From its transportation system to housing programs, Sweden aims to improve the lives of its disabled citizens and visitors by making the city more easily accessible. Many local tourist attractions are following suit, renovating facilities with improvements such as wheelchair ramps and escalators. Here are a few popular Stockholm area attractions that are fun, affordable, and easily accessible for all patrons.
1. ABBA: The Museum
ABBA fans will love this museum paying tribute to Sweden’s most famous band. You can learn about how the pop icons met and grew to become a world-famous band, with exhibits featuring pieces such as Benny’s piano and equipment from the Polar Studio. Guests can also hit the dance floor or even step into recreated scenes from the band’s history. Each exhibit is free of steps for easier accessibility, and elevators are available for mobility-impaired individuals. The museum also has on-site disabled parking and free access for caregivers.
2. Skansen
On sunny days, you can head outside to visit this open-air museum that covers five centuries of Sweden’s rich past. The whole family can check out demonstrations of traditional crafts by characters in period costumes, learn about interesting Scandinavian wildlife at the zoo, and purchase unique handmade souvenirs in the gift shop. Skansen is wheelchair-friendly, featuring lifts, ramps, and free wheelchair rental with a valid ID.
3. Moderna Museet
See some of the finest art collections of 20th and 21st century, including pieces from both local and international artists. Walking through the museum, you’ll see permanent exhibits, interactive works, and collections that rotate seasonally. Guided tours are available daily in a variety of languages, including special tours for the visually impaired and guests living in long-term care facilities. This museum is housed in a building that is accessible for those who are physically disabled – it includes barrier-free wheelchair-accessible exhibits, disabled parking outside the main entrance, and offers wheelchairs for rent.
4. Vasa Museum
You can visit this historic museum to learn all about nautical history and coastal life through the ages in Sweden. The museum features one of the oldest preserved ships in the world, dating back to the 17th century. After going through the museum’s exhibits, guests can relax in the on-site restaurant for a traditional Swedish meal and an oceanfront view. Almost the entire establishment is wheelchair-accessible, with accessible toilets, lifts, door sensors, and wheelchair rental. Visually impaired visitors can take Braille tours and learn more about exhibits through scale models.
5. Eriksdalsbadet
The biggest swimming center in Stockholm, this complex features both indoor and outdoor pools and spas. The outdoor pool was built to host the 1962 European Aquatics Championships and is still a favorite spot for swimmers to gather and train. The facility is accessible to disabled individuals, including larger dressing rooms designed for those who are physically challenged. All staff members are also FaR-trained.
Photos by Karen Pérez Guzmán and Melker Dahlstrand
