Autism-Friendly Activities in
Georgia
BlueSprig Pediatrics
Touch-a-Truck
BlueSprig Dunwoody, Sandy Springs & Smyrna are partnering with our community helpers to promote safety for all with our Touch-A-Truck event! This free event is a great opportunity for children of all ages to get a closer look and explore all kinds of vehicles and equipment, including a fire truck, ambulance, police car, and more. Children will also be able to meet our community helpers and the BlueSprig teams and ask any questions. We can't wait to see you there!
BlueSprig Pediatrics
1 Dunwoody Park Ste 220
Atlanta, GA 30338
Renovation Church
Sensory Friendly Trunk Hop
March 23, 2024 10am-11am: Sensory Friendly Hour 11am-1pm: Traditional Trunk Hop 4,000 Easter Eggs, Bounce Houses, Craft Booths, Face Painting, Food and Fun! Please join us @ 10am if you would like to participate in an environment adapted to sensory sensitivities.
Renovation Church
1775 Water Place SE
Atlanta, Ga 30339
Fernbank Museum
Sensory Morning
Join us for a series of sensory events, designed for guests with sensory sensitivities or special needs who might benefit from a less-crowded environment. These experiences will provide a quieter and calmer environment for guests to explore the museum, experience the nature trails of WildWoods, and enjoy a sensory-friendly film screening in the Giant Screen Theater.
Fernbank Museum
767 Clifton Road NE
Atlanta, GA
High Museum of Art, Atlanta
Sensory-Friendly Morning
Sensory-Friendly Morning is a free, sensory-modified program for visitors of all ages who have sensory sensitivities or are neurodivergent and their families. The event takes place prior to regular museum hours. Visitors can participate in activities and special performances or explore the museum at their own pace. See a full list of activities, performances, and other sensory-friendly offerings below. Space is limited to reduce crowds, and preregistration is highly encouraged. Prior to Sensory-Friendly Morning, preregistered guests will receive pre-visit materials to help prepare them for their time at the museum.
High Museum of Art, Atlanta
1280 Peachtree St NE
Atlanta, GA 30309
Georgia Symphony Orchestra
Sensory Friendly for the Family Concert
Funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts and designed specifically for individuals with sensory sensitivities and their families, the Georgia Symphony's annual Sensory Friendly Concert features a range of enjoyable musical selections. Audience members are free to be themselves; change seats, move about the auditorium, sing, vocalize, even yell out “BRAVO!” after their newly discovered classical favorites.
Marietta Performing Arts Center
1171 Whitlock Ave NW
Marietta, GA 30064
The Georgia Ballet
Sensory Friendly Performances
From the Ballet: The Georgia Ballet is thrilled to introduce sensory friendly shows to their 2017-2018 season. Sensory Friendly performances are becoming more available in the United States and GAB is excited to bring the experience to the Metro Atlanta community.
The season’s full length productions will be abbreviated to one hour and feature modifications for children and adults with different visual and auditory needs. Some of these modifications include: open seating, raised house lights, decreased and eliminated harsh/flashing lights on stage, and decreased audio levels all of which will give the audience the opportunity to experience the show without being confined in their seat in a dark theater for a lengthy period. It is the mission of The Georgia Ballet to help bring more opportunities to the families and friends of the special needs community to experience the art of Ballet.
In 2012 GAB began DanceAbility, a free class designed to teach children ages 6-13 with special needs a traditional ballet class tailored to fit their individual needs. These performances will build on the positive impact these classes have brought to the community already.
For more information, contact Kaitlyn Pack at kpack@georgiaballet.org
The Georgia Ballet
1255 Field Parkway
Marietta, GA 30066
Tellus Science Museum
Quiet Mornings
From the Museum: Would you or someone you love benefit from having a quieter experience at Tellus Science Museum. If so, make reservations for an intimate morning, limited to 200 participants, which offers a crowd-free environment and less sensory stimulation.
Tellus Science Museum
100 Tellus Drive
Cartersville, GA 30121
The Southern Museum
Sensory Friendly Afternoons
From the museum: "Join us on the last Tuesday of each month for a Sensory Friendly Afternoon! From 2:00 pm- 5:00 pm, the museum will be transformed into a sensory-friendly environment. We welcome visitors with Autism Spectrum Disorder, sensory processing issues, or special needs to explore the Museum at their own pace.
Sensory Friendly Afternoons include modified sound effects and volume adjustments inside the museum. A designated Quiet Room will be available for those needing additional support. Check out our Social Story to learn more about visiting the Museum and what to expect.
Time: Last Tuesday of each month, 2:00 pm- 5:00 pm
Admission: Included with general admission. Free for members!
Ages: All ages welcome!
For additional information, please contact the Early Childhood Educator at children@southernmuseum.org or 770-427-2117 ext. 3173.
The Southern Museum
2829 Cherokee Street
Kennesaw, GA 30144
Popadoodle Kids Imagination Center
Sensory Days
From Popadoodle: "Popadoodle, LLC is in the Lilburn/Stone Mountain, GA area. It is a children's imagination center catered to girls and boys ages 0 to 11. Our center is a child's dream playroom that offers various activities to spark creativity and artistic expression. We offer after school Art & S.T.E.M. classes during the week, open play time on the weekends, and birthday parties anytime!
3rd Saturday of every month; The Center will be open at 9 AM for families with children on the autism spectrum or children with sensory processing disorders. Sensory Saturdays include a sensory modified setting. $7/child. Drop-ins Welcome"
Popadoodle Kids Imagination Center
1218 Rockbridge Rd., SW
Stone Mountain, GA 30087
Children's Museum of Atlanta
Sensory Friendly Saturdays
From the museum: "The Museum will open at 9 AM for families with children on the autism spectrum or children with sensory processing disorders. Sensory Friendly Saturdays include a sensory modified setting, limited admission and sound and lighting adjustments. We also have a social story to help prepare families for their Museum experience.
Admission will be $6 per person for non-members and free for members. Advanced ticket purchase is required. Space is limited so book today! Call Reservations at 404-527-3693 to book your space or PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE.
Children's Museum of Atlanta
275 Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW
Atlanta, GA 30313
404-659-5437
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.
Jump Street
5900 Sugarloaf Pkwy.
Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Center for Puppetry Arts
Sensory Friendly Programming
These modifications of the Center’s regular programming will allow guests with Autism Spectrum Disorder to experience sensory-friendly Family Series performances, Film series, and Create-A-Puppet Workshops™. Guests will be welcomed by staff members who have been trained in interactions with patrons with ASD.
Center for Puppetry Arts
1404 Spring St. NW at 18th
Atlanta, GA 30309-2820
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,
-
Lights are turned up and sound is turned down
-
All ages are welcome (including infants)
-
Talking and noise is allowed and guests can move around
-
Latecomers are admitted
-
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:
-
Suspended equipment with swings – for balance and vestibular treatment
-
Crash mats and crash pillows – for fun, motor planning, and strength
-
Zip line – for stress release and joint and body relaxation
-
Trampoline – for building leg and core strength
-
Indoor play structure – for climbing and increasing playground skills
-
Sensory-based toys – for improved auditory processing and fine motor skills
-
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:
-
Less crowding and noise
-
Dimmed lighting
-
Show and music turned off or down
-
Limited appearances by Chuck E.
-
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.