Many businesses and public spaces already provide special accommodations for children with sensory sensitivities and disabilities. However, we know how difficult it can be to locate information for these businesses. So to help, we have compiled a listing below, to help identify businesses near you that are already supporting sensory inclusion.
What is a Sensory-Friendly Hour? | Our Directory | Chicagoland | New England | Sensory Scout Project
What is a Sensory-Friendly Hour?
Many businesses will advertise a sensory-friendly hour. A sensory-friendly hour is a way that a business can be more inclusive, by making minor modifications to allow a section of the population to participate, that would not otherwise be able to. Each business may make different modifications for their inclusion effort. Generally speaking, most sensory-friendly hours often include reduced noise, reduced lighting and possibly even reduced capacity.
Our Directory
Our directory indicates which businesses have sensory-friendly hours, adaptive programming available and what accommodations are available at a business outside of a sensory-friendly hour.
You should always reach out directly to the business for specific details of what accomodations are available, as information is always changing. We have included a link to the business for easier review. Note that the information in our directory may not reflect changes made due to COVID-19.
Search below by city, zip code, or keyword to find sensory-friendly activities in your area.
Chicagoland
| Place | Place Type | Location | Sensory Hours Available | Adaptive Programming | Sensory Accommodations | Sensory Description | Learn More | Zip | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Arlington Heights, IL | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 60004 | |||
| Brookfield Zoo | Zoo | Brookfield, IL | ✔ | ✔ |      | A Zoo for All, Hamill Family Play Zoo: fourth Saturday of each month, free admission/parking for pre-registered guests, sensory friendly mornings. Family Fun Saturdays: programming for young children with autism and their families. All Age, All Abilities Sundays: modified sensory programming. Life and Work Skills Programming: Good Works (for high schoolers with disabilities), ProjectSEARCH (for adults with disabilities). BZ Care Kits: (available at the North and South Guest Relations) kits designed for guests with sensory disabilities and include zoo visual schedule books, noise-reducing headphones, name tags, if lost ID bracelets and stickers | A Zoo for All | 60513 | |
| AMC Galewood Crossings 14 | Movie Theater | Chicago, IL | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 60639 | |||
| AMC River East 21 | Movie Theater | Chicago, IL | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 60611 | |||
| Blue Man Group | Theater | Chicago, IL | | Blue Man Group offers an annual sensory-friendly performance which includes slight modifications, such as dim lighting, bean bags, calm environment and quiet corners to better accommodate individuals with autism. Sound levels are reduced at select moments and noise isolating headphones also available upon request. | Learn More | 60657 | |||
| Foss Swim School | Fitness/Community Center | Chicago, IL | ✔ | Foss Swim School is dedicated to customizing your child's experience. They understand that there is not a "one size fits" way of learning. They recently have tried to close the gap in education by creating picture cards to help sensory children feel more empowered in their lessons. | Learn More | 60657 | |||
| ifly | Interactive Entertainment | Chicago, IL | ✔ | The dream of flight is accessible to all at iFly's All Abilities Night, a supportive and inclusive program designed especially for those with physical and cognitive challenges. The event package includes a pre-flight training session, all necessary flight gear (suit, helmet, goggles) and two flights per flyer. Specially trained instructors will provide assistance and individualized attention and accommodations based on the participant's needs. | All Abilities Night | 60610 | |||
| Irish Community Services | Fitness/Community Center | Chicago, IL | ✔ | A free Irish arts program for children aged 10-15 with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Classes will include Irish dancing, drama and art. Registration is NECESSARY. Please call Irish Community Services for registration. Fáilte in-person classes have been suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This program has been transitioned into week long Spring and Summer Camps being held via Zoom. Please contact Irish Community Services to inquire about future Fáilte class dates or events. | Fáilte Adapted Irish Arts Program | 60630 | |||
| KEEN (Kids Enjoy Exercise Now) Chicago | Fitness/Community Center | Chicago, IL | ✔ | Keen Chicago is a non profit that provides free recreational programming to children and young adults with physical or developmental disabilities. Keen pairs participants with coaches and volunteers who help them have fun and build new skills while parents recharge and socialize. Programs meet weekly for approximately 50 minutes and are based around sports, swimming, or art and include a mix of group and individually tailored activities. Open to all ages 5-21 with physical or developmental disabilies. Free to participants | Learn More | 60626 | |||
| Lifeline Theatre | Theater | Chicago, IL | ✔ | ✔ | | Sensory Friendly Performances: relaxed and sensory friendly theatre experiences. | Sensory Friendly Performances | 60626 | |
| Second City- Chicago | Theater | Chicago, IL | ✔ | Improv for Autism offers an online class in improv for teens and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Fridays from 7-9 PM (03/18/2022-05/06/2022). Classes will focus on ensemble and team building to help with the exploration of different relationships and social cues. Improvisational games used in this class will teach the students skills such as accessing emotions and storytelling. This will be done in a safe and fun setting where the students can explore and challenge themselves. Improv is a great tool to work through many types of barriers that stand in the way of creativity and socialization. Please note that this class will take place entirely online. You will be emailed a unique link for video conferencing on the day of your class. For ages 19 and up, the enrollment fee is $250 | Learn More | 60614 | |||
| The Field Museum | Museum | Chicago, IL | ✔ |  | On Sensory Saturdays, from 9–10 am, enjoy a sensory-friendly morning. The Crown Family PlayLab is geared toward young children, but you'll find many opportunities for children of all ages and abilities to learn and create through exploration with tactile opportunities and sensory tools. This event welcomes families and children with disabilities as well as with sensory processing needs. (Siblings, family members, and caregivers are also welcome.) It is free with advance registration, but space is limited to 40 guests so that families can enjoy a crowd-free space. To register for a Sensory Saturday event, please email [email protected] | Sensory Saturdays | 60605 | ||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Crystal Lake, IL | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 60014 | |||
| We Rock The Spectrum Kid's Gym | Play Place | Edwardsville, IL | ✔ | We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym provides children with a fun and motivational environment to help them in the areas of strength, movement, sensory processing, communication, positive behavior modification, social interactions, and self-care skills. Our unique gym equipment assists all children in their neurological growth and development. | Learn More | 62025 | |||
| Foss Swim School | Fitness/Community Center | Elmwood Park, IL | ✔ | Foss Swim School is dedicated to customizing your childs experience. They understand that there is not a "one size fits" way of learning. They recently have tried to close the gap in education by creating picture cards to help sensory children feel more empowered in their lesson. | Learn More | 60707 | |||
| The Institute for Therapy through the Arts | Interactive Entertainment | Evanston, IL | ✔ | Institute for Therapy through the Arts provides creative solutions to life's challenges whether they be emotional, physical, or neurological. People of all ages can benefit from our therapies including those with developmental challenges, Autism, mental illness, emotional distress, neurological disorders, and histories of trauma. They provide Dance, art, drama, and music therapy. | Learn More | 60201 | |||
| We Rock The Spectrum Kid's Gym | Play Place | Franklin Park, IL | ✔ | We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym provides children with a fun and motivational environment to help them in the areas of strength, movement, sensory processing, communication, positive behavior modification, social interactions, and self-care skills. Our unique gym equipment assists all children in their neurological growth and development. | Learn More | 60131 | |||
| Kohl's Childrens Museum | Museum | Glenview, IL | ✔ | Everyone at Play: closed time for children with special needs and their families on specified Sunday mornings. | Everyone at Play | 60026 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Gurnee, IL | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 60031 | |||
| Six Flags Great America | Theme Park | Gurnee, IL | Six Flags has been designated as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). We are excited to enhance our level of service and our team members are currently undergoing the certification process. We will be ready to welcome you as a Certified Autism Center in early spring. Some things the park is including are visual cards, sensory guides at each attraction, in park sensory spaces that are quieter, and they are expanding their food menus. | Learn More | 60031 | ||||
| Foss Swim School | Fitness/Community Center | Highland Park, IL | ✔ | Foss Swim School is dedicated to customizing your childs experience. They understand that there is not a "one size fits" way of learning. They recently have tried to close the gap in education by creating picture cards to help sensory children feel more empowered in their lesson. | Learn More | 60035 | |||
| The Institute for Therapy through the Arts | Interactive Entertainment | Highland Park, IL | ✔ | Institute for Therapy through the Arts provides creative solutions to life's challenges whether they be emotional, physical, or neurological. People of all ages can benefit from our therapies including those with developmental challenges, Autism, mental illness, emotional distress, neurological disorders, and histories of trauma. They provide Dance, art, drama, and music therapy. | Learn More | 60035 | |||
| Equestrian Connection | Equestrian | Lake Forest, IL | ✔ | Equestrian Connection aims to positively impact the lives of mentally, emotionally and physically challenged children. Their staff includes highly professional licensed therapists, therapeutic riding instructors and caring volunteers. They offer a variety of programming from art therapy to riding lessons, as well as family bonding events and birthday parties. | Learn More | 60045 | |||
| AMC Lake In The Hills 12 | Movie Theater | Lake In The Hills, IL | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 60156 | |||
| Foss Swim School | Fitness/Community Center | Libertyville, IL | ✔ | Foss Swim School is dedicated to customizing your childs experience. They understand that there is not a "one size fits" way of learning. They recently have tried to close the gap in education by creating picture cards to help sensory children feel more empowered in their lesson. | Learn More | 60048 | |||
| Morton Arboretum | Park | Lisle, IL | ✔ | | The Children’s Garden welcomes guests of all abilities and strives to create a safe, enjoyable, and engaging experience for all. Guests who have sensory processing needs may borrow (at no cost by leaving an ID) a sensory bag containing headphones, fidgets, visuals, and other calming tools. These sensory bags can be checked out in the Visitor’s Center or from any Children’s Garden staff or volunteer team member. There is also an upcoming summer event called Nature Play for All, which is organized in collaboration with SEASPAR- the South East Association for Special Parks and Recreation. During this visit, individuals can play, wonder, and explore nature through accessible activities. This event will take place on June 11th and June 12th and is free with Arboretum admission. | Learn More | 60532 | ||
| AMC DINE-IN Yorktown 18 | Movie Theater | Lombard, IL | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 60148 | |||
| Freedom Woods Stables | Equestrian | Morton Grove, IL | ✔ | Freedom Woods is a hunter jumper stable that offers lessons, boarding, training, and sales. The Therapeutic Ring Program offers riders with unique challenges the chance to ride alongside therapy trainers and learn horsemanship skills on the ground. Cost: $45 - $80 per 30 min lesson | Learn More | 60053 | |||
| AMC Naperville 16 | Movie Theater | Naperville, IL | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 60564 | |||
| DuPage Children's Museum | Museum | Naperville, IL | | Third Thursdays: 4:00pm - 8:00pm, w/ trained comfort dog, sensory art projects, and sensory story time. | Third Thursdays | 60540 | |||
| Hollywood Palms | Movie Theater | Naperville, IL | ✔ | Offer Bright Stars screenings on the first Wednesday and the following Saturday of each month. Tickets are $5 per person. We keep the lights up and soften the sound for a comfortable, sensory-friendly setting,ideal for young children and guests sensitive to loud noises or darkness. | Bright Stars | 60540 | |||
| ifly | Interactive Entertainment | Naperville, IL | ✔ | The dream of flight is accessible to all at iFly's All Abilities Night, a supportive and inclusive program designed especially for those with physical and cognitive challenges. The event package includes a pre-flight training session, all necessary flight gear (suit, helmet, goggles) and two flights per flyer. Specially trained instructors will provide assistance and individualized attention and accommodations based on the participant's needs. | All Abilities Night | 60563 | |||
| Naperville Public Library | Library | Naperville, IL | ✔ | | The Sensory NPL app includes detailed maps of each library branch with pictures, a schedule to help users plan their visit and know what to expect, a tap-to-communicate feature for those who are nonverbal or have speech difficulties, a voice-over feature for people who struggle with vision or reading, even games to play as a way to take a break from sensory distractions. | Learn More | 60540 | ||
| AMC New Lenox 14 | Movie Theater | New Lenox, IL | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 60451 | |||
| AMC Niles 12 | Movie Theater | Niles, IL | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 60714 | |||
| Foss Swim School | Fitness/Community Center | Niles, IL | ✔ | Foss Swim School is dedicated to customizing your childs experience. They understand that there is not a "one size fits" way of learning. They recently have tried to close the gap in education by creating picture cards to help sensory children feel more empowered in their lesson. | Learn More | 60714 | |||
| Sky High Sports | Play Place | Niles, IL | ✔ | | Special Needs Jump Time: every Tuesday from 3-6 pm with no music and dimmed lights. Private rooms are available for event booking. | Special Needs Jump Time | 60714 | ||
| Children's Discovery Museum | Museum | Normal, IL | ✔ | | The mission of the Children's Discovery Museum is to inspire the love of learning through the power of play. Our mission is accomplished by providing hands-on exhibits, classes, and programs that actively engage the visitor in experiences that stimulate imagination, curiosity, and wonder. | Learn More | 61761 | ||
| AMC DINE-IN Northbrook 14 | Movie Theater | Northbrook, IL | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 60062 | |||
| Camp Chi | Summer Camp | Northbrook, IL | ✔ | For nearly 100 years, Camp Chi has transformed children's summers. We unplug campers from their daily lives and connect them to life-changing moments. We believe everyone benefits when everyone can play. For over 20 years, we've been proud to partner with Keshet, to provide one-on-one support to ensure that campers with intellectual, social and physical disabilities can participate fully at Camp Chi. Our Inclusion Coordinator meets with families to understand the camper's needs and make sure that they are met. This can include anything from how much support they need, if any modifications are required, and which session is best for the child. | Learn More | 60062 | |||
| JCC Chicago | Fitness/Community Center | Northbrook, IL | ✔ | ✔ | All-In Swimming Classes: programming for children on the autism spectrum, designed to teach water safety and swim skills. Focus on life saving techniques and recreational swim therapy with creative play. Seven levels of learning available. | All-In Swim | 60062 | ||
| Oak Brook Park District | Park | Oak Brook, IL | ✔ | The Sandlot: a universal playground for people of all ages and abilities. Features spongy surfacing, ramps, full fencing, musical elements, and educational play panels. | The Sandlot | 60523 | |||
| The Children's Museum in Oak Lawn | Museum | Oak Lawn, IL | ✔ | This two-hour low sensory play session is for families with children who would benefit from a more relaxed atmosphere at the museum. Pre-registration is required. Please register each person attending the play session. In order to maintain social distancing and a sensory-friendly environment, capacity is limited. Check the website for new dates added. | Learn More | 60453 | |||
| The Children's Museum in Oak Lawn | Museum | Oak Lawn, IL | ✔ | This two-hour low sensory play session is for families with children who would benefit from a more relaxed atmosphere at the museum. Pre-registration is required. Please register each person attending the play session. In order to maintain social distancing and a sensory-friendly environment, capacity is limited. Check the website for new dates added. | Learn More | 60453 | |||
| We Rock The Spectrum Kid's Gym | Play Place | Palatine, IL | ✔ | We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym provides children with a fun and motivational environment to help them in the areas of strength, movement, sensory processing, communication, positive behavior modification, social interactions, and self-care skills. Our unique gym equipment assists all children in their neurological growth and development. | Learn More | 60074 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Peoria, IL | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 61615 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Rockford, IL | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 61108 | |||
| Discovery Center Museum | Museum | Rockford, IL | ✔ | | The Discovery Center Museum offers hour-long morning events dedicated for visitors with special needs and their families. Fun For Everyone begins either one hour before the general public opening or allows you to stay late, so an exclusive museum experience is granted. Admission is free of charge to child and caretaker. Advanced registration is required. Due to covid children age six and older are required to wear a mask. The museum has changed some of their exhibits and will be cleaning while you are visiting and between scheduled visits. At this time, please bring a water bottle and eat before or after your visit. *Advance Reservations Required* | Learn More | 61103 | ||
| ifly | Interactive Entertainment | Rosemont, IL | ✔ | The dream of flight is accessible to all at iFly's All Abilities Night, a supportive and inclusive program designed especially for those with physical and cognitive challenges. The event package includes a pre-flight training session, all necessary flight gear (suit, helmet, goggles) and two flights per flyer. Specially trained instructors will provide assistance and individualized attention and accommodations based on the participant's needs. | All Abilities Night | 60018 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Skokie, IL | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 60077 | |||
| MassVR | Interactive Entertainment | Skokie, IL | ✔ | | Fourth Sundays of the month, from 10am-11am. Sensory Friendly Mode offers a no-hands experience with no weapons, no timers, no in-game music, and dimmer lights. | Learn More | 60077 | ||
| Skokie Heritage Museum | Museum | Skokie, IL | ✔ | Join us at the museum for a sensory-friendly fall festival! We will have crafts and games that explore what it would have been like to live as a pioneer, tours of the log cabin, and festive snacks! This event is open to everyone, but was especially designed to include our sensory-aware friends. Best for ages 5 and up. | Harvest Festival | 60077 | |||
| AMC South Barrington 24 | Movie Theater | South Barrington, IL | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 60010 | |||
| Foss Swim School | Fitness/Community Center | South Barrington, IL | ✔ | Foss Swim School is dedicated to customizing your childs experience. They understand that there is not a "one size fits" way of learning. They recently have tried to close the gap in education by creating picture cards to help sensory children feel more empowered in their lesson. | Learn More | 60010 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Springfield, IL | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 62704 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Streamwood, IL | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 60107 |
New England
| Place | Place Type | City | State | Sensory Hours Available | Adaptive Programming | Sensory Accommodations | Sensory Description | Learn More | Zip | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo | Zoo | Bridgeport | CT | ✔ | | The Beardsley Zoo is deeply committed to making their space accessible for all. They are currently making change to their zoo and programs for a more accessible and sensory friendly experience | Learn More | 06610 | ||
| AMC Danbury 16 | Movie Theater | Danbury | CT | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 06810 | |||
| Connecticut Science Center | Museum | Hartford | CT | ✔ | | This museum offers hands on learning for children. They offer Sensory friendly days multiple times a year. Sensory days have dimmed lighting, and lowering volume. | Learn More | 06103 | ||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Manchester | CT | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 06040 | |||
| Kidcity Children's Museum | Museum | Middletown | CT | | Kidcity is a museum created for children aged 1-7 years old. This museum was created to help your child to be hands on and encourages imagination. Please call ahead ahead to see if we are open. | Learn More | 06457 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Newington | CT | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 06111 | |||
| EverWonder Children's Museum | Museum | Newtown | CT | ✔ | During the summer, Mondays are sensory days. The museum is closed to the general public, but we will be open from 1-4 for all children with special needs and their families. This will include low lights and softer sounds on each exhibit, as well as fewer visitors. | Learn More | 06470 | |||
| Niantic Childrens Museum | Museum | Niantic | CT | ✔ | | Join us for a special evening, which is free for families with children on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing challenges. During this event, the Museum will be made more welcoming to our more sensitive guests, along with having some quiet corners and sensory bins set-up throughout the facility. Children will be able to choose what activities they would like to participate in and do them at whatever time they feel most comfortable within the two-hour time frame. Check their calendar for future dates of sensory-friendly evenings | Learn More | 06357 | ||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Orange | CT | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 06477 | |||
| AMC Plainville 20 | Movie Theater | Plainville | CT | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 06062 | |||
| KidsPlay Children's Museum | Museum | Torrington | CT | ✔ | Inclusive Playtime is a judgment-free environment for play and learning for children with disabilities, autism, and/or sensory processing challenges and their families. | Learn More | 06790 | |||
| Romp n' Roll Wethersfield | Play Place | Wethersfield | CT | ✔ | Come and enjoy sensory exploration through age- appropriate activities including: Play, construction, music, art and more! All children under the age of five are welcome. Many classes are offered so please visit their website to find the best fit for your family. Registration is required. | Learn More | 06109 | |||
| Discovery Museum | Museum | Acton | MA | ✔ | | Come explore the accessible Discovery Museum, Discovery Woods, and our giant treehouse! Sensory-Friendly Afternoons are all about inclusion. During these events, the Museum is open to the general public, but group visits and birthday parties are not scheduled, to avoid crowding and support access to exhibits. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. | Sensory-Friendly Afternoons | 01720 | ||
| Six Flags New England | Theme Park | Agawam | MA | Six Flags has been designated as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). We are excited to enhance our level of service and our team members are currently undergoing the certification process. We will be ready to welcome you as a Certified Autism Center in early spring. We will continue to update this page as more information is available | Learn More | 01001 | ||||
| Autism Eats | Restaurant | Andover | MA | ✔ | Autism Eats dinner parties are held in private rooms of restaurants or function facilities. Food is served buffet or family style so there is no waiting. Music and lighting are adjusted to accommodate those with sensory sensitivity. These are family dinners and all attending have a loved one on the spectrum so there is no need to apologize, explain or feel uncomfortable. It is an opportunity to enjoy a night out and socialize with others who have many of the same joys and challenges in common. | Learn More | 01810 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Attleboro | MA | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 02703 | |||
| Boston Children's Museum | Museum | Boston | MA | ✔ | | Morningstar Access at Boston Children's Museum offers children with special needs/medical needs the opportunity to visit the Museum at a time when there are only a few other visitors. At these times, we have a limit of 100 guests, and children and their families can explore the Museum with less concern about infections and large crowds. | Morningstar Access | 02210 | ||
| Franklin Park Zoo | Zoo | Boston | MA | ✔ | | Franklin Park Zoo staff have been trained by leading medical professionals on how to best accommodate guests with sensory needs. You can download their free KultureCity App (free) to view features in the zoo including locations for quiet zones and headphone areas. Normally this zoo offers sensory bags however, to ensure the safety of staff and guests, bags are temporarily unavailable. Reservations must be made in advance by visiting their website or by calling 617-989-2076. You must enter at your assigned time and wear a mask. If you have any questions you can visit the zoo's website and see their reopening FAQs or call 617-989-2076. | Learn More | 02121 | ||
| Logan Airport | Railway | Boston | MA | ✔ | The Wings for Autism program is specifically designed for families with children on the autism spectrum, to help ease the stress of flying. With this unique concept in mind, Massport hosts a “dress rehearsal” open house day to provide families the opportunity to experience travel through Boston Logan Airport before their actual trip. Massport hosts this event twice a year with airline pilots, flight attendants, ground airline crew, and TSA screeners who volunteer their time to offer these children and their families a chance to experience flying on a plane and in turn allowing us the opportunity to learn how we can better serve them. For additional information, please email [email protected] | Wings for Autism | 02128 | |||
| AMC Burlington Cinema 10 | Movie Theater | Burlington | MA | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 01803 | |||
| Sky Zone Trampoline Park | Play Place | Danvers | MA | ✔ | Sensory Hours: Enjoy the freedom of jumping. Sensory hours provide a quieter, toned-down jumping experience for those with special needs. | Sensory Hours | 01923 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Everett | MA | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 02149 | |||
| AMC DINE-IN Framingham 16 | Movie Theater | Framingham | MA | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 01701 | |||
| Sky Zone Trampoline Park | Play Place | Kingston | MA | ✔ | Sensory Hours: Enjoy the freedom of jumping. Sensory hours provide a quieter, toned-down jumping experience for those with special needs. | Sensory Hours | 02364 | |||
| O'neil Cinemas | Movie Theater | Littleton | MA | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: See a movie on the big screen with NO loud noises and higher house lights for better visibility. Fun, friendly environment. All shows are at 10:00 AM. | Sensory Friendly Films | 01460 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Lowell | MA | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 01852 | |||
| AMC Methuen 20 | Movie Theater | Methuen | MA | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 01844 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Methuen | MA | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 01844 | |||
| AMC Dartmouth Mall 11 | Movie Theater | North Dartmouth | MA | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 02747 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | North Dartmouth | MA | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 02747 | |||
| The Amazing world of Dr. Seuss | Museum | Springfield | MA | ✔ | | For Sensory Friendly Saturdays, the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum and the Springfield Science Museum open an hour early (9 am) exclusively for families with sensory sensitive children. Many of the exhibits in both museums are modified to provide an opportunity for people with a range of differing abilities to experience what the museums have to offer. The modifications are enabled until 11 am. | Sensory Friendly Saturdays | 01103 | ||
| The Springfield Museums | Museum | Springfield | MA | ✔ | | For Sensory Friendly Saturdays, the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum and the Springfield Science Museum open an hour early (9 am) exclusively for families with sensory sensitive children. Many of the exhibits in both museums are modified to provide an opportunity for people with a range of differing abilities to experience what the museums have to offer. The modifications are enabled until 11 am. Hours 9-11am | Sensory Friendly Saturdays | 01103 | ||
| Stone Zoo | Zoo | Stoneham | MA | ✔ | | Stone Zoo staff have been trained by leading medical professionals on how to best accommodate guests with sensory needs. You can download their free KultureCity App (free) to view features in the zoo including locations for quiet zones and headphone areas. Normally this zoo offers sensory bags however, to ensure the safety of staff and guests, bags are temporarily unavailable. Reservations must be made in advance by visiting their website or by calling 617-989-2076. | Learn More | 02180 | ||
| Topsfield Fair | Park | Topsfield | MA | ✔ | Sensory Day is Monday October 4th, 2021 from 11:00am - 5:00pm. An opportunity for a more sensory sensitive experience to the Topsfield Fair for families who have family members with autism or sensory processing disorders. Will include reduced lights and sounds. | Sensory Day | 01983 | |||
| AMC Tyngsboro 12 | Movie Theater | Tyngsboro | MA | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: second and fourth Saturdays (family friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature) every month, brightened lights and lowered sound, dancing/walking/shouting/singing encouraged | Sensory Friendly Films | 01879 | |||
| We Rock The Spectrum Kid's Gym | Play Place | Wellesley | MA | ✔ | We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym provides children with a fun and motivational environment to help them in the areas of strength, movement, sensory processing, communication, positive behavior modification, social interactions, and self-care skills. Our unique gym equipment assists all children in their neurological growth and development. | Learn More | 02482 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Worcester | MA | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 01604 | |||
| Maine Wildlife Park | Zoo | Augusta | ME | As an outdoor facility spread out over 40 acres, the park is spacious and allows endless opportunities to distance and separate oneself from other visitors, crowds, commotion, and noises. What is more, we have a mobile web app that allows someone to take a tour of the park with a virtual companion/interpreter that can be accessed/used with a cell phone. | Learn More | 04333 | ||||
| Children's Museum of New Hampshire | Museum | Dover | NH | ✔ | ✔ | | For some children with autism spectrum or sensory processing disorders, a visit to museums like ours is challenging or over-stimulating. The Exploring Our Way: Sensory Friendly Playtimes are exclusive to families of children with special needs. These monthly, low-sensory events are designed for children with autism spectrum or sensory processing disorders allowing them to explore the Museum along with their families without the noise, crowds, and stimulation of a typical open day. The museum limits the number of families who can attend, turn down sounds and lights, provide a quiet zone with sensory activities away from the exhibit floor and have noise cancelling headphones to borrow. A YouTube video or 3D virtual tour are resources available to get an overview of the exhibits and help plan your visit. A medical diagnosis is not required. Pre-registration is required. Admission is the normal museum admission prices. Discounts will be honored. Masks are optional for children with sensory issues visiting during Sensory Friendly Playtime, but are required for the remainder of the party (over the age of 24 months) regardless of vaccination status. 2022 Dates through June: -Tuesday, February 1, 1-4pm -Sunday, March 6, 1-4pm -Tuesday, April 5, 1-4pm -Sunday, May 1, 1-4pm -Tuesday, June 7, 1-4pm Days will alternate between weekday and weekend, to accommodate more families. | Exploring Our Way: Sensory Friendly Playtime | 03820 | |
| O'neil Cinemas | Movie Theater | Epping | NH | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Films: See a movie on the big screen with NO loud noises and higher house lights for better visibility. Fun, friendly environment. All shows are at 10:00 AM. | Sensory Friendly Films | 03042 | |||
| Storyland | Theme Park | Glen | NH | ✔ | | Sensory Friendly Information: information about communication boards, sensory accommodations at the park including sensory sensitive weekend dates, calm areas, quiet dining areas, and hand dryer information | Sensory Friendly Information | 03838 | ||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Manchester | NH | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 03103 | |||
| Chunky's Cinema Pub | Movie Theater | Manchester | NH | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Movies: These events are monthly screenings of newly released movies for children with autism or other special needs. Chunky's will keep the theater lights up, the sound of the film turned down, and no 3D. Audience members are allowed to walk around, dance, shout or sing! | Sensory Friendly Movies | 03103 | |||
| Chunky's Cinema Pub | Movie Theater | Nashua | NH | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Movies: These events are monthly screenings of newly released movies for children with autism or other special needs. Chunky's will keep the theater lights up, the sound of the film turned down, and no 3D. Audience members are allowed to walk around, dance, shout or sing! | Sensory Friendly Movies | 03063 | |||
| Chunky's Cinema Pub | Movie Theater | Pelham | NH | ✔ | Sensory Friendly Movies: These events are monthly screenings of newly released movies for children with autism or other special needs. Chunky's will keep the theater lights up, the sound of the film turned down, and no 3D. Audience members are allowed to walk around, dance, shout or sing! | Sensory Friendly Movies | 03076 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Bronx | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 10469 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Brooklyn | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 11217 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Buffalo | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 14219 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Hempstead | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 11550 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Hicksville | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 11801 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Latham | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 12110 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Long Island | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 11101 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Nanuet | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 10954 | |||
| We Rock The Spectrum Kid's Gym | Play Place | New Rochelle | NY | ✔ | We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym provides children with a fun and motivational environment to help them in the areas of strength, movement, sensory processing, communication, positive behavior modification, social interactions, and self-care skills. Our unique gym equipment assists all children in their neurological growth and development. | Learn More | 10801 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Rochester | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 14626 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Staten Island | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 10314 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Syracuse | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 13224 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Vestal | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 13850 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | West Islip | NY | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 11795 | |||
| Sky Zone Trampoline Park | Play Place | East Providence | RI | ✔ | Sensory Hours: Enjoy the freedom of jumping. Sensory hours provide a quieter, toned-down jumping experience for those with special needs. | Sensory Hours | 02916 | |||
| Carousel Village | Theme Park | Providence | RI | ✔ | | You must enter at your assigned time and wear a mask. | Learn More | 02907 | ||
| Rhode Island Museum of Science and Art (RIMOSA) | Museum | Providence | RI | ✔ | Join us the 1st Saturday of every month for a sensory-friendly environment full of hands-on, open-ended exhibits and interactive activities for individuals of all ages. Reservations are required, so book your spot now. | Learn More | 02903 | |||
| Roger Williams Park Zoo | Zoo | Providence | RI | ✔ | ✔ | | The Roger Williams Park Zoo is open daily from 9am-4pm. This zoo offers sensory bags to help make everyone's experience a positive one. If you need a sensory bag request one upon entry. You can buy your tickets online and they will send you an email with your entry time and a bar code they will scan upon entry. They require face coverings for everyone older than two years old however if you have a medical condition that prohibits you from wearing one they will make an exception. For a comlete list of what to expect, please visit https://www.rwpzoo.org/reopen. | Learn More | 02907 | |
| Bierman Autism Centers | Retail Company | Warren | RI | ✔ | Join Bierman Autism Centers for their Open House & Sensory-Friendly Days. Visit their website for specific dates, but during these events, parents can tour the center while the kids can play in their gym area, create a penguin craft, or complete a spring-themed activity. | Learn More | 02885 | |||
| Chuck E. Cheese | Restaurant | Warwick | RI | ✔ | Sensory Sensitive Sundays: first Sunday of each month, dimmed lightning and music, limited appearances by Chuck E., no admission fees. | Sensory Sensitive Sundays | 02866 | |||
| ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain | Museum | Burlington | VT | ✔ | | ECHO understands that many of our exhibits and public spaces can be overwhelming to those with sensory processing differences, especially when crowded. visitors are welcome to call the front desk ahead of time and ask about upcoming less crowded times that week. | Sensory Accomodations | 05401 | ||
| The Nature Museum VT | Museum | Grafton | VT | ✔ | Visitors can crawl through an underground bear den; dig for fossils; find out about bats, bees, and catamounts; and learn about animal adaptations by dressing up as their favorite creature. Outdoors, wander in our wildlife garden and catch a glimpse of passing butterflies and our resident honeybees out collecting nectar. Take a hike through the maple, oak, beech, and birch forest in the Village Park behind the Museum. The three Village Park trails offer easy to moderate hiking. There are picnic tables in the Museum's backyard as well as several picnic areas and gazebos along the Village Park trails. | Learn More | 05146 |
Sensory Accommodations Legend:
Social stories
Headsets available
Fidgets available
Sensory map
Calm space available
Sensory app
Sensory Scout Project – Coming Soon
Check back this fall – We are really excited to be launching our Sensory Scout project and expanding sensory inclusion by:
- Making it easier to locate sensory supportive businesses through our site.
- Adding more businesses to our directory.
- Including more details, by individual sense, so you can be better prepared for a succesful family outing.