Public events can feel overwhelming for some kids with the loud noises, bright lights and overall crowdedness. Denver area attractions offer sensory friendly experiences for all ages.
Mom Tips for a Successful Sensory Friendly Outing
- Prep your child for what will happen. Play music they might hear at a performance or show, look at plants they might see at the gardens or the fish they might see at the aquarium.
- Dress comfortably so clothing doesn’t enhance any anxiety your child might feel.
- Check in often to see how your child is doing and be flexible with your plans.
- Enjoy the small wins and for trying something new!
Museums, Gardens and Other Attractions
Low Sensory Evenings at the Children’s Museum Denver
The Children’s Museum Denver offers low ambient lighting and less attendance for children and families to play. Reservations are required.
Address
2121 Children’s Museum Dr, Denver, CO 80211
Upcoming dates
Wednesday, March 18, 2026 from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, May 6, 2026 from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Sensory Friendly Mornings at the Denver Art Museum
The Denver Art Museum offers this program for children with sensory processing disorders or neurodiversity and their families to experience the museum in a calmer way. This program will occur quarterly on the second Sunday of the month. Registration required.
Upcoming dates
July 12, 2026 from 9 a.m. – noon at the Hamilton Building and Martin Building
Address
100 W 14th Ave. Pkwy. Denver, Colorado
Experience Sensory Friendly Afternoons at the Butterfly Pavilion
The Butterfly Pavilion offers afternoons with natural lighting, quiet tones and limited admissions. Please see below for dates and cost.
Pricing
- Senior (65+): $17.45
- Children under 2: Free
- Members: Free
- SNAP Adult: $5.00
- SNAP Child: $5.00
Upcoming Dates
- February 18
- March 25
- April 22
- May 20
- June 24
- July 15
- September 16
- October 21
- November 18
- December 16
Address
6252 W. 104th Avenue, Westminster, CO 80020
Low Sensory Mornings at the Denver Aquarium
The Denver Aquarium offers a unique way for children with sensory processing disorder and Autism to experience the Aquarium with their families. These experiences take place in the morning from 8:30-10 a.m. before the Aquarium opens. See below for dates and costs.
Pricing
Tickets can be purchased online at the Aquarium’s website.
- Adults (12-64): $28.99
- Seniors (65+): $27.99
- Children (3-11): $22.99
- 2 and under are free
Upcoming Dates
- February 15
- March 15
- April 19
- May 17
- June 21
- July 19
- August 16
- September 20
- October 18
- November 15
Address
700 Water St, Denver, CO 80211
Summer Low Sensory Mornings at the Denver Botanic Gardens
You and your child can enjoy the Denver Botanic Gardens on select mornings without the crowds. The Garden offers experiences to connect with plants in a safe way. Children can also interact with the Mordecai Children’s Garden during these times as well. This is a free event however registration is required.
Upcoming Dates
- April 25
- May 23
- June 27
- July 25
- August 22
Address
1007 York St, Denver, CO 80206
Art and Music Experiences
Sensory Inclusive Performances at the Lone Tree Arts Center
The Lone Tree Arts Center offers sensory inclusive performances that welcome children with developmental delays, sensory differences and neurodiversity to experience live performances. The cost of these performances start at $9. Performances start at 4 p.m.
Upcoming Dates
- February 22: Sensory Inclusive Journey to Oz
- March 8: Sensory Inclusive Trekking Mexico
- May 17: Sensory Inclusive Cleo Parker Robinson Dance
- June 14: Sensory Inclusive Top Hogs
Address
10075 Commons St, Lone Tree, CO 80124
Sensory Friendly Performances at the Arvada Center
The Arvada Center offers sensory friendly performances and ASL interpreted shows, shadow-interpreted performances, and audio-described performances. These performances vary in costs.
Upcoming Dates
- February 13
- February 26
- March 6
- March 11
- April 9-19
- April 15
- April 23-24
Address
6901 Wadsworth Blvd, Arvada, CO 80003
