5 Autism-Friendly Activities in San Diego

If you are a parent or caretaker to a child with an autism spectrum disorder, you know how
difficult it is to visit a busy environment. Visiting a busy museum or park can be overwhelming
for you and your child, however not all hope is lost. There are an increasing number of places
that cater to the needs of children with disabilities and their families. These are our top 5
autism-friendly activities in San Diego!

1. AMC Sensory Friendly Films

Location: Sensory Friendly Films are usually available at AMC Mission Valley, AMC Palm
Promenade, AMC Poway.

Who doesn’t love going to the movies?! You can catch the latest new films with the whole
family in an understanding climate. The Autism Society has partnered up with AMC to offer a
unique movie experience for their guests and families living with autism or other special needs.
For family-friendly audiences, their Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second
and fourth Saturdays each month. For mature audiences, a movie is available each month on
every second and fourth Tuesday evening. Each sensory friendly showing turns the sound down
and lights up to allow all guests to get up, shout, dance, or sing! Families will also be allowed to
bring in their own snacks from home.

For more information on ticket prices and local show times, visit their website.

2. The Fleet Science Center

Location: 1875 El Prado San Diego, CA 92101

Does your child love technology or science? Visit the Fleet Science Center for their Autism
Accessibility Mornings at the Fleet! The program is available every third Saturday of each month
where families receive early access to the museum between 9 to 10 A.M. Families can enjoy the
Fleet’s exhibits in a quieter setting with access to a space to cool-off. There will also be a special IMAX film screening at 10 A.M. with the lights on and lower volume. Admission tickets for adults begin at $19.95 and $16.95 for children.

For more information on The Fleet and admission, visit their website.

3. San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum

Location: 320 North Broadway Escondido, California 92025

Explore, imagine, experiment, and discover! The San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum offers
Sensory Friendly Museum Mornings every first Sunday of each month from 9 to 10 A.M.
Families with children on the spectrum or with sensory sensitivities can enjoy the museum in a
welcoming, comfortable environment. Quiet places, noise cancelling headphones, and a
designated break space will be available for families. Both children and adult admission begins
at $8, however military families, EBT Cardholders, and groups of 10 or more receive special
discounts.

For more information on The San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum and admission, visit their
website.

4. SDASA Pool PALS

Location: 4635 Clairemont Mesa Blvd. San Diego, CA 92117

Typical hot, sunny San Diego day? Now you can bring the entire family to an indoor pool party!
The Autism Society San Diego partnered with Agua Pros Swim School to provide monthly Family
Pool Parties every second Friday of the month from 6 to 8 P.M. The indoor pool is heated to a
perfect temperature for your child and family. Lifeguards are also provided to ensure every
guest is safe. This event is FREE for every family member, however a
$5 donation is appreciated to cover the cost of food.

For more info, visit their website.

5. San Diego Natural History Museum

Location: 1788 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101

Are you and your kiddo nature lovers? Then you will love The San Diego Natural History
Museum! TheNat offers ASD mornings every second Saturday of every month for children and
their families with autism. The museum will open at 9 A.M. to provide a less-crowded
environment. Admission includes a private, sensory-friendly showing of “Ocean Oasis” in the
giant IMAX theater. TheNat will also provide a quiet room from 9 A.M. to noon for families who
need to desensitize. Children admission begins at $12 and adult admission at $19, however
military, student, and senior admission is $17.

For more information on TheNat and admission, visit their website.

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We understand it is difficult to be surrounded in an unaccepting, unwelcoming climate. Luckily,
there are places in San Diego that understands the challenges and offers unique programs
tailored to families living with autism.

– Jenny Nguyen, Autism Outreach Team Member