A Breath of Fresh Air: 10 Accessible Attractions and Sensory-Friendly Fun for Autism Families
Note: This post was written by our Marketing Manager in collaboration with Simone Bégin, Senior Behaviour Technician (IBT). Content on this page is not reviewed regularly and may become out of date. Always call ahead to ensure these attractions are available.
To the wonderful parents and caregivers in our community: we see you.
We understand the unique joy—and sometimes, the unique challenge—that comes with finding fun family outings for a child with autism. The desire to create happy, memorable experiences is strong, but the thought of navigating loud crowds, bright lights, and unpredictable environments can often feel overwhelming. Planning a simple day out shouldn't feel like a major military operation.
You are not alone in the struggle to find truly inclusive and sensory-friendly attractions. Fortunately, more and more local venues are acknowledging this need and stepping up to offer dedicated, accessible experiences designed with sensory sensitivities in mind. These offerings are a gift—a chance for your family to relax, explore, and simply enjoy time together in an environment where your child is fully welcomed and understood.
Here is a guide to some of the incredible attractions offering sensory-friendly visits, relaxed performances, and accessible environments in our area:
🌟 Sensory-Friendly Experiences and Accessible Attractions 🌟
Attractions & Entertainment:
| Venue | Experience | Key Details | Link for More Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chuck E. Cheese | Sensory-Friendly Visits (Sensory Sensitive Sundays™) | Day: First Sunday of the month. Time: Typically opens two hours early (e.g., 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM) with dimmed lights, lower music, and a calmer atmosphere. | chuckecheese.com/sensory-sensitive-sundays/ |
| Cineplex Odeon | Sensory-Friendly Screenings | Day: Every 4-6 weeks on Saturday mornings. Time: Varies. | cineplex.com/theatres/accessibility |
| CN Tower | Sensory-Friendly Visits (Low-Sensory Mornings) | Day: Varies (check website). Time: Varies (check website)—often the first 90 minutes of the day with reduced crowds, light, and sound. Social narratives available. | cntower.ca/low-sensory-mornings |
| Landmark Cinemas | Sensory-Friendly Screenings | Days & Time: Varies (see website for more information). | landmarkcinemas.com/experiences/sensory-friendly-films/ |
| Mirvish | Sensory-Friendly Shows (Relaxed Performances) | Days & Time: Varies (see website for more information). Shows feature minor adjustments to sound/light, a relaxed attitude to noise/movement, and quiet spaces available. | mirvish.com/ticket-info/accessibility |
| ROM (Royal Ontario Museum) | Sensory-Friendly Visits (Check for specific Access/Mornings) | Specific sensory-friendly mornings may be offered, often before public opening, with fewer crowds and reduced stimulus. Sensory Backpacks and Social Narratives are often available during regular hours. | rom.on.ca/visit/accessibility |
| Ripley’s Aquarium | Sensory-Friendly Visits (Sensory Sunday Morning) | Day: First Sunday of every month. Time: 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. Includes increased lighting, a music-free environment, and access to a quiet room. | ripleys.com/attractions/ripleys-aquarium-of-canada/events/sensory-sunday-morning |
| Toronto Zoo | Sensory-Friendly Visits (Early Admission) | Days: Weekends & Holidays (check seasonal availability). Time: 9:00 AM–9:30 AM (half an hour before public opening) for a less stimulating experience. | torontozoo.com/tz/accessibility |
Dedicated Spaces & Resources:
| Venue | Experience | Key Details | Link for More Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Respite Club | Sensory-Friendly Play Space | A dedicated, safe, and nurturing environment offering sensory-rich activities, often in a structured and calm setting. Check their site for specific play hours and programs. | https://www.therespiteclub.ca/ (Search for "Play Space" or "Sensory Room" details on their site) |
| Snooze Room | Multi-Sensory Rooms (Snoezelen Therapy) | A specialized, controlled environment with lighting effects, color, sound, and textures to provide both calming and stimulating sensory experiences. Note: Bookings are typically required. | https://snoozeroom.ca/ |
Pro-Tips for Your Visit
Always Call Ahead: While the details above are current, event schedules and times can change. It's always best practice to check the venue's accessibility page or call their guest services line a few days before your planned visit.
Social Narratives are Your Friend: Many of the listed attractions offer downloadable "Social Stories" or "Know Before You Go" guides on their accessibility pages. Reviewing these with your child before the trip can help prepare them for the new environment and reduce anxiety.
Need help crafting social narratives or visuals for your child?
Our Foundations team is here to help. Book a Brief Targeted Consultation through our Service Navigator and we can create an individualized resource specifically tailored to your needs.
Look for Sensory Kits: Several venues, including the ROM and the CN Tower, offer complimentary sensory kits or backpacks containing noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, and communication cards. Ask at the Guest Services desk when you arrive!
We hope this list empowers you to plan a successful, stress-free, and joyful outing. Happy exploring!