Accessibility in New Orleans with Mark Raymond, Jr.

Mark Raymond, Jr. knows New Orleans. As a native, he’s spent his life advocating for the community and the people who call New Orleans home. But when an accident in 2016 left Mark unable to walk, he found himself learning a new side to New Orleans. It’s no secret that New Orleans, in her 300+ years, shows signs of her age. As Mark learned how to navigate the landscape in a new way, it lead him to examine disparities in access for those living with ambulatory disabilities.

Mark founded Split Second Foundation in the years following his accident with the mission to improve the quality of life for individuals with mobility disabilities. Mark invited us to join him in exploring the city–from arriving at the airport to experiencing a festival. He also shared a few of his favorite restaurants, attractions, and hotels that are particularly well-suited to anyone exploring the city in a wheelchair.

Mark's Top Picks for Accessible Dining in New Orleans

Chemin a la Mer

What They Do Well for Disabled Diners: They do all of it. Open, spacious. Great atmosphere. Accommodate any needs, like cutting up food.

What He Orders: Filet, side of spinach, potatoes au gratin. 

Juan’s Flying Burrito (The Downtown Location)

What They Do Well for Disabled Diners: They just get it. The only challenge is the bathroom–it isn’t as accessible, but the food is great. Reasonably priced. Central location. 

What He Orders: Jerk Chicken Burrito is a good damn burrito. Easy to pick up – it’s wrapped in foil and doesn’t require utensils.  

Tsunami

What They Do Well for Disabled Diners: Easily accessible from public transportation. Downtown. Great bathrooms. 

What He Orders: Yellowtail sashimi and an order of rolls. 

Mark’s Top Picks for Accessible Attractions in New Orleans

Audubon Aquarium

What They Do Well for Disabled Patrons: They do everything well. They’re very accommodating. There’s lots of room. The restrooms are accessible, the staff are nice, and there are nearby public transportation stops. 

Why He Loves Going There: If I’m feeling adventurous, I hop on the ferry or stroll along the River. It’s connected to so many other activities nearby. 

Maison

What They Do Well for Disabled Patrons: Frenchmen Street can get rowdy. The folks at Maison are flexible. If a bartender needs to come around the bar to bring me my drink, she can do that.  

Why He Loves Going There: It’s easy to roll in. It’s a great time.

Smoothie King Center for Pelicans Games

What They Do Well for Disabled Patrons: The ladies in the blue coats are always willing to help, which makes the experience better. Plus, there are plenty of food options.  

Why He Loves Going There: I’m a big basketball fan. And it’s wide open.

Mark’s Top Picks for Accessible New Orleans Hotels

Windsor Court Hotel

What They Do Well For Disabled Guests: I always see people in wheelchairs there. The majority of the rooms are accessible or can be made accessible, and they have equipment in case you need a shower chair. They will figure out a way to make it happen.  

Favorite Amenity or Experience at their Property: They have a great bar and a great restaurant. The pool area is also great– the pool has a lift. It’s all of the little things. 

Harrah’s Hotel

What They Do Well For Disabled Guests: A lot of their guests are older or have mobility issues. So, they go out of their way to make sure those guests have a positive experience. 

Favorite Amenity or Experience at their Property: The attached casino is built-in entertainment, so it feels like a one-stop shop, with food, entertainment, and gambling. 

NOPSI Hotel

What They Do Well For Disabled Guests: All of the ADA rooms are very spacious–they accommodate wheelchairs easily, and are big and spacious. They have a great staff. They get it. 

Favorite Amenity or Experience at their Property: When I want a Downtown getaway, this is where I stay. The price point is good, and it’s close to some of my favorite places to go, like Juan’s on Baronne, Chapter IV, Sazerac Room, the Superdome, Smoothie King Center, and public transportation.  

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Looking for even more accessibility-friendly locations in New Orleans? Mark recommends checking out The Roll Mobility App. It includes reviews and photos from actual users and is a great source of information for everything from restaurants to attractions and more.