Why Sandy Springs, Georgia, Might Be America's Most Inclusive City

Geoff Cook
Geoff Cook Member (Full) Posts: 153
in Built Environment - Access to Buildings and Urban Spaces

Why Sandy Springs, Georgia, Might Be America's Most Inclusive City

Sandy Springs, Georgia, is making a name for itself as a leader in accessible tourism, becoming the state's first destination to be verified by the travel company Wheel the World. The city's efforts to be inclusive extend beyond hotels to encompass a variety of recreational activities, making it a welcoming destination for travelers with disabilities.

The article highlights how accessibility means something different to every person, and Sandy Springs has focused on accommodating a wide range of needs. Hotels like the Hyatt House Atlanta/Perimeter Center offer features such as roll-in showers, lowered counters and controls, and braille signage. The Fairfield by Marriott also provides automatic doors, curbless entry, and pool lifts. These efforts are designed to provide detailed information and a comfortable experience for all guests.

Beyond hotels, the city has invested in recreational accessibility. One of the most notable examples is the playground at Morgan Falls Overlook Park, which features an adaptive swing for power wheelchairs. The park also offers adaptive kayaking, accessible fishing spots, and a smooth, paved trail for wheelchairs. These unique, inclusive experiences are what truly make a destination stand out.

What do you think is the most important feature a city can have to be truly inclusive for all visitors?

Here is the original article: https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/experience/america/2025/09/08/accessible-travel-disabilities-sandy-springs-wheel-world/83142193007/

Comments

  • Sarah Tuberty
    Sarah Tuberty Posts: 82

    Oh my gosh, how cool!! I would love to add Sandy Springs to my travel list! My Uncle often complains about accessible hotel rooms switching the bed frames from the 4 legs to the hard box- while this may be helpful to prevent items from getting pushed under the bed, it prevents lifts from getting in proper position- even thought this room is listed as "accessible" it really is not, it still requires phone calls and trusts that the representative answering the phone is knowledgeable about the bed variations to communicate accurate information.

  • Geoff Cook
    Geoff Cook Member (Full) Posts: 153

    I was in New York City recently, and I had a hotel room. The staff was great. The bathroom was great, but the pathway around the bed was so narrow. My chair barely fits. The height of the bed is often an issue. That's why I agree with you there; I hate how they have the end tables bolted to the wall, because then you can't get close enough to grab and pull yourself across for a transfer. I understand space is money, but how hard can it be to include people like us in the planning?

Categories