The state of Oregon has become the first in the U.S. to earn statewide accessibility verification. Wheel the World, a travel platform serving people with disabilities, awarded Oregon the honor after conducting a comprehensive review of the state’s accessibility offerings.
According to Travel and Leisure, the verification process included the assessment of over 750 hotels, restaurants and tourism businesses in 43 different communities across the state. “Earning the distinction of being the first Accessibility Verified state reflects Oregon’s deep and ongoing commitment to welcoming all travelers,” said Kevin Wright, VP of brand stewardship at Travel Oregon in a statement to Travel and Leisure. “Through this designation, we’re building a tourism landscape where inclusion is meaningful and central to the visitor experience.”
In the assessment process, Wheel the World evaluated factors such as: step-free entry, roll-in showers, visual signage support, service animal welcome, cognitive-friendly navigation, hearing accessibility and more.
Oregon’s recent achievement sets an example for other states striving to expand accessibility offerings. And they aren’t excluding anyone. “This goes for travelers with all kinds of needs,” Wheel the World wrote of the achievement. “Whether you use a wheelchair, are deaf or hard of hearing, blind or low vision, or are neurodivergent and looking for sensory-friendly spaces, Oregon has something for everyone.”
