Autism Friendly Vacations

Family vacations are an opportunity to create lifelong memories, explore new places, and enjoy quality time together. For families with children on the autism spectrum, however, travel can also bring added layers of planning, stress, and uncertainty. The good news is that with proper preparation and the right destination, autism-friendly vacations can be both joyful and triumphant.

From sensory-sensitive accommodations to staff trained in autism awareness, more destinations across the U.S. and beyond are working to make travel accessible for all. Our team at Cardinal Pediatric Therapies will guide you through the essentials of planning an autism friendly vacation, from preparation tips to destination ideas, so your family can travel with confidence and comfort.

autism-friendly-vacations

What Makes a Vacation Autism Friendly?

An autism friendly vacation provides a safe, supportive environment that considers the unique sensory, behavioral, and communication needs of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Key features of autism friendly vacations often include:

  • Sensory accommodations such as quiet rooms, noise-canceling areas, and low-stimulation environments
  • Visual schedules and social stories to help children anticipate and understand routines
  • Trained staff who understand how to communicate and support children on the spectrum
  • Flexible dining and lodging options that allow for food sensitivities and comfort preferences
  • Structured activities that offer clear expectations and predictable outcomes

When these elements are integrated into a travel experience, children with autism are more likely to feel secure and engaged. At the same time, parents can relax knowing their child’s needs are supported.

Preparing for Travel with a Child on the Autism Spectrum

Preparation is key to a successful, autism-friendly vacation. The earlier you begin, the more confident your child may feel leading up to the trip.

Create Predictability

Use visual schedules or storyboards to walk your child through what to expect before and during the trip. Include photos of airports, hotels, restaurants, and attractions. These visual cues reduce anxiety and promote understanding.

Pack Familiar Items

Bring sensory-friendly tools such as noise-canceling headphones, fidget items, favorite toys, weighted blankets, or comfort objects. These items can provide emotional regulation during travel transitions or overwhelming environments.

Practice Travel Scenarios

If your child has not experienced an airport or long car ride before, consider role-playing the travel day at home. Many airports also offer rehearsal programs or quiet room tours in advance.

Communicate Needs in Advance

Call ahead to hotels, airlines, or attractions to request specific accommodations. Many companies are happy to support families, but may not know your child’s needs unless you ask.

what-are-autism-friendly-vacations

Top Autism Friendly Vacation Destinations

Many locations across the United States offer programs or facilities that accommodate children with autism. These destinations go beyond basic accessibility, creating inclusive experiences tailored to the needs of neurodiverse travelers.

Sesame Place – Langhorne, Pennsylvania

As the first theme park to be designated a Certified Autism Center, Sesame Place provides sensory guides, quiet spaces, low-sensory parade viewing areas, and trained staff. The park’s commitment to inclusion makes it a standout choice for families with young children.

Morgan’s Wonderland – San Antonio, Texas

This ultra-accessible amusement park was designed specifically for individuals with special needs. It features sensory play zones, wheelchair-accessible rides, and thoughtful touches that combine fun and comfort.

Walt Disney World – Orlando, Florida

Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS) allows guests with autism to schedule attractions without waiting in long lines. Quiet areas, companion bathrooms, and helpful cast members contribute to a manageable and exciting experience for families.

National Parks and Nature-Based Destinations

For families who prefer a quieter atmosphere, national parks such as Yellowstone, Yosemite, or the Grand Canyon offer open space, nature walks, and flexible itineraries. These settings can provide the right blend of stimulation and serenity.

Autism Friendly Lodging and Resorts

Choosing the right accommodation can make a significant difference in your vacation’s success. Look for hotels or resorts that offer:

  • Low-stimulation room locations (away from elevators, pools, or lobbies)
  • Kitchenettes or in-room dining for meal flexibility
  • Sensory-friendly kits with tools like weighted blankets or blackout curtains
  • Staff training in autism awareness or certifications through organizations such as IBCCES

Beaches Resorts, for example, offers certified autism-friendly staff, kid-friendly dining, and inclusive kids’ camps in destinations like Jamaica and Turks & Caicos.

autism-friendly-vacation-tips

Travel Tips for an Enjoyable Experience

Following these travel tips will help ensure an autism-friendly vacation goes smoothly.

Flying with Autism

  • Contact the TSA Cares program for airport assistance during security screening.
  • Use airport rehearsal tours if available.
  • Board early if permitted to avoid crowds
  • Keep a travel bag with sensory items, snacks, and calming tools on hand.

Road Trips

  • Plan for frequent stops with safe places to stretch and reset
  • Use visual timers to help your child understand transitions.
  • Stick to familiar foods and routines whenever possible.

Dining Out

  • Research restaurants that offer quiet dining spaces or outdoor seating
  • Bring noise-reduction headphones or sensory items to support regulation.
  • Avoid peak times for shorter wait times and fewer crowds.

Building Confidence Through Travel

Autism friendly vacations are not only possible, but also profoundly rewarding. Travel offers opportunities for growth in communication, problem-solving, social interaction, and flexibility. When children are given the structure and support they need to explore new places, their confidence increases – and so does their sense of independence.

Celebrate small wins throughout the trip. Whether it’s trying a new food, meeting a new friend, or enjoying an attraction, every step is a chance to build resilience and self-assurance.

autism-friendly-vacation-tips-and-tricks

Creating Travel Experiences that Empower

Autism friendly vacations can bring joy, connection, and empowerment to the entire family. By choosing inclusive destinations, preparing carefully, and tailoring the experience to your child’s unique needs, you can turn a potentially stressful situation into an adventure filled with discovery and comfort.

At Cardinal Pediatric Therapies, we support families through every stage of their journey, including preparation for significant life experiences like travel. Our parent coaching and ABA services in Arizona and North Carolina are designed to help your child thrive in real-world situations, including vacations.

Looking for support before your next family trip?

Contact Cardinal Pediatric Therapies to learn more about how we can help your child build skills, confidence, and independence at home and wherever life takes them.

About the Author

Picture of admin
admin

Read More from this author

Dr. Mike Henderson, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA

Regional Operations Director

North Carolina

Mike Henderson, PhD, LBA, BCBA-D, is the Regional Operations Director at Cardinal Pediatric Therapies. With over two decades of experience in behavior analysis and organizational leadership, he focuses on mentoring teams and fostering a culture of collaboration, growth, and excellence in client care. Mike believes strong leadership and supportive systems are essential for helping clients, families, and providers succeed together.

Felicia Freeman

Clinic Manager

I am Felicia Freeman, the Clinic Manager for Cardinal Pediatric Therapies. I have been in ABA for several years now and am passionate about the community that we serve. I started out as an RBT, decided to go the administrative route, and worked my way up to managing clinics. I choose this field every day because I enjoy making a meaningful impact in the lives of our clients and building strong teams that change lives.

Amanda Dean, MA, BCBA, LBA

Johnston County, NC

Amanda graduated from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2018 with her Masters in Psychology. She proceeded to complete her graduate certificate in ABA and became a BCBA in November 2020. Amanda has a passion for behavior reduction, tolerance training and functional communication training. She enjoys spending as much time as she can with her 3 children and husband. When she’s not working, Amanda is very involved in her local Pop Warner Cheerleading program where she is the Assistant Cheer Director and a head coach.

Becky Fronheiser

Operations Director

Arizona

Becky has worked in behavioral health for 7 years. She joined Cardinal in the spring of 2024.  Becky is grateful for the opportunity to work with such a passionate group of people and looks forward to supporting families with their specific ABA needs.  In her personal time, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband, 6 kids and 4 grandkids and loves to travel and relax on the beach.

Matthew Wilkinson

Operations Director

Cary, NC

Matthew holds a bachelors degree from the University of Utah, Medical Degree from the Autonomous University of Guadalajara and an MBA from Western Governors University. He has worked in the pediatric field for the majority of his professional life and has a passion for helping bring the best care to children in need. He enjoys spending time with his wife and three children and day trips to the coast.

 

Trisha Iannotta Bieszczad, PsyD., BCBA

Triad, NC

Trisha is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) with extensive expertise since 2016 in applying behavior analytic principles to improve the lives of children and adolescents. Her professional journey began with a doctoral degree in clinical psychology, emphasizing child and adolescent development. This foundation has equipped her with a deep understanding of psychological theories and practices, which she seamlessly integrates into her work as a BCBA. Outside of her professional endeavors, Trisha enjoys reading, spending time outdoors with her family & trying out new restaurants. Trisha’s dedication to both her career and personal interests reflects her commitment to continual growth and enrichment, both professionally and personally. Her multifaceted background allows her to approach each aspect of her life with a blend of expertise, enthusiasm, and a genuine appreciation for learning and exploration.

Tina Lee

Director of Finance

Tina Lee is the Finance Director for Cardinal with a variety of experience in the Healthcare Industry for over 13 years. She is compassionate and always eager to assist where she can. In the ever-changing Healthcare environment, Tina has played a vital role in putting processes in place to obtain high efficiency outcomes to help our clients get the care they need. Tina enjoys the outdoors and loves spending time with her family.

William Evans

Director of Outreach and Recruitment

William is a UNCW Graduate who started his professional career working in Marketing and Recruiting for a local technology company before looking for an opportunity to take those skills and help others. In his spare time he plays hockey, including annually for the North Carolina Autism Hockey Tournament, which is dedicated to the raising money and awareness for organizations helping local families with children diagnosed with autism.

Alice Okamoto, MA, BCBA, LBA

Chief of Staff

Alice has been with Cardinal for over 4 years and has worn many hats along the way!  Alice has a passion for working with clients and families as a unit, supervising behavior analyst trainees, and collaborating on strategic initiatives to ensure clinical efficiencies.  Alice‘s professional experience began with ABA in a school setting, and has worked in schools, homes, and clinics throughout the years while enjoying collaboration with related providers.  In her free time, Alice enjoys traveling, exploring parks with her dog, Oliver, and trying new restaurants. 

Darrin Miller

CEO

Darrin has dedicated his education and career to the field of behavioral health. As a licensed therapist and master’s in clinical counseling he works to create solutions that improve the lives of those impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder at a local, state, and national level. He strives to create a culture of caring and empathy while innovating solutions for improving families’ access to quality care as quickly as possible.