Accessibility

The Detroit Institute of Arts is happy to provide a number of resources for patrons with differing abilities during their visit to the museum.

A visitor looking at black and white photography in a special exhibition while their service dog sits patiently next to them.

A visitor looks at black and white photography in a special exhibition while their service dog sits patiently next to them.

Service animals are welcome at the Detroit Institute of Arts.

No reservations are required. Request a wheelchair or scooter from a visitor services representative upon check-in. 

The museum’s main entrances on John R and Farnsworth Street are wheelchair accessible. Elevators are located throughout the building. 

View our museum map

Accessible metered parking is located in front of the Farnsworth entrance. Additional accessible spaces are located in the southwest corner of the DIA’s parking lot on John R. A state-issued disability parking placard is required to use reserved spaces. 

For more information about accessible parking placards in Michigan visit the Secretary of State's website here

Live or virtual descriptive tours are available upon request. Every effort will be made to arrange for a tour guide, but advance notice will help guarantee someone is available. Contact [email protected] to request a tour. 

Gallery lighting is kept dim to prevent the artwork from fading or discoloring over time. Personal lighting devices are permitted, but please be mindful of your proximity to the art. We ask that visitors remain at least 18 inches away from all artwork. Please do not gesture within 18 inches of an artwork. 

ASL Requests: To request an ASL interpreter for digital or live programming contact [email protected]. Every effort will be made to arrange for an interpreter, but advance notice will help guarantee someone is available. 

Art in ASL: In partnership with DeafC.A.N.! in Oakland County, the DIA created a series of art talks in ASL to support people who are Deaf and DeafBlind. Each talk features an ASL interpreter, open captions, and audio descriptions with transcripts for braille readers.

Check out Art in ASL on Youtube

Assistive Listening Devices are available for films screened in the Detroit Film Theatre Auditorium.