Written by Eliana Satkin, TravelAbility Insider, December 5, 2024
The Schoolhouse Hotel announces a groundbreaking partnership with TravelAbility and Samaritan Partners to establish the Center for Assistive Technology, the first-of-its-kind innovation hub for accessible travel technology for the hospitality industry.
Located in historic White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, The Schoolhouse Hotel stands as the world’s first fully accessible boutique hotel. This architectural marvel, transformed from a 1912 high school building, showcases universal design principles throughout its 30 guest rooms and public spaces. The hotel’s commitment to accessibility extends beyond physical accommodations with a restaurant seating over 100 guests, a 385-person capacity ballroom, and a rooftop bar offering panoramic views of the Allegheny Mountains. The hotel is expanding with an additional 85-room wing, spa, micro distillery, and retail offerings, enhancing guest experiences while maintaining its commitment to welcoming all guests, regardless of ability.
“This collaborative initiative creates a living laboratory where entrepreneurs can refine travel-focused assistive technology solutions in real-world hospitality settings.”
This collaborative initiative creates a living laboratory where entrepreneurs can refine travel-focused assistive technology solutions in real-world hospitality settings. The Schoolhouse Hotel provides an ideal environment for guests to experience and provide feedback on emerging accessibility innovations.
TravelAbility, a leader in advancing accessible tourism, brings its expertise in connecting innovative technology solutions with travel destinations committed to universal access. Their involvement ensures that developed technologies and services align with the actual needs of travelers with disabilities and the hospitality industry.
Samaritan Partners, a social impact venture fund, strengthens the partnership through its investment focus on early-stage, for-profit companies serving the disability community. The fund dedicates a portion of its portfolio to companies developing assistive technology for travelers with disabilities and will provide mentorship and funding for promising innovations showcased at The Schoolhouse Hotel.
This partnership represents a significant step forward in creating more inclusive travel experiences through technological innovation. The Center will serve as a proving ground where new solutions can be refined through direct feedback from travelers with disabilities, ensuring that developments truly serve the community’s needs.