Sensory-Inclusive Activities in Las Vegas
Photo by Senjuti Kundu
Las Vegas is a magical place, but it can also be a cause of sensory overload for anyone. Despite all of the hustle and bustle, the flashing lights, and the eclectic sounds, there are still many unique opportunities for sensory-inclusive fun in this vibrant city. The term “sensory-friendly Vegas” may seem like an oxymoron at first since Las Vegas is known for its energy, busyness, potentially overwhelming sights and sounds, and more, but it actually has so much to offer in the way of sensory-sensitive and inclusive fun.
SENSORY PLAY IN CHILDHOOD
Sensory play is hands-on learning through the exploration of the five senses. Every child benefits from and desperately needs sensory play for their development of motor skills, cognitive concepts, and much more. In our everyday lives, our five senses guide everything we do. Children with autism benefit from sensory play because it stimulates their brains, which helps them become better learners, have a longer attention span, and develop stronger communication skills.
SENSORY-INCLUSIVE ACTIVITIES IN LAS VEGAS
With some intentional planning and forethought, families of all kinds can enjoy their time exploring Las Vegas together. Whether you live nearby or you’re visiting from afar, there’s something for everyone. Unsure of where to start planning your sensory-sensitive fun? We’ve got you covered with some ideas below!
Enjoy a Show at The Smith Center
The Smith Center is the premier performance art venue in Las Vegas offering a diverse range of shows and events. They are very welcoming to all, and they’re also very community-oriented and family-focused. The Smith Center aims to help patrons make special memories during their performance experiences at the venue.
The next upcoming major event for families at The Smith Center is Broadway Disney’s Frozen. This exciting show features many sensory-inclusive performances in order to provide children with the opportunity to experience and enjoy live theater in a way that is feasible for them.
Attend an Autism-Friendly Performance of The Blue Man Group
The Blue Man Group has joined forces with the Grant a Gift Autism Foundation to offer autism-friendly performances at Luxor Hotel & Casino. These sensory-friendly performances have reduced lighting and sound effects, as well as headphones available and quiet stations in the lobby for guests to take breaks when necessary. Sensory-friendly performance dates are not listed on the website, so make sure to contact vegasmanagement@blueman.com for available dates and to purchase tickets.
Play at Gilcrease Brothers Park
The playground at Gilcrease Brothers Park presents many unique play opportunities. The highlight of this park is the sensory wall: A long green wall with yellow gears, wheels, rainbow colors, and many different mechanisms and textures. The sensory wall provides hands-on play and is helpful during times of sensory overload to help children re-regulate.
Explore the Animals
There are a few opportunities to see animals in Las Vegas. Lion Habitat Ranch has a Behind the Scenes Tour that would offer a more relaxed encounter with lions. You can even have the opportunity to feed them if you wish!
Mandalay Bay has a Shark Reef Aquarium where you can relax while watching all of the sea creatures swim by. It’s very calming and relaxing for children with sensory sensitivities or autism to engage with water. Children can participate in the touch pool if they desire that level of sensory interaction. You can also feed sea turtles, stingrays, and sharks. The Flamingo Wildlife Habitat at the Flamingo Hotel is a free way to experience unique animals in Las Vegas.
Entertainment Activities on the Strip
Las Vegas is known for its lively and vibrant downtown area called The Strip. The Strip offers many entertainment opportunities, including opportunities for children with sensory sensitivities. The Fountains at the Bellagio is a famous Vegas attraction. It’s free to experience and the beautiful water show can be calming for children with autism to encounter.
The Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, also at The Bellagio, is another free attraction on The Strip where children can observe and be enchanted by the beautiful displays and stunning florals. You can explore at your own pace and in your own way which is a welcome idea for families.
Play at the Discovery Children’s Museum
The Discovery Children's Museum offers many different exhibits for children and families to encounter. Their Toddler Town exhibit is for children under age 5 and children of all ages with sensory issues and it provides a quieter area of the museum and an engaging Sensory Room.
Explore Red Rock Canyon
Red Rock Canyon offers a variety of ways to explore. There are indoor and outdoor exhibits to observe, various hiking and exploration trails, a virtual tour, and a 13-mile Scenic Drive. This variety of options allows families to explore the many plants and wildlife throughout the canyon in the way that suits their needs best. There’s no age limit to explore the canyon, and there’s something for everyone to explore.
TIME TO EXPLORE!
Las Vegas provides such a diverse offering of entertainment and exploration options. Families with children on the autism spectrum can certainly have fun in Vegas. The key is intentionality and preparation. There is something for every Vegas resident or visitor to engage in and enjoy. What are you most excited to explore? Let us know in the comments below!
