Loud sounds and packed crowds can be overwhelming for people with sensory sensitivities. Around the Oklahoma City metro area, family-friendly venues offer inclusive events and other accommodations aimed at welcoming all families to enjoy their fun amenities.
This article is generously sponsored by Oklahoma City Parks & Recreation. The mission of OKC Parks is to provide cultural, social and recreational experiences to the community to cultivate wellness and encourage a healthy lifestyle. OKC Parks wants to inspire families to explore, learn, grow and play!
This article is generously sponsored by (Editor’s Note: This is a working list last updated on September 4, 2024. If you know of other events happening in the Oklahoma City metro area, please email calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com.)
Adaptive Programs & Activities at OKC Parks
OKC Parks offers activities, programs and special events designed to cater to all, including numerous adaptive activities perfect for children and adults with special needs including art, sports, fitness, family swim times and more.
Sensory Sensitive Sundays at Chuck E. Cheese
At select locations around the country, Chuck E. Cheese opens two hours early on the first Sunday of the month, offering families less crowds, dimmed lighting and low music. Chuck E., their iconic mascot, will make limited appearances as well. The Norman location is participating in this program.
Sensory Friendly Films at AMC Theatres
Crowded theaters can be the exact opposite of sensory friendly; however, AMC offers a unique movie-watching experience for families and adults with sensory sensitivities. On the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, local theaters offer family-friendly screenings with the lights turned up and the sound turned down. On Wednesday evenings, theaters show movies for mature audiences with the same accommodations.
Sensory Friendly Screenings at Moore Warren
The My Way Matinee at Regal Theatres provides a movie experience where guests are welcome to move around, sing and dance. Additional accommodations include brighter lights and lower sound.
Several times a year, iFLY hosts an All Abilities Night offering accommodations for all abilities and discounted pricing. iFLY partners with local adaptive, inclusion and special needs organizations. Space is limited.
We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym Open Play
We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym was founded to provide a place for children of all ability levels to play and grow together using uniquely designed sensory equipment that is specifically designed to aid children with sensory processing disorders. Children are welcome to come in and enjoy the same activities that are offered during the private sessions and private parties. This includes full use of the gym with all equipment, and an arts & crafts section that has: beading, painting, lanyards and much more. A new location recently opened in Norman.
Sensory Sensitive Experiences at Myriad Gardens
Throughout the year, Myriad Gardens offers a variety of family-friendly activities that connect to nature in different ways each season. For example, when Pumpkinville arrives each fall in the Children’s Garden, staff provides a more controlled and welcoming environment for people with sensory sensitivities to experience with no loud music and smaller crowds. Families can enjoy festive booths, crafts and a light snack, on a select evening during the festival. Space is limited, so be sure to preregister.
OKC Thunder Sensory Room and Kits
In partnership with KultureCity, Thunder fans can check out kits designed to reduce sensory overload during game nights. There is also a space in Section 112 that provides a calm, quiet atmosphere.
Lloyd Noble is a KultureCity-certified venue. Sensory bags, equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads will be available to all arena guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment. Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity app to see the available sensory features and where they can access them.
Sensory-friendly performances are offered for children and adults with sensory sensitivities or for anyone who may benefit from being in a more relaxed environment. This sensory-friendly performances are usually offered at a special discounted price. Accommodations include adjusted lighting and sound, no live orchestra and no pyrotechnics. Check the website and schedule for details.
Metro museums and family fun venues that offer sensory-sensitivity resources and accommodations:
- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
- Oklahoma City Zoo
- Oklahoma City Museum of Art
- Science Museum Oklahoma
For even more family-friendly ideas, check out our searchable calendar for fun events happening every day of the week.
