Discover Kalamazoo, along with its partners Disability Network Southwest Michigan and Wheel the World, has mapped the accessibility at 131 locations across Kalamazoo County making it an official accessibility verified destination—the most sites for communities of its size in the United States and ranking #3 in the country across communities of all sizes. The program offered through Wheel the World is a strategic initiative designed to help destinations verify, improve, and market their accessibility. Comprehensive information, now available online, will help travelers with disabilities explore Kalamazoo County with confidence.
“Growth in visitor spending in Kalamazoo County has been among the best in the state of Michigan,” said Jane Ghosh, President and CEO of Discover Kalamazoo. “If we want to keep up this track record, we need to continue to attract new visitors. Those with accessibility needs are a large and growing market, and we know that they need specialized information to make decisions about where to visit. With this program we are providing that information on more than 130 of the most visited places in the county.”
Discover Kalamazoo received matching funds through the Accessible Traveler Grant, part of the Michigan Strategic Fund under the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), to conduct a community accessibility audit of Kalamazoo County. To execute this important work, they partnered with two expert organizations—Wheel the World, the leading accessible travel company, empowering people with disabilities, seniors, and their companions to explore the world without limits, and local disability services organization Disability Network Southwest Michigan.
“Accessibility isn’t just about compliance—it’s about creating spaces where everyone belongs,” said Kelly Linton, ADA Specialist & Systems Advocate of Disability Network Southwest Michigan. “We’re able to provide practical suggestions and guidance to a business or organization in identifying barriers and taking meaningful steps toward inclusion.”
Sites were invited to participate based on their connection to the tourism sector in Kalamazoo County, encompassing a wide range of locations that visitors frequent including lodging, attractions, restaurants, and transportation facilities.
“We participated in the Wheel the World mapping project because accessibility is important to us, and we want every guest to feel confident and informed before they book,” said Jamiee Norg, Director of Sales of SpringHill Suites by Marriot. “The process helped us see our hotels from a guest’s point of view and gave us valuable insight into how different travelers navigate and experience our spaces. It was eye-opening and reinforced our commitment to making our properties welcoming and easy to use for everyone."
Following each site visit audit, the businesses received an insights report identifying their accessible offerings and ways to enhance accessibility for their guests. Many of these businesses have already begun implementing those recommendations.
“We were excited to partner with Wheel the World on this accessibility mapping project because inclusion is central to who we are, and we want every guest to enjoy their experience at Airway Fun Center,” said Tyler Houser, General Manager of Airway Fun Center. “The process helped us better understand the real-life barriers some visitors face and highlighted opportunities to improve our facilities. Immediately after the assessment, we installed handrails in the accessible stalls across all of our restrooms, and we’re committed to continuing enhancements that make our center welcoming to everyone.”
The theme of inclusivity and being truly welcoming to all was echoed across all tourism and hospitality sectors.
Michael Martin, Director of Experience and Education of the Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Museum, shared:
“We believe that exploration and discovery should be accessible to everyone. Participating in the Wheel the World mapping project gave us valuable insight into how guests using wheelchairs experience our spaces, and it helped us identify ways to make those experiences even more welcoming. From installing mirrors in our elevators to speaking with donors and grantors about future improvements, this work aligns with our ongoing commitment to inclusion and to removing barriers that keep anyone from taking part in the wonder of flight.”
Chris O’Neill, Owner, Founder, and Wizard of One Well Brewing, said:
“We take a lot of pride in being a gathering spot for the community, and for us that comes with the responsibility to make sure all our guests feel welcomed and valued. We were eager to join the Wheel the World accessibility mapping project because it’s so central to the inclusive vibe we strive to meet everyday. We learned a lot from the experience, and have already implemented some changes, most notably the addition of automated door opening devices for our main entrances.”
For some locations, like the Kalamazoo Valley Museum, which is part of Kalamazoo Valley Community College, creating a barrier free and highly accessible space for all visitors has been a focus for decades. Mapping the museum helped to affirm the level of accessibility already available and give them opportunities to explore additional updates.
“The project and collaboration affirmed the amazing accessibility and barrier-free spaces that were already part of the museum,” said Bill McElhone, Director of the Kalamazoo Valley Museum. “It was also a good reminder to continue to explore universal design and accessibilities to the museum’s physical spaces and to continue to add intellectual access to museum experiences, exhibits and other activities. The incorporation of visual, audio, tactile and other content all works together to make the museum accessible.” McElhone was also inspired to see how the project scope shed light on the greater commitment that the community has for promoting accessibility for all.
“These efforts strengthen our community and ensure that people with disabilities can fully participate in everyday life,” said Linton. “When local businesses and organizations make accessibility a priority, it benefits the whole community.” Beyond visitors, area residents will also have access to these valuable insights and will share enhanced guest experiences.
Disability Network Southwest Michigan and their website, www.dnswm.org, offer a wide range of services to assist businesses looking to improve accessibility. They provide information, technical assistance and professional assessments to help businesses and organizations understand and comply with the ADA. This includes sharing best practices and information on ADA compliance, answering questions, and giving practical advice to guide businesses in their decision making. To connect to these resources, contact adaassistance@dnswm.org.
In March 2026, Disability Network Southwest Michigan plans on offering a brand new, free webinar open to the community titled Accessibility in the Wild. Presenters Kelly Linton and Kristi Oostveen will share information on how business owners can implement changes to make their spaces more inclusive and accessible.
Additionally, businesses that are interested in learning more about becoming an accessibility verified location with Wheel the World can email Sagar at sagar@wheeltheworld.com.
While this particular project is now complete, Discover Kalamazoo recognizes that it is one step in their vision of sharing Kalamazoo with everyone.
“We are beginning work on a comprehensive destination masterplan for Kalamazoo County that will shape the next 10 years,” said Ghosh. “It is crucial to bring accessibility into this planning and intentionally integrate the perspectives of those with disabilities throughout the process.”
