Sensory-Friendly Pensacola: Attractions and Activities for Kids
Families traveling with children have a long to-do list to get ready for vacation. From making sure everyone’s bags are packed to figuring out how to get from point A to point B once you reach your destination, the responsibilities fall largely on the parents to ensure the whole crew is ready for a safe and memorable time.
Add in the extra considerations that parents of children with special needs often have, and planning can become a tall order. Thankfully, the Pensacola area has plenty of options to help make visiting the area enjoyable for everyone. Children, including those who have been diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, may benefit from sensory-friendly activities offered by area attractions.
Katy Hebebrand, a local mom of three, suggests: “Wherever you visit, don’t be afraid to call ahead and ask questions if needed. Most places are very accommodating. Some kids want to play outside, and others prefer an indoor environment, but there is something for everyone.”
Here are a few ideas to help families plan an inclusive itinerary:
The National Naval Aviation Museum is popular with all ages. Home to more than 150 U.S Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard aircraft, the museum offers free admission and the opportunity to touch and, in some cases, even climb aboard planes. The space is expansive and generally quiet as guests browse the exhibits. The museum does boast a popular Giant Screen theater and interactive flight motion simulators, but it is easy to bypass these offerings if they are not right for your child. Also, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels flight demonstration squadron practices high in the skies above the museum Tuesdays and Wednesdays at mid-day, March through November. This is a popular time to visit, but if airplane noise is bothersome, bringing protective headphones or visiting at another time may be preferable.
Pensacola MESS Hall (Math, Engineering, Science & Stuff) is all about hands-on exhibits and experiments for young minds, providing a stimulating environment that seamlessly blends education with enjoyment. Visit the museum on an afternoon during the school year (open Tuesday-Friday) when the center generally is less crowded if you prefer a quiet space. You’ll find countless ways to explore science – from building intricate marble runs that defy gravity to constructing parachutes from straws and paper cups, the facility encourages a sense of creativity and experimentation.
The Pensacola Museum of Art has been certified as autism-friendly by the Centers for Autism & Related Disabilities. Exhibits vary throughout the year, but an interactive area on the first floor has sensory toys and books to explore, and there is a quiet library space. The PMA hosts free Art Academy for Autism programs for ages 5-9, 10-15, and 16+, every other week on Fridays and Saturdays, depending on age group. Students must register in advance for the spring or fall semester. A professional instructor trained to help those with sensory issues teaches the Art Academy for Autism programs. Every October, the PMA offers a low-sensory Halloween-themed event for all ages.
Active kids can burn some energy at SkyZone. This indoor trampoline park offers 90-minute sessions or all-day passes for freestyle jumping, as well as a designated toddler zone, foam zone, sky ladder, sky joust and ultimate dodgeball. Special socks, required to participate, are sold on site. Contact SkyZone directly as schedules vary, but sensory hours may be offered to provide a quieter, toned-down jumping experience.
The Pensacola Children’s Museum is another venue where children are encouraged to touch the exhibits and play freely, creating an interactive atmosphere that champions the philosophy that play is an integral part of the learning process. Tailored toward children ages 10 and younger, imagination takes the helm as children embark on adventures within the confines of a miniature ship, fostering a sense of seafaring discovery. The museum extends its offerings with a meticulously crafted grocery store and health clinic, where young patrons can engage in make-believe shopping and wellness.
AMC Bayou 15 movie theater has a Sensory Friendly Film program the second and fourth Saturday of every month. Overhead lighting remains on, volume is lowered, and moviegoers can get up and move around as needed.
Captains for Kids coordinates free charter boat trips and dolphin cruises for families of children with special needs. Similarly, the Pensacola Yacht Club Satori Foundation has introduced the benefits of sailing to adults and children with autism through a partnership with the Florida State University Center for Autism & Related Disabilities.
Children can explore the area’s natural wonders at their own pace at Big Lagoon State Park, Tarklin Bayou Preserve State Park and Perdido Key State Park. A musical sensory garden and playground for all abilities opened at Pensacola’s Kiwanis Park in 2023. Gulf Breeze Zoo offers a petting zoo and animal encounters. Tinkergarten is an outdoor activities and play-based learning program designed for young children.
For additional resources or to learn about special events that may be of interest to families of children with an autism spectrum disorder, visit Autism Pensacola.
