For families with children or adults who benefit from sensory-friendly environments, Charlotte offers a variety of inclusive activities and spaces to enjoy. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to explore, sensory-friendly events, or accommodating attractions, this guide has you covered. We always recommend calling ahead to confirm times and pricing.
Museums and Cultural Centers
Discovery Place Science
Location: Uptown Charlotte
Days/Times: First Sunday of every month from open to 1:30
Details: Discovery Place hosts sensory-friendly mornings with dimmed lights, reduced noise, and calming activities. Check their calendar for upcoming events designed specifically for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Discovery Place Kids
Location: Huntersville
Days/Times: First Sunday of every month from open to 1:30
Details: This hands-on museum offers smaller crowds during sensory-friendly hours. Children can explore and play in a controlled and supportive environment.
Mint Museum
Location: Uptown and Randolph locations
Details: The Mint Museum offers sensory backpacks equipped with headphones, fidget toys, and social narratives to make visits more comfortable for those with sensory needs.
Bechtler Museum of Modern Art
Location: Uptown Charlotte
Details: Offers quiet mornings for families and individuals who prefer a calm environment to explore modern art.
Parks and Nature Activities
McDowell Nature Center and Preserve
Location: South Charlotte
Details: Take a peaceful walk through nature trails or explore the interactive exhibits at the nature center, designed to be engaging without being overwhelming.
Carolina Raptor Center
Location: Huntersville
Details: This wildlife preserve offers sensory-friendly days with a focus on quieter activities and smaller groups.
Entertainment and Recreation
AMC Sensory-Friendly Films
Location: AMC Carolina Pavilion 22 & AMC Northlake Mall
Days/Times: Second and Fourth Saturday, Monthly.
Details: AMC Theatres host sensory-friendly movie screenings with lights up and sound down, providing a welcoming environment for all. Screenings are typically available on the second and fourth Saturday of the month for family-friendly films and on Tuesday evenings for more mature content.
Urban Air Adventure Park
Location: Mint Hill and South Charlotte
Days/Times: Please call to verify
Details: Urban Air offers sensory-friendly play times with lower music volume, fewer guests, and special accommodations for kids with sensory sensitivities.
Defy Gravity Trampoline Park
Location: University
Details: Look out for their sensory-friendly jump sessions where lights and music are adjusted for a calmer experience.
Community and Events
Charlotte Symphony Sensory-Friendly Concerts
Location: Various venues
Details: The Charlotte Symphony offers sensory-friendly performances with modifications like lower volume and relaxed seating policies to ensure everyone can enjoy the music.
Sensory Sundays at SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord
Location: Concord Mills
Details: SEA LIFE hosts sensory-friendly mornings with dimmed lighting and quieter exhibits to allow families to explore at their own pace.
ImaginOn: The Joe & Joan Martin Center
Location: Uptown Charlotte
Details: ImaginOn offers sensory storytimes that include visual schedules, fidget toys, and other accommodations for children with sensory sensitivities.
Specialty Play Spaces
Funtown Play Cafe
Location: Clover
Details: The indoor play cafe offers sensory rooms and indoor play for children under 7. Children over 7 can play, so long as they play to the age of the children in there. The quietest hours are from 12:30-4 p.m.
Fort Mill YMCA at the Complex
Location: Fort Mill, SC
Details: Offers sensory-friendly family events, including swimming sessions with reduced noise and smaller crowds.
My Gym Children’s Fitness Center
Location: Fort Mill, SC
Details: Hosts sensory-friendly playtimes and classes designed for children of all abilities to build confidence and motor skills in a supportive environment.
Spirited Sprout Sensory Gym
Location: Waxhaw, NC
Details: Special sensory-friendly play space for kids of all ages. Limited entry and lots to do.
Playland Indoor Playground
Location: Monroe, Lake Norman, Pineville,
Details: An inclusive indoor play center offering sensory-friendly activities. No quieter hours exist, but this is a great spot for sensory-seekers.
Funtrain Playground
Location: Monroe, NC
Details: A newer inflatable facility, this place is a bit quieter due to being off the beaten path for most families. It is available for small group rental as well.
Just Play
Location: Pineville, NC
Details: Limited spaces available and advanced booking suggested. While not quiet, it does offer options for sensory-seekers.
Playhouse Play Cafe
Location: Fort Mill, SC
Details: Smaller space with natural light and no loud music - this space can get crowded. It is best to call ahead and plan accordingly.
Tips for Sensory-Friendly Outings
- Plan Ahead: Check websites or call ahead to confirm sensory-friendly hours or accommodations.
- Bring Comfort Items: Pack headphones, fidget toys, or snacks to help with transitions.
- Go During Off-Peak Times: Visit popular attractions during weekday mornings or early afternoons for smaller crowds.
