After breaking my ankle in Los Angeles and sitting around with nothing to do, I decided to drive to Vegas and have some fun. I was on a walker and knew I couldn’t cover too much ground, however, to my surprise all the hotels on the strip offer wheelchairs to guests and non-guests alike, most without a fee. The highest fee I incurred was ten dollars, but it was for the entire day and night.  Many hotels ask for a driver’s license and keep it until you return the chair. Wheelchairs are available from guest services or the valet can get you one when you drive up to the hotel.
Las Vegas is one of the most disabled friendly vacation destinations around. All venues on the Vegas strip are wheelchair accessible, but watch out, sometimes the outdoor elevators can be in some tricky places. The problems come at the south end of the strip, closer to old town Vegas. The sidewalks are uneven and I came to a sidewalk ramp where the incline was so steep I couldn’t get myself up it without assistance. Also, the vibe is less than friendly at night on South Las Vegas Blvd. so I don’t advise going out at night alone.
Make sure to check out breakfast at The Original Pancake House inside The Green Valley Ranch Casino (infamous for Michael Jackson’s stay after his molestation trial), where you’ll find the best breakfast in Vegas. It will surely be crowded, so get there early. Then head off to Red Rock for some of the most beautiful, awe inspiring scenery in the desert. After a full day of excitement, stroll through Cesar’s Palace for an enlightening experience of water flotation or a full body massage.
At night, there are many casino bars that can accommodate a wheelchair.  Cruise by the third floor bar inside New York, New York, or if you prefer something a little different, see what’s happening at The House of Blues. Most shows and entertainment spots place wheelchairs on the floor, to the side of the stage. Don’t worry about the view or sound, you’ll be pleased. One note, either be one of the first inside or one of the last. This keeps the crowd flowing. Sometimes you will be plucked from the line and given special treatment.
On a side note, a funny thing happened to my girlfriend and I on the elevator. We walked into the elevator, she with a sling on her arm from surgery and I with my walker. A man we didn’t know looked at us and said, “What war were you in?â€Â The elevator erupted in laughter, as did we. We must have been a pair to see, but we were having a ball.
