Autism-Friendly Activities in
Colorado
Feel the Beat
Dance Classes
Feel the Beat is a 501c3 nonprofit and dance studio dedicated to making the experience of music possible for all ages and abilities. We use highly specialized, bone-conductive dance floors that allow students to feel sound through vibrational energy.
Our fully accessible dance studio model features bone-conductive dance floors that allows them to experience sound through feeling, bringing individuals into the creatively immersive world of rhythmic exploration. We integrate a customized curriculum and a multilingual approach that features American Sign Language, removing barriers and connecting students from all backgrounds, making dance and music accessible to all!
Feel The Beat
1555 Dover St.
Lakewood, CO 80215
Ascend Behavior Partners
Sensory Friendly Fall Festival
We have sensory friendly fall festival for families and kiddos alike. There will be trick or treating, crafts and sensory play and a costume contest!! We are excited to see you!!
Ascend Behavior Partners
88 Inverness Circle E Suite H103
Englewood, CO 80112
Behavioral Innovations
Sensory Friendly Trunk or Treat
Two locations in Colorado offering Trunk or Treat along with sensory activities, photo opportunities, music, dance, safe environment for potential elopement, quiet room, staff familiar with kids on the autism spectrum. A great opportunity for kids on the autism spectrum and their families to enjoy Halloween activities without stress.
October 27, 2023
6PM-730PM
Behavioral Innovations
3000 Center Green Drive, Suite 120
Boulder, CO 80301
AND
Behavioral Innovations
10789 Bradford Road, Suite 150
Littleton, CO 8027
Butterfly Pavilion
Sensory Friendly Afternoon!
From website: At Butterfly Pavilion, we know that things can get hectic with busy butterflies and bodies buzzing around. During quiet afternoons, come experience our exhibits in a unique way that meets the needs of your family. With natural lighting, quiet tones, and limited admission, this event provides an enjoyable, low-key experience just for them.
Each Sensory Friendly Afternoon offers guided interpretation in each exhibit, optional activity guides, and access to our playroom. There are also different sensory options available in most exhibits to meet your sensory needs! For more info check out our website or email mmathew@butterflies.org
Cost: Adult:$14.95 Child (2-12):$9.95 Senior (65+): $12.95
Butterfly Pavilion
6252 W. 104th Avenue
Westminster, CO 80020
The Sensory Club
Open-Concept, Member-based Gym
We are an open-concept, member-based gym that provides a space for all ages with disabilities to explore, play, and relax using our therapy equipment and multi-sensory environment room. The Sensory Club is a safe and accepting place for members, with their support person, to satisfy their sensory needs and be themselves! We are first to franchise and a completely new/unique resource in Denver & all of CO.
The Sensory Club
4301 S. Federal Blvd Suite 102/103
Englewood, Colorado 80110
720-353-4044
Feel the Beat Dance
Sensory Friendly Dance & Movement Classes
Feel the Beat is a nonprofit dance studio uniquely dedicated to creating sound-accessible and sensory integrated environments, using vibrotactile technology, to bring the expressive world of music and dance education to individuals who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and with diverse Special Needs. Feel the Beat is a fully accessible dance studio offering both in-person and virtual classes for children and adults.
Feel the Beat Dance
S Broadway
Englewood, CO 80113
Hopebridge Autism Services
Hopebridge Happy Campers: A Sensory-Friendly Autism Event
Join us as we celebrate our expansion into the Colorado Springs community! Learn about Applied Behavior Analysis, Diagnostics, Occupational, Speech and Feeding Therapy (Coming Soon) at our Center. This sensory-friendly event is open to the public and will include: smores, face painting, facility tours, and sensory friendly fun!
Hopebridge Autism Services
945 N Academy Blvd
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
National Western Complex
Dino & Dragon Stroll Sensory Sensitive Session
Saturday, 11/13/21
8:30AM -9:45am
Tickets starting at $10 each with children under 2, military and veterans getting in free!
This session will be an experience in a sensory modified setting with sound and light adjustments designed to be less stimulating and overwhelming.
House Lights Turned Up
Limited Movements
Limited Sound
No Flashing Lights
Additional Children’s Rides, Attractions and Activities will not be available during this time (see below)
Please note that at 9:45 a.m. the full Dino and Dragon Stroll experience will begin with full sound, lights, and other elements of the show, that are not sensory modified. Guests are more than welcome to stay to experience the full experience.
Dino Stroll is the only tour that lets you walk-thru and get up close to life-like and life-size dinosaurs and dragons, some standing over 25 feet tall and spanning over 60 feet long! During Dino & Dragon Stroll, experience a transformation into the Mesozoic Era with prehistoric dinosaurs from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods, throughout!
Dino & Dragon Stroll is the most realistic tour back into history with animatronic dinosaurs and dragons that are created with moving heads, necks, tails, wings, eyes blinking, mouths that open and close, breathing movements, synchronized sounds and many more exquisite details that bring them to life. Dino & Dragon Stroll is an interactive event allowing guests to walk thru this memorable indoor experience. While guests stroll, they can get up close to 75 dinosaurs within exhibits throughout, ranging from babies to some life-like and life-size dinosaurs, and even encounter a T-Rex, Velociraptors and Stegosaurus, just to name a few. This must-see event will provide an opportunity to see and feel what it was like when the world’s largest creatures roamed the earth! Dino Stroll is an indoor walk-thru event. Strollers and Wagons are welcome.
The venue is handicap accessible. Beginning at 9:45am on November 13, 2021 the children’s activities, rides and attractions set up throughout the stroll will start and become available for an additional fee at the event. Tickets to participate in these activities are sold onsite only at the event ticket booth near the children’s Dino Stroll activities.
National Western Complex
655 Humboldt St.
Denver CO 80216
Lone Tree Arts Center
Sensory Friendly Relaxed Performances
From their website: SF Family Tree presents performances for families of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, autism, sensory processing disorder, or other conditions. SF Family Tree is a bi-monthly series designed to present performances in a relaxed, sensory-friendly way to ensure everyone has access to live entertainment at an affordable rate.
Performers modify shows to ensure there are no startling noises or visually over-stimulating components. Our team keeps sound levels lower than normal and keeps the lights in the audience higher than normal, ensuring audience members can see each other. Audience members are free to come and go if need be (there is always a "safe room" available) and are asked to wave hands rather than clapping.
Just look for the SF Family Tree logo on the SHOW LISTING PAGE to select which show you'd like to attend and to purchase tickets. We hope to see you at one of our upcoming sensory-friendly performances.
Lone Tree Arts Center
10075 Commons Street
Lone Tree CO. 80124
Denver Botanic Gardens
Summer Sensory Program
From their website: "Come experience the Summer Sensory program at York Street. We connect participants with plants in a safe, restful location while engaging their senses and providing social enrichment.
The Summer Sensory program offers tours of our fully accessible Sensory Garden, along with a hands-on activity of your choice (and a take-home plant for each participant):
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Flower Arranging – Create a one-of-a-kind, seasonal flower arrangement. Promotes hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills and creative expression. Suitable for all levels of function.
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Topiary – Create your own ivy topiary. Learn how to make a frame, transplant an ivy plant, and train the plant to grow on the frame. Promotes fine motor skills, hand/eye coordination, and creative expression. Suitable for all levels of function.
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Sensory Container – Create your own sensory container that features unique plants for touch, scent, and sight. Promotes fine motor skills, hand/eye coordination, and sensory exploration. Suitable for all levels of function.
Shaded picnic areas are available for lunch before or after the program. Summer Sensory is offered by reservation only. Fill out a request form and email it to thprograms@botanicgardens.org or call 720-865-3613.
Availability: Mid-May through the end of September
Time: One-hour program, offered weekdays between 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Cost: $90 for-profits, $75 nonprofits (includes admission to the Gardens for a group of 12 participants plus staff, program costs and all materials)
Payment Info:
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Payment is due upon booking.
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Cancellations made at least one week prior to the program will receive a full refund.
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Cancellations with less than one week notice (weather cancellations excepted) are not refundable.
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If a cancellation is made by the Gardens, we’ll reschedule.
Group Tour Only
Even if you don’t choose our Summer Sensory program, you are welcome to stroll the Sensory Garden on your own. Or bring your group for a guided tour through this cherished garden. To schedule a group tour, send email to thprograms@botanicgardens.org to receive an application form, or call 720-865-3613.
Cost: $30 for a 30-minute tour (12 participants). Does not include activities or projects.
Summer Low Sensory Mornings
The Gardens will open early on select Saturdays at York Street for those who wish to connect with plants in a safe, restful location while engaging their senses and providing social enrichment.
This therapeutic horticulture program is intended to give individuals and families who prefer a quiet, less crowded environment a chance to see the Gardens before public hours and with limited attendance. During Low Sensory Mornings you are invited to explore the Gardens on your own or participate in various hands-on activities in the Sensory Garden that will inspire curiosity and awaken your senses.
Questions? Call 720-865-3500 or email thprograms@botanicgardens.org.
Time: 8-9 a.m. on select Saturdays
Cost: No cost, however you must register all attendees. Space is limited.
Denver Botanic Gardens
1007 York Street
Denver, CO 80206
WOW! Children's Museum
Sensory Friendly Playtime
From their website: For some children with autism or sensory processing disorders, a visit to a museum like WOW! is difficult or overstimulating. In 2015, we launched Sensory Friendly Playtime, a low sensory program where children with autism spectrum or sensory processing disorders can explore the Museum without the noise, crowds and stimulation of a typical day.
We limit the number of families who can attend, turn down sounds and lights, and provide adaptive equipment such as noise reducing headphones and weighted vests. When available, an occupational therapist or art therapist are on hand to help facilitate low sensory activities. Best of all, admission is completely free for participating families thanks to program sponsor KidSPOT Pediatric Therapies, and our donor supported Play for All Initiative!
What you’ll learn:
Even though we’re creating a low sensory environment for Sensory Friendly Playtime, all our exhibits are open for exploration. Children can delve into hands-on exhibits about a variety of subjects, including STEM, art, music, dance, theater, health and practical life.
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Creativity
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Problem solving
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Logic
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Fine motor skills
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Gross motor skills
WOW! Children's Museum
110 N. Harrison Ave
Lafayette, CO 80026
Jump Street Indoor Trampoline Park
Special Needs Days
Special Needs days are the first Saturday of the month. They turn down/off the music and they will make an exception to allow outside food, if needed. The first hour of jumping is solely for special needs families and parents/guardians jump for free.
7969 E Arapahoe Rd.
Greenwood Village, CO 80112
14500 W Colfax Ave.
Lakewood, CO 80401
10081 W Bowles Ave.
Littleton, CO 80127
Children's Museum of Denver
Low-Sensory Mornings
We know the Museum can be a bit overwhelming for children with disabilities. By limiting attendance and turning down some of the ambient Museum noise, we offer an enjoyable morning for children with disabilities to play with their families. Admission is free for families of children with disabilities. Space is limited - RSVP required.
Children's Museum of Denver
2121 Children's Museum Drive
Denver, CO 80211
National Chains That May Have Sensory-Friendly Activities in Your Area:
Glass Slipper Initiative
Summer Art Paradise
Join Glass Slipper Initiative and Friends of Children with Special Needs for a free accommodating online art event for children with disabilities! It will be on July 22nd from 10 AM to 12 PM, where we'll have multiple stations for different crafts for any skill level. All you'll need is paper, scissors, and some coloring supplies! Sign up at bit.ly/GSI-Summer. If you can't make the event, but you'd like to be notified about other ones in the future, go to glassslipperinitiative.org and click "sign up" to join our mailing list for future events and opportunities for your kids.
RockonMusic School
RockonMusic Lessons
Use the positive power of music to learn to play instruments, sing and create. Each one-on-one session is tailored to the individual's skills and motivations. I specialize in those impacted by autism or other disabilities. Live Westchester & Putnam Counties, NY and on Zoom, anywhere....since 2016.
RockonMusicSchool
Proud to Be Me
Free Dance Therapy Classes for Children with Developmental Disabilities!
This dance class is designed for elementary and middle schoolers with any intellectual, developmental, or sensory impairments! Our beginner-level dance and movement classes currently take place through Zoom and provide a fun outlet for children to let out energy and meet new people. The free class is also designed to help refine and improve things like motor skills, concentration, social/communication abilities, and general happiness.
More information on website (linked above).
Proud to Be Me
Alamo Theatre
Alamo for All
From their website: "Welcome to Alamo for All - a movie program for young families and guests with special needs. All shows starting before 2 pm on Tuesdays follow Alamo for All rules, with more shows on the weekends. Schedule may vary during holidays. At sensory-friendly Alamo for All shows,
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Lights are turned up and sound is turned down
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All ages are welcome (including infants)
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Talking and noise is allowed and guests can move around
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Latecomers are admitted
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Adaptive technology is welcome (but no other electronics, please)
Bought a ticket to an Alamo for All show by mistake? No problem! Contact the theater and we'll be glad to refund or exchange your ticket for another show.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
We Rock the Spectrum Kid's Gym
The Gym for All Kids
From their website: "We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gyms was founded to provide a place for children of all ability levels to play and grow together. As the only kids gym that offers an inclusive philosophy we have found all children can benefit from our uniquely designed sensory equipment that is specifically designed to aid children with sensory processing disorders. However, in our experience, all children are able to benefit greatly from this equipment and by allowing children of all ability levels to play together they are able to learn a great deal from each other and become the best motivation for success on every level.
Our Gym Includes:
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Suspended equipment with swings – for balance and vestibular treatment
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Crash mats and crash pillows – for fun, motor planning, and strength
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Zip line – for stress release and joint and body relaxation
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Trampoline – for building leg and core strength
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Indoor play structure – for climbing and increasing playground skills
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Sensory-based toys – for improved auditory processing and fine motor skills
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Fine Motor and Arts and Crafts Area – for improved hand-eye coordination"
Check the link above for locations.
Autism Eats
Autism Friendly Dining
From their webpage: Providing autism-friendly non-judgmental environments for family dining, socializing and connecting with others who share similar joys and challenges. ALL behaviors are welcomed!
Check the website above for restaurants and dates!
Cobb Theatres
Sensory Friendly Films
Sensory Friendly showings provide families with varying abilities the opportunity to enjoy a family friendly film where kids can be kids in a safe and accepting environment. The auditoriums are made comfortable by brighter lights and the sound level is turned down. The audience is encouraged to be themselves and interact with the movie, while having fun without the worry of disturbing others. Dance, sing and enjoy the show!!!
All shows will begin at 10am local time. Films, dates and program are subject to change. Tickets are available in person only the Wednesday prior to each showing.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Marcus Theaters
REEL MOVIES FOR Real Needs
A Special Showing for Families and Individuals with Special Needs. We understand that sometimes it is difficult or uncomfortable for families with special needs children to attend movies together.
Marcus Theatres Reel Movies for Reel Needs is a specially designed program to serve families with special needs such as autism or other challenges, who seldom attend movies. Reel Movies for Real Needs creates a welcoming and comfortable environment – lower sound, lights up – where families with children who need accommodations will be able to share the experience of seeing family friendly films at a theatre.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Urban Air Adventure Park
Sensory Friendly Jump
NEW sensory friendly jump time for our special needs community only, every First Sunday of the month from 10am-12n (time/date varies per location).
No flashing lights, no whistles, low music level, and less crowded. We invite you and your families to join us! Reduced rates available (varies per location). Open to sensory-sensitive individuals, their siblings and care-givers only.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Studio Movie Grill
Sensory Friendly Screenings
A pillar of SMG’s Outreach since 2003, our monthly Special Needs Screenings are designed for families raising children with special needs. Special Needs Screenings are shown with the lights up and the volume lowered and children are free to move around, talk, or even dance in the aisles during the movie.
The sensory friendly screenings are free for children with special needs and their siblings. Adult tickets are available at before-noon price. There are no advance ticket sales. Parental guidance is always suggested.
Special Needs Screenings are shown at 11:00am at all SMG locations except EpiCentre. SMG Downey, Monrovia and Redlands look forward to offering our special needs screening program in the near future. We are currently in process of installing new seating and will subsequently undergo remodeling to our full concept. These locations will offer special needs screenings as soon as this work has been completed.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Regal Cinemas
My Way Matinee
Sensory friendly movie screenings with sounds lower, lights brighter.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
AMC Theaters
Sensory Friendly Films
AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! Our Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (family-friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month. Please check your local theatre listings for specific showtimes, and don't forget to share your family fun with #AMCSensoryFriendly.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Major Airports
Wings for Autism®/Wings for All®
Wings for Autism®/Wings for All® are airport “rehearsals” specially designed for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. The programs are designed to alleviate the stress that families who have a child with autism or intellectual/developmental disabilities experience when flying. It provides families the opportunity to practice entering the airport, obtaining boarding passes, going through security and boarding a plane. Airport, airline, Transportation Security Administration professionals, and other personnel also have the opportunity to observe, interact, and deliver their services in a structured learning environment.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Sky Zone
Sensory Hours
Enjoy the freedom of jumping. Sensory hours provide a quieter, toned-down jumping experience for those with special needs.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Chuck E. Cheese
Sensory Sensitive Sundays
Chuck E. Cheese's is proud to support families who have children with autism and special needs. We now offer a sensory-friendly experience on the first Sunday of every month. Our trained and caring staff is there to make sure each guest has a fun filled visit. The Sensory Sensitive Sundays experience includes:
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Less crowding and noise
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Dimmed lighting
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Show and music turned off or down
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Limited appearances by Chuck E.
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Food and games are offered
Check the link above for dates and locations.
iFly
All Abilities Night
All Abilities Night at iFLY is a unique event that makes the dream of flight a reality for those in the special needs community. This program has been custom designed for those with physical and cognitive challenges to create an environment of support and inclusion, while focusing on making what seems impossible, possible.
Check the link above for dates and locations.