Sensory Friendly San Diego, California
If you’re a neurodivergent family or you have highly sensitive family members, you probably plan your vacations and road trips carefully in advance to find the most sensory-friendly vacation spots.
San Diego Zoo
You’ll be happy to learn that the San Diego Zoo is certified by KultureCity as a Sensory Inclusive Location. This means they have trained staff and volunteers, quiet areas and other accommodations, and the availability of “sensory bags” with calming items. Service animals are welcome, of course. If your family appreciates social stories to become familiar with a new place in advance, the Zoo has pre-visit detailed social stories available. Alternately, search online for images of the Zoo and check out their website , including their full accessibility guide, so that you’ll all have an idea of what to expect when you get there.
You can find the San Diego Zoo at 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, near the 163 and the 5, and not far from the San Diego Museum of Art.
Fleet Science Center
Families who love science should definitely include the Fleet Science Center on your San Diego trip. Check out their website for accessibility. For example, they offer Accessibility Mornings with early access to the galleries at 9:00 AM on the third Thursday of every month. They also screen a documentary with house lights on and soundtrack volume turned down low. Admission is free for one visitor and an accompanying guest; other guests pay the regular admission rates. Ask at the ticket counter if you’d like to use a pair of noise-canceling headsets during your visit. If you’d like to stay after the early access, you’re welcome to stay and visit the entire Fleet Center for the rest of the day. Check out the accessibility page on their website to get the most out of your visit.
You can find the Fleet Science Center at 1875 El Prado, Balboa Park, San Diego, CA 92101, near the San Diego Natural History Museum, and not far from the Japanese Friendship Garden and Museum.
San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum
Families with young children will love the San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum. If you or your little ones have sensory needs and want a quieter, gentler experience, check out their Sensory Friendly Mornings every Sunday morning from 9:30 – 11:30 AM. All adults must be accompanied by a child. They have noise-canceling headphones available for checkout from the front desk, and there’s a designated quiet place in the book nook for kids who want a cozy getaway. There’s a video about the museum on their website for children who like to know what to expect in advance. You’ll find the Discovery Museum at 320 N. Broadway Escondido, CA 92025, near Grape Day Park and not far from the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego.
Wherever your next California road trip or family vacay takes you, I wish you safe travels and a carload of fun!
