Fun Summer Activities for People with Disabilities in Georgia

As Georgia’s temperatures rise and summer approaches, families across the state begin searching for ways to enjoy the outdoors. But for many Georgians with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), planning a day of summer fun often comes with an extra question: Will this activity be accessible?

People with disabilities have worked hard to make more places accessible. Accessible means that everyone can use a space or take part in an activity, no matter their ability. There is still more work to do, but things are getting better!

Finding Fun in South Georgia

Mitzi Proffitt lives in Bulloch County and works with a group called Participant Directed Advocates for Georgia (PDAG). She helps people with disabilities find support and activities.

Mitzi says that finding accessible things to do near her home is still hard. She and her son have been looking for accessible activities for 30 years!

“When I started thinking about accessible and inclusive things to do for adults, I had to stop and think for a moment, because there really aren’t many options,” said Proffitt. “Unfortunately, there are no set events specifically for this community. Many of us end up traveling somewhere else to find accessible activities.”

For 30 years, Proffitt and her son have looked for accessible activities in their area. Some options she has found include bowling, church events, and ball games. But these are not always planned with people with disabilities in mind.

“What it really comes down to is education,” said Proffitt. “We must help the public understand that accessibility is not just about money—it is about making spaces usable and welcoming for everyone.”

Disability advocates across Georgia are always looking for new summer activities. Jessica Cowell is a person with I/DD who lives in Columbus. She is part of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD). Jessica stays very busy in her community and knows lots of great spots!

Here are some of her favorite accessible places in Columbus:

• Columbus State University – offers arts and science programs that are often made accessible for families
• Columbus Public Library – has programs for kids of all ages, plus a monthly event for people with disabilities
• Springer Opera House – offers the Springer Academy in summer and works hard to be welcoming and inclusive
• Coca-Cola Space Center, Columbus Museum, Oxbow Meadows Learning Center and the National Infantry Museum
• Downtown Columbus – always has events going on!

"Overall, there's a variety of things to do in Columbus for people of all different ages and abilities," Jessica said.

Leslie Kate Thornton lives in St. Marys and is also on the GCDD council. She has cerebral palsy, so accessibility is very important to her. She loves the Georgia coast and knows many great spots there. She says, “Coastal Georgia is known for its beautiful marsh landscapes, historical towns, and relaxed pace of life,” said Thornton. “For people with disabilities and families looking for accessible outings, several destinations along Georgia’s coast are working to make sure everyone can enjoy what the area has to offer.”

Here are some accessible places on the Georgia coast she recommends:

• Jekyll Island Trails – over 20 miles of mostly paved trails through beautiful scenery
• Georgia Sea Turtle Center – has ramps, accessible exhibits, and viewing areas to watch sea turtles being cared for
• St. Marys Waterfront – flat sidewalks, accessible parking, and open spaces
• Dolphin Tours – many tours leave from accessible docks
• Downtown Brunswick – accessible sidewalks, restaurants, and public spaces

Thornton says that a program called All-Terrain Georgia is also helping make the state more accessible. They have special chairs that can roll over sand and trails at places like Cumberland Island and Crooked River State Park.

In the mountains near Dahlonega, there is a group called ConnectAbility. They hold events where people with disabilities and their families can make friends, enjoy nature, and be part of the community.

The group was started in 2001 by a woman named Jacqueline Daniel. She saw that people with disabilities needed more activities and support. She wanted to change that!

“Dahlonega is a beautiful location that’s easily accessible from Atlanta and offers stunning natural wonders,” says Daniel. “Providing access to these unique landscapes for people with disabilities improves the experience for everyone. From multiple accessible playgrounds, hiking trails, the Appalachian Trail, and an accessible kayak launch in Downtown Dahlonega, there are lots of opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.”

ConnectAbility started very small — just one participant and six volunteers. Now, more than 100 people come to their monthly Sidekicks events! They also hold pool parties and sensory-friendly story times throughout the year.

Accessible things to do in Dahlonega include:

• Accessible playgrounds
• Accessible hiking trails and parts of the Appalachian Trail
• An accessible kayak launch in Downtown Dahlonega

The goal of ConnectAbility is to provide a safe and comfortable space for people with I/DD. Their work has not gone unnoticed. Last year, GCDD awarded Daniel the 2025 Spirit of Kim Unsung Hero Award. The award recognized her selfless service and commitment to Georgia’s I/DD community.

“Being recognized with the Spirit of Kim Award is such an honor. Having the opportunity to meet Kim’s mom at the award presentation was so meaningful and drove home the responsibility to uphold the legacy of Kim Person in our work,” said Daniel. “It’s humbling to be recognized by a group of so many people across the state who work tirelessly for people with disabilities.”

From the Georgia coast to the mountains, people all over the state are working hard to make summer fun for everyone. Leaders like Jacqueline Daniel and groups like ConnectAbility show us that accessible activities are growing — and will keep getting better!

Tell Us About Fun Places Near You!

Do you know a fun summer activity near you that is accessible and inclusive? GCDD wants to hear from you! It could be a summer camp, an outdoor adventure, or a community event.

Your ideas might even be featured in GCDD's Making a Difference magazine!

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