It’s Summer – the time of year when everyone is outdoors, enjoying hot days and warm nights, and the many attractions that are specific to this time of year.

For anyone living with a disability, especially anyone who uses a wheelchair, there’s a good chance you’re well versed in all the entertainment venues, public events and out-door activities you can easily and comfortably visit in your local area over the holiday season.

In the past some of the best things about Summer (especially those outdoors), have not been accessible for everyone to visit. In recent years that has changed.  Local governments, City Councils and event organisers have further recognised the need to make all public places and events accessible for people living with a disability including wheelchair users.

So, we thought about the best things to do in Summer, and have compiled a list of those that include wheelchair access in the cities where Sana Living are currently operating from; Sana Living’s Top 5 Wheelchair Accessible Attractions For People With A Disability This Summer!

1. Watch a Movie At Twilight.

Whether you’re on a roof top, tucked away in a garden or a park, there’s nothing better than watching your favourite holiday movie, foreign film, or the latest blockbuster under the stars in the warm night air.  Twilight cinemas usually run right through until the end of March, so there’s plenty of screening s to choose from. Many outdoor cinema venues have upped the entertainment factor with food trucks, pop-up bars and even live music. Most of these venues are wheelchair accessible for people with a disability, with accessible toilets and parking. You can add access requests to your booking at checkout at most venues, and some will honour the Companion Card ticket.

2. Make A Splash

For so long, anyone with a disability using a wheelchair was unable to go beyond the footpath at most beaches. Thankfully most city councils around Australia have recognised the need to make all areas accessible to wheelchair users.  Not just the carpark, but now also the sand and the waves.

There are accessible beach mats located all over Australia. To find an accessible beach near you, click here. Alternatively we’ve listed a few in the cities we currently have developments in. You can click on the location to learn more about the beach access.

  • Western Australia
  1. Cottesloe beach
  2. City Beach
  3. Rockingham
  4. Northern Beaches
  • Queenlsand
  1. Suttons Beach
  2. Moreton Bay
  3. Burleigh Heads Pavillion / Beach
  • South Australia

A list of all accessible beaches across South Australia is here.

3. Explore the Outdoor Sunset Markets

Outdoor sunset markets are typically held in scenic locations like parks or beaches, creating a picturesque backdrop for browsing the stalls and enjoying the atmosphere.  Unlike other weekend or farmers markets, sunset markets might feature live music, street performers and other forms of entertainment.

At most markets you’ll find a wide variety of local products, handmade crafts, artisan foods and unique clothing and accessories, as well as food trucks and vendors selling a variety of cuisines, and also wine, beer or cocktails. This allows visitors to socialize with friends while enjoying a meal and drink with the live entertainment.

Most sunset markets are also family friendly, and some will include activities for children like facepainting, marshmallow roasting or balloons.  Importantly, market venues are accessible for anyone with a disability including wheelchair access, Street Parking, toilets and paved access to stalls.

4. Catch a Live Game Courtside

It’s Basketball Season in Australia, and if you’ve never been to a live NBL game in your local city, you’re missing out on a fun and exciting experience. Not only will you get to some of the best players in the country compete live, the energy and atmosphere of a live game in a packed out arena is electric, and so very different to watching on television. There’s quarter time and half time entertainment including cheerleaders, mascots and competitions, plus a live game can give you a better understanding of the sport and skill involved.

The venues for live basketball games in Australia are all accessible and make for an easy, fun night out.  For more on the venues see below.

5. Soak Up Some Culture

Exploring your city’s cultural scene can be a great way to learn more about the history, customs and culture of the locals. Soaking up a bit of culture can expand your horizons, amd give you a new perspective, undertsanding and appreciation in the diversity and richness of the world around you.

Depending on what city you’re in and what type of culture you’re interested in, some suggestions for places to visit and experience local culture might include:

Museums, cultural centres, libraries, outdoor spaces with cultural significance or memorial centres, festivals or events celebrating culture, religious institutions like temples, mosques or churches, theatres or performance venues, and other historical sites and landmarks.

The majority of these venues and locations are accessible for people with a disability or wheelchair users. Even historical sites and buildings with heritage listings, (built prior to building requirements for accessibility), should now be accessible for anyone with a disability wanting to visit.

If you’re not sure about where to get your culture fix, here’s few ideas to get you started.

  • Western Australia – Perth Cultural Centre in Perth- Northbridge – Home to the art gallery, museum, library and state theatre, this cultural hotspot also hosts events and shows and is a fully accessible precinct.
  • Queensland – Southbank Brisbane – Also known as the cultural heart of Brisbane, you can explore galleries, museums, theatres, parklands, markets, and dining all within one fully accessible location.
  • South Australia – Her Majesty’s Theatre and Adelaide Festival Centre, located in the Riverbank precinct boasts a variety of visual art, dance, music, theatre, comedy, first nation talks, artspace, and dining.