History, culture, nature, art — Chicago is home to some of the best museums in the world. These venues are often packed with locals and visitors alike, clamoring to see the exhibits and roam the collections. When you have a child with autism, you may hear words like crowded, bright, or loud and think that these incredible Chicago attractions are not in the cards for your family.
Thankfully, as local museums work to increase inclusion among visitors, these iconic institutions are more accessible than ever before. Many offer special resources or dedicated sensory-friendly events and experiences.
6 Museums for Children With Autism Near Chicago
As the weather gets colder, now is the perfect time for children of all abilities to explore these important attractions. Here’s a list of six sensory-friendly museums near Chicago.
1. Field Museum
Experience the history of Earth firsthand at one of the world’s leading institutions for natural history and cultural wonders. Your kids can marvel at giant dinosaurs, get close and personal with Egyptian mummies, and even greet Sue, the world-famous T. rex.
The Field Museum is dedicated to removing barriers to ensure everyone feels welcome. You can download the Field for All app and plan your visit ahead of time with resources like:
- Sensory-friendly museum maps
- Exhibition previews
- Customizable schedules
Once you arrive, the Visitor Center will give you a free sensory bag full of tools, such as headphones, sunglasses, and various fidgets, so your child can comfortably engage with the different exhibits.
2. Chicago Children’s Museum
If your child with autism is a sensory seeker, the Chicago Children’s Museum is the perfect place for them to play and learn through hands-on exhibits. As a museum dedicated to kids, the Chicago Children’s Museum creates accessible and inclusive experiences to address each visitor’s unique needs. General resources include:
- Regroup areas where overstimulated kids can take a break
- Sound-reducing headphones
- Storybook guides to promote a comfortable connection with the environment
The museum also offers a Play For All initiative — with free admission to come an hour early on select Sundays to experience the exhibits and programs in a more sensory-friendly way.
3. The Art Institute of Chicago
Let your child view some of the most famous and significant artworks ever by masters like Van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir. You’ll also see iconic works like Grant Wood’s American Gothic.
The museum provides a few sensory-friendly resources, such as:
- Social narrative: Includes images and simple descriptions of what your child can expect during their museum visit.
- Sensory map: Outlines sensory-friendly spaces that are dimly lit and less crowded, including exhibits with tactile activities or engagement.
4. Shedd Aquarium
Explore the wonders of the aquatic world at Shedd Aquarium. Along with being one of the most highly ranked aquariums in the world, Shedd is a KultureCity® Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue. The welcoming staff is specially trained to recognize guests with sensory needs, and sensory bags are available for free at the main information desk.
The aquarium also features a limited-capacity event called Calm Waters for families with special sensory needs. These select Sundays feature a curated schedule, low-sensory exploration, and even an animal encounter opportunity.
5. Kohl Children’s Museum
Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city to the nearby suburb of Glenview, Illinois, where you will find a friendly place for children of all ages and abilities. Kohl Children’s Museum harnesses the power of play, allowing your child to explore fun, hands-on exhibits that stimulate learning and wonder.
On select Sundays, the museum hosts Everyone at Play — a free program designed for universal accessibility. This event features trained staff who can provide support, guidance, and one-on-one interactive activities.
6. The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
Located in Chicago’s famed Lincoln Park, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a local treasure dedicated to connecting people to nature, science, and conservancy. For kids with autism who love butterflies, botanicals, and critters of all shapes and sizes, the museum hosts a Low Sensory Morning on select Wednesdays. This limited-capacity event features:
- Lower lights
- Reduced sound stimuli
- Sensory-friendly critter connections
- Sensory kits
- Quiet room for sensory breaks
Tips for Visiting These Chicago Museums
As with any outing or excursion, it’s always best to be prepared when visiting one of Chicagoland’s notable museums — especially when your kiddo has autism. Some tips for planning a successful museum visit with your child include:
- Checking for resources: Specialized museum apps, social stories, sensory maps, and other resources can help your child know exactly what to expect with a step-by-step plan for your visit.
- Visiting during off-peak hours: Look online to see when the museum is less packed to minimize crowds and noise.
- Communicating with museum staff: Some museum staff have specialized training in this area and can provide additional support and guidance.
- Utilizing sensory supports: Check for quiet rooms designated for breaks and sensory kits with items to help reduce overstimulation.
Connect With Stride Autism Centers in Chicago
Sensory-friendly museums allow kids of every ability to participate fully in these impactful cultural experiences. At Stride Autism Centers, we want to be a part of your family’s journey with autism here in Chicago and surrounding areas. We offer compassionate ABA therapy and support services to help kids ages 2 to 6 grow in confidence and independence.
Reach out online or schedule a consultation at one of our five centers in the Chicagoland area.
