Joe Dixon 2024-01-06 07:31:51
Tips for visitors of all abilities to explore one of the most accessible big cities in the country. Planning a trip is all about the details, especially for travelers like me with disabilities. Fortunately, Chicago has plenty of accessible attractions that all visitors can enjoy. Learn about the many ways to experience Chicago accessibly. ACCESSIBLE TRANSPORTATION As a wheelchair user, Chicago’s public transportation is my favorite way to get around the city. All Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) buses and trains are accessible, with features like ramps, designated seating, wheelchair restraints, audio announcements, and a digital display showing each stop. The CTA is committed to making all of its 145 rail stations accessible, with Braille signage on fare vending machines and wheelchair-accessible gates. INCLUSIVE PERFORMING ARTS EXPERIENCES As an avid theatregoer, I can say Chicago’s theatre scene is unrivaled. For people with disabilities, a night of Chicago theatre might mean checking out one of the plays at the Goodman Theatre in its designated accessible seating. Or seeing an ASLinterpreted performance by the Steppenwolf Theatre Company or at one of the city’s many neighborhood storefront theatres. Newly offered at the Lyric Opera of Chicago is the high-tech SoundShirt, which translates sound into physical vibrations that allow deaf and hard of hearing patrons to feel every thrilling note in real time. SENSORY-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS Visitors with sensory sensitivities can utilize resources across Chicago. Lincoln Park Zoo provides free sensory bags that include noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, KCVIP badges, and more. The Chicago Children’s Theatre offers Access Weekends with sensory-friendly performances for each of its main-stage shows, featuring modifications to production elements such as lighting, sound, and volume. WHEELCHAIR-ACCESSIBLE SPACES Visitors with disabilities won’t miss out on seeing some of Chicago’s most iconic sights. Millennium Park features paved walking trails for exploring sights like The Bean, along with accessible seating options in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Navy Pier is also mostly accessible for wheelchair users, including the Pier’s iconic Centennial Wheel. AMENITIES FOR BLIND OR VISUALLY IMPAIRED VISITORS The Court Theatre on The University of Chicago campus offers audio-described shows with a pre-performance touch tour on select dates. The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago provides color-correcting glasses for folks with color blindness and offers audio descriptions of many of its exhibits. Discover accessibility resources, sensory-friendly events, and more in Chicago.
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