Scottsdale has the two strongest certified attractions in Arizona, both at the same address. OdySea Aquarium was the first attraction in the state to become a Certified Autism Center, and Butterfly Wonderland followed six months later — each with a dedicated sensory room. For chains and big venues that train their staff nationwide, see our guide to sensory-friendly programs.
First Arizona attraction to become an IBCCES Certified Autism Center (July 2019). Has a dedicated sensory room, rates exhibits for loudness and crowding on a 1–10 sensory scale, offers a quiet room for breaks, and allows guests to leave and return the same day.
Visit siteAt 9500 E. Via de Ventura in the OdySea in the Desert complex; the first butterfly education facility in the country to earn IBCCES Certified Autism Center designation (January 2020). Has a sensory room with sensory-friendly toys and hosts regular quieter sensory-friendly mornings.
Visit siteCity-run recreation, adapted sports, and social programs for all ages with special needs — including afterschool inclusion support, Chaparral Teen Connection, a monthly Dance and Social Club, the Spectacular Saturday Club, and teen programs for ages 12–22. Phone 480-312-2234.
Visit siteRegional listing of sports and recreation options for autistic children and adults across the Phoenix metro, useful for finding current programs when a specific venue's offerings have changed.
Visit siteGet our free fall activities guide
10 autism-friendly fall activities, each with who it suits and how to make it work, plus an outing planner. Free PDF, downloaded instantly.
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