Experience Grand Rapids partners with Wheel the World to help travelers with disabilities plan with confidence
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Experience Grand Rapids has partnered with global accessible travel platform Wheel the World to launch a first-of-its-kind AI accessibility travel tool, designed to help travelers with disabilities find accessible hotels, restaurants, attractions and activities in Kent County.
The AI-powered accessibility agent brings together years of detailed accessibility data into one easy-to-use planning tool. Travelers can ask questions about general trip planning or specific accessibility needs and receive clear, customized answers in seconds.
Built on years of accessibility leadership
The launch builds on nearly a decade of collaboration between EXGR and Disability Advocates of Kent County, as well as extensive venue mapping and third-party accessibility assessments conducted in partnership with Wheel the World.
The agent draws from more than 300 DAKC venue reviews, 50+ Wheel the World assessments and accessibility-related articles and influencer insights published by Experience Grand Rapids.
“We are the first destination globally to implement this technology because we’ve been investing in accessible tourism for years,” said Kate Lieto, vice president of marketing at Experience Grand Rapids. “This tool reflects our commitment to being a welcoming destination for all travelers. It provides both general information about Grand Rapids and highly detailed accessibility insights in one place, helping visitors plan with greater clarity and confidence.”
Early beta testers have praised the tool’s screen reader compatibility, mobile friendliness and ability to provide specific, practical details about venues and experiences.
Reducing uncertainty for travelers
For many travelers with disabilities, the greatest barrier isn’t always physical infrastructure—it’s uncertainty.
By centralizing verified accessibility data in a conversational format, the AI tool makes it easier for visitors to understand exactly what accommodations are available before they arrive.
A tool designed to grow
Unlike static website listings, the AI agent is designed to continuously improve as more data, feedback and real-world usage are incorporated. Lieto emphasized that the launch represents progress, not completion.
“Accessibility is a journey, not a finish line,” she said. “This tool is an important step forward, but we know it will continue to evolve. We invite travelers to use it, provide feedback and grow with us as we continue mapping more venues and expanding accessibility information across Kent County.”
The AI accessibility agent is the first of several AI driven tools Wheel the World plans to roll out as part of its broader mission to make travel truly accessible for everyone.
“Grand Rapids has built one of the most detailed accessibility data ecosystems in the country,” said Alvaro Silberstein, CEO and co-founder of Wheel the World. “By combining that verified data with AI, we’re creating a new way for travelers with disabilities to plan trips with confidence. Grand Rapids is setting an example for other destinations to follow.”
For more information and to explore accessible travel resources, visit www.ExperienceGR.com/Accessibility.
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About Experience Grand Rapids
Established in 1927, Experience Grand Rapids (EXGR) leads the marketing of Grand Rapids/Kent County as a premier convention & visitor destination providing a significant positive impact to the West Michigan economy. Previously named the Grand Rapids/Kent County Convention & Visitors Bureau, EXGR represents the second largest city in Michigan with over one million residents.