8 Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in Chicago, Illinois

I visited Chicago for the first time back in 2010 with my mom. During that trip, we stuffed our faces with deep-dish pizza, explored Navy Pier, and we even attended a taping of The Oprah Winfrey Show. Needless to say, it was a special trip, but we’ve been wanting to revisit the Windy City for quite a few years now. On that first trip to Chicago, we were only there for a few days, so we didn’t get to see a lot of the popular attractions. Recently though, we had the chance to revisit Chicago and this time, we were on a mission to see as much of the city as possible! 

During our recent trip, we visited some of the best wheelchair accessible Chicago attractions and we had a phenomenal trip. From viewing the city from above to eating a variety of delicious foods and more, we both agreed at the end of our trip that Chicago is one of our favorite cities in the U.S. If you haven’t been to this wonderful city, I’m sure that you’ll be itching to book a trip of your own by the time you finish reading this blog post. 

It is important to note that while in Chicago, we used Wheels On Wheels transportation company to get around the city. Our driver, Charles, was fantastic and he was always on time to pick us up. Tie-down straps were available in the van to secure my wheelchair. If you’d like to use Wheels On Wheels during your trip, you do need to make reservations in advance by calling 630-855-7282.

Below, I’ll cover 8 of the best wheelchair accessible Chicago attractions and things to do, and then I’ll let you know all about where I stayed while in the city. Hopefully this blog can give you some ideas for the next time you visit Chicago! 

Wheelchair Accessible Chicago Attractions & Things to Do

Chicago has many remarkable places to visit for wheelchair users and it’d be impossible to cover them all, but the eight attractions and experiences below will give you a good start to planning your wheelchair accessible Chicago trip! 

Skydeck Chicago

Soaring 103 stories above the Windy City, Skydeck Chicago offers an unparalleled experience – breathtaking panoramic views that stretch for miles. But is this iconic attraction inside Willis Tower wheelchair accessible? The answer is a resounding yes! Skydeck Chicago ensures that everyone can experience the wonder of being on top of the world… or at least on top of Chicago!

The highlight of Skydeck Chicago is undoubtedly The Ledge, a glass-floor balcony that extends from the side of the building. Stepping or rolling onto a transparent platform suspended high above the city might sound intimidating, but for wheelchair users, The Ledge is surprisingly accessible. 

I was able to roll onto The Ledge in my powered wheelchair and experience the exhilarating feeling of being suspended high above the city. One of the staff members at The Ledge told me that it can hold up to 10,000 pounds, so it was a safe and unforgettable experience. They were even happy to snap a photo of my mom and I conquering The Ledge.

Accessibility extends beyond The Ledge though. The entire Skydeck observation deck is designed with accessibility in mind. Wide open spaces allow for easy maneuvering around the 103rd floor and interactive touchscreens offering detailed information about the city’s landmarks are all accessible from a seated position. This ensures everyone can learn about the history and significance of Chicago’s architectural wonders down below.

The 103rd floor is incredible, but I also really enjoyed the museum at the entrance of the attraction. On the lower level, you can go through a fascinating museum about Chicago. It was cool to learn about some of the famous people that call Chicago home, the iconic landmarks in Chicago, and the history of the city. There were some great photo ops as well! This museum experience is included with each Skydeck Chicago ticket.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker wanting to conquer The Ledge or a history buff eager to learn about Chicago’s architectural marvels, Skydeck Chicago offers an inclusive and unforgettable experience. With its commitment to accessibility and breathtaking views, Skydeck Chicago is a must-visit for any wheelchair user exploring the Windy City.

Shedd Aquarium 

Welcoming over two million visitors every year, the Shedd Aquarium is one of Chicago’s most popular attractions. If you enjoy aquariums and want to see a variety of animals that call the ocean home, this should be on your itinerary when you visit. 

During my visit at Shedd Aquarium, there were so many incredible animals to see. From graceful beluga whales gliding through the water to the playful antics of the sea lions and penguins, I was smiling from ear to ear throughout my entire visit pretty much. 

I even learned a lot about sharks in a really cool 4D movie and laughed out loud at the fun sea lion show in the amphitheater. Shedd Aquarium does a great job of teaching visitors about the animals, while keeping it entertaining for visitors of any age. 

The Shedd Aquarium is a great place to visit for people of all abilities. The wide paths, elevators, and ramps throughout the aquarium made it easy for me to navigate all the exhibits in my wheelchair. I really appreciated that they made sure everyone could enjoy seeing all the amazing aquatic life.

General admission tickets cost around $40 for adults and can vary depending on the date of your visit. If you’re planning on visiting other popular Chicago attractions, you might want to consider getting a Chicago CityPASS. The CityPASS includes admission to Shedd Aquarium, along with several other attractions, and it will save you money on your overall ticket costs. Whether you buy a regular ticket or use a CityPASS, a visit to the Shedd Aquarium is a fun and educational way to spend a few hours in Chicago. 

Starbucks Reserve Roastery 

The Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Chicago is more than just a coffee shop – it’s a full-blown coffee wonderland spread across five floors! The whole place buzzed with energy, and it was amazing to see the roasting process up close. As a coffee addict, this place was paradise for me! 

Thankfully, navigating the expansive Roastery wasn’t a problem in my wheelchair. Wide spaces and elevators allowed me to explore every corner, and the accessible design extended throughout all five floors. There were even accessible companion-care restrooms on multiple levels for added convenience.

The first floor is a coffee lover’s dream. This level boasts a coffee bar where baristas craft classic espresso beverages and other familiar favorites. You can also order drinks and some food items that are exclusive to this Starbucks. I had the iced toffeenut bianco latte and a princina tart to eat. It was probably the best latte I’ve ever had and the dark chocolate princina tart was delicious as well. 

Heading up to the second floor by elevator, you’ll find a more intimate setting. This floor features a bakery and cafe, where you can enjoy pastries and light food options. You can find sandwiches and even pizza on this level, so if you’re wanting more of a meal while drinking your coffee, the second floor is for you. 

The third floor is all about getting adventurous with your coffee experience. This floor houses the Experiential Coffee Bar, where you can delve into unique brewing methods. Knowledgeable baristas will guide you through the process and explain the nuances of each brewing method, making it an educational experience. On this floor, you can also enjoy some unique items. I had an affogato flight, which included three gelato creations with coffee poured over them. All three were out-of-this-world delicious! 

Floors four and five take the experience a step further. The fourth floor offers a more upscale atmosphere with a cocktail bar alongside a curated selection of small plates. Here, you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails that use coffee as a unique flavor ingredient. Finally, the rooftop terrace on the fifth floor provides a beautiful outdoor space to relax and enjoy your coffee or cocktail while soaking in the Chicago skyline.

Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just looking for a unique and visually interesting place to grab a drink, the Starbucks Reserve Roastery caters to everyone. With its spacious layout, accessible design, and something special on each floor, it’s a fun and immersive coffee experience not to be missed. Plus, that aroma of freshly roasted beans – pure heaven!

Eat delicious food

Chicago is a haven for foodies, offering an incredible range of options from casual cafes to Michelin-starred fine dining. Whether you’re craving deep-dish pizza, delectable Italian fare, or rooftop cocktails with a view, the Windy City has something to get your taste buds jumping. And the best part? Many of Chicago’s restaurants are also accessible to wheelchair users.

For a taste of true Chicago tradition, look no further than Giordano’s. This legendary pizzeria is famous for its iconic deep-dish pies, with layers of buttery crust, chunky tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Giordano’s offers spacious dining areas and accessible entrances, making it easy to enjoy a slice (or two or three!) of Chicago’s culinary heritage regardless of your mobility needs. Giordano’s is my favorite pizza on the planet, so I’d highly recommend eating here. 

For a more intimate and modern Italian dining experience, Pizzeria Portofino is a hidden gem. This charming restaurant boasts an inviting atmosphere and a menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. From hand-tossed pizzas and flavorful pastas to delectable seafood dishes, Pizzeria Portofino offers a delicious taste of Italy right in the heart of Chicago. The restaurant is fully accessible, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience for everyone. 

Craving stunning views alongside your meal? Cindy’s Rooftop at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel (this is where I stayed while in Chicago and I’ll talk more about the hotel below) is the perfect choice. Perched high above the city on the 24th floor, Cindy’s offers panoramic views of Millennium Park, Lake Michigan, and the Chicago skyline. The rooftop features a stylish bar and a seasonally-changing menu highlighting innovative dishes and handcrafted cocktails. Cindy’s is fully accessible by elevator, and the spacious outdoor patio allows for easy maneuvering in a wheelchair while taking in the incredible vistas. 

360 Chicago

The Windy City never seemed windier than when I was rolling 1,000+ feet above it all at 360 Chicago! Talk about an adrenaline rush – who needs a rollercoaster when you can shoot up 94 stories in an elevator? It was exhilarating, and the view of the city from the top absolutely blew me away.

Thankfully, 360 Chicago is fantastic for wheelchair users. I was able to navigate the entire observation deck with ease. Everything from the entrance to the restrooms were accessible, and the wide-open spaces meant I could get up close to the floor-to-ceiling windows for unobstructed views of Chicago. 

It was amazing to see the whole city sprawled out beneath me, from the iconic Magnificent Mile all the way to the shimmering shores of Lake Michigan. The views from 360 Chicago really made me fall in love with the city and while I loved rolling on The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago and would heavily consider it a must-do, I actually felt like the views from 360 Chicago were better. 

While I soaked in the panorama, I decided to treat myself to a drink from the observation deck’s bar, which is called CloudBar. Sipping on a refreshing beverage while taking in the breathtaking scenery – doesn’t get much better than that!

360 Chicago also has an attraction called TILT, which is a moving platform that leans out over the edge of the building. While it looked super cool, it wasn’t accessible for wheelchairs. Since you have to stand to experience the tilting motion, I had to skip it. However, if you are able to stand for a few minutes, this would probably be fun. But the rest of the observation deck offers so much to see and do, I wasn’t disappointed at all and would definitely recommend visiting while you’re in wheelchair accessible Chicago! 

Art Institute of Chicago 

I have visited many art museums around the world, from the Dali Museum in Spain to the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, and I can honestly say that the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the best art museums I’ve ever visited. I spent several hours getting lost in the impressive collection at the Art Institute of Chicago. From iconic Impressionist works like Monet’s Water Lilies to fascinating artifacts from ancient Egypt, there was something for everyone. 

I wandered through room after room, marveling at the many masterpieces. The museum was huge, so it was impossible for me to see everything within just a few hours, but one of my favorite exhibits was “The Brown Sisters”. In this exhibit, four sisters are photographed annually over the course of 40+ years. I loved seeing each photograph and noticing how they aged. It was a really special exhibit, but the Art Institute of Chicago has dozens of exhibits that are worth checking out. 

Thankfully, navigating the museum was a breeze, as the Art Institute is very wheelchair-friendly. Wide hallways and elevators made it easy to get around all floors. They even have a limited number of complimentary wheelchairs available if you need one during your visit. I never felt like I was missing out on any exhibits because of my wheelchair.

Another thing I appreciated was the museum’s thoughtful layout. The collection is organized logically, so you can easily follow a chronological path through art history or explore specific artistic movements. There are also plenty of benches scattered throughout the galleries, which offer a chance to rest and soak in the beauty around you.

General admission to the Art Institute of Chicago is around $30 for adults, with discounts available for seniors, students, and teens. You will also find this museum on the Chicago CityPASS. The museum is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly. With its extensive collection, accessible layout, and helpful staff, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-see for any art lover visiting Chicago. 

The Rookery

Entering The Rookery in Chicago felt like stepping back in time – and into the mind of a genius! This historic office building boasts the architectural brilliance of Frank Lloyd Wright on its first two floors, and I was lucky enough to take a tour that showcased Wright’s incredible vision.

The best part? The entire tour was completely accessible to me in my powered wheelchair. The tour guide expertly navigated me through both the indoor and outdoor spaces, using the elevators a couple times as needed. It was fascinating to hear her explain the details of Wright’s design, from the iconic light court that covers the interior in natural light to the spiraling staircase that seems to defy gravity.

Witnessing Wright’s innovative use of space and light was awe-inspiring. The Rookery isn’t just an office building – it’s a work of art, and the tour did an amazing job of bringing Wright’s architectural philosophy to life. Even cooler, The Rookery is still a functioning office building today, making it a unique blend of history and modern-day use.

If you’re interested in architecture, history, or just seeing something truly stunning, consider going on a tour of The Rookery. Tours are available weekdays from 10am to 1pm, and with its wheelchair accessibility, it’s an experience everyone can enjoy.

Take a day trip to Rockford, Illinois

Escape the hustle and bustle of wheelchair accessible Chicago for a charming day trip to Rockford, Illinois, located about 80 miles northwest. Rockford offers a surprising variety of cultural and historical attractions, beautiful gardens, and a unique natural experience that caters to visitors with varying interests and abilities.

Your first stop should be Birds of Prey, a rehabilitation center dedicated to injured and orphaned birds of prey. The highlight for visitors of all abilities is their universally accessible treehouse! This one-of-a-kind treehouse allows visitors using wheelchairs to observe the birds from a unique perspective up in the trees. A gentle ramp leads up to the spacious platform, and there’s plenty of room to move around comfortably while enjoying the birds and the surrounding views.

Next, head to Laurent House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site designed by famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Built in 1952, this masterpiece of Mid-century Modern architecture holds a special distinction – it’s the only Frank Lloyd Wright house designed for a person with a disability. Commissioned by Kenneth Laurent, a World War II veteran paralyzed from the waist down, Laurent House exemplifies Wright’s ability to create beautiful and functional living spaces. Guided tours are wheelchair accessible, and the knowledgeable docents will share the home’s fascinating history, Wright’s design philosophy, and the unique considerations made for accessible living.

After immersing yourself in architecture, take a moment to find peace and tranquility at the Anderson Japanese Gardens. Spanning over 12 acres, these gardens are a haven of serenity, meticulously designed according to Japanese gardening principles. Stroll along the meandering paths, see the koi pond, and admire the carefully placed rocks, bonsai trees, and traditional Japanese structures. The gardens are fully wheelchair accessible with smooth walkways and it’s easy to navigate in a wheelchair.

Rockford is a great destination for a day trip from wheelchair accessible Chicago, offering a unique blend of nature, history, architecture, and a chance to unwind in a beautiful natural setting. With its accessible attractions and friendly atmosphere, Rockford is a welcoming place for visitors of all abilities. So, pack your day bag, hit the road, and discover the hidden gems Rockford has to offer!

Where to Stay: Chicago Athletic Association Hotel

While in Chicago, I stayed at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. This was one of the most unique hotels I’ve ever seen and I loved that it’s right in the heart of downtown. Chicago’s famous Millennium Park is right across the street from the hotel, so it’s an ideal location. 

In my wheelchair accessible room, there were two queen beds. Each bed was 22 inches tall, so if you self-transfer, it’s a good height. There was a block-frame underneath the bed, so a hoyer lift/hoist couldn’t roll under the bed. 

In the bathroom, there was a roll-in shower with smooth entry. It worked well for me, but the shower seat was on the opposite side of the handheld shower wand, so that could be difficult to reach if you need to use the provided shower seat. There are 12 wheelchair accessible rooms in the hotel and all of them have a roll-in shower, according to management of the hotel. 

The Chicago Athletic Association Hotel also has multiple bars, a gaming room, a basketball court, and a variety of restaurants. I had the chance to eat at Cindy’s Rooftop, as mentioned above, and it was phenomenal. You could honestly spend a full day just enjoying everything the hotel offers. 

With so much to offer, this is undoubtedly one of the most fun places to stay in Chicago. If you’re looking for a wheelchair accessible Chicago hotel, hopefully it’ll work for your needs. You can learn more about the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel and book your own stay by clicking here. 

Chicago is an incredible city and since it has so much to offer in terms of accessibility, I had an action-packed few days in the city. It was such a memorable trip for me and I’m already planning my next trip to the Windy City to experience even more! Now that you know some of the best accessible things to do, all that’s left for you to do is start planning your own getaway to wheelchair accessible Chicago! 

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*Thank you to Illinois Tourism for working with me on this trip and showing me the best of wheelchair accessible Chicago! While my experiences were complimentary, all opinions expressed are authentic and my own.

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