Celebrate Autism Awareness in Syracuse, NY
World Autism Month is recognized throughout April and is dedicated to celebrating differences, while increasing education and opportunities globally for people with autism.
Syracuse, NY is proud to offer several inclusive events and experiences for individuals diagnosed with autism, not just in April, but all year round. So, whether you’re local to our area or visiting us here in Central New York, here are 8 autism-friendly experiences to check out soon!
The Museum of Science and Technology
Known for its fun and exciting ways to create hands-on educational opportunities for kids of all ages, the MOST offers Sensory Friendly Time, on the third Sunday of the month from 9:00am - 11:00am, and 4:00pm - 6:00pm. By dimming the lights, turning down all sounds, and completely turning off the air compressors, the MOST ensures that everyone has an equal opportunity to experience hands-on STEM learning. Children and their families can enjoy the Sensory Spacewalk which is an inclusive pathway through space and time which offers a safe area to release their energy while helping them focus on their motor skills. Check out their Sensory Experience Guide today.
Autism Society of Central New York
On Saturday April 25th, 2026, celebrate the annual Autism Acceptance walk at Jamesville Beach Pack. There is no participation fee for this wonderful event. The goal in mind is to raise awareness and acceptance of autism. Their mission is to create a place where each person with autism is valued, respected, and provided the opportunity to maximize their quality of life each and everyday. For more information reach out to cnyasa@yahoo.com.
Rosamond Gifford Zoo at Burnet Park
The zoo is a wonderful option for families seeking a more flexible, open-air outing. The zoo’s website offers a downloadable Social Story and Sensory Map under the Accessibility tab, which can help families prepare for their visit and navigate the space with confidence. Visiting before 2 p.m. on most days is recommended for a less crowded, quieter experience.
Don’t miss: Dreamnight at the Zoo on June 5, 2026. Every year on the first Friday of June, the Rosamond Gifford Zoo participates in Dreamnight, a free, inclusive evening exclusively for children with special health care needs and disabilities. It’s a magical event, and the Rosamond Gifford Zoo is the only zoo in New York State that participates. Tickets are limited intentionally, to minimize overstimulation for the children who attend. Families typically access tickets through CNY organizations that serve children with disabilities, keep an eye on CNY ASA and the dedicated event page on the zoo’s website for details as June approaches.
Syracuse Stage
Syracuse Stage prioritizes accessibility by offering sensory-friendly performances for selected shows each season. These performances are designed with adjusted lighting, reduced sound levels (without sudden loud noises), designated quiet spaces, and pre-visit guides that help families understand what to expect, from arrival to the costumes on stage. Staff members, ushers, and volunteers receive specialized training to assist guests with diverse needs. Ticket exchanges are allowed within the same production, and full refunds are available up until the performance begins.
For this season, a sensory-friendly performance of Frozen will take place on Saturday, June 6 at 1:00 p.m.
Tickets can be reserved by contacting the box office at 315-443-3275. Additional accessibility details are available on the Syracuse Stage website.
Beaver Lake Nature Center
Located on just over 660 acres of natural land, the Beaver Lake Nature Center hosts a variety of outdoor experiences all year round and invites all types of visitors to join and enjoy. The Sensory Garden was built in 1993 as a quiet area for visitors of all ages to taste, touch, smell and learn about herbs and plants in a comfortable and open setting.
Chuck E. Cheese
Chuck E. Cheese, located in Syracuse NY, proudly participates in Sensory Sensitive Sundays. On the first Sunday of the month, Chuck E. Cheese opens its doors early and invites kids with autism and other special health care needs to enjoy full access to all games and rides with reduced crowds, dimmed lighting, music turned down or off completely and limited appearances by Chuck E. himself!
Destiny USA
WonderWorks
WonderWorks in Destiny USA hosts Sensory Days for children and adults with special needs. Wonderworks’ exhibits are altered to provide limited stimulation for adults and children alike. The music in the facility is lowered, any loud exhibit is not operational, and they stop the inversion tunnel creating a safe environment for individuals with special needs to enjoy the facility without feeling overwhelmed. We recommend calling ahead for information on when the sensory days will be!
Apex Entertainment
With support from the Autism Alliance and Advocates of Metrowest, Apex Entertainment offers Sensory Friendly Hour on the first Sunday of every month at 11:00 am. Inclusive accommodations featuring quiet rooms, reduced lighting and sounds, sunglasses, and sensory toys, the Apex team is dedicated to sharing fun experiences with everyone.
Interested in spending a sensory-friendly day in Syracuse, NY? Plan your visit to the area today!
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