Kansas City Convention Center Accessibility Guide for Wheelchair & Mobility Scooter Users

Visiting the Kansas City Convention Center (Bartle Hall) with a wheelchair or mobility scooter? Good news — this massive, modern venue is ADA-compliant and thoughtfully designed for accessibility. Whether you’re attending a convention, trade show, concert, or community event, this guide covers everything from drop-off points to construction updates, hotel shuttles, and paratransit services.

Accessible Entrances

All public entrances are wheelchair-friendly with automatic doors or push-button openers. Doorways meet ADA standards (minimum 32 inches) to fit both manual wheelchairs and most mobility scooters.

Main Accessible Entrances:

• 13th Street Entrance (between Central & Wyandotte) — Closest to main lobby and exhibit halls.

• Grand Ballroom Entrance (16th & Wyandotte) — Direct access to ballroom lobby.

• Municipal Auditorium Entrance — Uses the 13th Street drop-off zone.
  

Drop-Off, Pickup & Paratransit Zones

• 13th Street Entrance — The primary curbside zone for ride-shares, taxis, personal vehicles, and KCATA RideKC Freedom paratransit vans.

• 16th & Wyandotte Entrance — Best for events in the Grand Ballroom.

• Municipal Auditorium — Shares the 13th Street access point with Bartle Hall.
  

💡 Tip: If you’re arriving via Uber, Lyft, or hotel shuttle, the 13th Street entrance is the most direct and construction-friendly choice right now.

Current Construction & Parking Limitations

The underground parking garage beneath the Convention Center is undergoing renovations, which means:

• Reduced parking availability.

• Possible elevator closures from the garage to the main lobby.

• Temporary detours or re-routed pedestrian access.
  

Best Alternative Options:

• Use street-level drop-off at the 13th Street entrance.

• Park in nearby public garages or surface lots, then use accessible sidewalks and ramps.
  

Inside the Convention Center

• Ramps & Elevators: ADA-compliant ramps connect all levels. Elevators are positioned throughout with controls at accessible height.

• Seating: Accessible seating areas with adjacent companion seating in meeting rooms and event halls.

• Restrooms: ADA-compliant restrooms with wide stalls, grab bars, and accessible sinks. Family/unisex restrooms are also available.

• Service Animals: Welcome throughout the facility.
  

Hotel Shuttles That Serve the Convention Center

Several downtown Kansas City hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to the Convention Center. While schedules vary by event, these hotels often have shuttles running before and after major conventions:

1. Loews Kansas City Hotel – Directly connected to the Convention Center via walkway.

2. Crowne Plaza Kansas City Downtown – Frequent shuttle service within a short radius, including the Convention Center.

3. Hotel Kansas City – By request, with advance notice for accessibility needs.

4. Kansas City Marriott Downtown – Less than 2 blocks away, offers accessible shuttles on event days.
   

💡 Pro Tip: Always call ahead to confirm shuttle accessibility for mobility scooters or wheelchairs, as lift-equipped vehicles may need advance scheduling.

Accessible Transportation Options

• RideKC Freedom (Paratransit) – Learn more here.

• RideKC Buses – All buses are wheelchair-accessible with ramps or lifts.

• Uber/Lyft WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) – Limited availability; request through the app.
  

Plan Your Visit

• Location: 301 W 13th St, Kansas City, MO 64105

• Official Website: https://kcconvention.com

• Mobility Rentals: KC Mobility Scooter Rentals — Call (913) 775-1098 for manual wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and transport chairs delivered to your hotel or the Convention Center.
  

✅ With wide entrances, ADA-compliant facilities, and multiple transportation options, the Kansas City Convention Center is ready to welcome every guest — and with a little planning, you can make your trip smooth, stress-free, and fully accessible.

Source: KCConvention.com