Eliana Satkin

Ann Arbor leads the way with Wheel the World’s verification program.

Ann Arbor, MI – (November 18, 2024) The greater Ann Arbor area proudly announces its recognition as the first destination in Michigan to achieve the “Destination Verified” status with Wheel the World, a global accessibility platform. This designation, supported by the Pure Michigan Accessible Traveler Grant, highlights the region’s commitment to accessible tourism for travelers with physical, cognitive, and invisible disabilities.

The Wheel the World “Destination Verified” status recognizes communities that have undergone a rigorous, third-party accessibility assessment. In the Ann Arbor area, dozens of businesses, attractions, and hotels received confidential assessments led by the Disability Network of Washtenaw Monroe Livingston (DNWML), whose team was trained by Wheel the World to conduct thorough evaluations. These listings now appear on Wheel the World’s global platform, allowing visitors to easily identify accessible features at hotels, attractions, restaurants and other businesses. 

The Wheel the World “Destination Verified” status recognizes communities that have undergone a rigorous, third-party accessibility assessment.

“Being the first in Michigan to achieve this status is an incredible milestone,” said Sarah Miller, President & CEO of Destination Ann Arbor. “Our partnership with Wheel the World reflects our dedication to making our communities in Washtenaw County a welcoming, inclusive destination where all travelers can enjoy our vibrant community and experiences.” 

The Pure Michigan Accessible Traveler Grant provided essential support for this initiative, aligning with the state’s broader mission to enhance accessible travel throughout Michigan. “Accessibility is at the heart of our mission to ensure that travel is accessible to everyone, and all are welcome in Pure Michigan,” said Kelly Wolgamott, Vice President of Pure Michigan, part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. “We are thrilled to congratulate Destination Ann Arbor on achieving Destination Verified status and will look forward to seeing the positive impact this initiative will have on our efforts to promote accessible and inclusive travel experiences across the state.”

In partnership with the Disability Network of Washtenaw Monroe Livingston, local assessors were trained by Wheel the World to evaluate accessibility features across businesses, capturing over 200 different data points. These assessments go beyond standard ADA compliance to provide detailed and personalized accessibility information. For example, the evaluations include mapping out hotel bed heights, as some individuals require beds that are lower to the ground for safe transfers, while others may need beds that are higher. Because everyone’s accessibility needs vary, travelers using the Wheel the World platform can search for accommodations and attractions tailored to their specific requirements. “We’re pleased to support this initiative by assessing a wide range of local businesses and work to create a culture of accessibility in our community,” said Alex Gossage, Executive Director of the Disability Network of Washtenaw Monroe Livingston. “This project highlights the importance of creating a destination that values and prioritizes accessibility and inclusion for everyone.”

Participating businesses received detailed accessibility assessments and access to the Wheel the World Academy—a series of training videos on accessibility best practices, dispelling myths, and enhancing understanding around accessibility. These resources enable businesses to better meet the needs of travelers of all abilities, supporting the community’s long-term commitment to inclusivity.

“Achieving the ‘Destination Verified’ status is a testament to the Ann Arbor area’s dedication to accessible tourism,” said Camilo Navarro, Co-Founder of Wheel the World. “Through our joint efforts, we’re making it easier for travelers with accessibility needs to explore and enjoy the destination with confidence.”

The Ann Arbor area’s new “Destination Verified” status with Wheel the World sets a statewide precedent for accessible travel and signals a significant step toward more inclusive tourism throughout Michigan. For more information about the Ann Arbor area’s accessible travel options and partnership with Wheel the World, visit: https://www.annarbor.org/wheel-the-world/ 

CONTACT:

Chad Wiebesick, Director of Public Affairs 

(734) 995-7281

cwiebesick@annarbor.org

http://www.AnnArbor.org