Our Favorite Places to Travel – Neurodivergent-Friendly States
Hi friends,
If you’ve ever thought about taking a vacation with your neurodivergent child, you probably know the planning is just as important as the trip itself. I’ve learned the hard way that not every place is set up with our kids’ needs in mind. But some places really get it. They prepare, they train their staff, and they welcome us like they’ve been expecting us all along.
So, I want to share with you the states that, in our experience and research, are some of the best for neurodivergent-friendly vacations.
Arizona – Mesa
Mesa is special — it’s actually the first autism-certified city in the world. That means so many hotels, attractions, and even restaurants have staff trained to understand sensory needs. They have sensory guides for places you might visit, and they participate in the Sunflower Program for hidden disabilities. It’s like the whole city is rooting for your family to have a good trip.
South Carolina – Myrtle Beach & Surfside Beach
If the ocean is calling you, this is where I’d look first. Surfside Beach was the very first autism-friendly destination in the U.S. They have a program called the CAN Card that quietly lets businesses know your child might need extra support. The airport has quiet spaces, and the beach has adaptive activities so everyone can join in the fun.
California – Visalia (and Beyond)
Visalia is another Certified Autism Destination, and I love that they’re part of the Sunflower Program too. Plus, you’re close to beautiful outdoor places like Sequoia National Park — and yes, they offer sensory kits and tailored itineraries. And if you head down to San Diego, there are calm beaches, a zoo with sensory maps, and plenty of open spaces to unwind.
Colorado
If winter sports are your thing, Colorado’s ski towns like Breckenridge, Vail, and Beaver Creek have adaptive ski programs for kids with autism and other needs. They make the experience safe, fun, and not overwhelming.
Pennsylvania – Sesame Place
Sesame Place is pure magic for so many kids. It’s a Certified Autism Center with trained staff, sensory-friendly areas, and a “See Amazing in All Children” philosophy that I wish every theme park would adopt.
Michigan – Lansing
This one surprised me! Lansing has sensory-friendly museums, including the Impression 5 Science Center, and they even offer virtual tours so your child can preview what’s inside before you go.
Peaceful Nature Spots in Multiple States
Sometimes the best trip is just being in nature where it’s quiet and predictable. Some favorites:
- Yellowstone National Park – wide open spaces and calm boardwalks.
- Great Smoky Mountains – shaded trails and streams.
- Acadia National Park – smooth walking paths and ocean views.
- Shenandoah National Park – scenic drives with plenty of pull-offs for breaks.
- Letchworth State Park (NY) – an Autism Nature Trail designed for sensory exploration.
These places aren’t just vacation spots. They’re destinations that understand our kids, where we can actually exhale and enjoy the trip instead of constantly bracing for the next challenge.
💙 If you’ve been somewhere that made your family feel truly welcome, I’d love to hear about it. And if you want more travel tips, guides, and personal stories like this, subscribe at HirahCares.org so we can keep exploring together.
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