The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium has embraced the movement to create inclusive spaces and activities for individuals with sensory sensitivities, leading the way in the designation of a Certified Autism Destination.
Through this blog, locals and visitors can uncover various sensory-friendly offerings to be enjoyed here, such as sensory bags at the visitor services building on the entry plaza, as well as a comprehensive sensory map of the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium which provides essential information about its areas catered towards those with sensory needs.
Sensory Bags and Map Available
Visitors to the visitor services building in the entry plaza can now take advantage of sensory bags, which include noise-canceling headphones in both adult and child sizes, a whiteboard with marker, sensory and fidget tools, a social story, a misting fan, and straws. Completion of a liability form is all that is required for no additional cost. Additionally, a comprehensive sensory map is available, providing key information about the zoo’s crowded, sensory-friendly, loud, interactive, and dimly lit areas, as well as potential scent changes along the path. This helpful guide was designed to make visiting the zoo a more enjoyable experience for those with sensory needs.
ADA Title III Regulations
The Toledo Zoo is proud to provide exciting sensory viewing experiences for visitors in several of its exhibits. For example, the Kodiak Bear exhibit features a sensory log that allows guests to get up close and personal with the bears – an experience like no other! Additionally, the zoo complies with ADA Title III regulations by allowing service animals such as dogs and miniature horses to accompany their handlers. All service animals must be under the control of their handler, harnessed, leashed, or tethered unless the individual’s disability prevents them from using these devices.
Accessible Attractions in Toledo
The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is proud to offer its accessibility app, TZoo4All, available for iOS and Android, to assist visitors with their visit. The Valentine Theatre also offers modifications typically available at sensory-friendly/relaxed performances such as mitigation of sudden, loud sounds, and low-level lighting throughout the performance, and patrons are welcome to talk, sing, and move throughout the performance. Additionally, a quiet retreat space in the Founder’s Room (located off the Grand (mural) Lobby) provides soft seating and relaxing activities for visitors. Families are encouraged to bring their own calming and motivational systems for their child(ren) or borrow fidgets and headphones from the Box Office. Imagination Station Toledo also offers similar services for visitors to enjoy.
Interactive Exhibits
The Toledo Museum of Art offers a unique learning experience with its MindZone interactive exhibit. From the vibrant and interactive Grow U Farm 101 to the Extreme Science Demonstrations in the Extreme Science Theater, visitors can explore a range of stimulating exhibits. These exhibits feature strobe lights, loud sounds, optical illusions, tactile elements such as differing temperatures, water, and sand, as well as animatronic characters that begin talking as soon as you enter the room. The museum is proud to offer visitors an unforgettable experience full of sensory exploration.
Inclusive Experiences
Metroparks Toledo is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all visitors. They offer designated low-sensory areas at major events such as the annual Block Party and Great Art Escape, as well as sensory kits containing earplugs, whiteboards for communication, fidgets, and noise-canceling headphones. Weighted lap pads are also available in the Museum’s Family Center. Metroparks Toledo staff can further adapt many programs to be accessible to anyone who would like to participate, with reasonable accommodations available upon request.
Doneghy Inclusive Garden
The National Museum of the Great Lakes is proud to offer a Phase 1 playground featuring a Rock-N-Raft, wide ramps and low handrails for easy accessibility up the play structure, a sensory wave climber, rings, and a hand cycler for upper body strength play, and slide transfers to easily ride down slides. Soft surfacing ensures accessibility throughout the area. In addition, the Doneghy Inclusive Garden offers wheelchair-accessible garden beds, ADA-compliant seating within a pergola, a sensory water wall, and plantings with olfactory and touch sensory components.
NMGL CAC Designation and Partnership
NMGL is proud to have achieved its CAC designation and to have an ongoing partnership with Spectrum Sailing, which provides maritime education, programming, and outreach for individuals with autism. In addition, the museum is thrilled to offer its members a chance to join the program. Wingate by Wyndham Sylvania has also earned its training and CAC designation while providing several low-sensory areas for guests who may need to retreat from overstimulation. One of these areas offers a view of a 10-mile creek along with TV access for added tranquility. Toledo Speedway/BMX is another point of pride, as it offers a safe, exciting environment for all ages.
Certified Autism Centers
Toledo Speedway is proud to offer noise canceling and ear-protecting headphones, a low sensory area to escape the loud hustle and bustle of the racing, and healthier food items in the concession stand. As part of their commitment to providing an inclusive experience, they have partnered with local organizations that have completed their Certified Autism Training and are now Certified Autism Centers, including Destination Toledo, Avenues for Autism, Boyds Retro Candy, National Museum of the Great Lakes, Toledo Museum of Art, Valentine Theatre, Wingate by Wyndham Sylvania, Toledo Speedway BMX, Toledo Santa LLC, Visit Perrysburg and Sylvania Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, additional organizations such as Huntington Center, Glass City Center, Toledo Express Airport, and Franklin Park Mall are currently working towards their designation.
The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium has stepped up to the plate when it comes to inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with special needs. Their commitment to providing sensory-friendly activities and attractions not only achieved certification as an Autism Center but also made them a top pick as a Certified Autism Destination and warranted recognition from the community at large. Through innovative initiatives such as the provision of sensory bags and the utilization of a comprehensive sensory map to shield visitors from overwhelming situations, Toledo Zoo & Aquarium has shown itself true pioneer in their efforts to share its radiant landscape with everyone. Truly, The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is a shining example of how to create spaces and activities designed to accommodate all types of diverse crowds.
