As the weather heats up, it’s hard to keep your mind from daydreaming about the summertime. Whether you have a few trips in mind or are beginning your summer vacation planning now, you should find places that are autism friendly. Traveling with a child on the autism spectrum can be tricky because you never know what could trigger them. Perhaps you visit a museum on a busy day or go to a destination that’s too loud; it can make your child feel overwhelmed. Before you set off on your holiday, it is a good idea to look into aba autism therapy as this can help prepare your child and give you strategies to deal with what’s to come. Regardless, you should choose an autism-friendly destination to ensure the holiday is as enjoyable as possible for your child and family.
Here are a few autism-friendly destinations to plan this summer to help plan a family-fun vacation.
Here are a few autism-friendly destinations to plan this summer to help plan a family-fun vacation.
LEGOLAND Florida Resort
In 2022, Legoland Florida Resort partnered with Autism Speaks and became a certified autism center. This theme park resort is the first to become entirely autism-friendly. Quiet and filled with sensory-stimulating activities, this park is the perfect place to be this summer. All staff members at Legoland are trained in autism awareness and sensitivity, so you won’t have to worry about insensitive interactions.
Disney Cruise Line
While cruising might not be your first choice, especially with a child with autism, there is an exception. Disney Cruise Line is a great choice for autism-friendly family summer vacations. This iconic cruise line has many accommodations for children with autism. Make sure to contact them ahead of time to ensure your child has the support they need.
Sesame Place
Sesame Street has been an ally to many families for over 50 years. Therefore, it’s no surprise that Sesame Place is the place to be this summer. This park is in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, and is worth every penny. The theme park is easily accessible and includes shows, programs, rides, and water attractions. Sesame Place is also the perfect destination for your child to practice their socialization skills with the park’s character members.
Surfside Beach, South Carolina
This coastal town is proud to be an autism-friendly destination. Surfside Beach is the perfect summer destination for families who want a relaxing and non-crowded trip to the ocean. Instead of facing crowded boardwalks and loud beach-goers, your family can build sandcastles and walk along the water in peace. Visit this beach with a few friends or family members for a fun summer day.
Morgan’s Wonderland
Located in San Antonio, Texas, Morgan’s Wonderland is the world’s first amusement park created to be fully accessible for those with special needs. This park also offers free admission for those with disabilities—a plus for those looking for a more affordable trip this summer!
Morgan’s Wonderland features an indoor Sensory Village to help beat the heat and encourages park-goers to be creative. It has a large sand pit and an outdoor music area. For those who love fishing, the park also features a catch-and-release fishing area. Beyond the play areas, the park also features water attractions, multiple playgrounds, and rides.
