A Certified Autism Center (CAC) is a facility or organization in which at least 80% of their staff is highly trained, fully equipped and certified in the field of autism and have specialized programs designed for guests with autism and other sensory processing disorders. Check out this list of sensory friendly theme parks that we love:
1. Dorney Park and Wild Water Kingdom
Allentown, Pennsylvania
Guests with mobility impairments or ASD can receive a Ride Boarding Pass with wait times. Guests have availability of disposable headphones/ear protection. A Multi-Sensory & Calming Room is located in the Family Care Center for those guests with sensory processing concerns. This dedicated space provides tools for family members or care-givers to intensify or reduce sensory stimulation in a controlled environment.
2. Nickelodeon Universe
Bloomington, Minnesota
Located in the center of Mall of America®, Nickelodeon Universe features
seven acres of unique attractions and entertainment. Mall of America
and Nickelodeon Universe Team Members received specialized training
to ensure they have the required knowledge, skills, temperament and
expertise to cater to all children, including those with special needs. Staff
is equipped with noise cancellation headphones to better serve our guests
with sensory sensitivities during an emergency or medical incident.
3. Sesame Place
Langhore, Pennsylvania
First theme park in the world to be designated as a Certified Autism
Center. The Ride Accessibility Program (RAP) matches the individual
abilities of guests to the requirements of each ride. RAP is designed to
allow guests to fully participate in the enjoyment of the park while
keeping in mind the safety requirements of our rides and attractions.
Guests in need of some quiet time and relief from sensory stimulation can
utilize one of two quiet rooms, with adjustable lighting, locks and a
comfortable seating area for guests to take a break. Noise cancelling
headphones, low sensory area, and low sensory parade viewing areas are
available.
4. Splish Splash Water Park
Calverton, New York
Splish Splash has 96 exciting acres of total fun for the whole family.
Everywhere you turn, you discover another one-of-a-kind water
attraction. Splish Splash Team Members receive specialized training to
ensure they have the required knowledge, skills, temperament and
expertise to cater to all children, including those with special needs.
5. Story Land
Glen, New Hampshire
Sensory Sensitive weekend dates available. You can expect park music to
be turned down, ride music will be off/turned down, ride announcements
will be turned down to a lower decibel, certain geysers/water features
turned off and MAP (Medical Access Pass) passes will be available for any
guests who cannot wait in line. Calming Room, a sensory sensitive
environment for those who need a break, are available. New in 2018 as
there is also a designated a Quiet Dining area.
