Exploring new places is always more fun when you know they’re welcoming and inclusive. On our latest outing, we spent our time enjoying cozy shops, tasty eats, hands-on creativity and fall festivities, all with accessibility in mind. Each stop had its own charm and made the trip feel like a true community adventure. Here’s a look at where we went and what made each spot shine.

 

Two people are in a cozy bookstore aisle lined with colorful books. One person in a wheelchair reads a book, while the other stands, also reading. The atmosphere is warm and engaging.

Explore at Everybody’s Bookstore

This independent bookstore is a cozy spot filled with shelves of well-loved reads. The first thing you’ll notice outside is the mural, a colorful celebration of people lost in books that immediately sets a friendly tone. Just as welcoming is the spacious parking lot, which makes it easy for everyone to stop in and enjoy browsing. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an afternoon wandering the aisles and leave with your next favorite story.

 

Two people sit in a cozy restaurant, looking at menus. The woman facing the camera smiles softly. The table is set with water glasses and cutlery.

Savor the Cuisine at Kathmandu Momo House

We fueled up with a tasty lunch at Kathmandu Momo House, a spot that fills the air with the smell of steaming dumplings and rich spices. Known for its wonderful cuisine, it’s also a great place for accessibility and comfort. Accessible parking and a restroom in the main building make the visit stress-free, while plenty of low tables mean guests who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices can settle in comfortably without feeling crowded or excluded. Add in the warm atmosphere and you’ve got the perfect stop before heading off to your next activity.

 

A row of colorful ceramic mugs hangs on a wall display with black hooks. The mugs feature various designs, creating a warm, artisanal vibe.

Get Crafty at Prouty Pottery

After lunch, it was time to get creative! Prouty Pottery is the perfect place to paint seasonal gifts with friends and family, and the bright shelves of pottery pieces make choosing what to paint part of the fun. Their studio is designed with nice, clear walkways, so everyone can move around easily while picking out pottery or heading to the painting tables. Even better, Prouty Pottery is in the same building as Kathmandu Momo House, so you have access to the same accessible parking and restroom. The space feels open, inviting and family-friendly, which makes it a stress-free outing for all ages.

 

Two people sit at a wooden table in a cozy cafe, smiling and holding drinks. The warm lighting and rustic decor create a welcoming atmosphere.

Energize at Alternative Fuel

We rounded out our adventures with a fall-themed drink at Alternative Fuel, a cozy café that smells like fresh-baked goods the moment you step inside. From pumpkin spice lattes to chai, the menu is filled with seasonal favorites that taste like autumn in a cup. Best of all, the ordering counter is set at a low, easy-to-reach height, so no one has to strain or feel overlooked while placing an order. Pair that with their friendly, helpful staff, and you’ve got a place that feels as inclusive as it does delicious.

 

Two people enjoy a sunny outdoor music performance in a public square. A person in a wheelchair and another beside them face the stage, creating a warm, inclusive atmosphere.

Bonus Event: The Pumpkin Festival

We wrapped up the weekend at the Pumpkin Festival, a community tradition that’s worth marking on your calendar. This annual event is full of seasonal charm, from pumpkins being catapulted to local vendors and family-friendly activities that draw crowds from near and far. The festival is an opportunity to explore together in an open, outdoor space where pathways are wide and activities are easy to navigate. And since Alternative Fuel is located right downtown, it makes the perfect stop around the festivities to refuel and keep the fall vibes going strong.

 

Recap of a Wonderful Day

Accessibility doesn’t just happen inside a building. It shows up in the thoughtful details that make everyone feel included, whether that’s a spacious parking lot, clear walkways, or counters set at the right height. Each of these stops reminded us that small touches can make a big difference, and that inclusive adventures are the best kind of adventures. The more we celebrate and highlight these features, the more we encourage other businesses and events to follow their lead in creating welcoming spaces for all.

 

Plan your next accessible adventure to Rapid City here!

 

Please note that accessibility can vary depending on individual needs. While these locations have been highlighted for their accessible features, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead and contact businesses directly to ensure they meet your specific requirements.