ADA-ACCESSIBLE FRIENDLY ADVENTURES!
July 2024 Winner
Seal Beach
Beautiful picnic areas, a wonderful walk down to the end of the pier, and a darling town to explore! I highly recommend it; they are accessible and kind. It is a lovely place to go and just walk about, embrace the ocean air, the joy of all the energy of bikers, surfers, and service dog teams, and the deliciousness that only happens on a California beach.
June 2024 Winner
WINTER OR SUMMER THE BEST VIEWS OF MT RAINIER ARE HERE
MT. RAINIER GONDOLA on Crystal Mountain
EXPERIENCE THE BREATHTAKING BEAUTY OF MT. RAINIER
A ride on the Mt. Rainier Gondola will take you over 2,400 vertical feet to the summit, where you will find expansive views of Mt. Rainier and the beautiful Cascade Range. You’ll also be just a few short steps away from the Summit House, Washington’s highest-elevation restaurant. Tower 16, below the gondola, also offers snacks and beverages. Dress warm, wear shoes with good traction, and we'll see you at the top!
SD Beckett, Bob, and I had an amazing, accessible experience! The views and lunch on top were breathtaking- NOT TO BE MISSED!!
May 2024 Winner
Thomas Dambo Trolls in the Great Northwest
Mostly accessible and filled with joy! Grab a meal and enjoy a picnic lunch. Click above and here is a google driving map… https://maps.app.goo.gl/BsVEpNg6KuKsTXCT9
April 2024 Winner
Malahat SkyWalk
Malahat SkyWalk offers the ultimate Island experience where explorers of all ages can enjoy breathtaking views and adventure high among the trees and surrounded by the sea.
As summer arrives, so does the perfect opportunity to explore the great outdoors. If you're looking for a thrilling adventure amidst stunning natural beauty, the Malahat Skywalk, one of the top things to do near Victoria, offers an unforgettable experience.
Recognized among the top 10 attractions on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, and conveniently located just a short drive or shuttle ride from Victoria, the Malahat Skywalk beckons visitors to delve into the verdant coastal rainforest while indulging in an array of activities. Here are ten engaging experiences to enjoy this spring at the Malahat Skywalk.
SD Beckett and I had a wonderful time on this accessible SkyWalk; it had amazing views and was done so well. They truly made it for EVERYONE!!
March 2024 Winner
Congaree National Park
“Congaree National Park is dedicated to providing meaningful, engaging opportunities to all individuals. It is over 80% federally designated wilderness, and you may experience it using our ten trails, including the most popular and accessible Boardwalk, paddling on Cedar Creek, and camping.”
Park Visitor Center and Resources
Harry Hampton Visitor Center
Outside the visitor center, there are three parking lots. The first two lots each have two accessible parking spaces, and the third lot, which is for oversized vehicles, has one accessible parking space.
The visitor center has accessible restrooms, including a 24-hour family restroom and an accessible water fountain outside.
The visitor center has automatic doors that may be accessed during normal operating hours. The park information desk, exhibits, and store are all located on one level.
The following resources are available at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center during regular operating hours. If you need any of these resources, please ask a ranger, volunteer, or park store employee for assistance.
Standard wheelchair
All-terrain wheelchair
Brail brochure
Wheelchair Information and Specifications
Congaree has wheelchairs available to loan free of charge from the Harry Hampton Visitor Center during standard operating hours. Wheelchairs are loaned on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors may call ahead to inquire about availability or to request the use of a wheelchair during a specific time.
There are different wheelchairs to choose from, including one standard-sized and two large, as well as three Hippocampe all-terrain wheelchairs. Specifications and additional information may be found below.
Access Passes
The Access Pass is a free, lifetime pass available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who have been medically determined to have a permanent disability (it does not have to be 100% disability). It provides admittance to more than 2,000 recreation sites managed by five Federal agencies.
At many sites, the Access Pass provides the pass owner a discount on Expanded Amenity Fees (such as camping, swimming, boat launching, and guided tours).
Access passes may be obtained at any national park that charges an entrance fee or online. For more information, please visit: America the Beautiful - National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Access Pass | USGS Store.
SD Beckett and I found it a delightful place to hang out and explore, with lots of opportunities!
February 2024 Winner
Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center
To stroll the grounds and experience what happens when the patients build the hospital, creating a space everyone can access without barriers. Bob, SD Beckett, and I experienced Rancho with our friend Carlos Benavides.
Rancho is a utopia that allows those experiencing their darkest moments to find light, love, and a pathway to live their life without the barriers that society places. The accessibility to all of life that has been built here is a stellar example of how the world can be built to include everyone. You must go and walk or roll the grounds yourself, volunteer, and learn how to be inclusive to all.
I felt like I had stepped into my dream of how easy it truly is to all live together with ease and confidence, doing the simplest things in life. This is precisely why we will build MobilityDog’s Wellness Garden and Center of Excellence.
Carlos, you are a gift to thousands, and we bow in gratitude for all the work and designs your advocacy and strong leadership have given to this world. Thank you for creating user-friendly pathways and physically and mentally removing barriers on this earthwalk. Kudos to Carlos, all the volunteers, and Rancho Foundation for making this a reality.
January 2024 Winner
Harbor Island Trail, Oxnard, California
A stroll around the Harbor Loop and great spots afterward for food, smoothies, coffee, tea, or just hanging out to visit surrounded by sunshine, boats, and the beautiful ocean air! 100% accessible! My daughter and granddaughters joined me with Beckett at my side; it was a great afternoon. Pack a picnic and enjoy a different pace of life!
December 2023
Madrid, Spain
The city is accessible, and the people are extraordinarily kind and attentive to the needs of those with disabilities. It is a place that you can explore with ease and confidence, finding ADA accessibility throughout and always a pathway that you can navigate. Have fun…
November 2023
Japan
The island is inclusive of all people, understanding that accessibility is essential for the continued independence of all ages, disabilities, and situations. Japan delighted us around each corner with an opportunity to explore. If barriers were presented, typically, there were solutions to be found to continue the exploration. We recommend Japan and clicking on the title to assist with your planning- embrace the lovely culture and energy of the Japanese. I loved each moment shared from Mt. Fuju to Koyoto and, of course, the bowing deers.
On a side note- the Japanese Man Hole Covers -Drainspot App is a cool app for finding drain covers in Japan! And they are so beautiful, just saying. We were able to get six different ones! How about you?
October 2023 Winner
Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest, Kentucky
Bernheim has over 40 miles of trails, which offer diverse hiking and biking opportunities for the casual and the more serious athlete. The trails are primarily ADA-accessible, with beautiful scenery as you wind through the landscape of beautiful Kentucky with knobs and valleys, ridges, and hollows! With Beckett at my side, Bob, Joel, Missi, and I had a most fabulous visit.
I highly recommend a visit to this hidden gem! CLICK HERE FOR ACCESSIBLE MAPS
September 2023 Winner
Kidspace, Brookside Park, and Pirate Playground
A place where multigenerational adventures can happen! Accessible and free parking in the Arroyo Seco next door to the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California. Bob and I love going there with our grandchildren, and it is where MobilityDog’s Training happens too. Hope you can come and enjoy a few hours or a day just taking in the laughter, joy, and energy of this beautiful space.
July 2023 Winner
Bryce Canyon National Park
June 2023 Winner
The Great Wall of Los Angeles, Burbank California
May 2023 Winner
Zion National Park Utah
April 2023 Winner
Huntington Central Park, Huntington Beach, California
March 2023 Winner
Los Angeles, California
February 2023 Winner
Melbourne, Australia
January 2023 Winner
Gran Meliá Iguazú
December 2022 Winner
MobilityWorks in Nashville, TN, AND Van Nuys, CA!
I drive with hand controls. Traveling around the country and visiting 52 national parks, the braking became more and more challenging. I highly recommend going on a road trip and embracing all the beautiful national parks, monuments, and places of interest across America. Many are becoming more and more accessible, allowing all people to enjoy themselves. It is just good for the soul! There was no way I had time to take 67 days to explore with our grandchildren and daughter; however, we just did it, and it was the best experience forever in our stories and minds!
I told the Pasadena MobilityWorks about it, stating there was something off with the new hand controls, but they informed me that I did not know how to drive with hand controls. I had my first-hand controls installed in 2012.
In Tennesse, MobilityWorks, under Shaun’s direction, discovered that the hand controls were put in “Janky,” so they fixed them to get us home alive. Upon returning home, the MobilityWorks in Van Nuys, California, Arnold repaired the improperly installed hand controls. We are eternally grateful for Arnold’s Teamwork and Shaun’s Team Work that we did not have an accident because of the janky way that the Pasadena, CA MobilityWorks, installed our hand controls.
I highly recommend that if you drive with hand controls and something is wrong, do not allow people to blame your driving; trust your gut and find someone to assess the situation for you. Shaun in Nashville and Arnold in Van Nuys are fabulous humans who know their equipment well!
November 2022 Winner
Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon holds so many memories for me as someone who once backpacked in the canyon. To continue to camp and hike, enjoy your people, and have your service dog for counterbalance and bracing or roll around the upper trails is impressive. No matter what your chosen medical device, the Grand Canyon National Park has chosen to make people with disabilities and non-disabilities both the norm; I applaud their work. Highly recommend a trip to the Grand Canyon to breathe in the peace and quiet of this colorful deep canyon oasis.
October 2022 Winner
The Great Smoky Mountain National Park
The Great Smokey Mountains live up to their name and reputation; it was a magnificent adventure!
According to the National Parks Service, “The Great Smoky Mountains are world-renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture; this is America's most visited national park.”
The Great Smoky had some excellent trails accessible for people with wheelchairs and mobility devices circling lakes; however, they would stick a 2-inch wooden step in here and there or a 3-foot wide ditch for flood control that can create havoc if you cannot do a wheelie over it or pull up a leg to climb over it. The park rangers know the trails better than the written maps; they highly advise finding a ranger and going over your abilities to make it a joy-filled and wonderful adventure.
I loved the energy, scenery, and wildlife at this breath-talking national park!
September 2022 Winner
Rocky Mountain National Park
Accessible trails, well-marked pathways, and kind park rangers who are there to assist and support all of their guests. It was a wonderful experience, and I sincerely appreciated the training of the Park Rangers, understanding that opening the park for everyone is the right thing to do. In doing so, they are removing the stigmas attached to people with disabilities allowing us to all be on the trails breathing in the park together separately. Grateful for their work and intentional efforts of inclusion. It is a positive work in progress for which we are thankful.
August 2022 Winner
Beautiful Lake Tahoe
Ramping and benches allow those with disabilities to swim to the lake. The pathways and environment are healing and peaceful. Grateful for the thoughtfulness of the townspeople and city council to welcome all people of varying abilities to sit, swim, and walkabout at beautiful Lake Tahoe. Enjoy time with our grandchildren while they swam and took in the gorgeous blue water. Thank you for making people with disabilities normal and welcomed by setting the standard to accommodate everyone as your go-to.
July 2022 Winner
The Presidio Tunnel Tops Park, San Francisco, California
A birthday celebration brought us to the Presidio Tunnel Tops Park; a lovely experience was had. Fully handicap accessible as the pathways weave along native plants and grasses with benches, signage, and views that allow quiet solitude as you breathe in the gorgeous San Francisco views.
The horse stables, Korean War Memorial, Discovery Playground, and open area for doggies and humans to play all come together, creating the sunshine of another day filled with gratitude for each journey.
SD Beckett and I invite you to explore this wonderful park, and be sure to bring a picnic lunch!
SOMETHING NEW I LEARNED: Sometimes, the Park Departments put in random steps which disrupt the flow of wheelchairs and other devices and disabilities; the reason is to keep skateboarders and bikes off the pathways. When exploring new adventures, follow the bike trails when you come to a stairway. Be safe out there!
June 2022 Winner
RampItUp.Org @Sunset Beach, Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve
We had the most delightful time in April, May, and June showing up to ride hand pedal bicycles with RampItUp.Org Bolsa Chica Beach has a beautiful boardwalk, nesting birds, and incredible energy.
We met up with Tom Gregory, founder of RampItUp’s Bicycles, and went for a lovely ride an adaptive cycle. Pure joy cruising down the boardwalk on my own bicycle!! Bring your own cycle if you have one, or use one of ours (disabled riders have first priority). Since 2010, RAMP has provided adaptive recreation opportunities, resources, and instruction to physically and cognitively challenged people of all ages. RAMP supplies equipment and instruction for groups and individuals wishing to participate in various competitive and non-competitive recreational activities. RAMP's goal is to educate, foster, and encourage better self-image, fitness, and quality of life through Recreation Access. We believe you should “do everything you can with everything you’ve got.”RAMP is a 501(c)(3) public charity. Federal tax ID # 33-1201777.
Afterward, we ventured to the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve, an approximately 1,300-acre coastal estuary. Habitats include open water, mudflats, salt marsh, coastal dunes, seabird nesting islands, riparian, and freshwater marsh. More than 200 avian species have been identified at Bolsa Chica!
Accessible, friendly, outdoors, and joy-filled. People were kind and respectful, with birds all around us. Highly recommend.
May 2022 Winner
Fort Ross, Jenner, California
Fort Ross is completely accessible for all people with disabilities, and it was an amazing discovery. It is a step back in history and a great reminder of why we need to study, read, understand, and embrace our historical truths. It is important not to erase the facts of our beginnings but to understand. Everything was accessible, and the people volunteering and running Fort Ross were mindful of the pandemic, extremely kind, and knowledgeable. The community that has come together to keep the history alive, you can feel their love, sunshine, and joy in what they do. Absolutely we will return!
“Most of the Russian-American Company population lived outside the fort. Only the higher-ranking Russian officials and visitors lived inside. Lower-ranking Company employees and people of mixed ancestry lived in the village complex of houses and gardens that gradually developed outside the northwest stockade walls. Creoles, the children of Russians and Alaska and California Natives, formed a large part of the colony’s population. The population varied over the years. In 1836 Ioann Veniaminov reported: “Fort Ross contains 260 people: 154 male and 106 female. There are 120 Russians, 51 Creoles, 50 Kodiak Aleuts, and 39 baptized Indians.”
April 2022 Winner
The California Science Center, Los Angeles, CA
Jane Goodall, Angkor, The Space Shuttle and so much more… The grounds are beautiful to walk about, the people are delightful. The exhibits are full of information with space for exploration for all people’s abilities with or without disabilities. Because they are very respectful of the pandemic, our whole family could explore and did so over three days. Highly recommend you to head downtown and take in the beautiful city of Los Angeles. Everything was ramped, elevator, and easy access -three cheers for their thoughtfulness and joy of visit.
March 2022 Winner
California Botanical Gardens, Clairmont, California
California Botanic Garden is devoted to California native plants —and all the wildlife and people who love them.
California Botanic Garden is the largest botanic garden dedicated to California native plants, promoting botany, conservation and horticulture to inspire, inform and educate the public and scientific community about California's native flora. The Garden is a living museum with curated collections of more than 22,000 California native plants, some of which are rare or endangered. Spread across 86 acres in Claremont, California, the Garden is located approximately 35 miles east of Los Angeles. The Garden displays about 2000 taxa of California plants and includes those native to the California Floristic Province.
As a Service Dog Team, Beckett and I found the landscape user-friendly, and easy to walk or roll. The wildflowers are spectacular but end of March it is getting warmer! Go in the morning, bring water and keep cool. Lovely grounds.
February 2022 Winner
Pinnacles Peaks National Park, Northern California
Pinnacles Peaks has the most beautiful night sky, dramatic valleys, and rough peaks at sunrise and sunset are masterpieces to behold. Because much of the park's terrain is steep and rocky, trail access for visitors with mobility impairments is limited. A section of the Bench Trail has recently been hardened and graded for wheelchair access. This gently rolling trail passes through oak woodlands and offers views of the High Peaks rock formation. The trailhead is at the Peaks View Picnic Area near the park's east entrance. Also visiting the homestead is all accessible flat trails with trees covered with an incredible collection of birds.
On the west side, the Chaparral area near the west entrance offers views of Pinnacles’ most spectacular geological formations directly from or near the parking area. A new accessible trail called the Prewett Point Trail leaves from the West Pinnacles Contact Station. The trail is just under a mile in length and offers panoramic views of the High Peaks and the Balconies Cliffs. Be sure to pay attention to how you need to enter the part as the West and East entries do not connect and it is a good 90-minute drive around to the other entrance. If you are camping, you want the entrance off of HWY 25. We found the campground and the above-mentioned trails accessible. Most of the trails are not accessible but the majestic scenery is worth the drive. We will go back!!!
January 2022 Winner
Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade
After the Tournament of Roses Senior Director, Carlos Illingworth read about MobilityDog, in the Pasadena Now Online Newspaper, winning the Talking Rain Beverage Company’s Sparkling Ice’s Gift of Giving! Out of 6000 nonprofits, we were one of three honored! Mr. Illingworth was so taken with the work we do that they offered 100 tickets to attend the 2022 Tournament of Roses Parade! It was a wonderful morning and we are grateful for the support and kindness of our next-door neighbor!
My favorite part was getting up at 5 am and walking South Orange Grove Blvd from California Blvd. to Green Street when the floats were all lined up. It was truly a magical day; my dream is to have a float that educates the world about handicap accessibility and the full vibrant lives we embrace with and without a service dog at our side!
The Tournament of Rose Parade’s Carlos Illingworth, Senior Director, and Ryan Johnson, Community Relations Manager were absolutely the best! They have created a venue for everyone to enjoy the Rose Parade and for that we are grateful. Be sure to mark your calendars for January 1, 2023, it is a must-see experience for certain!
December 2021 Winner
The Van Gogh & Monet Immersion Art Exhibits
Los Angeles, California
A fabulous experience with family and friends seeing Van Gogh and Monet’s work in an interactive hands-on experience. They were both a spectacular afternoon and evening! Both venues were user-friendly, handicap accessible, and filled with attentive well-trained staff to accommodate all people with their chosen tools for FUNctional independence. The immersion stimulates your senses as you step into the joy and beauty of these Masters. Highly recommend you roll or walk to enjoy before these two are gone! Just got our tickets for Frida, Immersive Dreams coming in March 2022. FYI: Vaccines and Booster Card required, N95 Masks indoors. Everyone is checked at the door.
November 2021 Winner
Taft Gardens, Ojai, California
Hidden away in Ojai, California is a beautiful private garden that is opened to the public by appointment only. Taft Gardens is truly a magical place that Mr. Taft envisioned and created! The address is secret and only sent to you on the day of your appointment. We had the honor of meeting Mr. Taft and some family members who are kind, informative, and delightful. The small hut has some nice pieces and all funds are invested back into the grounds. Pack a lunch, spend a few hours taking in the beautiful grounds which are all user-friendly for wheelchairs and canine-friendly for service dogs and all well-behaved pets. A magical day with dear family and friends. Highly recommend making a date and taking in the energy that Mr. Taft is sharing.
October 2021 Winner
Metro Gold Line to Los Angeles Union Station to Music Center and...
The train stations along the Gold Line, except for Lake Avenue Stop, are well maintained and Handicapped Accessible for wheelchairs and most all disabilities. Well labeled and user friendly. Having this option when we desire independence is a gift. Los Angeles has truly done an excellent job welcoming all people onto the metro. We hopped the train picking up sandwiches at Jeff’s Table in Highland Park, CA. Boarded the train heading for Union Station. Exited Union Station for a stroll to City Hall and enjoyed lunch in Grand Park. Grand Park is all about everyone and be inclusive of all! We got our feet wet after lunch in the fountains at the top of Grand Park before heading over to the Jerry Moss Plaza at the Music Center for a free outdoor concert that was delightful. Everyone was mostly wearing masks on the trains, indoors, and very respectful of social distancing. The effort to just be present was joyful because everything was accessible and the humans kind. Check out the calendars in Los Angeles for other events. Highly recommend heading out for a beautiful walkabout in the City of Angels!
September 2021 Winner
Lake Sheteck State Park, Currie MN
Arriving after dark, we quietly made our way to our camping space, surrounding by fawns nibbling on the leaves beneath the full moon. We simply had to pause and breath in the magical energy. We woke to a wooded setting and headed out for an exploration. The trails were mostly handicapped accessible, the humans respectful of the pandemic, and the setting filled with fall colors. Highly recommend this State Park! Our granddaughter discovered it for us and it was pure joy!
August 2021 Winner
The Center of the World -Felicity City, California
A granddaughter named Felicity mapped this for Bob, Beckett, and I! What an amazing place in the world, we had no idea what a marvelous adventure we were about to explore in Felicity City population 2. Highly recommended an exploration of Hwy 8, the sharing of history dating back to the beginning of time is etched in granite in long rows and everything is handicapped accessible. You could literally spend 3-4 hours reading and doing paper etchings, It as if I was in a small European City because of the importance placed on historical events. Would recommend making a day of it and heading down to Mexicali en route to your next destination. Pay attention to the weather, it can be extremely hot in the middle of the desert! Nothing else around, bring plenty of water, food, and good cheer.
July 2021 Winner
University of Southern California & Exposition Park Walk
Our son’s undergraduate Alma Mater, University of Southern California, and the neighboring Exposition Park Walk is a 3.1 mile loop trail near Downtown Los Angeles. User friendly, nicely manicured, and easy to access. It is completely handicapped accessible for most all mobility tools and is wide enough with benches to pause along the way. A walk surrounded by the energy of college students and beauty, a great way to spend a few hours! Pack a lunch and enjoy a grand adventure. You will find mostly walkers on this trail! The trail is primarily used for walking and is accessible year-round.
June 2021 Winner
Carhenge, North of Alliance, Nebraska
In the middle of a corn fields, is this replica of Stonehenge with a twist! It is just a piece of America that is endearing, handicapped accessible if you pay attention at the entrance using the dirt “ramp”, and just a shout out to the joys of cruising in cars from Detroit! Highly recommend a stop over. For more grand adventures check out roadsideamerica.org !
May 2021 Winner
Monarch Beach Walking Trails, Dana Point, California
Salt Creek Beach Trail! Bob, SD Beckett and I embraced the beautiful walking trails all around Dana Point! Most have a trail associated with each walkabout that is handicapped accessible for those with disabilities. Found the community very kind and sea air healing! After our beach adventures, we will be having an Ocean Themed Poodle Palooza in 2021! We found a delicious vegan eatery, VIBE ORGANIC CAFE, that made box lunches, yes we ordered out 3 times over the weekend, for us to enjoy on our journeys around Dana Point. A beautiful nurturing weekend in the moment together celebrating our 42nd wedding anniversary. Truly, the sea air, sandy warm sands, and peaceful still refueled our souls.
April 2021 Winner
Retreatours.com, The World
Somedays, to just enjoy the world through the eyes of BJ & Lauren is my outing! We were honored to join them on a life changing journey to India in 2019 and look forward more trips soon. Pour your favorite hot drink and take in their photo safari. Their website is a meditation allowing us to breath in the world. It is 100% accessible, user friendly, will bring laughter, tears, desire to learn more; a deeper understand of the planet we live on. Peace, joy, love, connectivity, and hope awaits.
March 2021 Winner
Griffith Park Old Zoo Loop, Los Angeles, California
Griffith Park Old Zoo Loop is a delightful user friendly accessible trail that winds through the Old Griffith Park Zoo! Lots of great adventures for exploration, tables for picnics, caves to explore, and views to take in. The entire loop is 2.5 miles and the best time is earlier in the day before the crowds arrive. The trail has been well maintained; features include a great forest setting, picnic tables in former animal exhibits and side trails for additional adventures. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Pack breakfast or lunch and enjoy a delightful outing with all your people! Non-Service Dogs are also able to use this trail. Have fun!
February 2021 Winner
Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, California
Golden Gate Park from Buffalo to the three Windmills, Lakes, Strawberry Hill, Aids Memorial Garden, and all the secret pathways and adventures is truly an accessible, user-friendly park. You can be socially distanced and always have options as to your path needs and abilities. Curbs and parking are user-friendly for wheelchairs, service dogs, walkers, arm crutches, and all the tools we use, creating FUNctional independence. Make a picnic lunch to pack in and pack out, enjoy the beauty within one of my most favorite cities. Beckett and I treasure our moments here with my grandchildren and children to be out in nature, balancing our health and well-being. I hope you can each enjoy a visit in person and if not in person, be sure to click on the link in the name above to check it out virtually. Kudos to San Francisco for loving their disabled community creating spaces for all of us to be present with nature, family, friends, and self.
January 2021 Winner
Seven magic mountains, Sloan, Nevada
A silver-lining of 2020, our son became engaged! He and his fiance's joyful union of love, laughter, and kindness filled our hearts with peace. On January 28, 2021, Bob, Beckett, and I drove to Seven Magic Mountains to witness their wedding vows. We encountered no one within 30 feet of us at any time and embraced an easy cadence taking in the views and scenery. We arrived, finding the parking lot and pathways to be user-friendly and accessible for all people. The desert’s wintry sky was full of energy, casting incredible lighting on Ugo Rondinone’s Art Installation. To be out in the middle of the desert, surrounded by the Seven Magic Mountains as a backdrop, was a pure delight and a much-welcomed adventure. We left at 9:30 am and were back in our apartment at 8:30 pm, refreshed with a heart filled with delicious memories of our youngest son’s beautiful wedding vows. Seven Magic Mountains is a special place that is service dog friendly with accessible trails and pathways to hike, be physically distant, bring a picnic, and allow the healing, peaceful desert air to do its magic. Congratulations, Joel & Missi! Grateful hearts…
December 2020 Winner
California Botanical Garden, Claremont
This is a winner that is was just a distant memory, a beautiful safe place to roll or walk with your Service Dog. Reservations required if you are not a member. California Botanic Garden is said to the largest botanic garden dedicated to California native plants, promoting botany, conservation, and horticulture! Its mission is to inspire, inform while they educate the public and scientific community about California's native flora. The grounds are truly a living museum with curated collections of more than 22,000 California native plants spread across 86 acres in Claremont, California. The Garden is 35 miles east of Los Angeles. A delightful way to stay well and be safe while learning and exploring the flora of our great state. Masks required. Have fun!
November 2020 Winner
South Pasadena Farmers Market
Bob and I have enjoyed the South Pasadena Farmers Market pre-Pandemic; however, my dear friend has been going the past few weeks again and highly recommends going back again! Pat felt safe, and everyone wore masks while socially distancing themselves. It was always user-friendly for SD Beckett and myself on foot or in my tilite-chair. This home requires some delicious fresh veggies and fruit; we will be heading back to check it out again soon; I hope you will join us for shopping at this local gem!
October 2020 Winner
FrenchiFornia French Pastry and Bakery
It is nice to know that I can safely have delicious pastries from Thomas and Guillaume’s French roots in the middle of a Pandemic. They are handicap accessible and will never disappoint! The kindness, safe practices, and baking skills make them a go-to for my Service Dog, Beckett, and me. You can call ahead, pay on the phone, and pick up. Or choose each piece in the COVID-19 safe spacing. Highly recommend this bakery to bring the joys of Paris and all of France to your favorite table to enjoy while sheltering in place.
September 2020 Winner
Pasadena Tournament of roses house surrounding gardens
It is a lovely place to walk around, have a picnic, and take in the beautiful rose garden or fountain garden, which sits under a most majestic tree. The pathways are short but all accessible. Two picnic tables and lots of grass for picnics. Grassy lawn and dirt pathways that are both wheelchair, crutches, walkers. Just a small area that brings joy and fresh air surrounded. A sweet spot to embrace quiet interludes and take in some historical charm.
August 2020 Winner
Huntington Library, Pasadena, California, USA
During COVID-19 Pandemic, Huntington Library is welcome us to a safe and peaceful escape and stroll. A true gift to all of us, very grateful. They create a very positive experience by educating their Admission Security Team Personnel about how to have a conversation with Service Dog Handlers, asking, “Is your dog a Trained Service Dog?” If the Handler answers, “Yes,” they continue with, “What three tasks does your dog assist you with?” They then radio ahead to alert all the Security and Volunteer details that we are on the grounds. Everyone is kind, helpful, and 100% smooth. Hats off to Huntington Library for being user-friendly by asking the appropriate questions and only allowing True Trained Service Dogs in.
July 2020 Winner
BISTRO 45 Pasadena, California
Robert and Deborah are extremely gracious and beautiful humans who really care about their neighbors and the greater Pasadena Community. They give so much to all of us, creating a gem in Pasadena for celebrations, living life, and staying healthy. Their chef creates every bite with locally sourced produce, meats, fish, and small family-owned businesses, tantalizing our taste buds every time! Robert always answers the phone to take your order, cares about our journey, and has always made Bistro’s 45 completely accessible in every way to all of humanity. HIGHLY RECOMMEND for your next takeaway experience. Robert, Deborah, and the entire staff create the marvelous boxed takeaways that plate beautifully onto your own plates at home, as well as Mason’s to go, are always a hit with Bob! A special meal just for you, I promise you it will never disappoint. Friday night, they enjoyed their Cucumber Soup and Salmon, which were both excellent that they were finished for lunch on Saturday. Bistros 45 is one of life’s pleasures…
June 2020 Winner
Daddy’s chicken shack, Pasadena, California
TASTE OF PACE, CATERING, AND BOWLS, PASADENA, CALIFORNIA
Pace and Chris have created an amazing place to order delicious food prepared with the highest standards for wellness as they continue practicing healthy pandemic preparation and packaging procedures. They make it user friendly, keeping us safe, and filling our tummy with good food, nutrition, and positive energy. Great people, excellent food, and so much kindness. Deeply appreciate these two amazing humans who truly care about
May 2020 Winner
Pasadena Farmer’s market, victory Park
The Pasadena Farmer’s Market at Pasadena High School’s Victory Park is user-friendly for humans with a service dog or wheelchair; COVID-19 respectful with everyone wearing masks and social distancing farmers present, so you know exactly the practices used to grow your food. Highly recommend the Pasadena Farmer’s Market at Victory Park on Saturdays 8-11:30 am. Grateful to all our farmers and the organizers that keep fresh real food flowing into Pasadena each week, deep bows of gratitude for the sunshine during this Pandemic. You just keep on growing…
April 2020 Winner
The best grocery store ever, Trader Joe’s
I was one year old when a man who would be our neighbor, Joe Coulombe, opened up the first Trader Joe’s in Pasadena, California! It is where my parents shopped with my husband, and I continue the tradition! Trader Joe’s is the place our son (who does shopping for us), and we can go during COVID-19 Shelter in Place to get our groceries. Trader Joe’s respects us as a community and the realities of the virus, creating a safe and well-thought-out opportunity to go get the essentials with all their employees and customers masked, gloved as appropriate, with freshly wiped counters and distancing with a limited entrance. Grateful for a moment of normalcy being with our Hawaiian shirted clerks whose eyes are still sparking with the smile we can no longer see but continue to feel from the heart. They vet their suppliers, promising us GMOs and no pesticides, making it easier for us to eat clean and stay healthy. Good people creating a lovely community. Deep grateful for Trader Joe’s, which has always been handicap user friendly, and treats us like family. Stay well and safe is possible with the likes of companies like Trader Joe’s. Thank you very much!
March 2020 Winner
Empire Mine State Historic Park, Grass Valley, California
My girlfriends and their poodles spent a week in Nevada City at our home, Lazy Dog Acres, and it was absolutely delightful! We treasured meals and moments together at Ike’s Quarter Cafe (Most Favorite Breakfast), Diego Cafe (Most Favorite Dinner), and New Moon (Most Favorite Celebratory Dinner). Every one of these restaurants is user-friendly and welcomed a service dog team as well as any disabled humans needed tools! We spent a lovely afternoon at the Empire Mine State Historic Park and joined a tour, it was ramped when needed and I was able to go almost everywhere which was joy-filled. Highly recommend all of these places, such kind and gentle humans we found at all four locations! Cheers to accessibility and kindness to all.
February 2020 Winner
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Presentations and Exhibits San Francisco, California
For my granddaughter’s and daughter’s birthday Beckett & I had a delightful experience at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art! We were welcomed with accessibility and offers of assistance with anything to make our exploration the best experience for all of us. Grateful to have such a user-friendly and educated staff that understands the needs of handicapped individuals case by case, truly everyone enjoyed the outing as we celebrated another trip around the sun. Highly recommend this for all people with disabilities, they are handicap educated about what it means to be nonchalant and create an experience for all their guests!
January 2020 Winner
Raymond Restaurant, South Pasadena, California
As a child, we use to go to The Raymond for special events a couple of times a year and it was always a very special place that we put on our best manners for! It was a treat to step back in time with my husband for a Saturday Brunch, they kept their charm but the menu was modern, healthy choices, and absolutely delicious! Our son wanted to introduce us to his girlfriend, we thought what better place to enjoy an outdoor meal on their covered porch on a rainy evening. Both our dinner and the girlfriend were delightful, life is good. I appreciated the ramping, the valet’s assistance with parking, and the thoughtfulness of the staff is educated and welcoming of all humans with grace, kindness, and dignity allowing me to just flow in with no fuss to enjoy a lovely meal. Highly recommend it for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Cheers to old memories with new experiences!
December 2019 Winner
The Actors Gang Theatre, Culver City, California
The intimate theatre is all a buzz with beautiful energy, interacting with the actors, directors, and stagehands who bring each piece to fruition. They have created space for accessibility in the lobby, the bathrooms, and the theater with aplomb. Rarely those with mobility issues will even take on a small intimate evening because it just gets too complicated; however, Actor Gang Theatre is an exception. Their shows are worth great conversation because they are entertaining and are provocative all at the same time. Highly recommend a lovely experience in a sweet community. Great restaurants nearby make for a full evening venue.
November 2019 Winner
The Los Angeles Arboretum Moonlight Fore Arcadia, California
The sheer delight I had at the Los Angeles Arboretum Moonlight Forest walk with my granddaughters, daughter, son-in-law, husband, and dearest friend as we explored the grounds in the dark surrounded by mystic animals and flowers full of bright colors was magical. It was an evening that required my wheelchair. It was extremely user-friendly and accessible, with many people along the way to be certain we were spot on and enjoying the celebration of the holiday lights. Highly recommend this yearly tradition for all ages with the confidence that it is truly accessible for all humans. The joy of the evening remains in my heart. Grateful for them making it for everyone to enjoy!
October 2019 Winner
Olvera Street Celebration and Square, Downtown Los Angeles
We had the pleasure of exploring Los Angeles on three different days as we walked the Ciclavia 2019, explored the Library and many wonderful squares, street fairs, as we took in the energy of Los Angeles. Beckett and I love Los Angeles and how it is so in tune and welcoming to the Disabled Community. Thank you for making it a lovely experience as a Service Dog Team.
September 2019 Winner
Union Station METRO ART PRESENTS, Los Angeles, California
We have the most delightful evening exploring Olvera Street for dinner and returning to Metro Art Presents: Song of the Sea with our granddaughter. The staff at Union Station were well educated, asking respectfully the questions all should be asked with as a Service Dog Team keeping the areas safe for us by turning away fake untrained Service Dogs. Metro Art Presents had a wonderful Art Project before the movie, which was interactive, creating a beautiful community talking, drawing, laughing, and sharing an experience. To sit within the beautiful walls and decorated ceilings of Union Station in Los Angeles, watching a moving and making new friends, is a gift to all of us. I hope you check them out and can go knowing they are user-friendly for all humans and their family, friends, etc.
August 2019 Winner
Gene Autry Museum, Griffith Park, Los Angeles, California
Truly, what is not to embrace at this well-thought-out museum about our Western History and so much more. The powers that be have created a hands-on museum for children, an interactive museum for all ages with engaging hands-on experiences, well-trained docents, beautiful and well-curated exhibitions, a delicious cafeteria, and a beautiful gift shop. Completely taken at the kindness, they ushered me in with my Service Dog, husband, and dear friend Pat one weekend and returning with grandchildren and children the next weekend. Highly recommend taking a day to explore and take in this piece of history, and the Art of Harry Fonseca with Coyote, Frankie, and Aunt Polly is absolutely engaging and so much fun. Take time to really let the children make a movie, play in the barn, explore Griffith Park, and find the missing person! Everywhere is accessible and well thought out as to be 100% inclusive. Staff well trained and engaging too!
July 2019 Winner
Healthy Kids Class at Stem Kitchen and Garden, San Francisco, Ca
The entire building was user-friendly and handicap accessible with a smile and cheerful welcoming to my service dog team of Janie & Beckett! The parking was easy and well-marked, with a wide pathway to the building entrance. The security and front desk were helpful and caring as they ushered up to the 3rd floor. The STEM’S Kitchen staff were kind and inviting us in as we got to partake and enjoy being observers of our two granddaughters’ cooking class. Beautiful setting in the rooftop garden. Kindness and being handicap accessible because they are inclusive of all humanity; it was a lovely afternoon because of their good cheer. Happy to find them, we will return.
June 2019 Winner
The Mission Inn, Riverside, California
The Mission Inn cares about all their guests and wants everyone to have enjoyed their grounds, pools, spa, restaurants and experience the peaceful energy of their Inn. Enjoyed the kindness of the staff, the clearly marked signs directing you to the handicap accessible pathways, the valet’s assistance with car and bag, and the manager David Cohen’s attention to the needs, including the detail of each guest. Bed very comfortable, room spacious, housekeeping thorough, food delicious, and The Spa divine. We will definitely be returning and will recommend it to all our family and friends! Cheers to a nice local spot in the world that holds its charming ways.
May 2019 Winner
Grand Tetons Nation
Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve WOODSIDE HIKING TRAIL
Our grandchildren and their parents joined Bob and me on a most lovely hike through Moose, Elk, Mule Deer, Bunnies, Muskrats, and the river flowing through as we hiked the Woodside Trail to overlook Jenny Lake. It was handicap accessible and absolutely a gift to my soul. So much beauty, sounds of complete silence to roaring water, birds calling, and leaves cracking under our feet. Highly recommend a lovely hike with a delicious quiet interlude overlooking the lake. Upon return to the Laurance S. Rockefeller Nature Center, be certain to explore the indoor writings, exhibits, and meditation room! A gem in the middle of great gems, grateful for the foresight of this brilliant man and the honoring of his gift and dreams. Deep bows of gratitude.
April 2019 Winner
Ohlone Wilderness State Park Trails
Many beautiful hiking trails that offer handicap accessibility at all levels. Pack a picnic and bring the family just to embrace a beautiful woodsy experience. Meet your family and friends to make a day of it. Due to water conservation, be sure to bring your own water enough for you and your service dog! Have a lovely day out in the woods breathing in the fresh air while taking in the peaceful beauty of one of our excellent California State Parks.
March 2019 Winner
La Grande Orange CAFE, Pasadena Restaurant
When every we walk in, Becket & Janie, we are always treated with the utmost respect. Appreciate that we do not have to restate Beckett as a Service Dog (SD) and that they do not inform us that pets have to sit outside on the patio. It is nice to be respected and have him treated as a medical device to quietly take his place, politely laying at my side out of the way in a tuck while my husband, family, and friends are it 1 or 14 to enjoy our dinner together. La Grande Orange is a favorite spot that we frequent a few times a month. The people, the food, the kindness are always delicious. Deep bows of gratitude that I can always go here for lunch or dinner during the week or brunch on the weekend and know it will be a user-friendly positive choice as an SD Team.
February 2019 Winner
Union Station AND The Los Angeles Metro Public transportation
We hear the Goldline and Beckett are happy to be riding the train on another grand adventure. It takes us downtown to explore our beauty of Downtown Los Angeles, and it takes us to Long Beach and Santa Monica! We enjoy taking it to catch Amtrak to meet up with dear friends in San Diego and San Clemente. The Los Angeles Metro is a treat and is user-friendly for almost all humans. They are good about alerting us to elevator closures and do their best to keep them accessible in working order. They make it easy for wheelchairs, arm crutches, walkers, blind, and Service Dogs to ride with the needed seating and bars on the train and stations. Grateful for the many adventures that include Buses, Access Vans, Gold Line, Purple Line, Red Line, Blue Line, Expo Line, and Fly Away, be it to a local event or just exploring, going to the Dodgers Game, or flying away on holiday the Los Angeles Metro Public Transportation does it right! Thankful they are here for us!
January 2019 Winner
The Broad and REdbird, Los Angeles, California, USA
We have enjoyed The Broad many times in 2018 and again this month! Beckett and I are asked the proper questions with open kindness and welcome into the museum. They are professional, calling ahead to alert that they have a Standard Poodle Service Dog in the house. The knowledgeable volunteers check in on us to see if we need any assistants and are very good to us. It is a favorite place to look forward to the Art and Politics: Soul of a Nation Symposium exhibit coming in March! Afterward, we walked over to Redbird, which was a delicious treat. Once you alert them that you need a ramp entrance, they graciously escort you through the garden to the side entrance, making a lovely start to your dining experience. Redbird is a place Beckett and I will return to because they are user-friendly with the most delicious food!
December 2018 Winner
Alaska Airlines, SFO-PDV, PDV-LAX, USA
Alaska Airlines is truly an airline that cares about disabled humans and their needs to travel with the medical device that creates FUNctional independence. Deep bows of gratitude to an airline that understands that a service dog makes it possible for many humans on this planet to live a full and vibrant life. Alaska is always our first choice with our Service Dogs and Service Dogs in Training, their kindness and ability to think on their feet understanding the difference between a Service Dog and not a service dog showing complete respect to the SD handler makes traveling with Alaska a complete joy. Thank you.
November 2018 Winner
MAUI, ALL OF THE ISLAND… Maui, Hawaiian Islands, USA
We embraced a lovely Aloha adventure with our family in Maui. The Maui Humane Society was amazing, and truly Jay made everything flow for us. When we entered into zones of humans who did not understand that Service Dog Teams have rights, I would give them Jay’s information at the Humane Society; they would reach out to him. Once Jay spoke with them, giving his stamp of approval opened up a beautiful conversation as we taught and shared our work and exactly what a Service Dog is working alongside the handler. We loved the island, and Beckett made it possible for me to do all the things I love to do. Grateful for the Aloha Spirit and the graceful energy of the islands. Thank you, Jay, for making our trip a delightful unfolding.
October 2018 Winner
MONTEREY BAY AQUARIUM, Monterey, California, USA
Everyone was educated and asked the appropriate questions alerting all the staff that a Service Dog in Training (SDiT) was inhouse. They checked in with us to see if we needed anything for Beckett. There were two other Service Dogs (SD) in the building; all three of us were near each other on many occasions: however, since the staff was educated at the door, everyone inside was truly trained to work SDiT and SD. We had a fabulous time, and the full venue was full of kind, attentive humans who asked questions respectfully! Always a joy to interact and share about what a service dog is there training, and the opportunity to educate others about service dogs and their human with invisible and visual handicaps. Our granddaughter was with us, and she even commented that the staff and ramps for the mobility disabled made the aquarium rockstars! We agree with Victoria that Monterey Bay Aquarium is a great place to visit with an SD, SDiT, and mobility disabilities. Thank you, Monterey Bay Aquarium, for your kindness and being educated to be inclusive of all humans. Grateful!
September 2018 Winner
Descanso Gardens, La Canada, CAlifornia, USA
A place full of magic and welcoming staff from the ticket booth in front, to the food near the entrance, to the gift shop, and of course, the beautiful grounds. Opened and welcoming to Trained (Mobility) Service Dogs, (Mobility) Service Dogs in Training to stroll and take in nature and the art exhibits in the home. Wheelchairs and ADA user friendly everywhere with ramping and possibilities to navigate a lovely experience together with family and friends or solo to just breathe in nature. Thank you, Descanso Gardens, for opening the doors to everyone. Deep gratitude for forward-thinking that includes all humans.
August 2018 Winner
KIDSPACE, PASADENA, CALIFORNIA, USA
Our five grandchildren consider Kidspace as their NeNe’s and PoPo’s backyard. The welcoming team always asks the correct questions: “Is that a Service Dog?,” and, upon my “Yes, he is a Mobility Service Dog in Training”, they ask, “What task does he perform for you?” They are kind, considerate, and highly respectful of my Mobility Team, Beckett and Janie! We are allowed and able to go everywhere, because they have ramps and have made it user-friendly for all children and adults, welcoming the ADA Community with open hearts and kindness. We are grateful for all of our past adventures at Kidspace as we look forward to all our future explorations, too! Cheers and gratitude.
July 2018 Winner
DISNEYLAND, Anaheim, California, USA
When I was a child, Mr. Walt Disney came to our shop to pick up the old station wagon's candy. Mr. Disney was kind, gentle, and always had time to just talk to a little girl named Janie. As a child, I was aware of his cousin in a wheelchair, which helped me understand what Mr. Disney needed to do to be user-friendly to wheelchairs. My first trip to Disneyland in my manual chair was a day full of laughter and solutions by the staff, allowing me to embrace each moment with family and friends. We just enjoyed another visit with our grandchildren where we found all the employees to be very kind, the rides user-friendly, and the adventures ever so sweet! Hats off to Mr. Walt Disney, once again, for his vision, love, and understanding of the ADA community. Disneyland even hosts Service Dog Days and Service Dogs in Training days because they totally get what it means to live vibrantly and fully, regardless of the vantage point you experience it from. Thank you!
June 2018 Winner
Huntington Library, Pasadena, California, USA
They create a very positive experience by educating their Admission Security Team Personnel about how to have a conversation with Service Dog Handlers, asking, “Is your dog a Trained Service Dog?” If the Handler answers, “Yes,” they continue with, “What three tasks does your dog assist you with?” They then radio ahead to alert all the Security and Volunteer details that we are on the grounds. Everyone is kind, helpful, and 100% smooth. Hats off to Huntington Library for being user-friendly by asking the appropriate questions and only allowing True Trained Service Dogs in.
Huntington.ORG photo of the Children's Garden
May 2018 Winner
Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. LOS ANGELES, CA, USA
Janie has many fabulous season tickets memories with her parents and 3 siblings attending the Civic Light Opera! On her 39th wedding anniversary, Bob and Janie decided to become Opera people. The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion staff are well trained with charming manners who listen to your needs and make it flow for all people with disabilities! In her wheelchair or walking with her Service Dog, Janie can attend the events in comfort and gentleness- wonderful humans working to make this venue user-friendly for everyone. Deep bows of gratitude for your mindfulness of all human beings. Looking forward to enjoying the show many times this year!!
Descanso Gardens, La Canada, CA, USA
While we were showing our membership card, they asked questions, radioed to the staff at the little umbrella booth, who radioed ahead to all the staff that a Standard Poodle Service Dog was on the grounds. It was a very positive and easy day. It was interesting to be entering around the same time as a fraud "Certified Service Dog” be part of the conversation. The staff handled it very gently. The fraud dog and handler left the gardens upset but with a better understanding that indeed fraud dogs add a negative additional challenge to those of us who need a Trained Service Dog and for Service Dogs In Training. We are grateful for this positive interaction.
March 2018 Winner
Southwest Airlines
Short and Long Haul Flights
Since October of 2011, when I started using a Trained Service Dog to assist me in my Tilite chair, Canadian Arm-crutches, and Mobility Service Dog, Southwest Airlines Staff Members have been rock stars, making each flight enjoyable, peaceful, and an easy experience. We are grateful to their people for creating a system that works well for my Service Dog and me. Cheers!
February 2018 Winner
Mexican Department of Agriculture and Bahia Principe Hotel
Tulum, Mexico
Our experience with the Mexican government, hotel, and people of Mexico was amazing: from boarding the plane; to arriving at the airport meeting with Mexican Government Officials; and having hotel personnel ready for our arrival and make our trip magical. My niece’s wedding was perfectly lovely, and we were able to embrace each moment with the ease created for travel. We had everything filled out and stamped by USDA and our Vet ahead of time, so we were prepared, and it really flowed nicely. Thank you!