Destination Toledo is working towards becoming a Certified Autism Destination by offering certified sensory-friendly experiences at its attractions, with the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium leading as one of the first attractions to be named a Certified Autism Center. The Visitor Services Building in Entry Plaza proudly provides visitors access to Sensory Bags free of charge, while providing other amenities such as mapping out the noisiest areas and scent warnings with the help of their Sensory Map. To spread Autism Awareness, Destination Toledo strives to ensure that visitors, autistic or not, feel welcomed and included in their city.

Destination Toledo has embraced the growing awareness and appreciation for sensory-friendly experiences, working with attractions to become Certified Autism Centers. Taking an important step towards becoming a Certified Autism Destination, Toledo is creating inclusive spaces and activities that celebrate diversity and ensure all can participate and enjoy what the city has to offer. Through this blog, visitors and locals alike will be able to discover the best sensory-friendly experiences the city has to offer.

The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is proud to be among the attractions that have become Certified Autism Centers, creating a safe and enjoyable space for all visitors.

Sensory Bags and Map Offered at Visitor Services Building

The Visitor Services Building in Entry Plaza proudly offers Sensory Bags at no additional cost, with only the completion of a liability form required. These bags provide visitors with noise-canceling headphones of both adult and child sizes, a whiteboard with marker, sensory and fidget tools, a social story, a misting fan, and straws. Furthermore, the zoo provides a detailed Sensory Map to guide visitors with any sensory needs. The map displays which areas of the zoo are crowded, designated as sensory-friendly, noisy, interactive, or dimly lit, and even notes scent changes along the path.

ADA Title III Regulations

The Toledo Zoo encourages visitors to experience the exhibits in a designated sensory viewing space. For instance, the Kodiak Bear exhibit offers an unforgettable encounter with its sensory log, allowing individuals to get a close-up view of the bears as if they were breathing the same air. Furthermore, the zoo proudly adheres to ADA Title III regulations and welcomes service animals, defined as dogs or miniature horses that have been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. Service animals must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered unless the individual’s disability or the device itself prevents it.

Grow U’s Farm 101 Exhibit

The Toledo Museum of Art is proud to offer a learning space packed with exhibits full of stimulating sights, sounds, and sensations. Grow U’s Farm 101 exhibit is sure to delight visitors with its interactive animatronic characters. Additionally, the Museum offers hands-on activities that explore different textures, temperatures, and more. And for those seeking an audiovisual experience, Extreme Science Demonstrations take place in the Extreme Science Theater – complete with loud noises and bright flashes of light.

Inclusive Programming

Metroparks Toledo proudly provides inclusive programming to ensure all visitors have the opportunity to participate in their events. Reasonable accommodations can be made and should be communicated at least 72 business hours in advance. Special low-sensory areas are available at major events such as the annual Block Party and Great Art Escape, providing an oasis from the crowds and noise. To help ensure a comfortable experience for all, sensory kits with earplugs, whiteboards for communication, various fidgets, and noise-canceling headphones are available. Weighted lap pads can also be found in the Museum’s Family Center.

Features of the Secor Barrier-Free Playground

The Secor Barrier Free Playground is an impressive and accessible play area that offers a variety of exciting features. The Phase 1 playground features include a Rock-N-Raft, providing an easy way for friends to remain seated while playing together; wide ramps and low handrails, providing easy access up the play structure; sensory wave climber, rings and a hand cycler, allowing children to use their upper body strength while playing; slide transfers, making it easier to ride down slides; and soft surfacing, ensuring the accessibility throughout the play area. The Doneghy Inclusive Garden also provides wheelchair-accessible garden beds, ADA-compliant seating within a pergola, a sensory water wall, and plantings with olfactory and touch sensory components. Finally, the National Museum of the Great Lakes provides another unique experience to visitors.

NMGL and Spectrum Sailing

NMGL is proud to partner with Spectrum Sailing, providing maritime education, programming, and outreach for individuals with autism. This partnership allows NMGL to promote the program and offer members the opportunity to join. Likewise, Wingate by Wyndham Sylvania offers additional support for guests, offering low sensory areas equipped with a view of a 10-mile creek and tv access. Finally, Toledo Speedway/BMX provides guests with an exciting experience, offering BMX racing and other activities.

Supporting the Autism Community

Toledo Speedway is dedicated to providing an enjoyable experience for all race fans, including those in the autism community. The track offers noise-canceling headphones, a low-sensory area, and healthier food items in the concession stand. In addition to these accommodations, Toledo Speedway also lists local organizations that have completed their Certified Autism Training and are now Certified Autism Centers on their website. These include Destination Toledo, Avenues for Autism, Boyds Retro Candy, the National Museum of the Great Lakes, Toledo Museum of Art, Valentine Theatre, Wingate by Wyndham Sylvania, Toledo Speedway BMX, Toledo Santa LLC, and Visit Perrysburg. Additionally, Huntington Center, Glass City Center, Toledo Express Airport, and Franklin Park Mall are actively working towards their designation.

Visitors searching for a sensory-friendly experience need look no further than Destination Toledo. Organizations throughout the city have gone to great lengths to nurture inclusion and accommodate visitors with special needs. Whether it’s at the zoo or another Certified Autism Center, any previous apprehension should wane as accommodations are available to truly provide an exceptional experience to all who visit. By continuously improving their environment to educate and entertain families, compliance with international and national standards and working towards acceptance is becoming a reality. With Destination Toledo, autism spectrum and sensory newcomers alike can find solace, making this city destination genuinely worthy of exploration.