Any South Florida Events, Venues With Access For The Disabled?

Chuck had assumed that all public venues in the United States were required to provide access for people with disabilities, but he learned that this is not always the case. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets standards for public accommodations, such as restaurants and movie theaters, but it only applies to new construction and does not require existing facilities to remove barriers without significant difficulty or expense.

To find out if a particular venue is accessible, Chuck called several sites in southern Palm Beach County and northern Broward County and was told that most sites are accustomed to hearing this question and are willing to accommodate people using walkers. He found that some venues have ramps, lower reading rails, and easy parking, making them accessible for people with disabilities.

The Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum is one such venue. Located in the old Town Hall building, which was designed by architect Addison Mizner, the museum has a ramp from the parking lot into the building and paved pathways. The museum also has a lower reading rail for the timeline exhibit in the hall [+]

A: Chuck, I had always assumed access for the disabled was a basic legal requirement all over the United States. But after getting your question, I started researching and learned how wrong I was. I remember when the landmark Americans for Disabilities Act was passed in 1990, but now know it sets standards for public accommodations, such as restaurants and movie theaters, mostly for new construction, and requires existing facilities to remove barriers only when it’s easy and won’t cost them too much.

Reference: ASK LOIS: Any South Florida events, venues with access for the disabled?

Comments on: Any South Florida Events, Venues With Access For The Disabled?

Chuck, I'm glad you asked! Accessibility for individuals with disabilities is a crucial aspect of creating an inclusive and welcoming environment in South Florida. While the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets standards for public accommodations, including restaurants and movie theaters, it's important to note that existing facilities are only required to remove barriers when it's easy and won't cost them too much.

This means that it's essential to do your research and check the accessibility features of a venue before visiting.

I contacted several sites in southern Palm Beach County and northern Broward County to inquire about their accessibility for individuals using walkers. Most sites were accustomed to hearing this question and assured me that they would accommodate your wife without any impediments.

For sedentary activities, you may enjoy art classes at the Schmidt Boca Raton History Museum, located at 71 N. Federal Highway, Boca Raton; 561-395-6766; bocahistory.org. Admission fees are waived on the first Saturday of each month, making it an excellent opportunity to learn about the history [+]

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