Visit California is making it easier for travellers with disabilities to plan their perfect Golden Coast getaway with the launch of its new Accessibility Hub, an online platform designed to streamline accessible travel across the state, without wading through scattered sources.
The online resource gathers essential information in one place, from wheelchair-friendly hotels and sensory-friendly attractions to transportation options, planning tips, and answers to common accessibility questions.
“Road trips in California are all about traveling without compromise. There really is something for everyone thanks to the state’s abundance of experiences and inclusive culture,” said Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California.
To bring the hub to life, Visit California teamed up with disability experts and creators, including Cory Lee, an award-winning accessible travel writer, and renowned disability advocate and BAFTA-winning television presenter, Sophie Morgan, both sharing their insights, providing practical tools and firsthand guidance for tourists seeking barrier-free experiences throughout California. Morgan also fronts the “Joy Diversion”, a new original show, which premiered on 28 July on Visit California’s YouTube channel. The three-part travel series showcases accessible road-trip routes across the state’s diverse landscapes – from broad coastlines to mountain ranges – and demonstrates California’s inclusive travel potential.
“Since moving to California, I’ve been blown away by how easy and joyful road tripping can be,” said Morgan. “This series is a reflection of that, it’s about celebrating movement, spontaneity and the joy of the open road.”
The release of the hub is strategic and timely, as California is preparing to host major international events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. Both are expected to draw global attention and boost tourist arrivals in the state.
Besides, this is an especially relevant message amid international tourism to the United States is dropping as a result of President Trump’s policies and rhetoric, and many potential visitors have started to think that the United States has lost its past appeal.
In April, California Governor Gavin Newsom released a marketing video aimed at Canadian travellers, encouraging them to keep the Golden State on their vacation list. Posted on X, the video highlighted California’s distance from Washington, D.C. – “2,000 miles away” and “a world away in mindset” – and urged potential tourists not to let politics stop them from enjoying the state’s diverse attractions, stunning coastlines, and year-round outdoor adventures.
The Golden State and Canada have always shared so much in common.
— Governor Gavin Newsom (@CAgovernor) April 15, 2025
Sure, you-know-who is trying to stir things up back in DC, but don't let that ruin your vacation plans.
We're launching a new international campaign to welcome and encourage Canadians to visit the Golden State. pic.twitter.com/ko24o5WkWp
“Don’t let ‘you-know-who’ in Washington, D.C., disrupt your plans to vacation in the Golden State,” said Newsom in the video,referring to President Donald Trump, emphasising the distinction between California’s tourism appeal and the current U.S. administration’s political course.
Today, California remains the top US travel destination, with visitors spending $157.3 billion in 2024, contributing to the state’s economy, which is now the fourth-largest in the world. Supporting this tendency, the Accessibility Hub and Joy Diversion series will be a part of California’s broader Playful Journeys initiative, which emphasises inclusive tourism and immersive experiences for all. With its mix of practical tools and inspirational storytelling, the hub aims to position California as a leader in accessible travel.
