• Do you live in NYC and use a mobility scooter to get around? 

• Do you want to do and see more using your scooter but aren’t sure if it’s possible?

• Are you wondering about using it on public transportation?

• If any of these concerns describe you, then come along with us!

This website and blog are about taking you along on our adventures using a mobility scooter in not only the usual places, but lots of off the beaten paths in and around the five boroughs of New York City and beyond. My name is Diane and with my friend Trish (who does not use a mobility scooter but happily helps whenever it’s needed) we try to see it all taking lots of photos along the way.

There is something to see and experience everyday living in the Big Apple—from architecture, public gardens and art, parks, museum exhibits, food, seasonal and special events and so much more.   I hoped the scooter would help me continue to enjoy the city the way I always have, but was concerned about distance on a single charge and ease of use with public transportation. Being dependent on working elevators is always a concern, but once I figured out a few basics, I learned I can go almost anywhere.

For example, one of the first areas that I visited after getting my scooter was the Welling Court Murals in Astoria, Queens.  The best way to get there using a mobility scooter is by ferry. Ferries are an excellent option for traveling to the other boroughs from Manhattan, especially when where you want to go is far from an accessible subway station and/or a very long trip by bus.

Once you get to Welling Court the colorful murals cover multiple blocks in various directions—impossible to walk when walking is painful. But delightfully doable with a scooter despite poor sidewalks and original curb cuts.  I was able to see it all and get many worthwhile shots.

For lunch we checked out the few cafes in the neighborhood settling on one that had a step up to get inside. I could manage the step but did not want to leave the scooter outside unattended. The staff couldn’t have been more accommodating volunteering to bring it inside for me and plugging it in while we ate. When we got ready to leave, they brought it outside and off we went. It was a most satisfying day out, which encouraged us that I could do more.

Not too long after that first trip—over lunch at Inwood Farm (located in what’s fondly described as Upstate Manhattan), we came up with the idea to create this blog hoping to develop a dialogue with and inspire other mobility scooter users to also explore and enjoy the places we visit. Thus, Paint the Town MOBILE was born!  

Both Trish and I have lived in New York City for 40 years.  I’m a working realtor with Sotheby’s International Realty.  (If you’re looking to buy or rent an apartment, I can help you with that too.)  Trish spent most of her career in the corporate world before working at a Historic House Museum and taking on photography assignments. 

You will find we know and love our city and we do our best to keep up with its constantly changing landscape and offerings. We hope you enjoy our stories and photographs and find the information posted useful. Please feel free to e-mail us with questions and comments and do let us know how you Paint the Town MOBILE! Let’s Paint the Town together!

On Randall’s Island