For many children and individuals with sensory processing differences, a trip to a sporting event, museum, or movie theatre can quickly become overwhelming. Sensory-supportive spaces and designated low-sensory time windows offer simple yet impactful ways to reduce barriers, foster comfort, and promote participation in community life. Below is a list of local businesses and community spaces that offer sensory-supportive environments and designated calm and quiet time windows to better serve individuals with sensory processing differences.
Sporting Events & Outdoor Activities
The Cardinals at Busch Stadium: The Sensory Room
https://www.mlb.com/cardinals/ballpark/information/sensory-room
Busch Stadium proudly offers access to The Sensory Room, sponsored by Mercy, to support guests with multi-sensory resources and a safe and relaxing environment. This room is located in Ford Plaza, near Gate 5.
Saint Louis City at Energizer Park: KultureCity Sensory Inclusive Venue
https://venue.kulturecity.org/venues/st-louis-city-sc-energizerpark
A permanent Sensory Room is located within the Guest Services Center of Energizer Park, near Section 142. This room is available for any. Guest who needs a safe place to step away from the action. Energizer Park also offers 15 Sensory Bags and 3 weighted lap pads to be checked out of Guest Services during games. Pre-made social stories can be found on KultureCity’s website to support preparing for gameday excitement.
Six Flags: Low-Sensory Offerings
https://www.sixflags.com/stlouis/events/low-sensory-sundays
During the month of April, Six Flags recognizes Autism Acceptance Month by making the park as quiet as possible. The park also offers one-on-one meetups with characters in low-sensory settings.
The Low-Sensory Room is located near Thunder River and is always available for guests that need a break from the park environment.
The Saint Louis Zoo & KultureCity
https://stlzoo.org/visit/kulturecity
The Saint Louis Zoo has partnered with KultureCity to gain sensory inclusion training and tools for their venue. The Zoo provides sensory backpacks, which are available for checkout at the Welcome Desks. The Zoo has also provided visitors with information regarding Quiet Areas, recommended Headphone Zones, Smell Zones, and Cold Zones. More information can be found on their website.
Indoor Play and Museums
We Rock the Spectrum
https://werockthespectrumfentonmo.com/
We Rock the Spectrum offers a place for all children to have fun without judgment or explanation through exploration and safe sensory experiences. The gym offers a variety of fine and gross motor opportunities, sensory-based toys and equipment, and a calming room to support emotional regulation and support sensory processing needs. We Rock the Spectrum currently offers one location in Fenton, MO with another location coming soon to Saint Charles.
The Magic House: Calming Corner
https://www.magichouse.org/plan-your-visit/calming-corner/
Located on the lower level of The Magic House, the Calming Corner provides a private and calm space for any visitor seeking a break from the lively Museum environment
Build-A-Bear: Sensory Friendly Time
https://www.buildabear.com/sensory-friendly-events.html
Sensory-friendly events and time windows are offered at all Build-A-Bear Workshops. These times offer a less-stimulating Workshop experience, featuring dimmer lighting, little or no music playing in the store, and a step-by-step guide with pictures for attendees.
The St. Louis Aquarium: Calming Corner
https://www.stlouisaquarium.com/accessibility-and-amenities
The St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station offers a Calming Corner room for those who may need a quieter and more secure environment. Sensory bags can also be checked out at the ticket counter. Social Stories and Pre-Visit Planning Guides are offered to support families as they prepare for a visit.
Word Play Speech Therapy & Enchanted Playroom: An Inclusive Play Date
Join us for a welcoming, low-pressure space where kids can explore, connect and play in the way that feels best for them. Whether your child loves to move, needs time to warm up or prefers quieter play—this event celebrates every way of play.