Virginia Beach has a delightful atmosphere and relaxing environment, along with an extensive array of job opportunities, a buzzing social life and a rising number of senior-friendly places. In addition, the cost of living in Virginia Beach is lower than the average American expenditures making the city a hot spot for families and the budget conscious tourist. However, just how does this translate for those living with disabilities? Actually, the location is quickly becoming known to be quite welcoming and accommodating to those with mobility requirements. Take a look at just a few ways Virginia Beach is making itself more accessible.
Transport Accessibility
Virginia Beach is progressive when it comes to accessibility. There are a wide variety of transportation amenities, allowing you to get around Virginia Beach with ease and to arrive at your intended destination within a matter of a few minutes. If you are staying in Hampton roads then the beach is just a short distance. While driving is a norm for most, there are also shuttle services, Uber car services, scooters and bikes, ferryboats, and bus services run by Hampton Roads Transit with reasonable fares and with regular running times.
Virginia Beach Wave has also made accessibility more feasible and affordable for people by introducing a hybrid electric trolley system that drives along Atlantic Avenue. Finally, the city has no limitations when it comes to transport which means it is not time-bound nor are there any extra charges in renting a cab from any area of Virginia Beach. According to TripAdvisor, this on-demand transportation system has brought about a radical change in accessibility to the beach for everyone.
Amenities For Everyone
Officials from Virginia Beach assure that increasing the accessibility and comfort of disabled people in their hotels, shopping malls, and their restaurants continue to be a top priority. With that in mind, the city provides amenities similar to house design changes made to increase mobility. There are ramps made alongside the pavement making Virginia Beach a more disability friendly environment for not just those that need it but their families too. They are extended as far as possible on to the beach, with help readily available. For disabled kids Virginia Beach boasts an incredible wheelchair accessible playground called Grommet Island, a 15,000 sq. ft. beach park for children who are autistic and visually impaired. A fun place to visit for all.
They can be found on 8th and 17th street and along with handicap accessible restrooms and wheelchair accessible restaurants/hotels; all of which were erected with the aim of creating ease of access for those with wheelchairs and motor scooters. This way you can access all the shops and even the beach, along with everyone else. When it comes to parking, the city has designated disabled parking spots throughout Virginia Beach, created especially with those living with disabilities in mind. Some of these concessions include on-street parking on Rudee Loop and 2nd street.
Opening Up The Entertainment World
Waterfront restaurants such as Mahi Mahi also provide valet parking to those who drive. In terms of entertainment, the stages on 17th and 24th street offer events each night including concerts and sporting events. If you rather not be in the midst of the action, rooms above are available for rental so you can enjoy them from the comfort of your own private balcony. Oceanfront and the Ramada on The Beach are some of the most accommodating hotels in the area.
If you prefer to be outdoors, there are plenty of adaptive sporting events on offer including accessible fishing and alpine skiing instructions. In the Old Dominion, national parks are outfitted with ramps and mobility friendly swimming pools and cabins, all of which have lifts and roll in showers for your convenience. For those looking to take in a performance, the Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts located in Vienna offers accessible seating and interpreters for those who may need it. Regardless of your preference for relaxation, there is something available for you.
The friendly environment being created by Virginia Beach is open to all, with many tourists and their families visiting every year. With ample events and experiences for everyone in the family, it is the perfect place to visit. Whether it is sports events, hiking or shopping, why not give it a try?
by contributing writer Jennifer Dawson
writing.jennifer.dawson@gmail.com
photo by Salvador Martin Yeste