We wholeheartedly believe that acceptance creates a world in which we all are connected. Those in the the disability community deserve to feel connected to the support they need, including the ability to have the most fun and exciting time while vacationing or visiting a local attraction or theme park. I love that Orlando remains committed to its inclusive initiatives across numerous attractions and venues that offer a variety of accommodations to all guests, including those with cognitive disabilities like Autism.
We are sharing some amazing attractions and things to do in Central Florida that have acquired their certification as a Certified Autism Centerโขโฏ(CAC) or Sensory Inclusive by KultureCityยฎ.
Accreditation by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) or KultureCityยฎ means that team members have undergone comprehensive training and certification in sensory, environmental and emotional awareness.
But that’s not all…
Sensory bags with noise-canceling headphones and fidget toys are available at these attractions, enhancing the experience for all. Several of our attractions here in Central Florida boast the title of one of the first to be certified in their category, offering unique and exciting experiences.
Here are some autism-friendly places to check out in and around The City Beautiful!
AUTISM-FRIENDLY THEME PARKS
- Walt Disney World has several quiet areas and offers the disability access service which provides them with a return time if the wait is over 25 minutes. Offered throughout all four parks on Disney property.
- Legoland Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park have received their certification as a CAC from the IBCCES and are recognized as a Certified Autism Center across the theme park, water park and on-site hotels offering the โBlue Hero Passโ for guests on the autism spectrum and grants the entire group expedited access. Parents can find Sensory Guides throughout the park, providing insight into how a child with sensory processing issues may be affected by each of the five senses.
- Becoming the first water park to be a Certified Autism Center, Aquatica, offers a ride accessibility program to ensure all guests can fully experience Aquatica in its entirety. Discovery Cove is the first all-inclusive day resort and animal interaction park in the United States to earn the certification.
AUTISM-FRIENDLY HOTELS & ACCOMMODATIONS
- DoubleTree by Hilton Orlando at SeaWorld, Fairfield Inn & Suites and the SpringHill Suites are Certified Autism Center Resorts, ensuring that the staff have the training to handle the needs of guests who have autism or other sensory needs.
- JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort and Spa has a Sensory Calming Center, located in the kidโs conservatory lounge, designed for those who need their own space. The calming center includes noise-reducing headsets, textured pillows, weighted plush animals, a Lego wall and more.
- An alternative to hotels and resorts, Orlandoโs vacation homes offer a more private environment with less distractions and simulation for guests with cognitive disabilities. The new Villatel, which started a phased opening last year and is scheduled for full completion in 2025,ย offers private villa rentals with hotel-style standards and amenities, including a water park and playgrounds. Meanwhile, Villakey is an Orlando-based vacation rental company that offers autism-friendly home rentals.
AUTISM-FRIENDLY OUTDOOR ATTRACTIONS
Here are family and disability friendly outdoor attractions that are free from large crowds and present guests with nature-filled fun.
- The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens
- Gatorland
- Lake Eola Park
- Serenity Garden at Wekiwa Springs State Park
- Harry P. Leu Gardens
- Osceola County’s latest addition to its parks and recreation area is the SENSES Park. The park is the first of its kind in Florida and is an all-inclusive playground that caters to children on the autism spectrum. The structures are separated by space to allow for self-learning, exploration and less intense social play experiences. This park is a testament to Osceola Countyโs commitment to inclusivity and ensuring that every child feels welcomed and accepted. acquired their certification as a Certified Autism Centerโขโฏ(CAC) or Sensory Inclusive by KultureCityยฎ.
OTHER AUTISM-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS
- Sensory Sundays at the Crayola Experience inside the Florida Mall invites kids and families to experience the world of Crayola adapted for sensory needs. With dimmed lights, music off and a quiet room available, the Crayola Experience provides a safe and fun environment for everyone of all ages.
- Offering accommodations for people with mobility, cognitive, visual and auditory impairments, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex welcomes everyone offering quiet and interactive areas.
- If you love underwater life, families can venture out to SEA LIFE Orlando at ICON Park which is KultureCityยฎ Certified and equipped with sensory bags and signage.
- As the first National Basketball Association (NBA) arena in Florida to be certified by KultureCityยฎ as Sensory Inclusive, the Kia Center offers amenities to visitors with sensory processing needs for those families who want to attend an Orlando Magic, Orlando Solar Bears or concert event. The Sensory Room, presented by AdventHealth, promotes a positive and accommodating experience for all fans and guests with sensory sensitivities who attend events at the arena.
- One of four performing arts Certified Performing Arts Centers nationwide is in the heart of Orlando. The Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts is one of the first performing arts centers in the state to hold the Certified Autism Centerโขโฏ(CAC) designation and offers sensory friendly shows, classes and camps, where all employees are trained to better help people on the autism spectrum.
- Orlando Family Stage offers noise cancelling headphones for any of their kid friendly performances.
Thanks to our friends at Experience Kissimmee and Visit Orlando for sharing the most up to date autism-friendly information with us!
