Minnesota's Best Sensory-Friendly Things to Do
Minnesota has long been recognized as a leader in accessibility and inclusion, with destinations across the state continually finding new ways to welcome more visitors. In recent years, sensory-friendly programming has become an important part of that effort, helping individuals with sensory differences more comfortably participate in community events, attractions, and everyday experiences.
For some people, environments with loud noises, bright lights, large crowds, or other sensory stimuli can be overwhelming. Sensory-friendly supports help reduce these barriers through thoughtful accommodations, including quiet spaces, sensory tools, visual resources, and staff trained to recognize and respond to sensory needs.
Fraser's Sensory-Friendly Minnesota: 10,000 Ways to Belong initiative is helping expand these opportunities statewide. Through consultation, sensory resources, and the Fraser Sensory Certified™ Supports and Training program, Fraser partners with organizations to create more welcoming environments and increase access to the experiences that make Minnesota unique.
Today, a growing number of attractions and community destinations throughout the Twin Cities offer sensory-friendly supports for visitors and families. Whether you're attending a sporting event, exploring a museum, or planning a day out, these locations provide resources designed to help guests with sensory differences feel more comfortable and confident.
The asterisked destinations featured below are Fraser Sensory Certified™ and have completed occupational therapist-led training to better support individuals with sensory needs.
Things to Do
Cheer on the Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium*
Football fans don't have to choose between game-day excitement and sensory accessibility. At U.S. Bank Stadium, guests can access a social narrative and game-day video before their visit, along with free Fraser Sensory Kits available through Guest Services.
The stadium also features a sound-protected Sensory Room with low lighting, flexible seating, and sensory activities. Fraser Sensory Support team members staff the room during every Vikings home game.
Enjoy a sensory-friendly performance at Children's Theatre Company*
Children's Theatre Company makes it easier for families with sensory differences to experience live theater together. Select performances feature adjusted lighting and sound levels, a relaxed atmosphere, and sensory tools such as headphones, earplugs, and fidgets.
Families can also utilize a designated Take-A-Break Space, allowing guests to take a break without missing the show. Fraser Sensory Support Staff are present at every sensory-friendly performance to assist guests and provide sensory tools as needed.
Experience the Minnesota State Fair*
The Great Minnesota Get-Together offers a variety of sensory-friendly supports to help guests enjoy one of Minnesota's most popular events. Visitors can take a break from the crowds at the Fraser Sensory Building, a partnership with Central Roofing Company that features a quiet environment, calming activities, sensory tools, and trained volunteers.
The fair also offers a social narrative and tip sheet to help guests prepare for their visit and hosts a sensory-friendly morning on the Mighty Midway and Kidway with reduced lights and sound.
Ride the attractions at Nickelodeon Universe*
Thrill-seekers can enjoy the excitement of Nickelodeon Universe while taking advantage of several sensory-friendly accommodations. Visitors can access sensory guides online to better understand the sensory elements associated with different attractions and plan ahead.
A dedicated sensory room located inside the park offers a quiet space with comfortable seating and sensory supports for guests who need a break from the activity.
Catch a Minnesota United FC match at Allianz Field
From the supporter chants to the crowd's energy, Minnesota United FC matches offer an exciting soccer experience with thoughtful sensory supports. Fans can prepare for their visit using a video social narrative developed by Fraser and MNUFC.
Fraser Sensory Kits, including noise-reducing headphones, fidgets, and sunglasses, are available free of charge through Guest Services to help guests navigate the game-day atmosphere.
Attend a sensory-friendly concert at Orchestra Hall
Orchestra Hall offers sensory-friendly and relaxed family concerts designed to create an inclusive and welcoming live music experience for individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities, as well as their families.
Sensory-friendly concerts feature individual musicians or small ensembles in a relaxed setting, while relaxed family concerts showcase the full Minnesota Orchestra and include pre- and post-concert activities. Guests can access a pre-concert social narrative to help prepare for their visit and know what to expect.
Visit Sensory Friendly Sunday at the Walker Art Center
Once a month, the Walker Art Center opens its doors for a sensory-friendly experience designed for children, teens, and adults with sensory-processing differences. During Sensory Friendly Sunday, the galleries are closed to the general public, creating a calmer environment for visitors to explore exhibitions, create art, and enjoy other activities. Quiet spaces, fidgets, sunglasses, and a social narrative are available to support visitors throughout their experience.
Experience a sensory-relaxed Performance at Artistry*
Located in Bloomington, Artistry offers sensory-relaxed performances designed to make theater more accessible for individuals with sensory differences and their families. Guests can enjoy adjusted lighting and sound levels, a relaxed atmosphere, designated take-a-break spaces, and Fraser Sensory Kits to support a comfortable experience.
Pre-visit resources are also available to help visitors know what to expect before they arrive.
* = Fraser Sensory Certified™
Places To Go
The Bakken Museum
The Bakken Museum offers hands-on exhibits and several sensory-friendly supports, including complimentary noise-dampening headphones, sensory backpacks, and a designated quiet space.
Visitors can also access a social narrative, museum map, and experience planning guide before arriving to help make their experience more comfortable and predictable.
Mall of America*
Mall of America has several resources available for guests with sensory differences, including a sensory-inclusive kit at SEA LIFE and sensory guides for Mall of America, Nickelodeon Universe, and Crayola Experience. Visitors can also access a dedicated sensory room inside Nickelodeon Universe, offering a quiet space with comfortable seating and sensory supports when a break is needed.
Accessibility information is available online and at informational kiosks throughout the mall, and guests can utilize calming seating areas located throughout the property. Guest services staff are also available to assist with accessibility-related needs.
Minnesota Children's Museum
The Minnesota Children's Museum offers a variety of sensory-friendly resources to help children and families enjoy a comfortable visit. Guests can access social narratives, sensory maps, and sensory-friendly visitor information before arriving to help prepare for their experience.
Sensory tools and designated quiet spaces are available throughout the museum for visitors who may need a break from the activity. The museum also hosts sensory-friendly events that provide a more supportive environment for children with sensory differences and their families.
Minnesota Zoo
The Minnesota Zoo offers sensory guides, and sensory bags to help visitors enjoy everything from animal encounters to indoor exhibits and walking trails. Guests can access resources before their visit to better understand what to expect and plan ahead. The zoo also offers accessibility resources and sensory-friendly programming throughout the year.
Science Museum of Minnesota
From dinosaurs and engineering exhibits to the Omnitheater, the Science Museum of Minnesota offers several accommodations for visitors with sensory differences. Guests can access a sensory-friendly visitor guide and social narratives before their visit, and sensory kits are available at the exhibit entrance.
Designated calm spaces throughout the museum provide opportunities for breaks, and Sensory Friendly Sundays offer a quieter museum experience each month.
