Accessibility Assessment

As we work together to build a more inclusive and welcoming destination, we want to highlight that investing in accessibility isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a smart move that benefits both our visitor economy and our residents. These efforts can help drive occupancy and year-round visitation while also improving daily life for those who live and work in Door County. Destination Door County is sponsoring a county-wide accessibility assessment with Wheel the World. The assessment will be offered free of charge to 70 Door County sites. Sites include lodging, restaurant, retail, and public historical and outdoor attractions.

Submit Assessment Application

Interested in making your business more accessible?

Missed the webinar? Watch the recording of our recent informational session with Destination Door County and Wheel the World to learn how we’re working together to make Door County more accessible and inclusive for all travelers.

Watch the Recording

Important Facts

30% of the world's population is directly affected by disability (considering companions)

Worldwide, people with accessibility needs spent 120 billion a year on travel.

15 million US Americans with disabilities travel at least once every year.

Not knowing what to expect when arriving at a place can cause anxiety and prevent people from traveling. Accessibility information is a key factor in decision-making, helping travelers feel prepared.

Source: Wheel the World

Why should I list my business with Wheel the World?

By allowing your business to be assessed and listed on WheeltheWorld.com, you’ll gain:

A private accessibility assessment with tailored suggestions for improvement.

The Accessibility Verified Seal to display at your business, showcasing your commitment to inclusivity.

Employee access to Wheel the World Academy—a 1-hour training and certification program that equips your team with the right tools to welcome travelers with accessibility needs.

Is there a cost to list my business?

No, listing your business on our platform is entirely free. All costs are covered by Destination Door County, allowing you to showcase your accessibility features at no expense.

Who covers the cost of the assessment?

There’s no cost to you! Destination Door County covers the expenses, and your business gets listed on our platform for free.

Are you enforcing ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance?

No, we are not regulatory enforcers. Our role is to gather and share information about your business’s accessibility features. We help you highlight what you already have in place so customers can decide what best suits their needs. We aim to promote transparency, ensuring guests have the details necessary to make informed choices

Some businesses hesitate to participate because they think they are "not accessible enough." This is not about perfection—it’s about transparency. By simply providing accurate accessibility information, you help travelers make informed choices, setting clear expectations and ensuring a better experience for all.

Assessments are private. We have mapped thousands of businesses, and none of them have encountered any type of prosecution or claims; we have just helped businesses to improve their infrastructure.

What do you assess during a site visit?

Our site visits focus on identifying and documenting the accessibility features of your establishment. We look at amenities and design elements that cater to individuals with diverse needs, such as wheelchair accessibility, visual and hearing accommodations, and other features that enhance comfort for all guests. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of your business, allowing potential customers to make informed decisions based on their specific requirements.

What if my business has limited accessibility features?

That’s completely fine! Our platform is about transparency, not perfection. We list businesses with a wide range of accessibility features, including those with minimal accommodations. Customers appreciate knowing what to expect and listing with us allows you to reach a broader audience while demonstrating your openness to welcoming all guests.

How can I update my business’s accessibility information?

If you update or change your accessibility features, contact us, and we’ll update your listing accordingly. While there’s no expectation for you to make modifications, keeping your information updated ensures customers have the most accurate details when choosing where to visit.

How can I make my business more accessible?

After your business is assessed by our trained mappers, you’ll receive:

A detailed accessibility report with tailored recommendations for improvement.

An AI-generated summary highlighting key areas to focus on first.

An estimated cost guide to help you plan accessibility upgrades.

This ensures you have clear, actionable steps to enhance inclusivity and welcome more travelers!

How long does the mapping process take?

The time required for mapping depends on the size and type of your business. On average, hotels and museums take about one hour, while restaurants can be mapped in around 30 minutes. Our trained mappers work efficiently to gather detailed accessibility information with minimal disruption, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free process for you.

Who needs to be present when a mapper arrives (Manager or Staff)?

A manager is not required—any staff member can assist. We just need someone to provide a brief introduction and grant access to the areas being assessed. Our mappers work independently, ensuring a smooth and efficient process with minimal disruption to your business.

How can I get started with listing my business?

Fill out the application at Accessibility Assessment Application. The accessibility assessment committee will review applications and select the participating sites.

How should I prepare before receiving a mapper?

To ensure a smooth and efficient mapping process, here are a few things to check before our mapper arrives:

Hotels: At least one accessible room with a roll-in shower should be available for assessment, and the staff member assisting should know the exact names of the rooms being mapped.

Restrooms: Ensure they are clean and free of obstacles, such as toilet paper on the floor.

General areas: Make sure common spaces are tidy.

How does the booking process work?

For hotels, bookings are processed through Expedia, our trusted partner, ensuring a seamless reservation experience. For other businesses, such as restaurants and attractions, we direct customers to your website or booking system, allowing you to maintain complete control over reservations while benefiting from our platform's visibility.

Does WTW charge a commission for driving traffic to the property’s website?

Wheel the World does not charge any commission. Our process is totally free for you.

How can I make my business more appealing to your customers?

Enhancing your business’s accessibility can make a big difference. Consider improvements such as ramps, accessible restrooms, Braille menus, and visual or hearing aids. However, even small changes can have a positive impact. The key is transparency—listing your existing accessibility features with detailed descriptions and photos helps customers understand what to expect and make confident decisions.

How does Wheel the World promote listed businesses?

We promote businesses through dedicated landing pages in partnership with Destination Door County. These pages highlight accessibility-friendly businesses within specific regions. Additionally, we use targeted online advertising, social media campaigns, and email marketing to increase visibility and drive potential customers to your business.

Who creates the listing, and where do the photos come from?

Wheel the World will do all the work to create the listing. Once ready, we will share it with you. Modifications can be done upon request. We will use photos on your website plus the accessibility ones we will take, but feel free to share specific photos you want us to use

Who uses the Wheel the World platform?

Our platform serves customers who prioritize accessibility, including people with disabilities, older adults, and families with young children. These individuals seek businesses that provide a comfortable and stress-free experience. By listing with us, you’re reaching a diverse audience that values inclusivity and accessibility.

How long does the Wheel the World Academy take?

It takes one hour to get certified and go through the lessons.

How many people can enroll in Wheel the World Academy, and what roles is it designed for?

Each business typically receives four enrollment spots, but if you need more, just let us know—we may be able to accommodate additional participants. The Academy is designed for everyone working in hospitality, from front desk staff and managers to servers and tour guides, ensuring your entire team is equipped to welcome travelers with accessibility needs.