Photos With A Spin

Photography. Travel. Accessibility.

We are Abe and Maggie, a husband and wife team who explore, travel, and document
our adventures as independent manual wheelchair users.

The Photos With A Spin Wheelchair Accessibility Ratings Scale

We created this system to quickly rate our adventures and provide a snapshot based on our lived experiences as independent, adaptable manual wheelchair users.

Here is what you need to know about our approach:

Rooted in Experience: Our assessments are based on personal knowledge of our own physical capabilities.
A Broad Spectrum: We recognize that disability occurs on a spectrum and that every individual’s experience is unique.
Your Personal Baseline: This scale is meant to provide a baseline for you to assess destinations based on your own capabilities, needs, and requirements.

Happy travels and exploring!

Ring of Kerry

Killarney, Ireland

1-Star

Not Accessible / Major Barriers

Entry: Steps at the front door; no ramp or lift available.
Navigation: Extremely narrow aisles or severe level changes (over 2 inches).
Facilities: No wheelchair-accessible restroom.
Overall: The location is completely unaccommodating or requires lifting/carrying
the user.

2-Star

Partially Accessible / Compromised

Entry: Main entrance may have steps, but there is a portable or alternative ramp.
Navigation: Tight turning radiuses (less than 60 inches) and cluttered aisles.
Facilities: A restroom exists but is missing grab bars, lacks adequate transfer space, or is only accessible via stairs.
Overall: Usable with difficulty or requiring assistance. (Many outdoor locations fall here.)

3-Star

Basic Accessibility / Compliant

Entry: Zero-step entrance or a permanent, compliant ramp.
Navigation: Open floor plan with standard 36-inch pathways and elevators to all floors.
Facilities: Properly equipped, ADA-compliant restroom.
Overall: Functions well for independent manual wheelchair users.

4-Star

Highly Accessible / Convenient

Entry: Power-operated doors and a wide, easily identifiable main entrance.
Navigation: Ample maneuvering space throughout the entire footprint; widely spaced tables or racks.
Facilities: Multiple accessible restrooms with proper turning space and grab bars.
Overall: Offers a comfortable and seamless experience for users.

5-Star

Barrier-Free / Exceeds Standards

Entry: Automatic doors and zero-threshold entries at all public points.
Navigation: Tactile warning surfaces, Braille signage, and fully accessible multi-level access.
Facilities: Family-assist, spacious, gender-neutral accessible restrooms.
Overall: Outstanding compliance; effortless for all wheeled mobility.