Accessible Entertainment & Dining in Howard County

Accessible Entertainment

Merriweather Post Pavilion - Columbia

Merriweather Post Pavilion was recently recognized by the Howard County Commission on Disabilities for its commitment to providing accessible and welcoming outdoor concert experiences. Certificates of recognition were also awarded by Congressman John Sarbanes (Rep D-MD, 3rd District), the Maryland General Assembly, and County Executive Calvin Ball.

Advance notice is key when requesting accommodations. As soon as you plan to attend an event, contact the box office at 410-715-5550 or info@merriweathermusic.com to discuss your accessibility needs.

Here are some key accessibility features at the venue:

  • ADA-accessible parking is available in Lots 2 and 4 (reserve in advance via the website).
  • Accessible seating can be purchased through Ticketmaster or the box office. Wheelchair and scooter-accessible seating is available, with companion seating provided using plastic folding chairs.
  • Hearing and vision accommodations may be available upon request. To find accessible seating on Ticketmaster, click the “filters” button in the upper-right corner and toggle on “Accessibility.”
  • Sign language interpreters can be requested in advance by emailing info@merriweathermusic.com (availability depends on demand).

For additional questions about service animals, medications, or allergies, contact the venue ahead of time. Once you arrive, relax and enjoy the show!

Toby’s Dinner Theatre - Columbia

Toby’s offers a unique dinner-and-show experience where actors double as waitstaff. The theatre provides designated sign-interpreted performances for each show, with interpreter services available upon request (subject to interpreter availability).

Seating for guests using mobility devices is available on the main floor but fills quickly, so early reservations are recommended. For ticketing and accommodations, call 410-730-8311 or 1-800-88-TOBYS (8-6297). The staff is happy to assist with any accessibility needs.

AxGard Axes – Ellicott City

📍 8390 Main St., Ellicott City, MD 21043
📞 240-494-6881 | 🌐 axgardaxes.com

AxGard Axes is located on the second floor of a historic Main Street building without an elevator or wheelchair lift. While ambulatory wheelchair users may be able to navigate the stairs, they can be challenging. The upstairs area has accessible restrooms.

For Deaf or hard-of-hearing guests, visual demonstrations and written instructions are provided. However, axe throwing is a loud activity, and while music and TV volumes may be adjusted, this cannot be guaranteed on busy nights. The splatter paint room is not recommended for guests with sensitivities to bright lights or overstimulation.

Street parking is limited and on a hill, so the best option is Parking Lot F, located 2-3 blocks away. Additional parking is available throughout downtown Ellicott City. Call ahead for more details on accommodations.

Accessible Dining

Manor Hill Brewing

Manor Hill Brewing, Howard County’s first and Maryland’s largest farm brewery, offers accessible parking and restrooms. Parking is located near the entrance, with paved roads and walkways throughout most public areas.

Some areas, such as the chicken coop, private event barn, and goat enclosure, are hilly and may be difficult for manual wheelchair users. However, the main courtyard and taproom area are flat and easily accessible.

The Turn House

The Turn House offers a 360-degree virtual tour (view here) to help guests assess accessibility before their visit.

Key accessibility features:

  • Flat entryway, wide hallways, and open seating for easy wheelchair and scooter maneuverability.
  • All areas, including the outdoor patio, are on one level.
  • Accessible restrooms and parking are available, with a paved path leading from the parking lot to the entrance.

The Turn House is located at Hobbit’s Glen Golf Course. For additional questions, call ahead.

Victoria Gastro Pub

Victoria Gastro Pub provides a spacious dining area with ample room for wheelchair or scooter users. Half-booths accommodate wheelchairs, or guests can transfer to padded booth seating.

Additional accessibility features:

  • Step-free entry and a single-level layout.
  • Automatic front doors for easy access.
  • Some staff members are trained in basic ASL.
  • Accessible parking and restrooms are available.