TravelAbility Insider

The Intersection of Travel and Disability

Accessible Landing Pages

Not-So-Best Practices

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The Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, AZ has introduced several groundbreaking accessibility features at its Astronomy Discovery Center, one of the best “dark sky” experiences in America; including wheelchair-accessible telescopes, ADA-exceeding exhibits for visitors with vision impairment, advanced assistive listening systems for those with hearing impairment, and optimal sightlines in lecture spaces for wheelchair users. 

Despite these impressive improvements, neither the Observatory nor the Discovery Center provide an accessibility page on their websites to share this information, truly a missed opportunity.

Best Practices: Visit Mesa Launches New Paradigm for Accessibility Landing Pages

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Visit Mesa has done it again. As leaders in the accessibility and inclusion space – first in autism certification, first to receive Wheel the World’s Destination Verified Seal – it should come as no surprise that they’ve designed a whole new framework for accessibility landing pages.

The Accessibility Travel Guide is available through Visit Mesa’s website and provides valuable information on accessible attractions, accommodations and sensory-friendly experiences for visitors and residents alike. The 19 page guide dives deep beyond sample itineraries and accessible options with resources, tips, anecdotes, and even a podcast devoted to “City Limitless.” The guide opens up the heart of Mesa’s past, and their direction for the future, showing how every type of traveler can feel welcome and explore without barriers. QR codes and numbered maps make it easy to plan your trip.

Dive into the full guide—and start applying Visit Mesa’s game-changing strategies to your own content.

Hotel Spotlight: Omni Dallas

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A social media follower raved about Omni Dallas as their top pick for an accessible hotel. What made it unforgettable? The stunning rooftop pool and hot tub—both equipped with lifts—plus a spa experience that was not only relaxing but also truly accessible, thanks to an exceptionally helpful staff.

The hotel’s accessible room page also mentions:

  • Accessible guest rooms with entry that provides 32″ of clear width
  • Lowered light switches, peephole, deadbolt, evacuation instructions and closet rods in guest rooms
  • Roll-in shower with adjustable height hand held shower head
  • Toilet and sink are no higher than 34′ from the floor
  • Grab bars near toilet
  • Visual notification for hotel alarm system, door and phone available
  • Audible alarm notification
  • The hotel has a TTY for guest use
  • Closed caption TV
  • Accessible business center entrance
  • Accessible fitness center entrance
  • Accessible restaurant entrance
  • Accessible main entrance
  • Accessible access to front desk and concierge desk
  • Accessible meeting space
  • Assistive listening devices for meetings available
  • Accessible route from public entrance to accessible guest rooms
  • Accessible route from public entrance to front desk
  • Accessible route from public entrance to restaurants
  • Accessible route from public entrance to meeting rooms
  • Accessible elevators
  • Braille elevator
  • Braille room numbers
  • Accessible pool area and pool lift
  • Hot tub lift
  • Accessible parking space for self-parking available
  • Accessible vehicles can be accommodated
  • Service animals allowed for guests with disabilities

Tennessee Tourism Rewrites Accessibility with Music-Driven Alt Text

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Watch the Video Here.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – April 10, 2025 – The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is redefining accessibility through the power of music, partnering with songwriters in an industry-first initiative to enhance the online travel experience for blind and visually impaired visitors. This groundbreaking program called “Sound Sites” replaces standard image descriptions known as alt-text on TNVacation.com with beautifully-crafted song lyrics, allowing travelers using screen readers to experience Tennessee’s landscapes, culture and spirit through poetic, immersive storytelling.

Leveraging one of Tennessee’s most iconic assets—its legendary songwriters—this initiative creates a richer and more evocative way for visually impaired travelers to connect with the state. Instead of generic, uninspired alt-text such as “image of a mountain” or “street at night,” visitors will hear lyrical descriptions that bring Tennessee’s scenic beauty to life.

Tennessee Sound Sites Reimagining image descriptions for blind communities Broadway in Nashville, TN Photo courtesy of The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development It’s more than just a street, More than a busy four-lane road, More than just a place the shiny new boot tourist goes, It’s where the kid from Minnesota With a big ole dream to chase, Is working on his best new Nashville twang, On the street we call Broadway. Written about Broadway in Nashville, Tennessee Michael Farren, Brian Davis, David Tolliver

Innovating Accessibility Through Music

More than seven million Americans have a non-corrective visual disability, including more than one million who are blind, according to the National Federation of the Blind. That number is expected to double by 2050. Recognizing the need for more meaningful and engaging online experiences, Tennessee is going beyond traditional accessibility standards. While accessibility standards have traditionally focused on functionality, Sound Sites elevates them to an art form, using human creativity to ensure all travelers can experience Tennessee with wonder and excitement.

“Music has the power to connect us all, regardless of how we experience the world,” said Billy Montana, a Tennessee-based, award-winning country songwriter known for hits recorded by Garth Brooks and Tim McGraw. “Sound Sites is a beautiful example of how we can use creativity to make travel more accessible and welcoming to all. I’m honored to be a part of a project helping people feel more connected to Tennessee and to each other.”

Montana is one of 12 talented songwriters bringing Sound Sites to life, joining an all-star lineup that includes country music legend Dolly Parton, Brooks & Dunn’s Kix Brooks and Grammy-nominated songwriter Michael Farren. The initiative also features a diverse range of artists, from Americana storyteller Hilary Williams—daughter of Hank Williams Jr.—and indie-rock powerhouse Nicole Atkins to Nashville hitmakers David Tolliver, Adam Wood, Brian Davis, Thomas Edwards and Jack Settle. JP Williams, a celebrated blind singer-songwriter, brings an especially meaningful perspective to the project, helping to ensure that Tennessee’s landscapes aren’t just seen, but truly felt.

A Unique Approach to Accessible Travel

With Sound Sites, Tennessee is laying the foundation for a new kind of travel experience—one that will continue to grow, evolve and connect people in new ways.

The program follows the success of Tennessee’s Colorblind Viewfinder initiative, which introduced specialized scenic viewfinders that allow colorblind visitors to experience the full spectrum of fall foliage. With Sound Sites, Tennessee continues to expand what accessible and engaging travel looks like, proving that the state isn’t just seen—it’s felt.

“We want to ensure everyone has the opportunity to experience Tennessee’s unmatched beauty, including the millions who travel with visual impairments,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “Tennessee’s deep musical roots make this campaign a natural fit, and we’re proud to champion travel experiences that embrace everyone. This is just the beginning of a meaningful, ongoing effort to connect people to the beauty of our great state.”

Experience Tennessee Beyond Description

Hundreds of images are featured across TDTD’s digital properties and social channels, marking the start of an ongoing collaboration with songwriters and members of the blind community to enhance descriptions. The state is also developing best practices to share with tourism partners, aiming to improve accessibility across destination, lodging, and attraction websites throughout Tennessee.

Travelers can explore the Sound Sites experience now at TNvacation.com, where song-driven descriptions bring Tennessee’s landscapes to life in an entirely new way. Join the conversation on social media with @TNvacation using hashtag #TNSoundsPerfect.

About Tennessee Department of Tourist Development 

The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development (TDTD) is dedicated to driving economic growth and tourism in all 95 counties. TDTD’s global marketing efforts increase visitation to Tennessee, which boosts tax revenue, creates jobs and attracts new investment across the state. Tennessee is a global destination of choice offering visitors world-class music, live entertainment, family-friendly experiences, charming communities, innovative and classic culinary creations, renowned scenic beauty and outdoor adventure—all centered at the crossroads of rich history and unrivaled hospitality. Vacations “sound perfect” in Tennessee. Visit TNvacation.com and follow @TNvacation on Facebook, X, and Instagram for travel inspiration.

North Alabama’s Accessibility Champion: Tami Reist

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By Jennifer Allen

A group of people poses in front of a large poster that reads “North Alabama.” Everyone is wearing matching black t-shirts with the phrase “The future is accessible” printed in rainbow-colored text. The group is smiling and standing close together, showing unity and support for accessibility

I completed this interview with Tami via email before heading to North Alabama to be a part of a launch project showcasing accessibility across North Alabama. I couldn’t help but think about the truth behind her words as we were exposed to her initiatives in real life. Tami puts a lot of emphasis on the power of working together, and we were able to witness that power everywhere we went. Her passion has clearly spread to her team and to the North Alabama partners. From the breakfast lady at the hotel, to the camera crew, to the partner destination marketing teams – everyone was excited about the progress North Alabama is making. Reist is making waves, and those working with her are excited to do what they can to be a part of it.

A Personal Journey to Advocacy

Reist’s passion for accessibility started at home. “My father’s experience navigating life after losing both legs to diabetes gave me a firsthand insight into the challenges faced by those with mobility limitations,” she shares. “Although he passed away shortly after the amputations, I felt it was my duty to start the process.”

Her commitment only deepened as she saw the growing need for accessible travel options. “My mother has early dementia, and along with other baby boomers, we’re seeing more people who want to travel but face barriers. That was part of my motivation for getting involved in making North Alabama a friendly, accessible region.”

Breaking Barriers and Building Connections

Transforming accessibility across 16 counties hasn’t been without challenges, but Reist has taken a community-driven approach. “We are currently working with over 150 of our tourism partners that are also interested in this mission,” she says.

One of the major strides in this effort has been a partnership with Wheel the World to collect accurate accessibility measurements for hotels and attractions. “We’re also getting Huntsville International Airport onboard and building out a website to share places where travelers can find accessible transportation and other services.”

Another initiative that stands out is the ALL-A-BAMA program, which provides sensory training for tourism partners. “We’re training them on sensory initiatives and equipping them with ALL-A-BAMA backpacks filled with weighted blankets, headsets, and other items to help travelers.”

Reist has also brought storytelling into the mix. “We’ve hired Leslie Walker, a Creative Tourism Consultant, who has gathered ten influencers from all facets of accessibility to come to our area. We’re filming and creating itineraries that will go on our website to showcase things to do for our accessible travelers.”

Three children, one using a wheelchair, walk through a painted watercolor-style archway into a vibrant park in North Alabama. The scene is bright and inviting, capturing a moment of joy, inclusion, and exploration in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Inspired by Those Who Came Before

Reist finds inspiration in the words of Helen Keller: “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.”

North Alabama holds a special connection to Keller, who was born in Tuscumbia. “For the past fifteen years, the Ivy Green Museum has hosted Camp Courage. Alabama Mountain Lakes has been a sponsor of the final dinner for the camp,” Reist explains.

“When you see these children, what they are unable to see, and yet the impact the camp is making on their lives—it’s absolutely amazing. We use students from UNA to be the Annie Sullivans to the participants. Seeing the tears of joy from these future special education teachers and the impact they’ve had in just one week is incredibly moving.”

To support these efforts, Reist’s team has established a $1,500 scholarship for educators who go the extra mile in working with students at Camp Courage.

Looking Ahead: 2025 and Beyond

Reist and her team are already making plans for the future. “We have developed an accessibility training program for our tourism partners to help them understand travelers’ needs and how to create a more accessible experience.”

Excitingly, Reist’s work will be featured in an upcoming documentary as part of the ‘Travels with Darley’ series on PBS. “She’s doing a documentary on our North Alabama journey to building out this Friendly Accessible plan. It will air in January 2026 as part of her semi-quincentennial series.”

Looking five years ahead, Reist envisions even bigger changes. “I want to see more emphasis put on building designs that encompass ALL accessible travelers. I’d love to see attractions that are fully accessible and a hotel that is 100% accessible.”

She also hopes more people will join the movement. “I want to see more organizations get involved with TravelAbility.”

Advice for Creating Lasting Change

For those looking to make progress in accessibility, Reist has clear advice: “Look to those currently working in this area. Get involved with TravelAbility. Make sure to bring your accessible community partners to the table.”

She emphasizes the importance of listening. “Allow those who have accessibility needs to share their travel obstacles with you. Reach out to your state and those already working on accessible issues. Create a board to help guide you and remember the overall outcome.”

And above all, she reminds us to embrace the power of collaboration. “Always remember, ‘Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.’”

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