Sonoma County Tourism (SCT) today announced a region-wide commitment to accessibility and inclusive hospitality.
Its aim is to further Sonoma County as a welcoming, navigable, and usable destination for people of all abilities.
This is part of SCT’s broader Wine Country for All of Us initiative including a new accessibility landing page on sonomacounty.com.
It comprises clearer planning tools for travelers, and a growing network of partners committed to reliable accessibility information.
SCT has partnered with Wheel the World to formally verify accessibility features across the destination.
In the initial phase, Sonoma County has been designated “Destination Verified” by the accessible travel platform, with 72 lodging, attraction, and experience partners verified to date.
It gives travelers trusted, detailed insights to help them plan with confidence.
“Accessibility isn’t a box to check; it affects nearly everyone at some point,” said Claudia Vecchio, President and CEO of Sonoma County Tourism.
“People travel with diverse needs and at different stages of life. This work is about meeting people where they are and making it easier for them to fully experience Sonoma County.”
Wheel the World’s verification process uses consistent criteria to document layouts, features, and experiences. The result is clearer expectations and fewer unknowns for travelers, it says.
“Knowing what to expect can change everything,” said Sofia Bravo, Head of Customer Success at Wheel the World.
“By investing in verified accessibility, Sonoma County helps travelers feel informed, confident, and welcome before they even arrive.”
The initiative meets a wide range of needs, including travelers with mobility challenges, sensory sensitivities, visual or hearing impairments, cognitive differences, chronic conditions, temporary injuries, and those traveling with children or aging family members.
As multigenerational travel continues to grow, accessibility is increasingly important for bringing people together.
Local partners say the process has been both practical and eye-opening.
“I am so proud to be part of this initiative, which reflects what Sonoma County does best — care for people and care for place,” said Aphrodite Caserta, Director of Marketing and Communications for Safari West.
Sonoma County Tourism this week celebrated with a Partner Recognition Ceremony in Santa Rosa, recognizing the 72 partners designated as Accessibility Verified.
The gathering comprised a brief presentation and a toast to honor the commitment.
Looking ahead, SCT plans to expand its network of verified partners and continue supporting businesses through education and shared best practices.
The organization has also licensed the Seven Secrets of Inclusive Hospitality, a values-based framework to be shared with partners in upcoming training sessions.
