Autism-Friendly Activities in
Massachusetts
Boston Ballet
Sensory Friendly Nutcracker
This performance and in-theater experience is designed to welcome guests who are neurodiverse, have sensory sensitivities, and need additional accessibility accommodations to enjoy the ballet. This one-of-a-kind performance has been abbreviated to a 64-minute run time plus a 30-minute intermission.
Boston Ballet
539 Washington Street
Boston, MA
The Hanover Theater and Conservatory for the Performing Arts
Relaxed Performance of A Christmas Carol
A relaxed performance is a specially adapted show, modified for adults and children who might benefit from a more relaxed environment. Typically, they are intended as a unique theatre experience where individuals and families impacted by autism or other sensitivities can attend together free of stress or self-consciousness.
With guidance from Seven Hills Foundation, The Arc of Opportunity, Autism Resource Central, Autism Theatre Initiative, Autism Speaks and Theatre Development Fund, we have softened the most startling moments of the show. House lights are kept on but dimmed for the entirety of the performances and sounds are lower in volume and intensity. Accommodations of support will be provided, including a quiet area for individuals and families that need a break from the experience where staff and volunteers can assist patrons’ needs.
Celebrate the holiday season with New England’s largest production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Tickets are $28, $46 and $56 depending on seat location. Discounts are available for members and groups of ten or more. Student and child tickets are 50% off for all price levels!
ASL and Audio Description services available on December 19, 4 PM. Groups of 10 or more save! Book your group early and save at least 10% PLUS all handling fees! Reserve your seats here with no deposit.
The Hanover Theatre and Conservatory for the Performing Arts
2 Southbridge Street
Worcester MA, 01608
USS Constitution Museum
Sensory-Friendly Sundays
Sensory-Friendly Sundays 2nd Sunday of the Month, November - March 9:00 - 10:00 Join us for sensory-friendly mornings at the USS Constitution Museum!
Learn about the incredible history of America’s Ship of State in a quieter setting, without loud sounds or flashing lights, and before we open to the public at 10:00 AM. Design a ship, furl a sail, and scrub the decks in our hands-on exhibits that are designed for sailors of all abilities and backgrounds. This offering is open to visitors of all ages, as well as their friends, families, and caregivers.
Registration is required and limited to 35 people. Admission by donation. See website for list of sensory-friendly modifications.
USS Constitution Museum
Building 22
Charlestown Navy Yard
Charlestown, MA 02129
617-426-1812
American Repertory Theater
Sensory Friendly Performances
From the theater: Sensory Friendly performances welcome all children, teachers, families, and community members with autism or other sensory sensitivities.
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
Edaville Family Theme Park
Quiet Rooms, Quiet Train Car, more…
Edaville doesn't have a specific sensory-friendly event, however, they do offer quiet rooms if you need to take a break, plus there is a quiet car on the train. There are some wait times for the rides, but typically they are only 5-15 minutes long and you can get a stress ball from the ride operator to help get you through the wait.
Edaville Family Theme Park
5 Pine Street
South Carver, MA 02330
Blue Man Group
Autism Speaks Performances
From their website: The Blue Men show us there are so many different ways to communicate and connect. That's why Blue Man Group teams up with Autism Speaks to host autism-friendly performances suitable for individuals and families affected by autism in New York, Boston, Chicago and Orlando. In Las Vegas, Blue Man Group works with Grant a Gift Autism Foundation for an autism-friendly performance at Luxor Hotel & Casino.
Tickets for 2018 performances will be on sale soon.
At these performances, slight modifications are made including:
Reduction of sound and light levels at various moments during the performance. Please note that while light levels will be reduced, strobe lighting is still used in the show. Please contact us for further information.
Sound reducing headphones or earplugs (depending on market) available upon request
Blue Men will limit the amount of "chair walking” and keep their approach to the audience more subdued
Calming environments in each theatre’s lobby for families seeking a break from the excitement
Show modifications vary by market. Contact your local Box Office for more information.
"We’ve heard from many families affected by autism that their children responded to the Blue Man character in a very moving way. We are thrilled to provide a safe and welcoming environment and are often quite moved by the emotional response to the show,” says Phil Stanton, Blue Man Group co-founder.
Our 2018 Autism-Friendly performance date [in Boston] will be announced soon. To be notified of our upcoming shows please EMAIL US.
Cinemagic Movies - Sturbridge
Sensory & Family Friendly Showings
From the Cinemagic Website: Sensory & Family friendly movies are for individuals living with autism and families with small children, to enjoy their movie going experience in a safe and accepting environment. In order to provide a more comfortable setting for individuals on the autism spectrum and those with young children, we keep the auditorium lights turned slightly up and the sound turned slightly down. The movie (typically G- or PG-rated) will start promptly at 10:00 a.m. Because some have strict, special dietary needs, families are permitted to bring their own gluten-free, casein-free snacks from home.
Additionally, audience members are welcome to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing - in other words, our no talking policy will not be enforced unless the audience safety is in question. This is especially nice for those with young children new to the movie-going experience. Being able to relax and enjoy your movie-going without worrying if someone will complain or be disturbed by noise or movement is wonderful. Sensory & Family Friendly movies are a great opportunity to enjoy a movie in a climate of acceptance and understanding.
Their website is super confusing to use. I recommend calling the theater directly for upcoming dates and tickets.
Cinemagic
100 Charlton Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
508-347-3609
Cinemagic Movies - Salisbury
Sensory & Family Friendly Showings
From the Cinemagic Website: Sensory & Family friendly movies are for individuals living with autism and families with small children, to enjoy their movie going experience in a safe and accepting environment. In order to provide a more comfortable setting for individuals on the autism spectrum and those with young children, we keep the auditorium lights turned slightly up and the sound turned slightly down. The movie (typically G- or PG-rated) will start promptly at 10:00 a.m. Because some have strict, special dietary needs, families are permitted to bring their own gluten-free, casein-free snacks from home.
Additionally, audience members are welcome to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing - in other words, our no talking policy will not be enforced unless the audience safety is in question. This is especially nice for those with young children new to the movie-going experience. Being able to relax and enjoy your movie-going without worrying if someone will complain or be disturbed by noise or movement is wonderful. Sensory & Family Friendly movies are a great opportunity to enjoy a movie in a climate of acceptance and understanding.
Their website is super confusing to use. I recommend calling the theater directly for upcoming dates and tickets.
Cinemagic
6 Merrill Street
Salisbury, MA 01952
978-499-9494
Amesbury Public Library
Sensory Storytime
Sensory Storytime is an interactive storytime led by Clare that is intended for children aged 4 and up who are on the autism spectrum, have sensory processing issues, or just want a fun storytime. This half-hour program includes books, songs, and ends with bubbles. Kids can follow along with their own visual schedules. Monthly program with no registration.
Amesbury Public Library
149 Main Street
Amesbury, MA 01913
Discovery Museum
Especially for Me
From the museum: The Especially for Me event series offers dedicated hours and free museum admission for families facing developmental challenges. During these events, we offer accommodations that increase access to museum exhibits and provide an opportunity for families to network with one another in an understanding environment.
177 Main Street (Route 27)
Acton, Massachusetts 01720
Boston Children's Museum
Morning Star Access
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.
Boston Children's Museum
308 Congress Street
Boston, MA 02210
Altitude Trampoline Park
Sensory-Friendly Saturdays
At Altitude we want all to gain the enjoyment and freedom of flight on a trampoline so each and every Saturday morning we offer Sensory-friendly Saturdays! SFS runs each Saturday from 9:00am-10:00am and all individuals and/or groups who struggle with sensory stimulation are encouraged to come and jump with us.
The experience is great for our awesome guests as Altitude offers the following during this time:
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Less crowded at this time of day
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We turned the music volume down
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No parties are scheduled at this time
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We bring out the inflatable toys!
Additionally, you get to enjoy Altitude at a reduced rate of $12/per person 9:00am-10:00am!
Altitude Trampoline Park
Towne Plaza- Route 3A
700 Boston Road
Billerica, MA 01821
Southwick Zoo
Sunset at Southwick Sensory-friendly Evening
This special event is designed for individuals with autism, their families, and others who may benefit from a sensory friendly experience. We'll have the zoo all to ourselves! Families will have the opportunity to spend two hours exploring the zoo and visiting animals in an intimate, quiet environment with no bright lights, rides, or gift store.
Southwick Zoo
1881 Worcester Road
Suite 100A
Framingham, MA 01701
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.