Decorative Waves

Twin Cities Pride Accessibility Guide

A rainbow view of the Minneapolis skyline. Friendly Like Me Accessibility at Pride

Twin Cities Pride is the largest free Pride festival in the USA, and this year, organizers have planned the most Accessible Pride in Twin Cities history!  Held on Saturday, June 29th, and Sunday, June 30th at beautiful Loring Park, this vibrant festival

Screenshot 2024-06-20 at 2.48.42 PM

highlights the best in LGBTQIA+ entertainment on four stages, featuring over 650 vendors, including LGBTQIA+ & BIPOC community resources, artists, and businesses.  The Parade is Sunday, June 30th from 11 am-2 pm, beginning at 3rd St and Hennepin and proceeding down Hennepin to Spruce.  For more information, or to leave feedback on improving Pride accessibility efforts, email accessibility@tcpride.org.  

Additionally,  a Friendly "shout out" is due to Executive Director, Andi Otto, who leverages his many years of leadership experience to help as many LGBTQ+ community members get to be their authentic selves and feel supported by their communities. 

Click here to view Twin City Pride's 2024 Festival Map at full size! 

 


Your Accessible Trip to Twin Cities Pride

Screenshot 2024-06-21 at 4.19.44 PM

 

Open the full Twin Cities Pride map here to view the entire grounds and the festival's Accessibility options up close!

 

ACCESSIBLE SEATING: MAIN STAGE

There is an accessible viewing area for every stage noted with a wheelchair icon.  

Accessible viewing areas and paths that are more accessible are noted on the map with green dots. Paths that are steep, rocky, narrow, or inaccessible are marked with yellow road signs on the map. 

 

ACCESSIBLE SEATING: PARADE 

The Accessible Grandstand viewing area is clearly delineated, has an ASL interpreter, provides shade, and has an accessible bathroom nearby. All free tickets to the Accessible Grandstand viewing area at 9th and Hennepin have been claimed. However, an additional Accessible Viewing area will be taped off on the sidewalk between the Grandstands. For attendees over 65, tickets are available here for the adjacent Senior Grandstand.  

Those who would like to explore other nearby viewing areas may find success in the following locations:  

  • By arriving no later than 9 am, you may be able to secure a curb-front spot directly on the parade route. 
  • The Minneapolis Community and Technical College has a slightly elevated area that may work for parade viewing 
  • Watch the parade from above on the bridge connecting Mayo Clinic (located on Hennepin and 1st St) to rooftop parking. Note that rooftop parking in this area is private and not designated for Pride attendees. 
  • Nearby rooftop restaurants, such as Crave, Riva Terrace, and Union Rooftop may charge a cover fee but have views of the parade from above.
  • The Hennepin (located on Hennepin and 9th St) has large glass windows on two floors from which it is possible to view the parade.

Note:  There are also Portable Restrooms all along Hennepin, and there are ADA restrooms at each bank of restrooms.

 

ACCESSIBLE SHUTTLES


Screenshot 2024-06-21 at 4.28.20 PMThe map has Designated Benches (and Golf Cart icons) to identify accessible pickup and drop-off locations.  To request a pickup, text the number on the bench with the location number on the sign. Shuttles ONLY pick up and drop off from these designated benches and will not provide transportation elsewhere. 

 

 

ACCESSIBLE BATHROOMS

Every bank of Port-a-Potties includes an ADA bathroom. Accessible bathrooms are also available in the beer garden, Screenshot 2024-06-21 at 4.32.09 PMAutism tent, and the Time of Birth zone. Additional ADA bathrooms are located near the Accessible seating area at the LGBTQ+ Pride March.

The Time of Birth booth has child and adult changing tables and an area for breast feeding and expressing milk. It is located near the Escape Space in the light blue zone.

 

ASL INTERPRETERS flat,750x,075,f-pad,750x1000,f8f8f8.u3

There are ASL Interpretation on all stages, all day long!

ASL interpreters, for Deaf/Hard of Hearing attendees  are available at the Accessibility Grandstand on 9th and Hennepin on the South Side of the street

The ASL & Interpreter Coordinator Booth is located at the Minnesota Deaf Queers booths 506 & 507 in the orange zone. If you are deaf or hard of hearing and need assistance, the wonderful humans at this booth want to help!   

 

IDENTIFYING VOLUNTEERS & STAFF

 

Pride staff, volunteers, sensory-friendly volunteers, and paramedics will be roaming the grounds in clearly color-coded shirts. 

  • Screenshot 2024-06-23 at 4.34.04 AM  Staff shirts - Kelly Green
  • Volunteer shirts - FuschiaScreenshot 2024-06-23 at 4.39.07 AM
  •  
  • Screenshot 2024-06-23 at 5.21.45 AM  Sensory Friendly shirts - Lime Green.
  • Note:  Sensory-friendly volunteers will carry sensory aids in their backpacks such as headphones and fidget toys.
  • Paramedics will be wearing official uniforms

TAKE A BREAK/LOW SENSORY SPACES

Need a break? Visit the Escape Space near the Remembrance Garden in the Light Blue Zone. This tent is designed to give anyone sensory relief and its contents are provided by Autism Minnesota. There is also a calming yard set-up outside of the tent. The Escape Space is air conditioned and has windows offering a beautiful lake view. 

 

FAMILY-FRIENDLY AREAS

Next to the Escape Space on the light blue section of the map, there is a Family Services area. This includes an ADA bathroom and a Universal Changing Place (with youth and adult changing tables). There is a quiet and relaxing area with a lactation point, fidget toys, blankets, and a Rainbow Wardrobe with gender-affirming wardrobe options. 

 

ASSISTED MOBILITY DEVICE - WHEELCHAIR RENTAL AND CHARGING 

Graphics depicting wheelchair rental and power chair plug in signs.Chairs are available to borrow at no cost at the Pride Operations area. There is limited availability.

Charging stations for people with disabilities are available at the First Aid tent near the Grant and Willow Street entrance on the East side of the park. Power is available, however, please bring the specific charger for your chair. 

 

Find Lime Scooters around Loring Park and use the discount code in the app to get around!

 

Emergency Services

  • First Aid tents can be found near the entrance at Grant and Willow Street (East side of the Park) and near the food court in the purple zone (West side of the park). 
  • First Aid tents are staffed by paramedics. Additional EMS providers are roaming the parade and festival grounds in official uniforms.

PUBLIC & ACCESSIBLE TRANSIT OPTIONS


Metro Transit Free Ride Pass decorative image

Metro Transit:  Public Transportation is the best way to get to the festival! You can get free ride passes for the festival via Metro Transit by selecting the day(s) you need a pass here:  June 29th and/or June 30th.

Metro Mobility:  Accessible buses visit designated spots next to the parade route and park. Drivers receive extensive training assisting passengers, properly securing wheelchairs and scooters, and safely operating the motorized lifts provided on every Metro Mobility vehicle. All Metro Mobility lifts can accommodate mobility devices up to 30 inches wide and 48 inches long. Metro Mobility lifts can handle approximately 800 pounds.

You can find more information at https://www.metrotransit.org/metro-mobility or by calling Metro Mobility directly, at 651-602-1111 (TTY 651-221-9886).

 

TWIN CITY PRIDE ACCESSIBILITY MAP WHEELCHAIR PLUS SIZE DEAF HARD OF HEARING BLIND LOW VISION PLUS SIZERIDE SHARE PICK UP AND DROP OFF LOCATIONS

Rideshare services will be able to pick up and drop off at Loring Park from W 15th Street near the 15th St W & Oak Grove St bus stop.

 

ACCESSIBLE PARKING

Screenshot 2024-06-23 at 4.53.39 AMAccessible parking is only valid in MARKED spaces, elsewhere you are subject to a ticket and/or tow. 

We have worked with the city of Minneapolis to provide as many Accessible parking spaces near Loring Park as possible. Please observe accessible signage and ensure you are parked in proper accessible signed spaces. For an interactive parking and transit map, please click here. Google interactive parking map

Accessible spaces around Loring Park are centered in two locations. The first is the entire block of Maple Street directly off Hennepin Avenue. Accessible spaces on this road are marked by a blue accessible hood over standard City of Minneapolis parking meters. 

The second location for handicapped parking is located on West 15th Street near the intersection of Willow Street and West 15th Street. 

For additional handicapped parking, we suggest using dedicated handicap spaces within the MCTC Ramp, as the ramp is a short distance from our handicapped parking on Maple Street. 

 

Personalized Accessible Adventures

Friendly Like MeFriendly Like Me Logo is now and forever a 100% free mobile app in which people can find and review locations all around the country for their specific access needs. In the app, you can build a personalized profile and select from a list of accessibility features to help you know at a glance whether a business is Friendly to you. From bars and hotels to hospitals and parks, we have over six million businesses waiting for you to explore!

Below, find a list of hand-picked venues near and around Twin Cities Pride with detailed information about accessible places to visit and stay.

Now get out there, go with confidence--and PRIDE!

Walker Art Center Museum

Accessibility Checklist:
  • Accessible parking is available at Vineland Place Parking Ramp with a direct connection to the Walker Art Center. Note that the parking ramp entrance is 8 feet 2 inches high
  • Sensory Friendly Sunday:  On the second Sunday of each month, the Walker hosts Sensory Friendly Sunday from 8 am to 11 am. Please email access@walkerart.org or call 612-375-7564 with questions about the sensory experiences of our current exhibitions
  • Service animals are welcome at the Walker.
  • The Walker is accessible to visitors who use wheelchairs or prefer to avoid stairs. All entrances and public areas are accessible.
  • Visitors with disabilities may use mobility devices, including manual and electric wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and manually powered mobility aids in all areas. Visitors may borrow manual wheelchairs from the Visitor Services desk located in the Main Lobby on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walker Art Center Museum Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.
Accessibility Checklist:
  • Smooth, wood flooring throughout
  • Valet parking is free with a minimum food order 
  • Flexible tables for wheelchair accommodation
  • Entrance through the hotel is wide and doors are automatic
Breva Bar and Grill Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.
Accessibility Checklist:
  • Accessible parking is available in the adjacent building with direct access to the restaurant.
  • Most dining room tables are at a suitable height for wheelchair users.
  • All bathrooms are large, private, and easily accessible for all.
  • Complimentary manual wheelchairs for rent on a  first come, first saved basis.
  • Friendly Shout Out:  All doors to the building have automatic door openers
Cardamom accessibility Friendly Like Me review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.
This popular Northeast Minneapolis taco spot is best known for its sociable patio in the warmer months, and its colorful, industrial-chic interior that offers great flavors and fiesta vibes year-round. While the menu is fantastic—try the barbacoa tacos, yuca fries, and Guava Goddess Slushy cocktail—we also love Centro for its dedication to its community and team—including frequent collaborations with nonprofits, paid volunteer hours, equitable wages and benefits for all employees, and no-cost weekly Spanish courses offered to everyone on the team.
Accessibility Checklist:
  • Centro has a courtyard parking lot, with one disability parking spot near the entrance.
  • Half of the restaurant's tables are wheelchair-friendly, with some featuring bench seating on one side.
  • Restrooms have wide doorways, each with an ADA stall with ample space and grab bars.
  •  Two out of the three entrances are fully accessible—from the parking lot and the sidewalk on 15th Street. 
  • Friendly Notice: Easy to navigate outdoor dining. In winter, without patio seating, the interior is tighter but still manageable for wheelchairs.
Centro Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.
Accessibility Checklist:
  • On-site parking with handicap spots closest to the entrance.
  • Open and spacious interior
  • Elevators available
  • Transport wheelchairs are available upon request at the Information Desk.
  • Restrooms have stalls large enough for a wheelchair and caretaker, and feature ADA-compliant door handles.
  • Friendly Shout Out:  Flat, level entrance with automatic door opener
Fika Cafe Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.
Accessibility Checklist:
  • Accessible parking is available in the parking garage just beyond the entrance door.
  • Short distance from the Metro Transit Stop
  • Smooth, tile flooring throughout
  • Some tables are modular and flexible for wheelchair accommodation
  • Friendly Notice: Inform the restaurant in advance if someone in your party uses a wheelchair or needs special accommodations to ensure the best possible experience.
  • Friendly Notice: The restaurant is underground but accessible by elevator.
Hell's Kitchen Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.
Accessibility Checklist:
  • Entrance is street-level access with no steps and wide doorway
  • Smooth, wood flooring throughout
  • Some tables are flexible for wheelchair accommodation
  • Booths have movable tables
  • Bar stools are comfortable for people of size
  • Friendly Notice: Accessible parking on the street and nearby parking garages/lots
Hen House Eatery Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.

Nolo's Kitchen & Bar

Many historic buildings can feel inaccessible or unwelcoming to folks with mobility needs, but Nolo’s Kitchen and Bar in the revamped Gardner Hardware store in the historic Maytag Co. building is certainly a welcoming space for all. The North Loop restaurant offers modern American comfort food—think burgers, pizzas, pasta, and all-day breakfast—as well as a rooftop bar in the warmer months (accessible via an elevator).

 

Accessibility Checklist:
  • Open, modern, and spacious interior allows easy maneuvering for wheelchairs and walkers.
  • Offers a variety of seating options, including wheelchair-friendly low-top tables.
  • Fully accessible restrooms with grab bars, space for a wheelchair and caretaker, and accessible sinks.
  • Friendly Notice: Accessible alternate entrance.  There are steps at the front door, but a side entrance with a ramp and automatic door opener is available.
  • Friendly Notice: On-site parking lot available with a designated handicapped placard
Nolo's Kitchen and Bar Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.
Accessibility Checklist:
  • Adjacent parking lot with two disabled spaces and free metered street parking for up to four hours with a disability placard.
  • Step-free access with an elevator and automatic door opener.
  • Spacious dining room suitable for manual and power wheelchairs.
  • Restrooms equipped with grab bars and wheelchair-friendly sinks, spacious enough for wheelchairs or caretakers.
  • Friendly Shout Out: Accessible tables are available; call ahead for reservations.
Owamni Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.
Accessibility Checklist:
  • Entrance is street-level access with no steps
  • Flexible and low tables for wheelchair accommodation
  • Offers chairs and barstools with no arms
  • Friendly Notice: No on-site parking, but nearby street parking and a parking garage with accessible spaces are available.
Pizza Luce Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.
Accessibility Checklist:
  • On-site parking and street parking
  • Street-level access with no steps, but there is a small lip at the entrance door because of the door's railing
  • Flexible tables for wheelchair accommodation
  • Friendly Notice: Access to the dining area involves passing through a corridor flanked by a food display and cashier counter.
  • Friendly Notice: Tables are closely spaced, making maneuvering difficult when the restaurant is full.
  • Friendly Notice: Outdoor seating is not exceptionally comfortable
Wise Acre Eatery Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.
Accessibility Checklist:
  • Accessible main or alternative entrance
  • Flexible tables for wheelchair accommodation
  • Private, family-style restroom available for use.
  • Friendly Notice: Bathrooms are sometimes not open to the public
  • Friendly Alert: Limited street parking is available, and there are no marked accessible parking spaces. The 1101 Lasalle Ave Garage has accessible spots and is a short distance away.
    There is also bus stop directly across the street at Nicollet Mall and 11th St S.
Caribou Coffee Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.

Joan's in the Park

Accessibility Checklist:
  • Furniture options for people of size are available, including chairs with no arms and booths with movable tables
  • Friendly Notice: Some angles and corners of the building are narrow, including areas around the bar, which may not be comfortable for people in wheelchairs or power chairs to navigate.
  • Friendly Notice: Restroom could not be confirmed to be accessible to all.
  • Friendly Alert: There is street parking in the area and a small parking lot in the back of the restaurant, but no reserved accessible spaces.
Joan's in the Park Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.

The Nicollet Diner

Accessibility Checklist:
  • Accessible interior, restroom, and main entrance
  • Offers chairs with no arms and bar stools suitable for people of size
  • Booths have movable tables
  • Private, family-style restroom available
  • Friendly Notice: Paid street parking or paid parking in a garage nearby. No reserved accessible street parking spaces.
The Nicollet Diner Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.
Accessibility Checklist:
  • Offers chairs with no arms and bar stools suitable for people of size
  • Booths have movable tables
  • Lighting is adequate for those with low vision
  • Friendly Notice: Restaurant only seems to seat about 30-50 people at any given time, and at maximum capacity, those in wheelchairs or power chairs may find it difficult to navigate due to closely-placed furniture.
Lotus Restaurant Friendly Like Me accessibility review containing scores for mobility, weight, deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities.

Back to Top

HIGHLIGHTS FROM ACCESS SPOTLIGHT