Let’s face it, when it comes to finding wheelchair-accessible accommodations, most people don’t even consider inns and B&Bs. The truth is many folks think these properties are inaccessible. Maybe it’s because innkeepers don’t readily promote their access, or maybe it’s just because we’ve seen way too many photos of historic inns with nary a ramp in sight. No matter the reason, most wheelchair-users overlook this unique lodging option.

Ironically, inns and B&Bs can be the ideal choice for people with disabilities. In fact, many innkeepers have added accessible guest rooms or made other access modifications because they have friends or family members who are disabled. Additionally, innkeepers are intimately familiar with the access features of their property, and guests are guaranteed the specific (accessible) room they reserve.

Room 121 at The Inn at Honey Run has excellent pathway access and a great view of the adjacent woods.

This isn’t always the case in large hotels, where access requests are sometimes lost in the shuffle and reservation clerks are clueless about access modifications. Indeed, sometimes access needs are more adequately addressed at smaller properties. With that in mind, here’s a sampling of some accessible inns and B&Bs across the United States.

First stop, the Victoria Inn, located in historic Murphys, California. Formerly the Redbud Inn, this classic country property combines quaint charm with modern accessibility. Mae’s Room, located on the ground floor, features a comfortable queen-size bed, plus a spacious tiled bathroom with a roll-in shower, a roll-under sink, and grab bars around the toilet and in the shower.

There is also barrier-free access to all ground-floor public areas, including the breakfast room and parlor. Quite a surprising find in this restored California Gold Rush town.

Located in the heart of Ohio Amish country, The Inn at Honey Run is another surprising find, both in terms of access and ambiance. Far from your typical Amish inn, this unique property features sleek contemporary lines in a natural setting. Room 121 has excellent pathway access and a great view of the adjacent woods, and it includes an oversized bathroom with a roll-in shower and two shower seat options (a chair and a bench).

The inn is surrounded by 60 nature-filled acres (242,812 m²), and although the trails aren’t exactly wheelchair-accessible, innkeeper Phil Jenkins is quick to suggest an appropriate solution. “We can easily take guests along the trails in our Gator [a small tractor] or golf cart,” he offers. “It’s a beautiful area and nobody should miss out on it.”

Indeed, an innkeeper’s attitude can make or break a property, at least as far as access is concerned. Take innkeepers Anita and Ken McLeod of Las Cruces, New Mexico, for example. Their proactive access attitude actually predates their inn-keeping days. As the result of knee surgery and arthritis, Anita walks with a cane, so she is keenly aware of access obstacles.