Accessibility at the New York and Pennsylvania Historic Sites

Many historic 19th century buildings and landscapes have large hills, narrow doorways, and steep staircases. We recognize that these present challenges for visitors with accessibility needs. The historic sites of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints are committed to making all reasonable accommodations for our programs, services, and facilities. Please see the individual location pages for accessibility information as you prepare for your visit.

Trained service animals are permitted at the historic sites of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints including inside historic buildings. However, emotional support, therapy, comfort, companion animals, and pets are not allowed. Trained service animals are not permitted in the Palmyra New York Temple. For more information, please see our “Service Animals” guidelines.

Visitors with Limited Mobility

Parking

Most historic sites in New York and Pennsylvania have parking lots available and most have designated accessible parking spots available. Additional information on parking at a specific location can be found on the individual location pages. 
 

Restrooms

Many historic sites in New York and Pennsylvania have ADA restrooms available. Please see the individual location pages for more detailed information on restroom availability. If you have needs that may require additional assistance, please contact staff at the individual site to make the necessary arrangements.

Wheelchair and Other Assistive Device Availability 

We strongly encourage those who may need wheelchairs or other assistive devices to bring these items with them. Several of the New York and Pennsylvania historic sites have a very limited number of wheelchairs or other assistive devices available to visitors on a first-come, first-served basis. The Hill Cumorah and the Priesthood Restoration Site provide shuttle services to transport individuals with mobility limitations to various areas of the site. The Sacred Grove Historic Site also offers a shuttle service for similar purposes, although it is important to note that the shuttle does not transport visitors into the grove itself.
 

Seating Areas During Tours 

All the tours include limited seating options. Please be aware, however, that there might not be seating in every room of a building. Additional information on seating availability at a specific location can be found on the individual location pages. 
 

Building Accessibility 

None of the upper floors of the historic buildings are wheelchair accessible. Most tours, however, are designed to remain on the first floor. In those instances when tours do include upper floors, missionaries can adapt the presentation as needed. Additional information on mobility accessibility of a specific location can be found on the individual location pages. 

Terrain and Flooring Descriptions 

Terrain throughout the historic sites of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints consist of asphalt roads, gravel or decomposed granite pathways, dirt trails, and concrete or brick walkways. Please be aware that some of the roads, sidewalks, and trails are in fair condition and may have potential hazards, including potholes and uneven surfaces. The flooring inside buildings is typically carpet, wood, or brick and is generally in good repair.

Descriptions of terrain and flooring for each venue can be found on the individual location pages.

To better preserve the historic artifacts and furnishings, the interiors of many of the historic homes in New York and Pennsylvania have low lighting conditions. Missionary tour guides can provide accommodations for those visitors who may need additional assistance including verbal descriptions of the buildings, furnishings, and exhibits upon request. 

Depending on staffing, missionaries who know American Sign Language may be available. Please contact the individual site to inquire about availability. 

Visiting historic sites can be a rich sensory experience with new sights, sounds, textures, and smells. Visitors with autism and other sensory differences may find aspects of the tour overwhelming. A brief description of what to expect at each location in New York and Pennsylvania can be found on the individual location pages. If you would like more detailed information about what to expect or would like to share any additional needs with our staff, please contact the individual site.