As we wrap up the summer vacation we are back from a quick trip to the windy city of Chicago. The number of Covid cases is on the rise again as many people are still not vaccinated. Even though more and more are getting vaccinated, we still have to take all the necessary precautions for all the activities so that we protect others as well as ourselves. It was a fresh change to fly somewhere after almost 2 years. 

Chicago is a beautiful city with a perfect mix of modern Skyscrapers, Parks, Shopping, Comedy, Dining, Lake, River loop, Museum, and people-watching. Visiting from California the weather felt very different as it was quite hot and humid. The city is very accessible for wheelchair users. We stayed downtown so it was easy to access all the important places. As we have a wheelchair user in the family we try to explore places that are wheelchair-friendly.

SkyDeck-Willis Tower (erstwhile Sears tower)

This is one of the highest observation decks in downtown Chicago. It has a beautiful panoramic view of the city from the top. The museum portion of the Skydeck is very amazing and completely accessible. You get to know about the history and the science behind the buildings of Chicago. Once you reach the SkyDeck you can go around and enjoy the view from the top. If you visit on a clear day you can enjoy the view till 50 miles. There is a wheelchair-accessible Ledge where you can step out for a breathtaking experience. This is a glass floor balcony that juts out from the side of the skyscraper offering unparalleled views. There are many food and dining options if you enter from Jackson Street. There is also a stunning outdoor terrace at level 4 that also provides ADA restrooms amongst other conveniences.

Wheelchair accessibility ♿️♿️♿️

  • The Skydeck is completely wheelchair accessible.
  • The Elevators are quite big to fit wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters.
  • There is wheelchair-accessible parking in W Adams street. 
  • The Glass Ledge is Accessible for Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters and the crew is very accommodating for taking pictures.
  • There are complimentary wheelchairs available on a first come first serve basis

Chicago RiverWalk and Magnificent Mile

 Chicago Riverwalk Is located on the south bank of the Chicago River. The river walk is one of the most lively places in Chicago. The river loop is wheelchair accessible and pedestrian-friendly. You can enjoy waterfront cafes, bars, museums, boat rides, and people-watching. You can enjoy the stunning architecture up close. Art on the Mart is one of my favorites sights which you can enjoy both strolling or dining in the Riverwalk.  You can also have a glimpse while driving through. It is the world’s largest video-projection art installation.  A rotating series of works by leading video artists are on display. Beginning at Lake Shore Drive, the Chicago Riverwalk offers a riverside view of some of the best architecture in the city. If you are close to North Michigan Ave you can have a quick trip to the Magnificent Mile which is the main shopping district in downtown Chicago. The streets are lined with stores at both the side. You can just stroll around and enjoy the sight of the Wrigleys Building which has the signature Clock tower.  Make sure to visit the Starbuck reserve roastery which is one of a kind. The street is very wheelchair accessible. 

Wheelchair Accessibility ♿️♿️

  • The Chicago Riverwalk is completely accessible.
  • At Some places, there are ADA-compliant Ramps that will take you to the Riverwalk.
  • These are the places on Wacker where you can find a wheelchair-accessible Ramp. The Ramp between Wabash and Wacker is very steep.
  • Eastside of State Street 
  • Westside of Clark Street. 
  • Westside of Franklin Street

There are ADA Restrooms underneath the Dearborn Street bridge on both the west and east sides.

Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a waterfront in Chicago famous for its cultural attractions, including Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Chicago Children’s Museum, and more. There are a few wheelchair-accessible parks and you can get an amazing view of the Chicago skyline. There are several boat tours that depart from Navy Pier. The Architectural Boat tour is my favorite one which is completely wheelchair accessible. There are many kid’s activities and entertaining rides as well as a mini-golf course. You enjoy can Ferris wheel and carousel while viewing the Chicago skyline. Just grab a bite at one of the themed seafood restaurants and enjoy the beach and the Pier

Wheelchair Accessibility ♿️♿️

  • The Navy peer is completely Accessible.
  • There are ADA Parkings in the Parking garage.
  • There are ramps for Boat tours. The Ramp at the entrance of the boat is very steep but the crews are very helpful.
  • There are also several drop-off locations that have wheelchair-accessible ramps
  • The pier has multiple levels, but each of them can be accessed by an elevator
  • There are wheelchairs available on a first-come-first-serve basis. You can get information from the Guest Services Desk.
  • Accessible restrooms are located next to the escalator

Millennium Park

The Millenium Park was an easy walk from our hotel and is famous for its beautiful work of art. The cloud gate at millennium park is one of kind and very modern breathtaking architecture. You can get a classic Chicago skyline picture in the front of the cloud gate. This place has a beautiful garden and in the summertime, there are many concerts here. This place is normally very crowded. Try to go early morning so that you are exposed to only fewer people especially during covid times. 

Wheelchair accessibility ♿️♿️♿️

  • There are many Ramps in the park to enjoy the cloud gate and the Gardens
  • There are some accessible Bridges 
  • There are accessible seatings at picnic tables.
  • Accessible seating is found in the concert hall along with a companion.
  • Millennium Park accessible drop off point for events is 238 East Randolph
  • You can rent wheelchairs for events from Patron service tents.
  • Accessible parking is available in each of the underground Millennium Garage