Accessible Travel and Experiences

Discover Kalamazoo has partnered with Wheel the World and Disability Network Southwest Michigan to map over 130 locations across the county. The mapping process gathered information on available accessible features with photos and measurements at each location. Each business that has been mapped has a listing on Wheel the World's website, which encourages and assures accessible travel to Kalamazoo County. 

 

See More Accessible Travel Information

Below is a list of a few attractions and experiences mapped by Wheel the World and Disability Network Southwest Michigan. For more information on all mapped locations, including attractions, restaurants, and lodging, please visit Wheel the World's website. We will see you in Kalamazoo!

Air Zoo

There is a shuttle that runs on-site in between the two buildings, FREE to all customers of the Air Zoo, and fully wheelchair accessible. Strollers may be loaded on to the shuttle, when wheelchairs are not on board. Service dogs are also allowed at the Air Zoo. Sensory Bags, filled with items that can help lessen sensory overload are available to borrow from the ticket counter.

People looking at exhibits at Air Zoo

Binder Park Zoo

Wagon, wheelchair, and electric scooter rentals are available. Scooters are available on a first-served basis with deposit, but can be reserved by calling 269-979-1351.

zebra at Binder Park Zoo

Gilmore Car Museum

The museum is handicap accessible, including two personal elevators allowing access to second floor exhibits. A limited number of complimentary wheelchairs which are available as well as electric scooters for $25 per day. All vehicle and museum information is visually available on maps, flyers, and signs for the deaf and hard of hearing. Seeing eye dogs are also welcome. Gilmore Car Museum is AbleEyes certified.

Classic car in front of an old gas station

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

The museum is handicap accessible and visitors of all ages and abilities are welcome. Tours for visitors with special needs can also be arranged, including a Touch Art Tour for those with visual impairments and a Connections Tour for adults with memory loss. More information can be found here.

Chihuly sculpture at Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Kalamazoo Valley Museum

The Kalamazoo Valley Museum is a barrier free facility that utilizes a variety of measures to create physical and intellectual accessibility including, but not limited to, the following:

  • No curb at main drop off in front of the museum  
  • Power operated door openers  
  • Elevator  
  • Braille signage  
  • A few tactile (full touch exhibits) for blind and low-vision guests  
  • Audio tours launched through QR via guests mobile device  
  • Greater use of closed caption and audio on gallery video kiosks  
  • Sensory kits at the front desk for guests who are autistic includes headphones, weighted scarfs and other devices  
  • Planetarium shows scheduled that lower lighting and sound levels for guests
  • Special events that have ASL interpreters  
  • Audio assistant devices in the planetarium and theater spaces  
  • Special guided tours can be scheduled with person with special needs 

More details are available at the Museum’s website

Interior of the Kalamazoo Valley Museum

W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary

The Sanctuary's main trail—the Paved Path— is accessible, allowing for some great close-up views of the birds, but in some areas the grades of the hills are steeper and assistance may be required.

More information on the trails can be found here

People on the bridge at the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary

Kulture City Certified Sensory Inclusive Venues:

Air Zoo
Binder Park Zoo
Gull Meadow Farms

These attractions in the Southwest Michigan region are Sensory Inclusive TM Certified by Kulture City, the nation's leading nonprofit on sensory accessibility and acceptance for those with invisible disabilities. Their objective is to provide an inclusive and seamless experience for all guests, for all events, including those with sensory needs. They strive to raise awareness of the needs and challenges faced by individuals with sensory processing disorders by supplying team members with continuous training and by offering resources and accommodations to guests including: 

Sensory bags containing special KCVIP badges, fidget tools, noise canceling headphones, and other resources available for checkout at no cost. 

Weighted lap pads available upon request. 

Kulture City All Inclusive App:

Download the Kulture City All-Inclusive App for your visit!

Children running and playing

Disability Network Southwest Michigan logo

Disability Network Southwest Michigan recommends that people should contact the businesses prior to their arrival to inquire about their access concerns. 

For general information on programs and resources available to people with disabilities, please reach out to Disability Network Southwest Michigan at (269) 345-1516 or visit online at www.dnswm.org 

Aerial view of a bicyclist riding down a road next to a green field

Maps And Directions

Situated midway between Chicago and Detroit via I-94, or an hour from the sandy shores of Lake Michigan to the West, Kalamazoo is an ideal location for your next getaway.

Exterior view of a cannabis dispensary

Cannabis

The Michigan regulation and taxation of marijuana act (proposal 1) was passed by the voters of the state of Michigan on November 6, 2018.

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