Hello Local Guides! 
Accessibility is a topic that is close to my heart, and as Local Guides, we have the incredible power to make the world easier to navigate for millions of people. Over the next few posts, I and some of my local guides friends will be writing a series about the different types of accessibility we can map.
Today, let’s kick off Part 1 by focusing on Wheelchair Accessibility.
While many places might look modern, accessibility cannot be assumed—it must be observed and verified. Whether someone is using a wheelchair, a mobility scooter, or pushing a stroller, accurate information on Google Maps can make the difference between a great day out and a frustrating experience.
Here is a practical guide on what to look for, how to document it, and how to update Google Maps!
What to Look For: The 5 Key Attributes
When you visit a place, look beyond just the front door. Google Maps allows us to tag five specific wheelchair accessibility features. Here is what they actually mean:
Wheelchair-Accessible Entrance: The entryway needs to be level (no steps) and wide enough (about 3 feet / 1 meter). If there are steps, there must be a permanent or sturdy movable ramp. Note: Revolving doors do not count as accessible!
Wheelchair-Accessible Seating: Can a wheelchair user navigate the main floor easily without stairs? Look for wide aisles and standard-height tables. If a restaurant only has high-top bar tables, it is not wheelchair friendly.
Wheelchair-Accessible Restroom: The restroom entrance and the stall door itself need to be wide enough (at least 1 meter). There should be no steps to reach it, and enough space inside for a wheelchair to turn around.
Wheelchair-Accessible Parking: Look for designated spots near the entrance, usually marked with specific paint on the ground or clear signage.
Wheelchair-Accessible Elevator: If the venue has multiple floors, there must be a working elevator that is spacious enough to comfortably fit a wheelchair.
How to Add This Info to Google Maps
Adding this information is quick and incredibly impactful. Here are the best ways to contribute:
- Go to the place on Google Maps and select About > Edit features.
- Scroll down to the “Accessibility” section.
- Tap to mark
Yes,No, orNot surefor the entrance, restroom, seating, parking, and elevator.
2. Write Detailed Reviews Don’t just rely on the attributes! Write your observations in your review.
- Don’t say: “This place is accessible.” (It’s too vague!)
- Do say: “This cafe has a smooth, step-free entrance and wide aisles, making it very wheelchair friendly. The accessible restroom is located on the ground floor.”
3. Let Your Photos Speak A picture is worth a thousand reviews. Take clear photos of:
- Ramps and step-free entrances.
- The layout of seating areas.
- Designated parking spots.
Pro-Tip
Did you know about the “Accessible Places” feature on Google Maps? If you go to your Maps Settings > App & display > and turn on “Emphasise accessibility info” , Google Maps will prominently display a wheelchair icon 
right on the map next to businesses that have accessible entrances. If a place is confirmed to not have an accessible entrance, it will show a crossed-out wheelchair icon.
Sharing Some important google maps document related to Accessibility for your reference :
Accessibility in Google Maps - Android - Google Maps Help
Over to you! Do you regularly check for wheelchair accessibility when you review places? What is the most common accessibility issue you notice in your city? Let me know in the comments below! 
Stay tuned for rest of the parts, where we will dive into visual, Cognitive and hearing accessibility! @SarathUpendran @SonamW @TravellerG @Rahul001 @Gurukrishnapriya @ShreyaMusings @Nomad_Enkay @Ssiddharth2000 @curatorofmemory @SholaIB @Shalz @Ruchee2
