Oregon Becomes the First ‘Accessibility Verified’ State: A Game-Changer for Disabled Travelers in the US

Published on October 25, 2025

In a groundbreaking move for both the state and the travel industry, Oregon has been designated as the first ‘Accessibility Verified’ state by Wheel the World, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making travel more inclusive for people with disabilities. This recognition comes after an extensive evaluation of the state’s tourist destinations, which saw over 750 locations assessed for their accessibility features. These included factors such as wheelchair ramps, accessible hotel beds, bathrooms, disabled parking spaces, and more. The designation marks a significant step toward improving travel experiences for those with disabilities and affirms Oregon’s commitment to becoming a more inclusive destination for all.

Accessibility for All in Oregon’s Tourist Spots

Oregon’s diverse landscape, which spans coastal areas, mountains, and vibrant urban spaces, provides a wide variety of accessible travel experiences. Notably, Jennifer Allen, a travel writer and Wheel the World member, was particularly impressed by the accessibility at iconic locations such as Multnomah Falls and Mt. Hood. At Multnomah Falls, Allen was surprised by the ramp that leads to the base of the falls, making it accessible for wheelchair users, offering views from a vantage point that was previously assumed to be out of reach. Additionally, the paved paths around Mt. Hood allow wheelchair users to explore the forest and experience nature in a way that had not been possible in the past.

Efforts to Make the Outdoors Accessible

What sets Oregon apart in the realm of accessible travel is its commitment to opening up the outdoors to those with mobility challenges. Mt. Hood and its surrounding areas provide accessible nature experiences, something that many states fail to offer. Visitors with disabilities can navigate paved paths through lush forests, immersing themselves in nature without the typical barriers associated with outdoor spaces. According to Allen, these experiences offer a sense of connection to nature that many disabled travelers had previously been excluded from. For these individuals, Oregon’s dedication to accessible tourism offers an entirely new world of possibilities.

Improvement of Accessibility at Local Attractions

Beyond outdoor adventures, Oregon is also making strides in improving accessibility at local attractions. The Kiyokawa Family Orchards, near Hood River, has implemented mobility mats in their fields, allowing visitors in wheelchairs to navigate without worrying about getting stuck in mud or tipping over. Such small but impactful changes make a significant difference in the experience of travelers with disabilities. Visitors like Tom Shrader, who uses a wheelchair, have expressed deep appreciation for these improvements, highlighting how they allow for a more inclusive experience that promotes a sense of safety and independence.

The coastal towns of Oregon have also embraced this shift, with mobility mats now available on beaches. For the first time in years, Tom Shrader could access the beach and enjoy the sand and sea that were once difficult to reach. As he stated, these changes have allowed him to reconnect with his love for Oregon, making him feel like a true Oregonian once again.

The Economic Value of Accessibility

While the efforts to make Oregon accessible for travelers with disabilities are rooted in the principles of inclusion and equal access, there is also a growing recognition of the economic benefits. Janet McNeil, who travels with a walker due to osteoporosis, emphasized that accessible travel is not just about doing the right thing but also makes economic sense. With the aging population and the increasing number of people living with disabilities, accessible tourism is an area that will likely see significant growth in the coming years. As McNeil points out, providing accessible options not only enhances the quality of life for individuals with disabilities but also draws in more tourists, resulting in economic benefits for local communities.

How the ‘Accessibility Verified’ Status Came to Be

The process of achieving ‘Accessibility Verified’ status involved a thorough assessment carried out by Wheel the World, which is known for its commitment to evaluating destinations based on their accessibility features. The nonprofit’s team visited over 750 locations throughout Oregon, considering various aspects such as public transportation access, hotel accommodations, and bathroom facilities that meet the needs of people with disabilities. The results of these evaluations provided Oregon with the distinction of being the first state to receive the certification, signaling its ongoing efforts to create an environment that welcomes all travelers, regardless of ability.

A Commitment to Continuous Improvement

This new designation is not just a one-time achievement; rather, it is a reflection of Oregon’s ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive travel environment. The Oregon Tourism Commission, through its partnership with organizations like Travel Oregon, has continually worked toward improving accessibility across the state. Kevin Wright, a representative of Travel Oregon, stated that the recognition is part of a coordinated statewide effort to enhance access to tourism businesses and ensure that the tourism landscape is inclusive for everyone.

Looking Forward: The Future of Accessible Tourism in Oregon

The achievement of ‘Accessibility Verified’ status places Oregon at the forefront of the accessible travel movement, but it is clear that the work does not end here. As the state continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, Oregon is focusing on maintaining and expanding accessibility at even more locations. The state has proven that accessibility and tourism can go hand in hand, and other states will likely follow Oregon’s example by adopting similar standards to ensure that their attractions are accessible to all travelers.

As more travelers with disabilities seek out inclusive destinations, Oregon’s model will likely serve as a blueprint for other states looking to improve their own accessibility standards. Oregon’s efforts reflect a commitment to creating a world where travel is open to everyone, regardless of physical ability, ensuring that everyone can experience the beauty and diversity that the state has to offer.