For years, Colorado has been one of those destinations that I’ve wanted to visit, but somehow just never made it there. So when I finally had the chance to spend four nights exploring Denver and take a day trip to wheelchair accessible Colorado Springs, I couldn’t wait to experience what the state had to offer.
During my trip, I found myself cheering on the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field, taking a wheelchair accessible Jeep tour through Garden of the Gods, seeing Maren Morris perform at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, wandering through the mind-bending worlds of Meow Wolf, and learning about the history of the Paralympic movement at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum… just to name a few. Every day brought something completely different, and I absolutely loved it!
As always, I was also paying close attention to accessibility. Traveling as a power wheelchair user means I’m constantly noticing the details that can make or break a trip, and Colorado gave me plenty to be excited about. I found accessible museums, inclusive restaurants, beautiful outdoor experiences, and even discovered stories about disability history that I wasn’t expecting to encounter.
If you’re thinking about visiting Colorado and wondering what it’s like from the perspective of a wheelchair user, I hope this guide helps. From where I stayed and what I ate to the attractions that impressed me most, here’s everything I experienced during my first trip to Denver and Colorado Springs!
Where I Stayed: The Rally Hotel
For my four nights in Denver, I stayed at The Rally Hotel, which is located in McGregor Square in the heart of downtown. It ended up being the perfect home base for exploring the city. With restaurants, shops, and entertainment just outside the front door, there was always something happening nearby. Plus, Coors Field is directly across the street, so getting to the Colorado Rockies game couldn’t have been easier.
I stayed in wheelchair accessible room 810, which featured two queen beds. One thing I always pay attention to when reviewing accessible hotel rooms is whether there’s enough clearance underneath the beds for a Hoyer lift, and I’m happy to report that there was plenty of space. The beds measured 24 inches high, and after I checked in, the staff happily moved the beds further apart to give me more space to navigate the room in my power wheelchair. It was a simple request, but their willingness to help immediately made me feel welcome.
The accessible bathroom was spacious and easy to maneuver around. It included a roll-in shower with a fold-down shower seat and handheld shower wand, grab bars beside the toilet, and a roll-under sink. Everything was thoughtfully laid out, and I had plenty of room to move around comfortably.
One feature that I wasn’t expecting was The Rally Hotel’s partnership with HigherDOSE. During your stay, you can rent wellness products like LED red light therapy face masks and red light therapy hats, and they’re delivered right to your room. After long days spent exploring Denver, it was a fun way to relax and recharge each evening.
The rooftop pool was another highlight. Not only does it offer fantastic views of the Denver skyline, but it also features a ramp for zero-entry pool access, making it possible for guests with mobility disabilities to enjoy the space. There’s also a rooftop bar, making it a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Another thing I loved about staying at The Rally Hotel was the food. One morning, I had brunch at The Original, the hotel’s signature breakfast spot, and the smoked salmon avocado toast was absolutely delicious.
Later in my stay, I had dinner at Call Me Pearl, another restaurant inside the hotel. I ordered the grilled barramundi with a Caprese salad, and everything was fresh and flavorful. It was the perfect way to end a busy day of exploring Denver.
Between the accessible guest room, accommodating staff, rooftop pool, unique wellness amenities, excellent restaurants, and unbeatable location, The Rally Hotel made a fantastic home base for my first trip to Colorado. I’d happily stay here again on my next visit to Denver.
Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in Denver
Denver is packed with museums, sporting events, live music, and unique experiences, so there really is something for everyone. During my four nights in the city, I was able to experience quite a bit, and these were some of my favorite wheelchair accessible attractions.
Take a Denver Graffiti Tour
One of my favorite ways to explore the city was on a guided tour with Denver Graffiti Tour. Lasting about two hours, the tour took us through Denver’s colorful RiNo (River North) Art District, where nearly every block seemed to feature another incredible mural or piece of street art.
Our guide, Will, did an excellent job explaining the stories behind the artwork and the artists who created them. I always enjoy learning more than what’s visible on the surface, so hearing about the history of the murals and how RiNo has evolved into one of Denver’s most creative neighborhoods made the experience even more interesting.
A couple of my favorite murals were created by Alicia Cardenas and Casey Kawaguchi. Their work really stood out to me, and I loved seeing the different artistic styles represented throughout the neighborhood.
Since it was a very hot afternoon, we stopped about halfway through the tour at Denver Central Market to cool off with some fresh juice before continuing. It ended up being the perfect break before heading back out to explore even more murals.
As a wheelchair user, I also appreciated that Will intentionally chose accessible routes throughout the tour. Rather than worrying about curbs or difficult terrain, I was able to simply enjoy the artwork and learn more about Denver’s thriving street art scene.
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the city beyond the typical tourist attractions, I highly recommend adding the Denver Graffiti Tour to your itinerary.
Roll Into Another World at Meow Wolf Convergence Station
I’ve heard people rave about Meow Wolf for years, but I never quite understood what made it so special until I experienced it for myself.
The moment I rolled inside Convergence Station, I realized this wasn’t your typical art museum. It’s an immersive, interactive experience where four alien worlds have collided, creating an environment filled with hidden passages, imaginative artwork, and surprises around every corner. Every room felt completely different from the last, and I found myself constantly wondering what I’d discover next.
I spent a couple of hours exploring, but honestly, I still felt like I only scratched the surface. There are so many details hidden throughout the exhibits that you could easily spend even longer there.
One room in particular really resonated with me: Wheelchair Sports Camp. Seeing disability rights and Colorado’s disability history incorporated into the experience was something I wasn’t expecting, and it made the exhibit even more meaningful. Representation matters, and it was refreshing to see disability included as a natural part of the storytelling.
Accessibility throughout Meow Wolf was also impressive. Manual wheelchairs are available to borrow free of charge if needed, and companion care restrooms are available as well.
Meow Wolf is one of those places that encourages you to let your imagination run wild. It quickly became one of my favorite experiences in Denver.
Explore Colorado’s History
One museum that completely exceeded my expectations was the History Colorado Center. The museum does an outstanding job of bringing Colorado’s history to life through engaging exhibits that encourage visitors to interact rather than simply observe. I spent much longer here than I expected because there was so much to see and experience.
One of my favorite exhibits was Moments That Made Us, which was on display during my visit. It featured fascinating artifacts connected to pivotal moments in American history, and I especially appreciated seeing the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act recognized as one of those defining moments.
Another exhibit that left a lasting impression was the Sand Creek Massacre exhibit. It thoughtfully tells the story of one of Colorado’s most tragic historical events and provides important context that I honestly didn’t know before visiting.
I also loved the museum’s permanent exhibit, What’s Your Story? Instead of simply sharing information about famous Coloradans, it encourages visitors to think about the impact they want to have on the world and the legacy they’ll leave behind. It’s interactive, inspiring, and makes you reflect on your own story while learning about people who have helped shape Colorado.
As someone who advocates for accessible travel, I especially appreciated that disability history was woven throughout the museum instead of being isolated in a single exhibit. Learning about the Gang of 19, whose activism helped make Denver’s public buses wheelchair accessible, was incredibly meaningful. Seeing their story recognized alongside other important moments in Colorado history reminded me just how much progress has been made because of disability advocates who came before us.
The museum was also easy to navigate in my wheelchair. Companion care restrooms are available, and visitors who need them can borrow a manual wheelchair during their visit.
If you’re interested in learning more about Colorado beyond its mountains and outdoor adventures, don’t skip the History Colorado Center. It ended up being one of the highlights of my trip.
Cheer on the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field
Since Coors Field was directly across the street from The Rally Hotel, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to catch a Colorado Rockies game. Thankfully, the Rockies made it an exciting one, defeating the Cincinnati Reds 10-3!
Of course, no baseball game is complete without ballpark food. The Monster Nachos definitely lived up to their name, and the fresh-squeezed lemonade was exactly what I needed on such a hot afternoon.
I was also happy to see that accessible seating is available on every level of Coors Field, giving wheelchair users several different seating options instead of limiting everyone to one location. Companion care restrooms are also available throughout the stadium.
Whether you’re a lifelong baseball fan or just enjoy soaking up the atmosphere of a Major League Baseball game, Coors Field is well worth adding to your Denver itinerary.
Experience a Concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre
Seeing a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre has been on my bucket list for years, and it absolutely lived up to the hype.
During my visit, I saw Maren Morris headline an incredible evening that also featured Brandi Carlile and The Highwomen. Between the amazing performances and the breathtaking natural setting, it was one of those concerts I’ll never forget.
Getting into the venue as a wheelchair user was surprisingly straightforward. Accessible parking is available, and from there I boarded an accessible shuttle equipped with a wheelchair lift and securement system that transported guests to the amphitheater.
Wheelchair seating is available in Row 1 and Row 70. I was fortunate to have seats in Row 1, which meant I had an incredible, up-close view of the stage throughout the entire concert. There were companion care restrooms and food options located nearby, making it easy to enjoy the evening without having to travel far.
One tip I definitely want to share is to purchase accessible tickets as soon as they go on sale. Since there are only two designated wheelchair seating areas, those seats can sell out quickly for popular concerts.
If you have the opportunity to see a show at Red Rocks, don’t hesitate. Between the unforgettable atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and thoughtful accessibility, it was easily one of the highlights of my first trip to Colorado.
Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in Colorado Springs
Although I was based in Denver for my trip, I also spent one day exploring Colorado Springs, which is about an hour away. It ended up being one of my favorite days of the entire trip. Between the incredible scenery, fascinating museums, and accessible outdoor adventures, we packed a lot into just one day.
Tour the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum
Our first stop of the day was the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, and it quickly became one of my favorite museums anywhere.
From the moment I arrived, it was obvious that accessibility had been a priority during the museum’s design. Everything felt spacious and easy to navigate, and companion care restrooms are available for visitors who need them.
Although the museum celebrates both the Olympic and Paralympic movements, I especially appreciated how much attention was given to Paralympic athletes and adaptive sports. I really enjoyed learning more about Team USA’s Paralympic history and seeing the incredible accomplishments of athletes with disabilities celebrated throughout the museum.
One of the highlights of my visit was meeting wheelchair fencing Paralympian Shelby Jensen Mitchell. Getting to chat with her made an already memorable visit even more special.
Before leaving, we had lunch at the museum’s Flame Café. It was the perfect place to recharge before the rest of our day, and if the weather is nice, the outdoor seating offers beautiful views of Pikes Peak while you eat.
If you’re visiting Colorado Springs, I highly recommend starting your day here. Between the inspiring exhibits, outstanding accessibility, and celebration of Paralympic sport, it’s a museum that left a lasting impression on me.
Explore Colorado Springs with Adventures Out West
After lunch, it was time for one of the experiences I had been looking forward to the most: a wheelchair accessible Jeep tour with Adventures Out West.
A wheelchair lift on the back of the Jeep lifted me inside, and once I was in place, my power wheelchair was securely fastened using tie-down straps. I remained in my wheelchair for the entire tour, which made the experience easy and stress-free.
One thing I especially loved was that the Jeep is open-air. Feeling the fresh mountain air while taking in the incredible scenery all around us made the experience even more memorable.
Our guide for the afternoon was Jack Aspen, and he was fantastic. Throughout the tour, he shared interesting facts about the history, geology, wildlife, and landmarks we encountered, making the drive just as educational as it was scenic. He also made sure everyone was comfortable throughout the experience, and his enthusiasm for Colorado was obvious from the moment we set off.
The tour lasts about two and a half hours and is a fantastic way to experience Colorado Springs without worrying about accessibility barriers.
Jack first drove us through downtown Colorado Springs before heading into Cheyenne Canyon. Around every turn seemed to reveal another beautiful overlook, and one of our stops was Helen Hunt Falls, where I was able to get out of the Jeep, take some photos, and enjoy the scenery.
From there, we continued into Garden of the Gods, driving among the park’s towering red rock formations while Jack explained the area’s fascinating geology and history. We even spotted a few deer during the tour, which was a fun surprise.
One thing I do want to mention is that parts of the drive can be a little bumpy since you’re traveling on mountain roads and through natural areas. For most people, that probably won’t be a big deal, but because I have SMA and limited upper body and neck control, I wanted a little extra support during the ride.
I brought my Headaloft, which straps around the back of my wheelchair’s headrest and gently supports my head to keep it from moving around too much over the bumps. It worked perfectly and made the ride much more comfortable.
If you have limited head or trunk control and already use a Headaloft or a similar support, I’d definitely recommend bringing it along. With mine in place, I was able to enjoy the scenery and focus on the experience instead of worrying about the bumps in the road.
Overall, I thought the tour was fantastic. Between the accessible vehicle, Jack’s excellent commentary, and the breathtaking scenery, it was one of my favorite experiences in Colorado, and I’d absolutely recommend it to other wheelchair users.
Visit Garden of the Gods
After our Jeep tour, we headed back to Garden of the Gods to spend more time exploring on our own.
Our first stop was the Garden of the Gods Trading Post, and honestly, don’t skip it.
If you’re looking for souvenirs from Garden of the Gods or Colorado in general, this is the place to shop. The Trading Post has an incredible selection of apparel, locally made gifts, artwork, snacks, books, and just about every type of souvenir you could imagine. I found myself wandering through the store much longer than I expected because there was so much to look at.
The Trading Post also has a café, so before heading back outside, we grabbed some cold drinks and relaxed for a bit. It was a nice way to cool off before exploring more of the park.
Next, my mom and I met up with our friends Danyle and her daughter, Elsie, and together we rolled along the Perkins Central Garden Trail.
This fully paved trail is approximately 1.5 miles long and is one of the best accessible trails I’ve ever experienced. Rolling between the massive red rock formations with the mountains in the distance was absolutely beautiful. Pictures really don’t do this place justice. It’s one of those destinations that feels even more impressive once you’re actually there.
It was also really special getting to experience the trail with Danyle and Elsie. Since Elsie also has SMA like me and uses a power wheelchair, it made the experience even more meaningful to explore such an incredible place together.
Another feature I appreciated was the companion care restroom located near the trailhead. Little accessibility details like that can make a huge difference when you’re spending several hours exploring outdoors.
Whether you choose the accessible Jeep tour, the Perkins Central Garden Trail, or both like I did, Garden of the Gods is an absolute must-visit. It’s easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever explored, and it’s even better knowing that wheelchair users can experience so much of it.
Where to Eat in Denver
One thing I quickly discovered during my time in Denver is that the city has an incredible food scene. Since I stayed at The Rally Hotel, I was lucky enough to enjoy meals at The Original and Call Me Pearl, two fantastic restaurants located right inside the hotel. (I shared more about both of those in my hotel section above.)
But beyond the restaurants at The Rally, I also found a few other places around Denver that are absolutely worth visiting.
Brewability
Without a doubt, Brewability was the most memorable restaurant I visited in Denver, and it’s also one of the most accessible restaurants I’ve ever experienced anywhere in the world.
Before my visit, I had heard great things about Brewability, but meeting the owner, Tiffany, made the experience even more meaningful. Tiffany is a former special education teacher who founded Brewability in 2016 with a simple but powerful vision: creating a place where people with disabilities could find meaningful employment and thrive.
After spending time with Tiffany, it’s easy to see that Brewability is so much more than a restaurant. She is one of the most passionate people I’ve ever met, and you can tell she’s truly walking in her purpose. Her enthusiasm is contagious, and that passion has shaped every part of the business.
Accessibility wasn’t added as an afterthought here. It was built into Brewability from the very beginning.
The restaurant offers adaptive utensils, weighted silverware, plate guards, adaptive cups, Braille menus, large-print menus, picture menus, a sensory area, and a quiet space for guests who need a break from the noise. The entrance and restrooms are wheelchair accessible, but what impressed me even more were some of the accessibility features that are incredibly rare to find in restaurants.
If you use a catheter, Brewability can provide catheter assistance upon request. They also have changing cots available that can be used as adult-sized changing tables, making the restrooms much more functional for people with complex disabilities and their caregivers.
I’ve eaten at restaurants all over the world, and I honestly can’t think of another restaurant that has put this much thought into accessibility and inclusion. Brewability doesn’t just welcome disabled guests. It was intentionally created so people of all abilities can feel comfortable, included, and valued.
The food was just as impressive as the mission. We started with the warm pretzels and beer cheese dip, which made the perfect appetizer. For our entrée, my mom and I shared a pizza. My half was the Colorado Green Chile & Pork pizza, topped with green chile sauce, mozzarella, smoked pulled pork, jalapeños, and green peppers. It was packed with flavor and easily one of my favorite meals of the trip. My mom had the pepperoni half, and she loved it too.
To top it all off, there was live music during our visit, which made the atmosphere even more enjoyable. Brewability regularly hosts live music and other special events, so I’d definitely recommend checking their event calendar before your visit to see what’s happening.
If you only have time to visit one restaurant in Denver, Brewability would be my top recommendation. Not just because of the food, but because it’s proof of what’s possible when inclusion and community are placed at the heart of a business.
Leven Deli
After visiting the History Colorado Center, I stopped by the nearby Leven Deli for lunch, and I’m so glad I did.
I ordered the pastrami Reuben with a side of macaroni salad, and I can honestly say it was the best Reuben sandwich I’ve ever eaten. The pastrami was tender, the bread was perfectly toasted, and every bite was delicious.
The deli was also easy to navigate in my power wheelchair, with both indoor and outdoor seating available. If you’re looking for a great lunch spot in downtown Denver, I don’t think you can go wrong with Leven Deli.
La Loma
Another restaurant I’d recommend is La Loma, which is conveniently located near McGregor Square.
To start, I ordered a Mexican Candy Mocktail made with chamoy, strawberry purée, fresh lime, Sprite, and Tajín. It was sweet, tangy, and unlike anything I’d ever tasted before. We also shared an order of queso, which was the perfect appetizer.
For my entrée, I chose the Anniversary Plate, which included a chicken flauta, a chile relleno, and a sopapilla. It was a great way to sample several of the restaurant’s signature dishes, and everything was delicious.
Although the main dining room is upstairs, there’s an elevator, making it accessible for wheelchair users. There’s also outdoor seating if you’d rather dine outside.
Whether you’re in the mood for a sandwich, Mexican food, or a restaurant that’s redefining accessibility and inclusion, Denver has plenty of excellent options. I left the city impressed not only by its attractions, but also by the amazing meals I enjoyed along the way.
Accessibility Tips for Visiting Denver & Colorado Springs
After spending several days exploring Denver and Colorado Springs, I came away with a few tips that I think will make planning your own wheelchair accessible Colorado trip a little easier.
Rent an Accessible Vehicle
If you’ll be exploring beyond downtown Denver, I’d definitely recommend renting an accessible vehicle. For my trip, I rented a wheelchair accessible van from MobilityWorks in Aurora, and the entire process was easy from start to finish. They even offer airport pickup and drop-off, making it convenient if you’re flying into Denver International Airport.
Rental rates can vary depending on the season and vehicle availability, but I paid around $150 per day. Having my own accessible van gave me the freedom to easily visit places like Colorado Springs, Garden of the Gods, and Red Rocks Amphitheatre without having to worry about transportation.
Keep the Altitude in Mind
Before my trip, one of the questions I was asked most often was whether I was worried about Colorado’s higher altitude. The truth is, altitude can affect everyone differently, and that can be especially true for people with disabilities or certain medical conditions. It’s definitely something to keep in mind as you plan your trip and something you may want to discuss with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.
Personally, I didn’t experience any issues with the altitude during my visit, but I still made a point to stay well hydrated throughout the trip. My advice would be to listen to your body, drink plenty of water, and give yourself time to adjust, especially during your first day or two in Colorado. While my experience was very positive, everyone’s body is different, so it’s always a good idea to plan accordingly.
You’ll Find Companion Care Restrooms Throughout the Trip
One thing I really appreciated during my time in Colorado was how many attractions offered companion care restrooms.
I found them at Meow Wolf, the History Colorado Center, Coors Field, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, and at the Perkins Central Garden Trail in Garden of the Gods.
As someone who often travels with a caregiver, companion care restrooms can make a huge difference, so it was wonderful to see them available at so many attractions throughout the trip.
Before visiting Colorado, I expected beautiful scenery, great food, and plenty of fun attractions. What I didn’t expect was how often I’d come across stories of disability history and accessibility woven into the experience.
From learning about the Gang of 19 at the History Colorado Center to celebrating Paralympic athletes at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, I was reminded that Colorado has played an important role in advancing disability rights and adaptive sports. Then there were places like Brewability, where accessibility isn’t just an accommodation but part of the mission, and Adventures Out West, which made it possible for me to experience the breathtaking beauty of Garden of the Gods from an accessible Jeep.
Of course, I’ll always remember seeing my first Rockies game, exploring the immersive worlds of Meow Wolf, and finally experiencing the magic of a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre. But what made this trip so memorable wasn’t just checking those places off my bucket list. It was feeling like accessibility and inclusion were valued throughout the journey.
As my first visit to Colorado, this trip completely exceeded my expectations. Whether you’re planning a weekend in Denver, a day trip to Colorado Springs, or a longer adventure through the state, I hope this guide helps you plan a wheelchair accessible Colorado trip that’s every bit as memorable as mine was. And now, I know one thing for sure: Colorado won’t have to wait nearly as long for my second visit.
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*Thank you to Visit Colorado for working with me on this trip and showing me the best of wheelchair accessible Colorado! While my experiences were complimentary, all opinions expressed are authentic and my own.
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