New York is a fairly accessible city for disabled travelers, the federal laws ensure that all government buildings and facilities are user friendly. The busy New York streets are overcrowded with pedestrians and could prove difficult to navigate in a wheelchair. The subways aren't very accessible either, there are only a handful of elevators available for the disabled and because the subways are below the ground or up on elevated tracks, this provides another obstacle that disabled travelers will need to plan ahead for. Traveling with a companion is highly recommended for negotiating the subway and the busy New York streets. Taxis are another form of transport to stay away from if you are disabled, they just aren't equipped to accommodate handicapped passengers. Although there are a few disadvantages for disabled travelers visiting New York, on the whole it is generally more accessible than most cities.

On a plus side, the buses are probably the best form of transport. All of them have ramps and steps, which can be lowered for wheelchair access and elderly passengers with restricted mobility. Many of the office buildings, large stores and hotels are well equipped for disabled passengers and some of the museums even offer special tours for the blind, deaf and disabled. The city's telephones and theaters have systems in place to help hearing-impaired people.

Contact Information:

Access Guide to New York City:
Available from Junior League of the city of New York
130 E 80th Street
Tel: 288-6220

Lists buildings with access for the disabled inb New York City.

Mayor's Office for People with Disabilities:
Tel: 212-788-2830

Subway - Info on wheelchair accessibility:
Tel: 718-596-8585

SATH:
Society for the Advancement of Travel for the Handicapped
347 Fifth Avenue
New York
NY 10016
Tel: 212-447-7284
sathtravel@aol.com