Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Accessible Towns?
Accessible Towns is an online directory that helps people with mobility challenges find accessible restaurants, attractions, and experiences. It’s like Yelp or TripAdvisor—with a focus on accessibility. While review sites may sometimes mention accessibility, it’s not their focus. Accessible Towns is built entirely around accessibility, with structured assessments and consistent criteria. This means you get reliable, detailed information—not just one-off mentions.
2. How can Accessible Towns help me choose where to go?
Accessible Towns provides detailed ratings and descriptions of restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, attractions, and more based on physical accessibility. We use a structured checklist to assess each location. This includes both professional evaluations and community feedback to ensure accuracy and transparency. We list all businesses we assess, regardless of their score. Even if a space has limitations, that information is valuable. It helps you avoid unexpected barriers and decide what works best for you.
3. Where is Accessible Towns available?
Our pilot project, Accessible Asheville, launches in Asheville, North Carolina. Over time, we’ll expand to other towns and cities. Have somewhere you want to see on the map? Reach out to us at he***@*************ns.com.
4. Is Accessible Towns only for people in wheelchairs?
No. While wheelchair accessibility is important, Accessible Towns is designed for all types of mobility needs. Our ratings consider walkers, scooters, and canes, as well as general challenges like steep terrain, narrow doorways, or dim lighting that can affect anyone’s comfort and safety. Accessibility extends beyond mobility devices—families with strollers, older adults who may tire easily, or individuals recovering from surgery also benefit from the information we provide. In short, accessibility matters to a wide range of people, and by highlighting these details, we help ensure more members of our community feel confident and welcomed when they visit local businesses and attractions.
5. Why does Accessible Towns focus on physical accessibility right now?
We’re starting with physical accessibility because it’s often the most immediate barrier that can prevent someone from participating in their community. We know accessibility is much broader and includes sensory, cognitive, and other needs that matter deeply. This is our first step, and we’re committed to growing in ways that embrace all aspects of accessibility so that everyone feels welcome and included.
6. Why is accessibility important for communities?
Accessibility is about more than ramps and wide doorways—it’s about people feeling welcome, included, and valued. When spaces are accessible, everyone has the opportunity to participate fully, whether that means sharing a meal with friends, attending a community event, or supporting local businesses. Accessible spaces improve safety for all. They also help businesses thrive by expanding their reach to a wider audience. Most importantly, accessibility strengthens the fabric of a community, creating places where everyone belongs and no one is left out.
7. How can I support Accessible Towns?
You can support us by sharing the platform, submitting feedback, encouraging your favorite businesses to participate, or partnering with us to grow accessibility awareness. If you would like to inquire further about how to uplift Accessible Towns, please reach out to su*****@*************ns.com.
8. What if a listing doesn’t match my experience?
We do our best to keep every listing accurate, but we know mistakes can happen or conditions can change over time. If you visit a place and your experience doesn’t match what you saw in our directory, please reach out to ad***@*************ns.com and let us know. Your feedback helps us correct listings quickly and keep the information reliable for everyone. Together, we can make Accessible Towns as accurate and helpful as possible.
For Business Owners
1. Why should my business be listed on Accessible Towns?
Being listed shows your commitment to inclusivity. Accessible businesses often attract more customers—families, older adults, and visitors with mobility challenges—who value knowing they can comfortably enjoy your space.
2. Is Accessible Towns enforcing ADA compliance or issuing fines?
No, not at all. Accessible Towns is not a regulatory agency and we do not enforce ADA compliance or issue penalties. Our role is educational and supportive—we simply provide information about a business’s accessibility features so customers know what to expect. Think of us as a bridge between businesses and the community: we highlight what’s already in place, celebrate accessibility wins, and share opportunities for improvement. Our goal is to build connection and trust, not to police or fine.
3. Why should I invest in accessibility if my current customers are fine?
Accessibility isn’t just about meeting the needs of today’s customers—it’s about opening your doors to the many people who might want to visit but currently can’t. By making your space more accessible, you welcome a broader customer base. Small improvements can lead to stronger customer loyalty, positive word-of-mouth, and long-term growth. Investing in accessibility shows you care about all customers, not just some, and that’s a message people remember.
4. Is there a cost for my business to be featured?
Basic listings are included as part of our community initiative. Businesses may choose to partner with Accessible Towns for enhanced visibility, education, or promotions. If you would like more information about upgraded listings, please reach out to co*****@*************ns.com.
5. What if my business scores poorly on accessibility?
Even if your score isn’t high, it’s still valuable to be listed. When customers know your accessibility limitations in advance, they can make an informed decision about visiting. Without this transparency, someone may travel a long distance only to discover they can’t comfortably access your space, which often leads to frustration, lost business, or negative reviews. Being upfront helps build trust—and shows you’re open to improvement.
6. What if I want to improve my accessibility but don’t know where to start?
Accessibility doesn’t always require major renovations. Often, small adjustments—like adding a ramp, rearranging furniture, or providing alternative seating—can make a big difference for your guests. If you’d like personalized suggestions for your business, you can reach out directly to Accessible Towns at co*****@*************ns.com. We’re here to guide you toward practical, cost-effective solutions that enhance your customer experience.
7. Can my business share updates if we make changes?
Absolutely! Businesses can notify us of updates or renovations so we can refresh your listing and highlight your improvements to potential customers.
8. My business isn’t listed. Can you come assess mine?
Yes! We’d love to. If your business isn’t currently on Accessible Towns, you can reach out to us directly to request an assessment. Our goal is to highlight the accessibility features you already have. We can also offer suggestions for small improvements if you’re interested. It’s a simple way to make sure more people know they’re welcome at your business. For more information, reach out to co*****@*************ns.com.