Is Mesa, Arizona, the most accessible spring training destination? Home to the Chicago Cubs during spring training, Mesa’s Sloan Park is rated in the top three ballparks in the US for accessibility. That makes it a major attraction for baseball fans of all abilities. But having one of the nation’s most inclusive stadiums isn’t even Mesa’s biggest draw for travelers with disabilities.
Arizona’s third-largest city is both the first-ever Autism Certified City and an Aira Access Partner (a service that connects visually impaired travelers with sighted guides). It’s also the first city to receive Wheel the World’s prestigious Destination Verified Seal.
A platform dedicated to accessible travel, Wheel the World analyzes more than 200 features at various locations so that all travelers can be sure the destination will meet their needs. Careful mapping of hotels and attractions to verify their accessibility details eliminates the biggest obstacle in disability travel: the need for accurate information. Verified locations are listed on destination pages like the one for Mesa, complete with thorough information including an accessibility features checklist and photos. Many of those verified locations can then be booked directly from the Wheel the World site for a stress-free experience.
Here’s how to plan your perfect spring training getaway in Mesa, with inclusive experiences, dining, and accommodations to complement a day at the ballpark.
First thing’s first: Getting to Mesa, accessibly
Photo: Valley Metro
Accessible travel in Mesa starts with easy arrival options. Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) or Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport (AZA), both of which have accessible terminals, facilities, wheelchair assistance, and TSA Cares, a program designed to help travelers with disabilities navigate airport security.
Mesa’s light rail system provides seamless travel through downtown and beyond, and it’s an easy Sky Train ride from PHX. The light rail features level boarding, secure wheelchair spaces, and priority seating in addition to audio announcements and Braille features.
For additional travel options, Valley Metro buses, accessible shuttles, and accessible trip-planning tools make it simple to explore Mesa and the greater Phoenix area.
Next up: Spring training
Photo: Matt Dirksen/Chicago Cubs
Baseball fans, welcome to your home away from home. Sloan Park combines the best of Chicago’s Wrigley Field with Arizona’s sunny warmth. From deep-dish pizza to the unmistakable camaraderie of Cubs fans, this stadium truly captures the Windy City spirit.
It also captures the spirit of inclusivity. Sloan Park is thoughtfully designed with moveable lounge seating, accessible seating options near lifts or elevators throughout the ballpark, accessible ticket windows, and accommodations for personal care attendants. Wheelchair-accessible shuttle services are offered continuously from the parking lot — before, during, and after the game. Wheelchair service is also available for those needing assistance to and from their seats. What’s more, there are single-occupancy family restrooms located throughout Sloan Park, as well as allergy-friendly options at a number of food stands.
Sloan Park is a proud partner and distributor of Visit Mesa’s Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, striving to provide an accommodating environment for all fans with accessibility needs. It’s more than just a ballpark — it’s the landmark behind a seamless spring training experience where all are welcome to enjoy America’s favorite pastime.
Beyond the ballpark: Accessible adventures in Mesa
Photo: Visit Mesa
Baseball is just the beginning of your Mesa adventure. Thanks to Wheel the World’s verification process, you can enjoy accessible attractions including museums, outdoor experiences, and more.
With exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to Mesoamerican artifacts, the Arizona Museum of Natural History makes learning about the Southwest both engaging and accessible with a step-free entrance, elevators, and easy wheelchair views. Meanwhile, the wide pathways and accessible displays at the Arizona Commemorative Air Force Museum provide a great option for aviation fans. Similar accessibility features at the Superstition Mountain Museum mean it’s a must for anyone who wants to dive deep into Arizona’s rugged history, while the Goldfield Ghost Town’s accessible shops, rest areas, and paths invite everyone to appreciate Mesa’s Old West charm.
For a memorable outdoor adventure, look no further than the Dolly Steamboat. You’ll cruise along Canyon Lake on a wheelchair-accessible boat, with panoramic desert views that are truly something to behold.
Meal time: Mesa’s most inclusive restaurants
Photo: Visit Mesa
There’s no need to sacrifice great food if you’re visiting Mesa with special mobility needs. The city’s dining scene caters to all kinds of tastes while prioritizing accessibility through everything from wheelchair-friendly seating to inclusive menus and dietary accommodations.
Start your day at Jarrod’s Coffee, Tea, & Gallery, a coffee shop and arty hangout with an inclusive layout and a calm atmosphere. When it’s time for your first meal of the day, head to T.C. Eggington’s, a favorite breakfast and brunch spot in Mesa for nearly 40 years. It has accessible dining and can accommodate special dietary needs. Mellow Mushroom, an eclectic pizza shop serving one-of-a-kind pies, also has vegan and gluten-free options. But when it comes to allergy-friendly, Intentional Foods does it best. The hybrid cafe and market promises clean, safe, and transparent goodies, plus assistance for visually disabled visitors.
If burgers and brews are more your speed during a spring-training trip to Mesa, the city has disability-friendly options to satisfy that craving, too. 12 West Brewing serves craft beer and pub grub in a wheelchair-accessible, autism-certified space. Elsewhere, near the Arizona Museum of Natural History, the Chupacabra Taproom stocks a fine selection of craft beer and wine from all over the world, and you’ll appreciate its accessible dining area with wide aisles.
Where to stay: A hotel for every need
Photo: Visit Mesa
Mesa takes the stress out of booking your stay. The city has 10 Wheel the World-verified hotels with amenities like roll-in showers, shower chairs, low bed heights, elevators, and accessible common areas. Be sure to filter your search by your specific room needs. You can even see detailed measurements for doors, sinks, light switches, and more.
One of the most convenient options is Four Points by Sheraton at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport. It has accessible suites with features like accessible tubs and visual fire alarms. Courtyard by Marriott Mesa at Wrigleyville West also has accessible tubs and visual disability guidance, as well as a pool lift — a feature shared by the Delta Hotels by Marriott Phoenix Mesa, Holiday Inn Phoenix-Mesa/Chandler, and Home2 Suites By Hilton Mesa Longbow among other accessible elements like the roll-in showers found at the latter two properties.
Another reason you might choose Mesa’s Holiday Inn is the low beds with space underneath. You’ll find free space under the bed at Residence Inn by Marriott Phoenix Mesa as well, along with a roll-in shower and portable shower seat. Meanwhile, Hyatt Place Phoenix/Mesa’s accessible design includes features like roll-under sinks, bedside light switches, and handheld shower heads.
Whichever property you choose, you’ll be able to access detailed information on its accessibility offerings, allowing you to book with confidence. When you book through Wheel the World, you’re guaranteed to stay in the accessible room you requested, or you get your money back — plus, the platform will price-match if you find the same room listed for less somewhere else.
Mesa: A model for accessible travel
From its top-rated ballpark to its inclusive attractions and accommodations, Mesa exemplifies what it means to be an inclusive destination. And with Wheel the World as your trusted guide, you can confidently plan a trip that combines fun, adventure, and accessibility. Ready to book? Start planning your dream spring training vacation to Mesa now. 