Access Card Discounts
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How it Works:
Visitors present a valid ACCESS Card along with a photo ID to get the discount. One ACCESS Card admits the cardholder and 3 friends/family members at a rate of $2 per person. It's not valid on special exhibitions or features or with other discount offers/group rates. For more info,
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Quick tip: This is a great way to leverage use the IBHS services or community waiver in going out into the community without worrying about paying a lot of money...only to leave early. If your loved one does well in the community with these museums, then you can feel confident to travel more and purchase tickets for other experiences.
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​Philadelphia
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Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University
Visitors to the Academy can see giant dinosaurs, meet live animals, and walk through a butterfly-filled tropical garden. This natural history museum in Philadelphia has something for everyone, including hands-on science exhibits, a kids' discovery area, a fossil dig, and chances to talk with real scientists. Assistive listening devices are available to amplify and clarify sound, and sign language interpreters can be arranged for lectures and special events with prior notice. Additionally, personal care attendants accompanying visitors with disabilities are admitted free of charge. The museum's commitment to accessibility ensures that all visitors can enjoy and engage with its world-renowned art collection in a comfortable and inclusive setting.
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African American Museum in Philadelphia
Offers a powerful and inspiring look at African American history and culture. Located near the Liberty Bell, it features interactive exhibits, rare artifacts, and personal stories that bring history to life. With engaging programs for all ages, it's a meaningful stop for anyone wanting to learn more about the Black experience in America. It offers barrier-free access, sensory-friendly exhibits, and quiet spaces to ensure comfort. The museum provides special guided tours and accommodations for various needs, making it easy for everyone to engage with the powerful stories and history on display.
It’s a calm, inclusive space designed to support all kinds of visitors. The museum offers a sensory-friendly environment, barrier-free access, and helpful tools like assistive listening devices. They also welcome personal care attendants at no cost and can arrange sign language interpreters. This thoughtful approach helps make exploring art more comfortable, enjoyable, and accessible for everyone.
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For art lovers, this museum provides barrier-free entry, wheelchair accessibility, and a range of accommodations to support visitors with diverse needs. Assistive listening devices are available to amplify and clarify sound and special events with prior notice. Additionally, personal care attendants accompanying visitors with disabilities are admitted free of charge.
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The Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia offers trained staff to accommodate guests with special needs. The museum provides audio descriptive guides for visitors with visual impairments and offers sensory-friendly hours for individuals with sensory sensitivities. These features make it a suitable destination for families seeking an inclusive and enriching historical experience.
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Art lovers can get early access to the museum, reduced crowding and noise, hands-on art activities suitable for all developmental levels and sensory regulation resources such as fidgets, noise-canceling headphones, and sunglasses. The museum also provides sensory-friendly packs containing social stories and other materials to assist visitors during their visit.
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The garden features a one-mile paved path with strategically placed benches, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace and take breaks as needed . Its diverse landscapes, including the serene Pond Garden and the whimsical Ruin Garden, provide opportunities for sensory engagement through visual, tactile, and auditory experiences . The informal and welcoming atmosphere encourages exploration, with no strict rules on behavior, allowing visitors to connect with nature in a way that suits their comfort levels . While Chanticleer does not currently offer specialized sensory programs, its design and ambiance make it a suitable destination for individuals seeking a peaceful and accommodating outdoor experience.
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Christ Church and Christ Church Burial Ground
The Burial Ground is wheelchair accessible, providing a peaceful setting to reflect on early American history. Nearby, Christ Church is open daily and offers daily historical talks and tours, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The church's serene atmosphere and the Burial Ground's quiet surroundings create a sensory-friendly experience suitable for those seeking a tranquil visit.
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Eastern State Penitentiary Historic Site
The historic site offers self-guided audio tours so visitors can go at their own pace and comfort. Its large grounds and different exhibits, like old cell blocks and art displays, provide sensory experiences that can be exciting or calming, depending on what you prefer. Although there are no specific sensory-friendly programs, the flexible design and self-guided tours make it a good choice for a comfortable visit. It's better to come during quieter times for a more relaxed experience.
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Franklin Square – Parx Liberty Carousel
With 30 hand-carved animals—including a zebra, lion, dragon, and bald eagle—the carousel offers a calm, sensory-friendly experience. It is wheelchair accessible, and children under 2 ride free when accompanied by a paying adult. While specific sensory-friendly programs are not advertised, the relaxed atmosphere and the option to ride at one's own pace make it a comfortable choice for a family outing. It's recommended to visit during quieter times for a more peaceful experience.
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Franklin Square – Philly Mini Golf
The 18-hole course features replicas of iconic Philadelphia landmarks, providing a sensory-rich environment with visual and auditory stimuli that can be both engaging and calming. The park is wheelchair accessible, and the open layout allows for easy navigation. While specific sensory-friendly programs are not advertised, the relaxed atmosphere and the option to play at one's own pace make it a comfortable choice for a family outing. It's recommended to visit during quieter times.
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The venue provides sensory-friendly accommodations, including relaxed performances where house lights remain on at a low level, sound levels are reduced, and audience members are free to talk, vocalize, or leave their seats as needed. Noise-canceling headphones, fidget objects, and sensory-friendly toys are available upon request.
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It features a two-acre garden, urban farm, greenhouse, chicken coop, and orchard, providing sensory-rich environments with various textures, smells, and sights. Visitors can explore these areas at their own pace, and the open spaces allow for flexibility in movement. While specific sensory-friendly programs are not advertised, the relaxed atmosphere and outdoor setting make it a comfortable destination for those seeking a quiet and engaging experience.
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It’s easy to get around with ramps and elevators, and service animals are welcome. Visitors who need extra help can bring personal care attendants for free. The museum has fun and calming exhibits, like historic ships, that offer lots of interesting things to see and feel. While there aren’t special programs for sensory needs, the museum is friendly and flexible. It’s best to visit when it’s less busy for a more relaxed experience.
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The museum has more than 2,700 pieces of art like paintings and sculptures, many showing the Bucks County area. Outside, the Patricia D. Pfundt Sculpture Garden is a calm place to see different sculptures. Although there aren’t special programs for sensory needs, the museum is designed to be comfortable and flexible for all visitors. Service animals are welcome, and visitors who need extra help can bring personal care attendants for free.
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It is a beautiful place to visit for people of all ages. You can walk through colorful flower gardens, see big fountains, and enjoy peaceful nature paths. It’s a calm and relaxing spot where you can explore at your own pace and enjoy the sights and sounds of plants, trees, and water. Keep in mind that it's a lot of walking.
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It has quiet walking paths, open gardens, and gentle sounds from nature that can be calming. You can explore at your own pace, and there’s plenty of space to take breaks if needed. The calm setting makes it a relaxing and comfortable place to enjoy time outdoors.
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Museum of the American Revolution
​It is a Certified Autism Center, offering sensory-friendly experiences like Relaxed Experience Mornings, where the museum adjusts lighting and sound to create a calm environment. Visitors can borrow noise-reducing headphones and sensory kits, and there is a quiet room available. The museum provides tactile exhibits and touch tours, allowing guests to explore history through hands-on experiences. Service animals are welcome, and personal care attendants can accompany visitors for free.
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For science lovers, check out Sensory-Friendly Mornings. These events provide a calm environment with reduced lighting and sound, making it easier for visitors with sensory sensitivities to explore the museum. Guests can engage with tactile exhibits, enjoy a quiet room with snacks, and participate in special activities designed for comfort and learning. The museum also offers wheelchair access and complimentary admission for personal care attendants.
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Features Sensory-Friendly Days throughout the year (see website). These special days provide a comfortable experience with modified programming, trained staff, and sensory-friendly spaces equipped with calming lighting, sensory objects, and comfortable seating. Visitors can also access noise-canceling headphones and calm-down toys. Pre-visit guides and social stories are available to help prepare for the visit. The museum is fully wheelchair accessible, offers assistive listening devices, and provides free admission for personal care attendants.
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For advocates and people who want to be inspired to find their voice in politics, this museum exhibits show real stories of people who stood up for what’s right, which can be inspiring and empowering. There are also interactive displays and quiet spaces, making it easier to explore at your own pace. The museum values inclusion and respect, helping everyone feel understood and appreciated.
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National Museum of American Jewish History
It offers a peaceful environment with clear displays and thoughtful stories. The museum shares real experiences of Jewish people in America, focusing on themes like family, freedom, and identity. It’s a space where differences are respected and celebrated, and visitors can learn at their own pace. Quiet areas and helpful staff make it a comfortable and welcoming place for everyone.
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The exhibits include fascinating artifacts like mummies, statues, and tools, all displayed in a clear and organized way. The museum is quiet, with places to take breaks if needed, and staff are friendly and respectful. It’s a space where curiosity is encouraged and everyone can learn in their own way.
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Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
The galleries are quiet and big, making it easy to move through at your own pace. You can enjoy paintings and sculptures from different times in history, with plenty to look at and think about. The museum values creativity and self-expression, making it a supportive space for everyone.
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Philadelphia History Museum (temporarily closed)
This museum shares the story of the city in a clear and interesting way. The exhibits include objects, photos, and maps that show how people lived and worked in Philadelphia over time. The museum is usually calm and not too crowded, with spaces to pause and take breaks. It’s a thoughtful place that respects different ways of learning and helps visitors connect with the city’s rich history.
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It is calm, quiet, and has lots of space to walk around. You can see many kinds of art, like paintings, sculptures, and colorful pictures from around the world. You can go as slowly as you want and take breaks when you need to. The museum wants everyone to feel welcome and comfortable while they explore.
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The art is made from bright tiles, glass, and mirrors, with lots of interesting shapes to look at. You can walk around slowly and explore at your own pace. There are quiet indoor and outdoor spaces to help you feel comfortable. The museum is usually quieter on weekdays, which can make it easier to enjoy. It’s a friendly place where everyone is welcome to be themselves and enjoy the art in their own way.
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It is an old house that shows what life was like long ago. You can take your time walking through the rooms and looking at the furniture and objects. The house is not crowded, and there are spots where you can sit and rest if you need to. It’s a peaceful place where you can learn about history at your own pace and feel comfortable being yourself.
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It has lots of hands-on activities where you can play, explore, and learn by touching and moving things. You can go at your own speed and enjoy different play areas that are bright and colorful. The museum has quiet spaces where you can take a break if you need to. It’s a welcoming place where everyone can have fun and be themselves. It's a great place for little ones to explore.
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It is an old house with beautiful rooms and interesting things from the past. You can walk through the house slowly and look at the furniture and decorations. The museum is usually quiet, and there are places to sit and rest if you need to. It’s a friendly space where you can learn about history in a calm and comfortable way.
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Shofuso Japanese House and Garden
You can walk slowly through the quiet garden and enjoy the plants, water, and traditional Japanese house. There are calm spots to sit and rest if you need to. The garden is a relaxing place where you can enjoy nature and learn about Japanese culture at your own pace.
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It has lots of hands-on exhibits where you can learn about science by touching and exploring. You can go at your own speed and spend time with the displays you like best. There are quiet areas where you can take breaks if you need to. The museum is welcoming and helps everyone enjoy learning in a way that feels comfortable. If a visitor has a serious disability, they can bring a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) with them for free. The free ticket for the PCA works for all parts of the museum, like regular admission, special exhibits, and shows.
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It has quiet walking trails, gardens, and nature to explore at your own pace. The fresh air and green spaces can help you feel calm and relaxed. There are also spots to sit and rest when you need to take a break. It’s a friendly place to enjoy nature and be yourself.
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The house was the residence of Revolutionary War hero "Mad" Anthony Wayne who served alongside George Washington is not crowded, and there are calm areas to sit and rest. You can learn about the past by looking at old furniture and listening to stories. The staff is friendly and happy to help you enjoy your visit. It's a safe and welcoming place to relax and learn.
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The museum is a unique house filled with handmade art and furniture, set in a quiet forest. You can take a guided tour to learn about the artist and see his one-of-a-kind designs. The space is calm, not too crowded, and welcoming to people with sensory or other support needs. Caregivers can come for free, and the museum is happy to help make your visit comfortable.
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This museum is a handmade house filled with art and wooden furniture, built by an artist who lived there. The museum is in a peaceful forest, and it’s not too busy or loud. You can take a guided tour to learn about the artist and explore his creative home. The museum is friendly to people with sensory needs, and caregivers can visit for free. It’s a calm and welcoming place to enjoy art in your own way.
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Pittsburgh
A welcoming and sensory-friendly destination for autistic visitors. It offers a variety of interactive exhibits designed to engage children of all abilities. The museum provides accommodations such as noise-canceling headphones, weighted neck wraps, wrist assistance cuffs, and tactile maps to enhance the visitor experience. Additionally, sensory-friendly afternoons are held on the second Tuesday of each month, featuring adjusted lighting and sound, designated quiet areas, and sensory kits. Caregivers accompanying visitors are admitted free of charge, and service animals are welcome. The museum's commitment to accessibility ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all guests.
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It offers interactive exhibits on topics like space, robotics, and the human body. The museum hosts Sensory Sensitive Science Hours on select Sundays, featuring adjusted lighting and sound, early entry, and a Quiet Room for breaks. Sensory backpacks with noise-canceling headphones and other tools are available to borrow. A personal care attendant accompanying a visitor with a disability receives free admission. The center is accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Service animals are welcome, and the museum strives to accommodate various needs.
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Carnegie Museum of Natural History
It offers sensory-friendly events with lower lights, quieter sounds, and calm spaces for breaks. Visitors can explore exhibits like dinosaurs, animals, rocks, and bugs in a relaxed setting. The museum provides helpful tools like earplugs, sunglasses, and fidget toys, and staff are trained to support all needs. Special programs, like Sensory Friendly Weekends and Trick-or-Treat events, make the museum a fun and comfortable place to learn and explore.
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Offers a variety of sensory-friendly programs and accommodations. The museum provides tactile art reproductions and an inclusive audio guide app, "Out Loud," which offers verbal descriptions and guided tactile narration of artworks, designed for visitors who are blind or have low vision. Additionally, the museum offers sensory-friendly events, such as the "Sensory Friendly Studio Night," which includes designated quiet areas, lower lighting levels, and access to fidgets and noise-canceling headphones. Caregivers accompanying visitors are admitted free of charge, and service animals are welcome. The museum's commitment to accessibility ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all guests.
