Thanks to provisions in the Americans with Disabilities Act, most public places in the U.S. are required to comply with disability-friendly regulations. Almost all public establishments (including hotels, restaurants, museums, and so on, but not certain National Historic Landmarks), and at least some modes of public transportation provide accessible entrances and other facilities for those with mobility challenges.

The America the Beautiful -- National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass -- Access Pass (formerly the Golden Access Passport) gives visually impaired or permanently disabled persons free lifetime entrance to federal recreation sites administered by the National Park Service (NPS).

The America the Beautiful pass can only be obtained in person at any NPS facility that charges an entrance fee. The pass also offers a 50% discount on some federal-use fees for facilities such as camping, swimming, parking, boat launching, and tours. For answers to common questions, visit www.nps.gov/fees_passes.htm or call the United States Geological Survey (USGS; tel. 888/275-8747), which issues the pass.

Many hotels and restaurants in Georgia provide easy access for persons with disabilities. However, it's always a good idea to call ahead to make sure.

The Georgia Governor's Developmental Disabilities Council (tel. 888/275-4233; www.gcdd.org) may also be of help. The Georgia Department of Industry, Trade & Tourism publishes a guide, Georgia on My Mind, that lists attractions and accommodations with access for persons with disabilities. To receive a copy, contact Tour Georgia, 75 5th St., Technology Sq., Atlanta, GA 30308 (tel. 800/VISIT-GA, ext. 1903; www.georgia.org/travel).

For transportation within Georgia, individuals with disabilities can contact Handicapped Driver Services (tel. 877/437-8267 or 457-9851; www.hdsvans.com) or Wheelchair Getaways, Inc. (tel. 800/642-2042; www.wheelchairgetaways.com).

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.