedestal of the statue, we must leave our backpacks or bags in lockers next to the base of the monument. We must also keep in mind that the pedestal terrace is narrow and not wheelchair accessible.

The authorized ferry to dock on the islands is Statue City Cruises. It is recommended to buy tickets through their website to avoid possible scams. It is also recommended to arrive early to avoid long queues and plan the trip taking into account the time it takes to board and disembark on the islands.

In conclusion, visiting the Statue of Liberty is a unique experience, full of symbolism and history, that should be accessible to all people, including those with disabilities. When planning our trip, we should consider the available options and make the necessary adjustments to ensure that all people can enjoy this iconic monument of freedom.

Bathrooms:

Ellis Island has adapted bathrooms for people with disabilities. These bathrooms are located on the ground floor of the main museum building and on the ground floor of the Baggage Room building. There are also adapted bathrooms on the Statue City Cruises ferry that connects Ellis Island with Liberty Island.

Accessibility:

To get to the Statue of Liberty in New York, you must take a ferry from Battery Park at the southern tip of Manhattan or from Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Here's how to get to both starting points:

From Manhattan:

Subway: You can take the 4 or 5 subway lines to Bowling Green station. From there, walk south to Battery Park.
Bus: Several bus routes pass through Battery Park, including the M5, M15, and M20.
Taxi: You can request a taxi or Uber from anywhere in the city to Battery Park.

From New Jersey:

Train: You can take the PATH train from several stations in New Jersey to the Exchange Place station in Jersey City. From there, take the ferry from Liberty State Park.
Bus: Several bus routes pass through Liberty State Park, including bus 62 from the Journal Square train station in Jersey City.
Taxi: You can request a taxi or Uber from anywhere in New Jersey to Liberty State Park.

Address and contact information for Statue City Cruise:

Statue Cruises, Battery Park, Slip 5, New York, NY 10004
Phone: +1-877-LADY-TIX (+1-877-523-9849)
Email: info@statuecruises.com
Website: https://www.statuecruises.com/ +1-201-604-2800

Empire State Building

The skyscraper known as the Empire State Building is located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street. Its name comes from the nickname of the state of New York and was erected as the tallest building in the world for forty years, from its completion in 1931 until 1971, when the construction of the north tower of the World Trade Center was completed.

This building is accessible to people with mobility problems and is visited by around 4 million people each year. After the attacks on September 11, 2001, the Empire State Building regained the title of tallest building in the city and state until it was surpassed by One World Trade Center on April 30, 2012.

Nevertheless, it remains one of the most iconic and emblematic skyscrapers in the world due to its history and great height in the last century. With the antenna included, it reaches 442.9 meters, becoming the third tallest building in New York behind One World Trade Center and the Central Park Tower. The American Society of Civil Engineers has recognized the Empire State Building as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. The building was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1986.

The Empire State is accessible to people with reduced mobility and below are some important details about the accessibility of the building:

Access: The Empire State Building has accessible entrances located on 33rd and 34th streets on Fifth Avenue. Both entrances are equipped with wheelchair ramps and automatic doors.

Elevators: The building has several accessible elevators that can accommodate wheelchairs. In addition, the elevators have large buttons and Braille to facilitate their use.

Assistance: Empire State Building staff is trained to provide assistance to visitors with disabilities. If you need help getting to the observation deck or have any other special needs, you can speak with the staff for assistance. It is important to note that due to the popularity of the Empire State Building, there may be long lines to enter.

Visitors with disabilities are recommended to arrive early to avoid unnecessary waits.

Entrance:

The entrance fee varies depending on how high you want to go as you can visit the 86th floor and if you want you can go to the 102nd floor...

The hours are from 10:00 in the morning to 10:00 at night every day of the week.

Restrooms:

There are accessible restrooms on several floors of the Empire State Building, including the 86th floor where the main observation deck is located.

Accessibility:

There are several options for getting to the Empire State Building by public transportation or your own vehicle.

By public transportation:

Metro: You can take the subway to the 34th St-Herald Square station on the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, and W lines. From there, the Empire State Building is just a few blocks away.
Bus: Several MTA bus lines also stop near the Empire State Building.

By your own vehicle:

Car: You can reach the Empire State Building via the I-495 E (LIE), the I-278 E (Brooklyn Queens Expressway), or the I-78 E highways.
Parking: There are several public parking garages near the Empire State Building, although they can be quite expensive.

Walking:

If you are in the area, you can also walk to the Empire State Building. It is located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and 34th Street.

Address and contact:

20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001, United States
Phone: (+1) 212-736-3100
Website: https://www.esbnyc.com/

Big Bus Tours New York

There are several tourist bus companies in New York that offer wheelchair accessibility. Here are 3 options:

Big Bus Tours: This company covers several tourist routes in New York, including downtown Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Harlem.
CitySightseeing New York: This company also offers several tourist routes in New York, including downtown Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Upper and Lower Manhattan.
Gray Line New York: Their routes include downtown Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Upper and Lower Manhattan.

It is recommended to check the schedules and available routes of each service before booking. Additionally, it is important to inform the tourist bus service that you will need wheelchair accessibility when making the reservation to ensure they can make the necessary arrangements for your comfort and safety.

We will detail the option of Big Bus Tours:

The buses have ramps for wheelchairs and space for wheelchairs on the lower level of the bus. In addition, the buses are equipped with an audio guide with commentary in various languages, so passengers can enjoy the tour without communication problems.

It is important to note that some tourist places accessed during the tour may have limited accessibility for people with reduced mobility. However, tour guides can provide information on the accessibility of each tourist site and offer alternatives if necessary.

It is recommended to inform Big Bus Tours in advance if you need wheelchair accessibility or any other form of special assistance to ensure they can make the necessary arrangements. It is also recommended to check the schedules and available routes before booking to ensure you can enjoy the experience comfortably and safely.

Address and contact information:

Big Bus Tours New York, 712 7th Avenue, New York, NY 10036, United States.
Phone: (+1) 212-685-8687
Email: newyork@bigbustours.com
Website: https://www.bigbustours.com/en/new-york/new-york-bus-tours/

There are also Big Bus Tours ticket kiosks at several tourist points in New York, such as Times Square, the Empire State Building, Battery Park, and Central Park. You can purchase tickets online or in person at any of the ticket sales kiosks.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

The September 11 Memorial and Museum in New York is an important place to honor and remember the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks. The complex features facilities that are accessible for wheelchair users. The following are some of the accessibility features of the 9/11 Memorial and Museum:

Accessible entrance: the museum entrance is accessible via ramps and elevators, with staff available to assist individuals with disabilities.
Elevators: there are several accessible elevators in the museum, with buttons at an easy-to-reach height and marked in braille.
Accessible exhibition spaces: the museum galleries are spacious and accessible for wheelchair users. There are also seating areas along the way.

Bathrooms:

The museum bathrooms are accessible for individuals with disabilities. They have wide doors, grab bars, and sinks at an appropriate height for wheelchair users.

In summary, the September 11 Memorial and Museum in New York is wheelchair accessible. The complex has accessible facilities and services, and the staff is trained to assist individuals with disabilities.

Address and contact information:

180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 100
Phone: (+1) 212-312-8800.

World Trade Center

Visiting The Edge in New York in a wheelchair is completely possible and accessible. The Edge is an observation platform located on the 100th floor of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, One World Trade Center.

The building has a wide variety of facilities and services for people with disabilities. The following are some of the accessibility features of the building and The Edge:

Accessible entrance: The entrance to the building is at street level and is accessible via ramps or elevators. In addition, there is trained staff to assist people with disabilities.
Elevators: There are several accessible elevators in the building, with easily reachable buttons marked in braille.
Observation platform: The Edge has an observation platform accessible for wheelchair users. There are ramps and elevators leading to the platform, and the railings are at an appropriate height for people sitting in wheelchairs. There is also enough space to maneuver the wheelchair and enjoy the views.

Bathrooms:

The bathrooms in One World Trade Center are accessible for people with disabilities. They have wide doors, support bars, and sinks at an appropriate height for wheelchair users.

In summary, it is possible to visit The Edge in New York in a wheelchair. The building has accessible facilities and services, and the staff is trained to assist people with disabilities. Enjoy the amazing views from the top of One World Trade Center!

Address and contact information:

One World Trade Center, 285 Fulton St, New York, NY 10007, United States
Phone: (+1) 212-602-4000
Website: https://www.edgeobservationdeck.com/

The Museum of Modern Art

The MoMA, also known as the Museum of Modern Art, is an art museum located in New York at the intersection of West 53rd Street and 5th Avenue. It is important to note that MoMA has facilities accessible to people with reduced mobility, such as ramps and elevators to access the different levels of the museum.

The MoMA's collection includes some of the most famous works in the history of art, such as Vincent van Gogh's Starry Night, Piet Mondrian's Broadway Boogie-Woogie, Pablo Picasso's Les Demoiselles d'Avignon, Salvador Dalí's Persistence of Memory, as well as works by American artists like Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Edward Hopper.

The museum features exhibitions from various disciplines such as graphic design, architecture, and photography. It also has a restaurant, "The Modern," which specializes in contemporary cuisine and has two Michelin stars. The sculpture garden and the movie theater are among the most popular attractions in the museum.

MoMA is the first and only museum so far to consider video games as art, including games such as Pac-Man and Tetris.

The museum is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas, and MoMA PS1 is also closed on New Year's Day. The opening hours are Sunday to Thursday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. It is important to note that discounts are available for students, seniors, and children, and the admission price for adults is $25.

Bathrooms:

The museum has accessible bathrooms for people with reduced mobility located at various points throughout the museum. These bathrooms are located near public and exhibition areas, and are designed to provide easy and safe access for people in wheelchairs and with other disabilities.

Accessibility:

There are several ways to get to the MoMA in New York:

Subway: MoMA is located near several subway stations, including the 53rd Street/5th Avenue station, the 53rd Street/7th Avenue station, and the 59th Street/5th Avenue station. You can take the E or M line to the 53rd Street/5th Avenue station, the B or D line to the 53rd Street/7th Avenue station, or the N, Q, or R line to the 59th Street/5th Avenue station.
Bus: You can also reach MoMA by bus. There are several bus routes that pass through the area, including the M1, M2, M3, M4, Q32, and QM2.
Taxi or Uber: If you prefer to take a taxi or Uber, you can request it from anywhere in the city and head to MoMA. Keep in mind that traffic in the area can be congested during peak hours.
Walking: If you are in a nearby area, you can walk to the museum. The walk from Times Square to MoMA is approximately 15 minutes.

Address and Contact:

11 West 53rd Street, between 5th and 6th Avenue, in Midtown Manhattan. Postal Code: 10019.
Phone (+1) 212-708-9400.
Website: www.moma.org

For people with mobility issues, there is a special phone number and email where you can get the necessary information (They speak multiple languages):

Phone: (+1) 212-708-9837
Email: accessprograms@moma.org

Your New York guide

New York is the most populous city in the United States and one of the most populous in the world, with an estimated population of 8.5 million people in its central area, but if we add the extended metropolitan area, it totals nearly 24 million inhabitants. Since the late 19th century, it has been one of the centers of world politics and economy, hosting the headquarters of the United Nations and numerous globally significant companies and financial institutions. Additionally, it has a significant global influence in media, politics, education, architecture, entertainment, arts, and fashion. All of this makes it one of the most globalized cities on the planet, with a great cultural diversity.

The city is composed of five boroughs: the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island, each of which corresponds to a county. With over 24 million people in an urban area of 830 square kilometers (320 sq mi), New York is the second most densely populated city in the United States, only behind Union City, New Jersey, located across the Hudson River. It is also one of the few cities in the world that houses multiple international institutions without being the political capital of a state.

New York has many iconic places and buildings recognized worldwide, such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Broadway, Times Square, and Wall Street, which is one of the most important financial centers in the world. New York is an exciting and vibrant city, but it can be challenging for people with reduced mobility. Fortunately, the city has taken steps to improve accessibility in recent years.

Most of the city's subway stations now have elevators and wheelchair ramps, making it easier for people with reduced mobility to access them. Additionally, many taxis are equipped with wheelchair ramps, and accessible transportation services are available. City buses also have wheelchair ramps and space for people with reduced mobility. The city's sidewalks are wider and designed to be wheelchair accessible, allowing for easier movement.

Many of the city's major museums and tourist attractions are also accessible to people with reduced mobility, and some offer special guided tours for people with disabilities. The city also has a disability affairs office that can provide information on accessibility and available resources.

Overall, while there may be challenges for people with reduced mobility in New York, the city has made significant efforts to improve accessibility and ensure that everyone can enjoy what it has to offer. The city also has some of the tallest buildings in the world, such as the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and Chrysler Building, and undoubtedly, New York is the birthplace of many cultural movements, including hip hop and breakdance.

Undoubtedly, New York is one of the destinations we recommend visiting if you use a wheelchair. Are you ready?

Some interesting facts about New York:

New York is the most populous city in the United States.
The currency used in the United States is the Dollar $.
Its time zone is GMT - 5.
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most well-known symbols of the city and the country. It was a gift from the French people in 1886 and is located on Liberty Island.
Central Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world, covering an area of over 840 acres.
The city of New York is considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, with a great variety of cultures and languages present in its population.
The city has a wide range of cultural offerings, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), the American Museum of Natural History, and the Metropolitan Opera House, among others.
The city's public transportation system, the subway, is one of the largest and most extensive in the world, with 472 stations and over 340 kilometers of tracks.
Some of the most well-known foods include pizza, bagels, hot dogs, hamburgers, and cheesecake.

New York Tourist office

New York has numerous tourism offices that can provide information about the city's attractions and activities.

Regarding wheelchair accessibility, many of the tourism offices in New York are located in accessible buildings and are equipped to assist visitors with special needs. Additionally, the city of New York has an accessibility law that requires businesses and public buildings to be accessible to people with disabilities.

Official NYC Information Center at Macy's Herald Square

Located within the world's largest department store, the Official NYC Information Center at Macy's Herald Square is more than just a visitor center. In addition to city specialists who are there to answer any questions you may have, the center also features touchscreen information kiosks to help you plan your trip, with Google maps and the ability to print directions; a multitude of guides and maps; and tickets to various attractions (many with discounts). Visitors can also enjoy a 10% visitor shopping pass discount at Macy's, which can be obtained for free from center specialists or by using a driver's license or passport at one of the kiosks.

Located within the main Macy's store on 34th Street between Seventh Avenue and Broadway, the center is convenient not only for many subway lines, but also for the Long Island Rail Road, New Jersey Transit, and Amtrak, which operate in and out of Penn Station across the street. Additionally, 34th Street is a major shopping hub in Manhattan and the site of several flagship stores.

Address: 151 W. 34th St. (between Seventh Avenue and Broadway)
Metro lines: 1, 2, 3, A, C, E to 34th St.-Penn Station; B, D, F, M, N, Q, R to 34th St.-Herald Sq.
Hours: Monday to Friday: 9am–7pm; Saturday: 10am–7pm; Sunday: 11am–7pm.
Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas.
Contact phone: (+1) 2124943827 or (+1) 212-639-9675

NYC Information Center – Times Square

The Official NYC Information Center at Times Square offers visitors guides, maps, brochures, pamphlets, coupons, and discounts related to everything there is to do and see in the city, with bilingual staff available to provide further guidance. The kiosk, in a plaza on the east side of Seventh Avenue between 44th and 45th streets, is convenient for many Midtown attractions, and is also at the intersection of many subway stops, allowing you to hop on a train and head almost anywhere after picking up all the information you need about the five boroughs.

Address: Seventh Avenue (between 44th and 45th streets)
Metro lines: 1, 2, 3, 7, A, C, E, N, Q, R, S to 42nd St.-Times Square
Hours: Daily from 9am to 6pm.
Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas.

NYC Information Center at City Hall

This center provides visitors with guides, maps, brochures, pamphlets, coupons, and discounts related to everything to see and do in the city, with bilingual staff available for further guidance. Located at the southern tip of City Hall Park on the Broadway sidewalk at Park Row, the center is convenient for many attractions in the Financial District, Battery Park City, TriBeCa, and South Street Seaport, and is also at the intersection of many subway stops, allowing you to hop on a train and head almost anywhere after picking up all the information you need about the five boroughs.

Address: Southern tip of City Hall Park on the Broadway sidewalk at Park Row.
Metro lines: 2, 3 to Park Place; 4, 5, 6 to Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall; 2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, J, Z to Fulton St.; J, Z to Chambers St.
Hours: Monday to Friday: 9am-6pm; Saturday-Sunday: 10am-5pm.
Closed on Christmas Day.

NYC Information Center at South Street Seaport

This center has city specialists available to answer any questions you may have. The center is also equipped with touch-screen kiosks to help you plan your trip, with information on attractions, restaurants, nightlife, and other areas of interest in the city's five boroughs. The center also offers attraction passes (City Pass, Explorer Pass, and NY Pass), hop-on-hop-off bus tours, and ticket sales for over 80 major attractions and events, as well as official NYC & Company visitor guides and maps.

Address: Hornblower Cruises on the East River Waterfront Esplanade (Pier 15).
Metro lines: 2, 3, A, C, J, Z to Fulton St.
Hours: May to August, daily from 9am to 7pm; September to April, daily from 9am to 5pm.
Closed on Christmas Day.

Tourist passes with access to transportation:

In New York City, you can access several tourist passes that include access to public transportation, as well as entry to popular attractions in the city. Some of the most popular tourist passes that offer access to public transportation are:

New York Pass: This pass includes free entry to over 100 popular attractions in the city, as well as unlimited access to the city's public transportation, including buses, trains, and the MTA subway.

New York Explorer Pass: This pass allows you to choose between 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, or 10 popular New York attractions to visit, and also includes access to the city's public transportation during the validity period of the pass.

CityPASS: This pass offers access to six top attractions in New York, including the Empire State Building and the American Museum of Natural History, as well as a 9-day ticket for unlimited access to New York City's public transportation.

Sightseeing Pass: This pass includes entry to over 100 popular attractions in the city, as well as unlimited access to New York City's public transportation.

It is important to review the options of each pass to determine which one is the best option according to your travel needs and preferences.

Transport

Airports:

New York has 3 airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), with JFK being the most important and busiest airport.

Each airport is wheelchair accessible and free assistance services are provided for disabled passengers. Personal wheelchairs and other mobility equipment can be taken to the gate and plane door. All airlines provide services for people with disabilities at each airport according to the Air Carrier Access Act.

JFK: It is important to know that this airport is the largest gateway to the United States. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is the largest airport in New York, with over 53 million passengers passing through it in 2014, and in 2021 (after the pandemic) there were 24 million passengers who traveled through JFK. It can be said that it is the largest gateway for international traffic to and from the United States.

Regarding accessibility, JFK has several points of assistance for people with reduced mobility. Here are some of them:

Arrivals area: Passengers who need assistance can request it at the information desk located in the arrivals terminal.
Departures area: Passengers who need assistance can request it at the information desk located in the departures terminal.
Parking area: Passengers can request assistance at the information desk located in the parking area for people with disabilities.
Security area: In the security area, there is trained security personnel to provide assistance to passengers with disabilities.
Boarding area: At the time of boarding, airline staff is trained to provide assistance to passengers with disabilities.

The airport has 6 terminals, numbered from 1 to 8 (skipping 3 and 6). The terminals operate independently of each other, with the exception of terminals 2 and 4, which are connected by an inter-terminal shuttle bus, the JFK Jitney. Passengers connecting between other terminals must exit the terminal, use a curbside shuttle bus (which is wheelchair accessible), and go through security again. If you are traveling with a single airline, their domestic flights will operate from the same terminal, with the exception of Delta Air Lines, which uses terminals 2 and 4. These are connected in the security zone through the Jitney bus.

Assistance services for people with disabilities must be requested through their airline. The airport bathrooms are equipped with accessible stalls for wheelchairs. Some terminals have private bathrooms designed for use by wheelchair users and their companions. The size of the airport terminals can result in significantly long walks between gates. Terminal 4 is over a mile half long.

Transportation to and from the airport:

Accessible Metro (AirTrain):

The primary and most efficient public transportation option at JFK is the AirTrain JFK. This train stops at all terminals (follow signs posted in the baggage claim area). The AirTrain only travels to the Jamaica station but connects with the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR), which provides service to Manhattan and other districts of New York City. It is wheelchair accessible and has reserved space on each train. When taking the subway, make sure to check the accessibility of the stations and the schedules of the accessible trains.

The Jamaica line stops additionally at Federal Circle and Jamaica stations, while the Howard Beach route stops at Federal Circle, Lefferts Boulevard, and Howard Beach stations.

From the Jamaica station, connections are available to the E, J, and Z lines of the New York City subway; Long Island Rail Road (LIRR); and New York City/MTA bus lines Q6, Q8, Q9, Q20A, Q20B, Q24, Q25, Q30, Q31, Q34, Q40, Q41, Q43, Q44, Q60, and Q65. LIRR trains offer the fastest service from Jamaica station to New York-Pennsylvania station.

From the Lefferts Boulevard station, connections are available to MTA bus line Q10 and New York City Transit Bus B15.

From the Howard Beach station, connections are available to the New York City subway A line and MTA bus Q11.

Using the AirTrain between terminals is free, but service to Jamaica, Lefferts Boulevard, and Howard Beach stations costs $5.00 per trip.

Bus:

Another accessible and relatively inexpensive option is the NYC Airporter shuttle bus. The NYC Airporter offers ADA-accessible buses with lifts and wheelchair security devices. Fares from JFK to Manhattan start at $16.00 per trip. NYC Airporter counters are available at JFK airport terminals where you can get information and buy tickets. The counters are located in Terminal 1, Terminal 4, and Terminal 8.

Contact information for NYC Airporter at JFK Airport:

Phone: (+1) 718-777-5111
Email: info@nycairporter.com
Website: https://www.nycairporter.com/

Taxi:

It's the most expensive option, but it's also the most comfortable if you arrive at JFK in a wheelchair and want to go to downtown New York. To request an accessible taxi, you can go to the taxi stand at each terminal of the airport and ask for one. You can also call an accessible taxi company and book a taxi in advance (recommended).

Some accessible taxi companies in New York include Accessible Dispatch, NYC Wheelchair Taxi, and Metro Mobility. Remember that the price of an accessible taxi from JFK airport to downtown New York may be higher than the cost of a conventional taxi. In addition to the standard taxi fare, an additional fee may be charged for the use of the ramp or elevator for wheelchairs.

We provide you with the contact information for the NYC Wheelchair Taxi accessible taxi company in New York:

Phone: (+1) 646-599-9999
Email: info@nycwheelchairtaxi.com
Website: https://nycwheelchairtaxi.com/

Transportation within the city:

Train:

Many of the trains in New York are adapted for wheelchair users, although accessibility may vary by line and station. Most trains in New York have accessible cars with specific areas for people with disabilities and their companions, as well as accessible stop buttons and audio announcements to inform visually impaired passengers about upcoming stops. However, like the subway, not all train stations in New York are wheelchair accessible. Some stations have elevators or ramps to access train platforms, while others do not. Therefore, it is important to check the accessibility of train stations in advance and plan your trip accordingly.

Subway:

The New York subway has some stations and cars adapted for wheelchair users, although not all stations are accessible. Accessible stations usually have elevators or ramps to access subway platforms, and some cars have specific areas for people with disabilities and their companions. However, some stations may not have adequate access for wheelchair users, so it is recommended to plan ahead and check the accessibility of stations before traveling.

Bus:

Most buses in New York are adapted for wheelchair users. Accessible buses have automatic ramps for wheelchair users to easily board and exit the bus. In addition, there are designated spaces for wheelchairs and other mobility devices on buses, and seats near these spaces fold up to provide enough space for wheelchair users to maneuver. There are also accessible stop buttons and audio announcements to inform visually impaired passengers about upcoming stops.

Taxi:

Yes, in New York, accessible taxis are available for people with disabilities. The city of New York has an accessible taxi program that ensures that at least 50% of yellow taxis (typical New York taxis) are equipped with ramps or elevators and special seats for passengers with disabilities. Accessible taxis are also available through the New York City accessible taxi service, known as "Access-A-Ride." This service provides door-to-door transportation for people with disabilities who cannot use public transportation. In addition, there are taxi and ride-sharing services (such as Uber and Lyft) that offer accessible vehicle options in New York City.

When making an online reservation, users can specify if they need an accessible vehicle for people with disabilities.

Contact for Access-A-Ride:

Phone: (+1) 9877-337-2017
Email: aar.customerservice@mtahq.org
Website: https://new.mta.info/accessibility/paratransit.

Neighborhoods / Areas

Manhattan Neighborhood:

Manhattan is one of the five boroughs that make up New York City and is a popular tourist destination due to its vibrant atmosphere, impressive architecture, and a wide range of attractions and activities. While Manhattan is a city that can be very accessible for people with disabilities, there are still challenges that wheelchair users face, such as the lack of ramps in some areas, poor sidewalk conditions, and narrow stores.

However, many parts of Manhattan have been designed to be accessible for people in wheelchairs. Most subway stations are equipped with elevators, and some streets have ramps. In addition, many tourist attractions and places of interest have also improved their accessibility for people with disabilities, with step-free entrances, accessible bathrooms, and other services that cater to their needs.

One of the most popular places in Manhattan is Central Park. This huge public park has many trails and paths that are accessible for people in wheelchairs, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the park. In addition, there are numerous attractions in the park that are also accessible, such as the Central Park Zoo, which has ramps and elevators to allow access for people with disabilities.

Another popular attraction in Manhattan is the Metropolitan Museum of Art, which has more than two million works of art from around the world. The museum has multiple entrances, each of which is equipped with a ramp, and offers accessible tours for people with disabilities. The museum also has accessible bathrooms and a transportation service that allows wheelchair users to move around the museum easily.

Broadway's theater district also offers accessible options for people in wheelchairs. Many theaters have ramps to access their seats, and some have special areas for wheelchairs. Shows also offer sign language interpretation and audio description services, allowing people with visual or hearing impairments to enjoy the theatrical experience.

The American Museum of Natural History is another place in Manhattan that is accessible for people in wheelchairs. The museum has step-free entrances and elevators to allow access to the different galleries. There are also accessible bathrooms and wheelchairs available for use in the museum.

One of the best ways to experience Manhattan is simply to walk its streets and enjoy the architecture and atmosphere of the city. However, it is important to note that not all sidewalks and streets are accessible for people in wheelchairs. Narrow sidewalks and potholes can make it difficult to move around in some areas. In addition, traffic and crowds in some parts of Manhattan can be a barrier for wheelchair users.

For those who want to experience the thrill of shopping in Manhattan, many stores have improved their accessibility for people in wheelchairs. Department stores like Macy's have accessible entrances and elevators, and many stores have widened their aisles to allow for easier wheelchair navigation.

Adapted restaurants

The Smith - East Village: https://thesmithrestaurant.com

This is a chain of American restaurants, and the East Village location was the first one, opened in 2007. At this restaurant, you will find everyone from families and nearby students to weekend brunch-goers and late-night revelers. It has a step-free entrance and accessible bathrooms.

Its hours are Monday to Thursday 8:30 AM to 11:00 PM / Friday and Saturday 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM / Sunday 9:30 AM to 11:00 PM.

Address and contact:

55 Third Avenue, New York (between 10th and 11th street)
Phone: (+1) 2124209800

Carmine's - Upper West Side: https://www.carminesnyc.com/

At this restaurant, you will feel at home, and that's because at Carmine's you will find locals, office workers, and groups of friends enjoying excellent and plentiful Italian food. This Italian restaurant has a step-free entrance and accessible bathrooms.

Its hours are Monday to Sunday 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM.

Address and contact:

2450 Broadway, New York, NY 10024
Phone: (+1) 212-362-2200

Tao Downtown: https://taogroup.com/

This Asian restaurant is fully accessible to people with reduced mobility thanks to its step-free entrance and accessible bathrooms. Additionally, hidden inside the TAO Downtown restaurant is a hidden gem and an oasis known as the TAO Downtown Nightclub.

Separated from the restaurant, it has maintained a discreet profile, attracting celebrities and where you can have a drink, relax, and enjoy until late at night.

The opening hours of TAO Downtown's restaurant are as follows:

Monday to Thursday: 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Friday and Saturday: 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM. Sunday: 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

Address and contact:

92 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 10011
Phone: (+1) 212-888-2724
Email: info@taodowntown.com

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