Raising Brilliance

Autism-friendly things to do in Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor is a genuinely welcoming place for sensory-friendly outings, with a couple of local museums running real, ongoing programs. This page lists venues we could verify offer genuine sensory or accessibility support, plus tips for planning an outing that sets your child up to succeed.

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Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum

Children's science museum

Runs the ongoing My Turn series of free quiet hours for families affected by autism and sensory processing differences, with free sensory kits available to neurodivergent visitors. All four floors accessible by elevator.

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University of Michigan Museum of Natural History

Natural history museum

Offers sensory tools for check-out at the Welcome Desk, plus a dedicated quiet room (the Personal Room) on the lower level for sensory breaks. Fully accessible by elevator, with free general admission.

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Kelsey Museum of Archaeology

Free university museum · sensory kits

Free University of Michigan archaeology museum — no ticket required. Sensory-friendly kits with headphones, sunglasses, fidget toys, emotion communication cards and a social story can be borrowed for your visit.

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Matthaei Botanical Gardens — Gaffield Children's Garden

Outdoor garden · sensory-friendly

The Gaffield Children's Garden includes the Sensational Garden, planted for varied textures, scents and leaf shapes, and a Cabin off the Rustic Habitat Trail that works as a quiet space for breaks — an easy, low-key outdoor outing. Admission is free; parking is metered ($2.50/hour, $6 daily maximum).

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Free summer guide

Get our free summer guide

Sensory-smart, low-pressure, and actually fun. Free PDF, delivered instantly, plus one short practical email each week.

10 Amazing Activities to Do With an Autistic Child This Summer — free PDF, delivered instantly.

No spam. Unsubscribe any time.