Fall in Arizona brings cooler temperatures, stunning landscapes, and plenty of family-friendly activities perfect for enjoying the season with your special needs child or adult. From exploring pumpkin patches to enjoying sensory-friendly events, there’s something for everyone to experience and enjoy together. To help you make the most of the season, we’ve compiled a list of real fall activities and events across Arizona that cater to the unique needs and preferences of individuals with special needs.
Visiting a pumpkin patch is a quintessential fall activity that offers a variety of sensory experiences. Many pumpkin patches in Arizona, such as Mother Nature’s Farm in Gilbert and MacDonald’s Ranch in Scottsdale, offer family-friendly environments with accessible paths and designated sensory-friendly times. Let your loved one pick out a pumpkin, explore the hay maze, or even take a quiet wagon ride around the farm.
The Arizona State Fair hosts a designated Sensory Friendly Day each October, where the lights are dimmed, the music is softer, and the environment is more accommodating for individuals with sensory sensitivities. This is a great opportunity to enjoy classic fair fun like carnival rides, games, and delicious food, all in a setting designed with accessibility in mind. Be sure to check the fair’s schedule to plan your visit on the Sensory Friendly Day for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
The Arizona Fall Fest in downtown Phoenix is an annual event that celebrates the best of local food, entertainment, and businesses. Held at Margaret T. Hance Park, the festival offers a variety of activities, including live music, crafts, and food vendors. While it can get busy, the large open space of the park provides a good opportunity to explore at your own pace. Consider bringing noise-canceling headphones or visiting during the morning hours when it’s typically less crowded.
The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix is a wonderful place to experience the beauty of fall in the Sonoran Desert. The garden hosts several fall-themed events, including the popular Dog Days at the Garden where families can bring their furry friends along for a stroll. The garden’s accessible paths make it easy for individuals with mobility needs, and the sensory-rich environment is ideal for exploring with a loved one. During special events, the garden often provides quieter areas and sensory accommodations, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience.
Harkins Theatres across Arizona offer Sensory Friendly Screenings on select weekends throughout the year. These screenings are designed to create a comfortable and enjoyable movie-going experience by adjusting the lights and sound levels, allowing guests to move around as needed. It’s a perfect way to catch the latest family-friendly films without worrying about sensory overload or other common challenges in a traditional movie setting.
The annual Walk for Autism Speaks in Tempe is a wonderful way to engage with the community while supporting a good cause. The walk is designed to be inclusive, offering resources, activities, and entertainment for families and individuals with special needs. It’s not just a walk—it’s an event full of interactive exhibits, sensory-friendly activities, and opportunities to connect with other families in the special needs community. This is a great way to enjoy the cooler fall weather and celebrate with others.
Each fall, Schnepf Farms in Queen Creek hosts the Pumpkin & Chili Party, an event filled with rides, games, and delicious food. The farm offers accessible paths and sensory-friendly zones to ensure everyone can partake in the fun. Plan your visit during weekday afternoons to avoid larger crowds, and take advantage of quieter attractions like the farm train ride or exploring the farm’s beautiful gardens.
Located in Glendale, Tolmachoff Farms offers a range of fall activities, including a corn maze, train rides, and a pumpkin patch. They also have designated quiet areas for families to take a break if the excitement becomes overwhelming. The farm’s staff are attentive and accommodating, making it a wonderful place to visit with your special needs child or adult. Consider visiting on weekday mornings when the crowds are smaller, providing a calmer environment for exploration.
The City of Scottsdale offers a variety of Adaptive Recreation Programs throughout the fall. These programs are tailored specifically for individuals with special needs and include activities like arts and crafts, fitness classes, and social clubs. The city’s adaptive programs provide a safe space for individuals to learn new skills, make friends, and enjoy recreational activities. Check the city’s recreation schedule for more information on upcoming fall events.
When planning fall activities with your special needs child or adult, it’s important to keep their preferences and comfort levels in mind. Here are some tips to ensure everyone has an enjoyable experience:
By planning ahead and choosing activities that cater to the needs of your loved one, you can create unforgettable memories this fall season.
At On Angel’s Wings, we understand the importance of creating inclusive and engaging experiences for individuals with special needs. Our programs are designed to support families and provide resources that enhance quality of life. If you’re looking for more recommendations or assistance with finding accessible activities in Arizona, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Enjoy the vibrant colors and cooler temperatures of fall while exploring the wonderful activities Arizona has to offer!