There’s no better place to enjoy a romantic February getaway than at The Ahwahnee (https://www.travelyosemite.com/lodging/the-ahwahnee/) in Yosemite National Park. The site of fairy tale weddings and grand holiday celebrations, this historic property boasts a subtle mix of Art Deco, Native American and Middle Eastern architectural styles; and the towering ceilings, stained glass windows and a massive stone fireplace serve to unite these cultures and present a welcoming – and very romantic – ambiance. How can you miss with the hotel that served as the inspiration for the grand interior shots of the fictional Overlook Hotel in The Shining? And if that’s not enough, this upscale property also offers impressive views of Half Dome, Glacier Point and Yosemite Falls.  Even better — although this crown jewel of Yosemite National Park dates back to the 1920s, numerous renovations have made it even more accessible for wheelchair-users and slow walkers.

A Suite to Remember

Although the Ahwahnee boasts a nice variety of accessible rooms, the accessible junior suite — room 206 — is the perfect choice for a romantic getaway. Access features include wide doorways, barrier-free pathways, and plenty of room in this spacious suite which occupies the space of two standard hotel rooms.

The sitting room has a 12-inch high single sofa bed, two end tables, a coffee table, two side chairs, an armoire and a mini refrigerator. There’s level access to the adjacent bedroom, which features equally good access, and is furnished with a 30-inch high king-sized bed with wheelchair-access on both sides, two bedside tables, a small table with two chairs, an armoire and a mini refrigerator.

The bathroom has a full five-foot turning radius, and is equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. The toilet grab bars are located on the left and back walls (as seated), and the bathroom also has a roll-under sink.

Top it off with a lowered peephole, lever handles and a lowered clothing rod, and you have a very well designed and functional accessible room. It’s really one of the nicest accessible rooms on the property.

A Feast Fit for a King

Although there’s no shortage of eateries in the park, the famed Ahwahnee Dining Room is a must-do for that special dinner. Located just off the main lobby, it’s definitely the most elegant restaurant in the park. The historic dining room is a sight to behold with its 34-foot high ceilings, granite pillars and massive chandeliers; and the good news is, there’s level access from the lobby and plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair between the tables.

Dinner offerings include steak, swordfish and salmon, with a good selection of soups and salads. Indeed it’s the perfect place to steal away for a romantic meal. Don’t forget to make reservations – preferably before you arrive at the park – as tables go fast at this popular restaurant. In fact, folks have been known to drive for several hours just to dine at this Yosemite landmark. Coupled with an overnight stay, it’s definitely the perfect choice for a romantic getaway.