11 minute read
Local Events
BY CHRISTIA WOODFORD
Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 1,000 museums throughout the United States simply by presenting their EBT card and a photo ID. Check here for participating museums. https://museums4all.org/
Museums
Ella Sharp Museum Sensory Time
Every Saturday at 9:00 am
3225 4th Street, Jackson, Michigan 49203
During sensory-friendly-hours, the Ella Sharp Museum will open its galleries at 9 a.m., one hour before the museum opens to the public. Families with members who are neurodiverse, autistic or have other sensory processing disorders or cognitive disabilities, are welcome to visit for a quieter experience in a controlled environment. Designated quiet zones will allow visitors to decompress and explore the museum at their own pace.
Before each program, families can browse “pre-visit” materials to help prepare for their visit, including social narratives and maps of the facility. These materials are also available to assist families planning visits outside of program hours. A sensory backpack is available at the front desk for use.
To ensure the most sensory-friendly environment possible, capacity during these special hours will be limited to 50 people.
More information is available at ellasharpmuseum.org/classes-and-events/sensory-time/.
Impression 5
Sept. 14 from 9:30 am - 11:30 am and Sept. 24 from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Impression 5 Science Center, 200 Museum Dr., Lansing, MI 48933
Explore the Science Center during Sensory Friendly Hours, with select exhibits modified to reduce sounds, scents and lighting stimuli. Guests can expect limited building capacity, pop-up activities, and a map indicating the sensory experiences in each exhibit.
Thanks to MiABLE for supporting Sensory Friendly.
Admission is regular price; free for members.
More information is available at impression5.org/sensoryfriendly.
Abrams Planetarium Sensory-Friendly Shows
Check website for available times in the Fall.
755 Science Road, East Lansing, MI
These shows will run with the lights up, the sound down and theater doors open so attendees can move around as needed. A “chill out” area is available in the lobby. All shows include a live star talk about what’s visible in the night sky. A short break will occur between the main show and the star talk. Information about what to expect will be provided when tickets are purchased.
Cost: Adults, $5.50; students and senior citizens, $5; children 12 and under, $4.50.Friends of Abrams Planetarium members: free.Free with Museums for All (valid EBT, Medicaid or WIC card and photo ID required).
More information: abramsplanetarium.org/Programs/Sensory.html
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
Sensory-Friendly Play
Nov. 3, 5:00 pm- 7:00 pm RSVP
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, 11 Sheldon Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503
Together with Autism Support of Kent County, Grand Rapids Children’s Museum welcomes families to play in a calmer, quieter environment outside regular museum hours. Registration is required.
Check the calendar for specific sensory-friendly event dates: grpm.org/visitMore info: autismsupportofkentcounty.org/new-products/p/2024-night-at-the-gr-childrens-museum.
Sports
TheraplayYoga: Therapeutic Playful Yoga for Diverse Abilities
Adaptive Yoga Studio, 2015 E. Michigan Ave. Lansing, MI 48912
Inclusive and Accessible Yoga for Diverse Bodies, Brains and AbilitiesCheck the website for the current schedule.Email: gloria@theraplayoga.comWebsite: theraplayoga.com
Family Fun
Adult Adaptive Social Engagement: Diner's Club
Sept.1, First Monday of the month.
Enjoy a meal with friends at local restaurants in a welcoming and supportive setting. This program is designed for individuals with special needs and offers an opportunity to build social skills in a fun, inclusive environment.
Participants must be 14 or older and are responsible for the cost of their own meal, beverage and tip. Spots are extremely limited, so pre-registration is required to ensure proper assistance and space.
The selected restaurant will be emailed to registered participants one week before the program.
Check the website for dates, times and registration: rararecreation.org/programs/social_engagement.php.
Fascination Factory Sensor-Friendly Play
Sept. 2, 2:30 pm- 5:30 pm
2295 E Lincoln St; Suite 150, Birmingham, MI
What to expect in our new sensory-sensitive hours: Back door locked for safety, no music,
noise cancelling headphones, and oral chews offered at check-in. Plus a calming corner tent. Minimized Capacity Families $30.00 https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/events/list/?tribe-bar-date=2024-10-01
Together Let’s Sing, Dance and Jam!!
Sept. 3, 6:30 pm- 7:30 pm Virtual
Please join us for our monthly "virtual" music therapy event!! Please RSVP by February 25 to Cathy Blatnik at blatsie63@yahoo.com with your name, age, contact phone number and e-mail address
Sensory-Friendly Jump at Launch Lansing
Sept. 3 and Sept.17, 4:00 pm- 8:00 pm $17
1982 W. Grand River Ave., Okemos, MI 48864
1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month*
Enjoy two hours of specially priced jump time during our sensory-friendly sessions. Additional discounts are available for families with more than one participant.
To create a more comfortable experience, music volume will be reduced and no special effects lighting will be used. Guests may borrow noise-reducing headphones and/or sunglasses free of charge. All rental items must be returned at the end of the visit for sanitation and future use.
Please note: Sensory-Friendly Nights are paused during school and holiday breaks, including Christmas, spring and summer break.
While the park remains open to the public during these evenings, this time typically sees low attendance, providing plenty of space for all guests to enjoy.
Learn more or reserve your spot: launchlansing.centeredgeonline.com.
High Caliber Karting – Sensory-Friendly Sundays
Sept. 7, Sept. 13, Sept. 21 and Sept. 28, 8:00 am- 5:00 pm $50High Caliber Karting and Entertainment, 1982 W Grand River Ave #800. Okemos, MI 48864
On the first Sunday of every month, High Caliber opens early from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for
sensory-friendly hours. If someone in your life would love to drive a go-kart or play arcade games in a quieter, more accommodating environment, this is the perfect time to visit. High Caliber is committed to creating inclusive experiences for all guests.
Learn more at highcaliberkarting.com/sensory-hours.
Detroit Zoo
Sensory-Friendly Evenings – Second Monday of Every Month
Sept. 8, 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Throughout 2025, the Detroit Zoo will host Sensory-Friendly Hours—monthly opportunities for guests to experience the Zoo in a more inclusive, calming environment.
Held once a month from opening until noon, these hours are designed for individuals with sensory sensitivities or other sensory needs. The Zoo and its attractions remain open to all guests, with intentional adjustments to lighting and sound to create a more welcoming experience.
Modifications include reduced or altered volume and lighting throughout the Zoo and at select attractions, including the 4D Theater. Effects and lighting in the theater will also be adjusted.
KultureCity sensory bags—equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards—are available for guests who may feel overwhelmed. Bags can be checked out at Customer Care, the 4D Theater and the Park Safety Office. Weighted lap pads and strobe glasses are available upon request.
A designated indoor quiet space is located near the wolf habitat for those in need of a more secure and calming environment.
Sensory-Friendly Hours are included with Zoo admission and free for members. No registration is required.
For more details, visit detroitzoo.org/events/sensory-friendly-hours.
Inclusive Game Night
Sept. 26, 6:00 pm- 7:30 pm
Therapeutic Concepts, LLC 38257 Mound Road, Building D, Sterling Heights, MI
This event is designed for the whole family, with a focus on inclusion, safety, and enjoyment. The cost is $10 per family, and registration is available online at therapeuticconceptsllc.com.
MJR Digital Cinema Sensory-Friendly Film
Check the website for movie times.
100 East Maple Road, Troy, MI, 48083, United States
Legoland Discovery Center Michigan Sensory-Friendly Morning
Check website for upcoming dates.
4240 Baldwin Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
During Sensory-Friendly Mornings, lighting is reduced, music is turned off and other distracting stimuli are disabled for one hour before the attraction opens to the general public. This event is ideal for guests on the autism spectrum.
Sensory-sensitive adults may visit without a child (age 16 or under) during Sensory-Friendly Mornings, but must exit when the center opens at 10 a.m. Groups accompanied by a child may remain past 10 a.m.
Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/michigan.
Sealife Michigan Sensory-Friendly Morning
Check website for upcoming dates.
4316 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
During Sensory-Friendly Mornings, lighting is reduced, music is turned off and other distracting stimuli are disabled for an hour before the aquarium opens to the general public. This event is designed for guests on the autism spectrum.
The aquarium opens to the general public with normal lighting and sound at 10 a.m., but guests attending Sensory-Friendly Mornings are welcome to stay as long as they like and do not have to leave at 10 a.m.
Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance.visitsealife.com/michigan/what-s-inside/events/sensory-friendly-mornings
DNR Outdoor Adventure Center Sensory Friendly Play
Oct. 5 10:00 am- 12:00 pm
Outdoor Adventure Center, Globe Trading Company Building, 1801 Atwater St, Detroit, MI
The DNR Outdoor Adventure Center welcomes individuals and families with sensory processing differences to enjoy special sensory-friendly hours. During this time, building sounds and ambient noise levels will be reduced to create a more comfortable environment.
A quiet room with sensory materials will be available, and building capacity will be limited to ensure a calm experience. Sensory-friendly hours end at noon, when the building opens to the general public and sound levels return to normal.
All staff members are certified through KultureCity to provide the best possible experience for guests with sensory needs.
Various activities are scheduled throughout the month of May. Visit michigan.gov/oac for details.
Arts
GiGi's Playhouse
Monday–Thursday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.Friday: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
19799 W. 12 Mile Road Suite L15, Southfield, Michigan
Various fun classes in art, dance, cooking, yoga and more are offered virtually and in person throughout the month.See the calendar at gigisplayhouse.org/detroit/sfcalendar.
Events
Come Join Scout Troop 1197! First All Inclusive Troop!
4920 Groveland Rd, Ortonville, MI 48462
The only troop of its kind in Michigan, Troop 1197 is currently meeting at O.A.T.S. (Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles) in Ortonville for individuals with special needs ages 11 and older. Designed by experienced scout leaders, the troop offers typical scouting activities, including camping and outdoor skills.
For more information, email walkonoats@gmail.com.
Over the Edge for Easterseals MORC! Sept. 20. 9:30 am t0 4:00 pm
Amway Grand Plaza Hotel, 187 Monroe Avenue NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Over The Edge is a fun, thrilling, urban rappelling event where you will get to rappel down the tower side of the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel. Sitting at 318 feet, the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel is the tallest hotel in Grand Rapids. Come downtown and join us as we rappel and have fun on the ground while raising funds for Easterseals MORC. ArtPrize is happening at the same time, so there will be a lot to enjoy!
Proceeds from Over the Edge will support Easterseals MORC programs and services right here in West Michigan. When you make a donation to Easterseals MORC, you help strengthen our mission to ensure everyone--regardless of age or ability--is fully included and empowered!
If you'd like to sign up, click the Register Now! button to the right and create your own fundraising page. Rappelers must raise $1,000 to participate.
When you hit your $1,000 fundraising goal you get:
The opportunity to rappel down the beautiful Amway Grand Plaza hotel (that's 318 feet!)
A free commemorative event t-shirt
Easterseals MORC reusable bag with swag from our sponsors
Possible exclusive discounts for rappelers
Professional photographs of your rappelling
and MORE!
Raise $1,600 by August 18th for one free one-night stay at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel (subject to availability)If you'd like to support a rappeler, please scroll down to find their personal fundraising page or go up to the donation box on the right and click the drop-down box and find the rappeler name. If you have any questions about the event, rappelling or would like to volunteer, please contact Denise Durkee at ddurkee@eastersealsmorc.org or 616.942.2081.https://www.easterseals.com/MORC/get-involved/events/
The Detroit Walk for Apraxia by Apraxia Kids
Sept. 21, Check-in 10:30 am, Ceremony starts qt 12:00 pm
Young Patriot Park, 14133 Civic Park Dr, Riverview, MI
The money raised through the Walk for Apraxia supports the programs of Apraxia Kids. Our mission is to strengthen the support systems in the lives of children with apraxia of speech by educating professionals and families;
To Register or Donate: http://community.apraxia-kids.org/detroitwalk
Disability Dirt Days at Holly Oaks ORV Park
Sept. 21 and Oct. 19, 2025, 11:00 am- 3:30 pm
Holly Oaks ORV Park, 14551 Shields Rd, Holly, MI 48442
Ages 10 and up with disabilities are invited to experience off-roading at Holly Oaks ORV Park. Rides are provided by volunteers for the participant and one guest. Registration is required.
For more information, visit https://www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks/parks-trails/holly-oaks-orv-park.
Uniquely You! Virtual Resource Fair
Sept. 24, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
Join us for an inspiring and informative virtual event created for individuals with special needs, disabilities, and their amazing caregivers in Michigan.This is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the resources that can make a difference.
Live drawings on the spot throughout the call for attendees. 248-882-8448
Virtual link shared after registration: https://buytickets.at/uniquelyyou/1741179.
Uniquely You! Sterling Heights Library
Oct. 11, 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
Sterling Heights Public Library, 40255 Dodge Park Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48313
Join us for a heartwarming and inclusive event for families and individuals in the special needs & disability community!
Event Highlights:
Sensory-Friendly Story Time | 11:00 – 11:30 AMExplore Resources & Support Partners for your family’s journeyEngaging Sensory Activities for all ages and abilitiesDiscover Unique Library Programs including Braille books & adaptive resourcesExperience KultureCity’s Mobile Sensory Stations – creating inclusive spaces for individuals with invisible disabilitiesConnect with Other Families, Caregivers, and Individuals in the communityCome for story time or stay for the full experience. Whether you're just getting started or well on your journey, this is a safe, welcoming space to explore, connect, and be celebrated.
Link to Register: https://buytickets.at/uniquelyyou/1787843
All are welcome. We can’t wait to see you there!Questions? Contact us at: Jamie.Olson@n2co.com 248-882-8448.
