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Wheelchair Accessible Attractions in New Jersey

4 min read

Last Updated on April 8, 2021

One of the most disappointing things possible is to show up to a park, beach, campground, or another type of attraction, only to find that it’s not ADA-compliant or wheelchair accessible. When you search in a search engine for “handicap accessible beaches near me” or other similar parameters, it can be hard to wade through the results when you’re looking for wheelchair accessible attractions in New Jersey. However, there are plenty of campgrounds, parks, playgrounds, and other attractions for people with disabilities of all ages to enjoy. Image of a theme park for an article about wheelchair accessible attractions in New Jersey.

Wheelchair Accessible Attractions in New Jersey: Wheelchair Accessible Walking Trails Near Me

If you’ve done a search for “wheelchair accessible trails near me” and have come up empty, there are several in New Jersey that are worth mentioning. It’s a good idea to keep in mind the difference between federal and state lands. Federal lands are much more likely to have accessible trails and be ADA-compliant, while local municipalities may not have accessible walking trails. That being said, if you’re looking for “wheelchair accessible parks near me,” some to choose from that are a sure bet include:

  • Cape May Point State Park. This is in southern New Jersey and offers a 0.5-mile wheelchair-accessible trail. 
  • McDade Recreational Trail. This is part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and many report it has wheelchair access to many areas of the trail. However, to be safe, call the park rangers beforehand at 570-426-2452.
  • Brendan T. Byrne State Forest. This is located in Lisbon, NJ, and has a 1.1-mile section of trail that is paved. 
  • Dingmans Creek Trail. This is also part of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and the paved trail is only 0.4 miles, but it takes you past two beautiful waterfalls, so if you’re looking for beautiful spots, his is one to consider. 
  • Great Falls National Park. This park is in Paterson, and most of the areas of the park are wheelchair accessible, including the parts you want to see the most, such as the park’s overlook to the waterfalls, the cultural center, and the museum. 

Wheelchair Accessible Attractions in New Jersey: Accessible Beaches and Campgrounds

When summer comes around, everyone wants to be out enjoying the sunshine and the water. However, not all beaches are created equally, and not all are very accessible to those in wheelchairs. If you’re looking for wheelchair accessible attractions in New Jersey and want beaches that have either beach wheelchairs, wheelchair ramps, or both, opt for:

  • Asbury Park
  • Atlantic City
  • Belmar
  • Lavallette
  • Sea Isle City
  • Ship Bottom

Some other beaches and areas offer access, but you have to call first to reserve in many cases.

If you’re searching for wheelchair-accessible attractions in New Jersey that are specific to campgrounds, there are a few to mention. These include:

  • Sandy Hook Campground in the Gateway National Recreation Area
  • Camp Glen Gray, which is part of the Bergen County Parks system
  • Beachcomber Camping Resort in Cape May

Additionally, many state forests offer camping that is ADA-compliant and/or wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check on each particular site.

Wheelchair Accessible Attractions in New Jersey: Other Places to Go in a Wheelchair Near Me

Beyond parks, walking trails, beaches, and campgrounds, there are other places to note. When it comes to playgrounds, consider:

  • Challenger Place in Colts Neck
  • Tony’s Place in Long Beach

There are many other wheelchair-friendly playgrounds throughout the state, but as of 2021, some may or may not be open due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Other great wheelchair accessible attractions in New Jersey include:

  • Empty Sky Memorial in Jersey City
  • Atlantic City (of course, not just the beach)
  • The Thomas Edison Center in Menlo Park
  • Adventure Aquarium in Camden
  • Statue of Liberty Cruise, Jersey City

As always with attractions, double-check COVID-19 protocols before arriving at an attraction. While it is confirmed these are wheelchair accessible, many attractions may require you to purchase advance tickets due to limited capacities. 

To learn more about wheelchair-accessible attractions in New Jersey or to learn about life-changing mobility devices such as portable wheelchair ramps and stairlifts, contact Williams Lift Co. today. We want both caregivers and their loved ones to live their best lives.