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Entertainment Guide
for Families of Children with Special Needs

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Family vacations and daytrips enrich everyone’s lives. They can provide children and parents with new perspectives, not to mention relaxation mixed with excitement. Unfortunately, vacations are also a source of stress for many families – and particularly those that include a child with special needs. But with a little planning, preparation and information, a trip can be a source of joy rather than distress.

About Cerebral Palsy

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What Is Cerebral Palsy?

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Some children with special needs have a condition known as Cerebral Palsy or CP. Sometimes the result of a birth injury, Cerebral Palsy is a form of brain damage that causes a variety of symptoms such as impairment or loss of both fine and gross motor functions. It may also affect muscle control, coordination, reflexes, posture, and balance. Learning impairment, seizures, and vision or hearing loss are also common among children with CP. There is no known cure for Cerebral Palsy, but children can reach their full potential with proper therapy, rehabilitation and assistive devices.

About Cerebral Palsy

Activity Map for Parents

Looking for information about how an attraction can help your child with special needs make the most of a visit? Whether it’s in your hometown or across the country, click on the map below for information about popular destinations. Have information about special needs accommodations at a site you’ve visited? Help out other parents by sharing your tips here!

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STATECITYNAMEPHONEWEBSITE
AKAnchorageAlaska Zoo907.346.2133http://alaskazoo.org/
AKPalmerReindeer Farm907.745.4000http://www.reindeerfarm.com/
ALGulf ShoresAlabama Gulf Coast Zoo251.968.5732http://www.alabamagulfcoastzoo.com/
ALDauphin IslandEstuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab251.861.2141http://www.disl.org/estuarium/
AlabamaTuskegeeTuskegee Airmen Natural Historic Site(334) 724-0922https://www.nps.gov/tuai/index.htm
AlaskaDenali ParkDinali National Park and Preserve(907) 683-2294https://www.nps.gov/dena/planyourvisit/accessibility.htm
AlaskaSkagwayKlondike Gold Rush National Historic Park(907) 983-9200 https://www.nps.gov/klgo/index.htm
AlaskaPort AlsworthLake Clark National Park and Preserve(907) 781-2117https://www.nps.gov/lacl/planyourvisit/index.htm
ARLittle RockLittle Rock Zoo501.666.2406http://www.littlerockzoo.com/
ARGentryWild Wilderness Drive Through Safari479.736.8383http://www.wildwildernessdrivethroughsafari.com/
ArizonaWillcoxChiricahua National Monument(520) 824-3560https://www.nps.gov/chir/index.htm
ArizonaGrand CanyonGrand Canyon National Park(928) 638-7888 https://www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/upload/accessibility-grca2012.pdf
ArizonaShontoNavajo National Monument(928) 672-2700https://www.nps.gov/nava/index.htm
ArizonaTumacacoriTumacácori National Historical Park(520) 377-5060https://www.nps.gov/tuma/index.htm
ArkansasFort SmithFort Smith National Historic Site(479) 783-3961https://www.nps.gov/fosm/index.htm
ArkansasHot SpringsHot Springs National Park(501) 620-6715https://www.nps.gov/hosp/
ArkansasGarfieldPea Ridge National Military Park(479) 451-8122https://www.nps.gov/peri/index.htm
AZPhoenixPhoenix Zoo602.286.3800http://phoenixzoo.org/
AZLitchfield ParkWildlife World Zoo, Aquarium, and Safari Park623.935.9453http://www.wildlifeworld.com/
CASan DiegoSan Diego Zoo and San Diego Wild Animal Park619.231.1575 or 760.747.8702http://zoo.sandiegozoo.org/ or http://sdzsafaripark.org/
CASan DiegoSeaWorld San Diego800.257.4268https://seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-sandiego
CASan FranciscoSteinhart Aquarium (California Academy of Sciences)415.379.8000http://www.calacademy.org/
CALos AngelesLos Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens(323) 644-4200http://www.lazoo.org/
CALos AngelesLos Angeles Aquarium(562) 590-3100 http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/visit/discounts/aquariumzoocombo
CACarlsbadLegoland California 877-376-5346https://www.legoland.com/california/legoland-california/know-before-you-go/
CaliforniaSanta ClaraCalifornia’s Great America +1 408-988-1776https://www.cagreatamerica.com/
CaliforniaBuena ParkKnott’s Berry Farm +1 714-220-5200https://www.knotts.com/
CaliforniaGilroyGilroy Gardens Family Theme Park +1 408-840-7100https://www.gilroygardens.org/
CaliforniaSan FranciscoExploratorium(415) 528-4360https://www.exploratorium.edu/visit/accessibility
CaliforniaSan Franciscode Young Museum415.750.7645https://deyoung.famsf.org/deyoung/visiting/accessibility
CaliforniaLos AngelesCalifornia Science Center(323-724-3623)https://californiasciencecenter.org/visit/accessibility/
CaliforniaVenturaChannel Islands National Park(805) 658-5730https://www.nps.gov/CHIS/planyourvisit/index.htm
CaliforniaDeathValleyDeath Valley National Park(760) 786-3200https://www.nps.gov/deva/index.htm
CaliforniaMineralLassen Volcanic National Park(530) 595-4480 https://www.nps.gov/lavo/index.htm
CaliforniaCrescent CityRedwood National Park(707) 465-7335 https://www.nps.gov/redw/index.htm
CaliforniaYosemite National ParkYosemite National Park(209) 372-0200https://www.nps.gov/yose/index.htm
City in MinnesotaSaint PaulMississippi National River and Recreation Area, Saint Paul, Minnesota(651) 293-0200https://www.nps.gov/miss/index.htm
COColorado SpringsCheyenne Mountain Zoo719.424.7821http://www.cmzoo.org/
CODenverDenver Zoological Gardens720.337.1400http://www.denverzoo.org/
CODenverDowntown Aquarium303.561.4450http://www.aquariumrestaurants.com/
CODenverElitch Gardens Theme & Water Park(303) 595-4386https://www.elitchgardens.com/
ColoradoCortezHovenweep National Monument (CO, UT)(970) 562-4282 x10https://www.nps.gov/hove/index.htm
ColoradoDenverManhattan Project National Historical Park (TN, NM, WA)(505) 661-6277 https://www.nps.gov/mapr/index.htm
ColoradoMontrosBlack Canyon of the Gunnison(970) 641-2337 x205 https://www.nps.gov/blca/index.htm
ColoradoMoscaGreat Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve(719) 378-6395https://www.nps.gov/grsa/index.htm
ColoradoMesa Verde National ParkMesa Verde National Park(970) 529-4465 https://www.nps.gov/meve/index.htm
ColoradoEstes ParkRocky Mountain National Park, Estes Park and Grand Lake, Colorado(970) 586-1206 https://www.nps.gov/romo/index.htm
ConnecticutDanielsonThe Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor(860) 774-3300http://thelastgreenvalley.org/index.php;%20 http:/thelastgreenvalley.org/tlgv/a-national-heritage-corridor/
ConnecticutWiltonWeir Farm National Historic Site, Ridgefield and Wilton, Connecticut(203) 834-1896 x0https://www.nps.gov/wefa/index.htm
ConnecticutDanielsonThe Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor (CT and MA)(860) 774-3300http://thelastgreenvalley.org/index.php; http://thelastgreenvalley.org/tlgv/a-national-heritage-corridor/
CTBridgeportBeardsley Zoo203.394.6565http://www.beardsleyzoo.com/
CTStoningtonMystic Aquarium860.572.5955http://www.mysticaquarium.org/
D.C.WashingtonNational Zoological Park202.633.4888https://nationalzoo.si.edu/
DCWashingtonSmithsonian – American History Museum(202) 633-1000http://americanhistory.si.edu/visit/disabilities
DCWashingtonSmithsonian – National Air and Space Museum202-633-2214, (202) 633-2563https://airandspace.si.edu/visit/udvar-hazy-center/visitors-disabilities
DCWashingtonSmithsonian – American Indian Museum202-633-1000http://nmai.si.edu/visit/washington/accessibility/
DC WashingtonSmithsonian – Anacostia Community Museum202.633.4820http://anacostia.si.edu/Visit/VisitorsWithDisabilities
DCWashingtonSmithsonian – National Museum of National History202.633.1000http://naturalhistory.si.edu/visit/accessibility.htm
DCWashingtonSmithsonian – National Portrait Gallery(202) 633-8300http://npg.si.edu/visit/accessibility
DCWashingtonSmithsonian – National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute 202-633-4888https://nationalzoo.si.edu/visit/accessibility
DCWashingtonSmithsonian – National Postal Museum(202) 633-5535https://postalmuseum.si.edu/visit/accessibility/index.html
DCWashingtonSmithsonian – National Museum of Natural History202-633-3611http://naturalhistory.si.edu/visit/accessibility.htm
DCWashingtonNational Park Service(202) 208-6843https://www.nps.gov/aboutus/accessibilityforvisitors.htm
DCWashingtonFord’s Theater National Historic Site, Washington, D.C.(202) 426-6924https://www.nps.gov/foth/index.htm
DCWashingtonLincoln Memorial, Washington, D.C.(202) 426-6841 https://www.nps.gov/linc/index.htm
DCWashingtonMartin Luther King, Jr., Memorial, Washington, D.C.(202) 426-6841 https://www.nps.gov/mlkm/index.htm
DCWashingtonNational Mall and Memorial Parks, Washington, D.C.(202) 426-6841 https://www.nps.gov/nama/index.htm
DCWashingtonPresident’s Park (White House), Washington, D.C.(202) 208-1631 https://www.nps.gov/whho/index.htm
DCWashingtonVietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington, D.C.(202) 426-6841 https://www.nps.gov/vive/index.htm
DEWilmingtonBrandywine Zoo302.571.7747http://www.brandywinezoo.org/
DEClayton3 Palms Zoo302.715.1326http://www.3palmszoo.org/
DelawareWilmingtonBrandywine Creek State ParkWilmington, Delaware(302) 655-5740http://www.destateparks.com/park/brandywine-creek/nature-center.asp
DelawareNew CastleFirst State National Historical Park, New Castle, Delaware(302) 544-6363https://www.nps.gov/frst/index.htm
DelawareWilmingtonFort Christina National Historical Landmark, Wilmington, Delaware(302) 544-6363 https://www.nps.gov/frst/planyourvisit/fort-christina.htm
DelawareDoverJohn Dickinson Plantation, Dover, Delaware(302) 739-3277https://www.nps.gov/frst/planyourvisit/john-dickinson-plantation.htm
DelawareWilmingtonOld Swedes Church, Wilmington, Delaware(302) 652-5629http://www.oldswedes.org/sites/
DelawareLewesRyves Holt House, Lewes, Delaware(302) 645-7670 https://www.nps.gov/frst/planyourvisit/ryves-holt-house.htm
DelawareDoverThe Green, Dover, Delaware(302) 739-9194https://www.nps.gov/frst/planyourvisit/the-green-dover.htm
DelawareGeringScotts Bluff National Monument(308) 436-9700, ext. 0https://www.nps.gov/scbl/index.htm
DelewareNew CastleNew Castle Court House Museum, New Castle, Delaware(302) 323-4453http://history.delaware.gov/museums/ncch/ncch_main.shtml
FLTampaBusch Gardens Tampa Bay888.800.5447https://seaworldparks.com/en/buschgardens-tampa/
FLMiamiMonkey Jungle Island305.235.1611http://www.monkeyjungle.com/
FLOrlandoSeaWorld Orlando888.800.5447https://seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-orlando/
FLOrlandoWalt Disney World Resort(407) 939-5277, (407) 934-7639https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/guest-services/guests-with-disabilities/
FloridaOrlandoSeaWorld Orlando407-545-5550https://seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-orlando/park-info/accessibility-guide?from=Top_Nav
FloridaWest Palm BeachNorton Museum of Art(561) 832-5196http://www.norton.org/accessibility
FloridaHomesteadBiscayne National Park(305) 230-1144https://www.nps.gov/bisc/index.htm
FloridaHomesteadDry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson(305) 242-7700https://www.nps.gov/drto/index.htm
FloridaHomesteadEverglades National Park(305) 242-7700https://www.nps.gov/ever/index.htm
FloridaGulf BreezeGulf Islands National Seashore(850) 934-2600https://www.nps.gov/guis/index.htm
GAAtlantaGeorgia Aquarium404.581.4000http://www.georgiaaquarium.org/
GAAtlantaZoo Atlanta404.624.9453http://www.zooatlanta.org/
GeorgiaAtlantaFreedom Riders National Monument(404) 507-5605https://www.nps.gov/frri/index.htm
GeorgiaFort OglethorpeChickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park(706) 866-9241https://www.nps.gov/chch/index.htm
GeorgiaAndersonvilleFort Sumter National Historical Site, Andersonville, Georgia(229) 924-0343https://www.nps.gov/ande/index.htm
GeorgiaMaconOcmulgee National Monument, Macon, Georgia(478) 752-8257, ext. 222 https://www.nps.gov/ocmu/index.htm
GeorgiaFort OglethorpeChickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park (GA, TN)(706) 866-9241https://www.nps.gov/chch/index.htm
HawaiiHawaii National ParkHawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hilo, Hawaii(808) 985-6000 https://www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm
HawaiiHonoluluPearl Harbor National Historic Monument, Oahu, Hawaii808-954-8767 http://www.pearlharborhistoricsites.org/pearl-harbor/
HawaiiKawaihaePuukohula Heiau (Temple) National Historical Site(808) 882-7218, ext. 0www.nps.gov/puhe/index.htm
HIHonoluluHonolulu Zoo808.971.7171http://www.honoluluzoo.org/default.htm
HIHonoluluWaikiki Aquarium808.923.9741http://www.waikikiaquarium.org/
IADes MoinesBlank Park Zoo515.285.4722http://www.blankparkzoo.com/
IADubuqueNational Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium800.226.3369http://www.rivermuseum.com/
IDBoiseZoo Boise208.608.7760http://zooboise.org/
IDRexburgYellowstone Bear World208.359.9688http://yellowstonebearworld.com/
IdahoHagermaHagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, Hagerman, Idaho(208) 933-4105 https://www.nps.gov/hafo/index.htm
IdahoLapwaiNez Perce National Historical Park(208) 843-7009https://www.nps.gov/nepe/index.htm
ILChicagoBrookfield Zoo708.688.8000 or 708.688.8338https://www.czs.org/Brookfield-ZOO/
ILChicagoLincoln Park Zoo312.742.2000http://www.lpzoo.org/
ILChicagoShedd Aquarium312.939.2438http://www.sheddaquarium.org/
ILChicagoChicago Children’s Museum(312) 527-1000http://www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org/index.php/about/accessibility-inclusion
IllinoisSpringfieldLincoln Home National Historic Site, Springfield, Illinois(217) 492-4241https://www.nps.gov/liho/index.htm
INFort WayneFort Wayne Children’s Zoo260.427.6800http://kidszoo.org/
INIndianapolisIndianapolis Zoo/ Aquarium317.630.2001http://www.indianapoliszoo.com/SitePages/Home.aspx
INMichigan CityWashington Park Zoo219.873.1510http://washingtonparkzoo.com/
IndianaSanta Claus Holiday World & Splashin’ SAFARI812-937-4401 , 877-463-2645http://www.holidayworld.com/help-information/accessibility/
IndianaChestertonIndiana Dunes National Lakeshore(219) 395-1882https://www.nps.gov/indu/index.htm
IndianaVincennesGeorge Rogers Clark National Historical Park, Vincennes, Indiana(812) 882-1776, ext. 1210https://www.nps.gov/gero/index.htm
IndianaLincoln CityLincoln Boyhood Memorial, Lincoln City, Indiana(812) 937-4541https://www.nps.gov/libo/index.htm
IowaHarpers FerryEffigy Mounds, Harpers Ferry, Iowa(563) 873-3491, ext. 123 https://www.nps.gov/efmo/index.htm
IowaWest BranchHerbert Hoover National Historic Site, West Branch, Iowa(319) 643-2541 https://www.nps.gov/heho/index.htm
KansasTopekaBrown v Board of Education National Historic Site, Topeka, Kansas(785) 354-4273https://www.nps.gov/brvb/learn/historyculture/kansas.htm
KentuckyCentral KentuckyMammoth Cave National Park Kentucky(270) 758-2180 https://www.nps.gov/maca/index.htm
KentuckyHodgenvilleAbraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, Hodgenville, Kentucky(270) 358-3137https://www.nps.gov/abli/index.htm
KentuckyMiddlesboroCumberland Gap National Historical Park, Middlesboro, Kentucky(606) 248-2817https://www.nps.gov/cuga/index.htm
KentuckyMiddlesboroCumberland Gap National Historical Park (KY, TN, VA)(606) 248-2817https://www.nps.gov/cuga/index.htm
KSGoddardTanganyika Wildlife Park316.794.8954http://www.twpark.com/
KSKansas CityKansas City Zoo816.595.1234https://www.kansascityzoo.org/
KSSalinaRolling Hills Wildlife Adventure785-827-9488http://www.rollinghillswildlife.com/
KYHorse CaveKentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo270.786.1010http://www.kentuckydownunder.com/
KYLouisvilleLouisville Zoo502.459.2181https://louisvillezoo.org/
KY/OHNewport - CincinnatiNewport Aquarium800.406.3474http://www.newportaquarium.com/
LANew OrleansAudubon Zoo800.774.7394http://audubonnatureinstitute.org/
LAAlexandriaAlexandria Zoo318.441.6810http://www.thealexandriazoo.com/
LouisianaNatchezCane River Creole National Historical Park, Natchez, Louisiana(318) 352-0383, ext. 101 or ext. 316https://www.nps.gov/cari/index.htm
LouisianaNew OrleansJean Lafitte National Historical Park, New Orleans, Louisiana(504) 589-3882 https://www.nps.gov/jela/index.htm
LouisianaNew OrleansNew Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, New Orleans, Louisiana(504) 589-4841 https://www.nps.gov/jazz/index.htm
MABostonFranklin Park Zoo a/k/a Zoo New England617.541.5466http://www.zoonewengland.org/franklin-park-zoo/
MABostonNew England Aquarium617.973.5200http://www.neaq.org/
MAMendonSouthwick’s Zoo800.258.9182http://southwickszoo.com/
MaineBar HarborAcadia National Park(207) 288-3338 https://www.nps.gov/acad/index.htm
MaineMadawaskaMaine Acadia Culture(207) 728-6826https://www.nps.gov/maac/index.htm
MaineCalaisSaint Croix Island International Historic Site, Calais, Maine(207) 454-3871 https://www.nps.gov/sacr/index.htm
MarylandSharpsburgAntietam National Battlefield, Sharpsburg, Maryland(301) 432-5124https://www.nps.gov/anti/index.htm
MarylandBaltimoreFort McHenry National Monument & Historic Shrine, Baltimore, Maryland(410) 962-4290www.nps.gov/fomc/index.htm
MarylandChurch CreekHarriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historic Park, Church Creek, Maryland(410) 221 2290https://www.nps.gov/hatu/index.htm
MassachusettsSalemThe Peabody Essex Museum978-745-9500http://www.pem.org/visit/accessibility
MassachusettsQuincyAdams National Historical Park, Quincy, Massachusetts(617) 770-1175https://www.nps.gov/adam/index.htm
MassachusettsBostonBoston National Historical Park, Boston, Massachusetts(617) 242-5601 – Charlestown Navy Yard Visitor Centerhttps://www.nps.gov/bost/index.htm
MassachusettsNew BedfordNew Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, New Bedford, Massachusetts(508) 996-4095https://www.nps.gov/nebe/index.htm
MassachusettsWhitinsvilleBlackstone River Valley National Historical Park (RI, MA)508-234-4242 x108https://www.nps.gov/blrv/index.htm
MDBaltimoreMaryland Zoo410.396.7102http://www.marylandzoo.org/
MDBaltimoreNational Aquarium410.576.3800https://aqua.org/
MEGrayMaine Wildlife Park207.657.4977http://www.maine.gov/ifw/education/wildlifepark/accessibility.htm
MEYork BeachYork’s Wild Kingdom207.363.4911http://www.yorkswildkingdom.com/
MIBattle CreekBinder Park Zoo269.979.1351http://binderparkzoo.org/
MIDetroitDetroit Zoological Society248.541.5717https://detroitzoo.org/
MIGrand RapidsJohn Ball Zoo616.336.4301http://www.jbzoo.org/
MILansingPotter Park517.342.2710http://www.potterparkzoo.org/
MichiganMuskegonMichigan’s Adventure +1 231-766-3377https://www.miadventure.com/
Michigan HoughtonIsle Royale National Park, Houghton, Michigan(906) 482-0984https://www.nps.gov/isro/index.htm
MichiganCalumetKeweenaw National Historical Park, Calumet, Michigan(906) 337-3168https://www.nps.gov/kewe/index.htm
MichiganEmpireSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire Michigan(231) 326-4700https://www.nps.gov/slbe/index.htm
MinnesotaShakopeeValleyfair +1 952-445-7600https://www.valleyfair.com/
MinnesotaGrand PortageGrand Portage National Monument, Grand Portage, Minnesota(218) 475-0123https://www.nps.gov/grpo/index.htm
MinnesotaInternational FallsVoyageurs National Park, International Falls, Minnesota(218) 283-6600https://www.nps.gov/voya/index.htm
MississippiClevelandMississippi Delta National Heritage Area, Cleveland, Mississippi(662) 846-4312 https://www.nps.gov/mide/index.htm
MississippiNatchezNatchez National Historical Park, Natchez, Mississippi(601) 446-5790 https://www.nps.gov/natc/index.htm
MississippiTupeloNatchez Trace Parkway (AL, MS, TN)(800) 305-7417https://www.nps.gov/natr/index.htm
MississippiVicksburgVicksburg National Military Park(601) 636-0583https://www.nps.gov/vick/index.htm
MissouriKansas CityWorlds of Fun+1 816-454-4545https://www.worldsoffun.com/
MissouriSt. LouisJefferson National Expansion Memorial, St. Louis, Missouri(314) 655-1600https://www.nps.gov/jeff/index.htm
MNSt. PaulComo Park Zoo and Conservatory651.487.8201http://www.comozooconservatory.org/
MNBloomingtonSea Life Minnesota Aquarium952.853.0612https://www2.visitsealife.com/minnesota
MOKansas CityKansas City Zoo816.595.1234https://www.kansascityzoo.org/
MOSaint LouisSaint Louis Zoological Park314.781.0900https://www.stlzoo.org/
MontanaWest GlacierGlacier National Park, West Glacier, Montana(406) 888-7800 https://www.nps.gov/glac/index.htm
MontanaCrow AgencyLittle Bighorn Battlefield(406) 638-2621https://www.nps.gov/libi/index.htm
MSJacksonJackson Zoological Zoo601.352.2580http://jacksonzoo.org/
MSGulfportInstitute for Marine Mammal Studies228.896.9182http://www.imms.org/
MSTupeloTupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo662.844.8709http://www.tupelobuffalopark.com/
MTWest YellowstoneGrizzly & Wolf Discovery Center800.257.2570http://www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org/
MTBillingsZoo Montana406.652.8100http://www.zoomontana.org/
NCRoanoke IslandNorth Carolina Aquarium252.475.2300http://www.ncaquariums.com/roanoke-island
NCAsheboroNorth Carolina Zoological Park800.488.0444http://www.nczoo.org/
NCCharlotteCarowinds +1 704-588-2600https://www.carowinds.com/help/accessibility
NDBismarckDakota Zoo701.223.7543http://www.dakotazoo.org/
NDMinotRoosevelt Park Zoo701.857.4166http://www.rpzoo.com/
NELincolnLincoln Children’s Zoo402.475.6741http://www.lincolnzoo.org/
NEOmahaOmaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium402.733-8401http://www.omahazoo.com/
NebraskaOmahaLewis & Clark National Historic Trail(402) 661-1804 (Omaha, Nebraskahttps://www.nps.gov/lecl/index.htm
NebraskaHarrisonAgate Fossil Beds National Monument, Harrison, Nebraska(308) 436-9760https://www.nps.gov/agfo/index.htm
NevadaBoulder CityLake Mead National Recreation Area, Boulder City, Nevada(702) 293-8990 https://www.nps.gov/lake/index.htm
NevadaBoulder CityTule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, Boulder City, Nevada(702) 902-0431 https://www.nps.gov/tusk/index.htm
New HampshireSargent's PurchaseMount Washington State Park, Sargent’s Purchase, New Hampshire603-466-3347http://www.nhstateparks.org/visit/state-parks/mount-washington-state-park.aspx
New HampshireCornishSaint-Gaudens National Historic Site, Cornish, New Hampshire(603) 675-2175https://www.nps.gov/saga/index.htm
New MexicoSanta FeCalifornia National Historic Trail(801) 741-1012https://www.nps.gov/cali/index.htm
New MexicoSanta FePony Express National Historic Trail(801) 741-1012https://www.nps.gov/poex/index.htm
New MexicoSanta FeNational Historic Trail – Trail of Tears(505) 988-6098https://www.nps.gov/trte/index.htm
New York New York The Metropolitan Museum of Art212-650-2010http://www.metmuseum.org/learn/visitors-with-disabilities
New YorkNew YorkEllis Island, Part of Statue of Liberty National Monument (NJ, NY)(212) 363-3200 https://www.nps.gov/elis/index.htm
New YorkNiagara UniversityNiagara Falls National Heritage Area, Niagara University, New York(716) 286-8579https://www.nps.gov/nifa/index.htm
New YorkStaten IslandGateway National Recreation Area (NJ, NY)(718) 354-4606 https://www.nps.gov/gate/index.htm
New YorkNew YorkStatue of Liberty National Monument, Liberty Island (NJ, NY)(212) 363-3200 https://www.nps.gov/stli/index.htm
NHHamptonExplore the Ocean World with Oceanarium and school programs (in winter)603.758.7998http://exploretheoceanworld.com/
NHCandiaCharmingfare Farm603.483.5623https://www.visitthefarm.com/
NJCamdenAdventure Aquarium856.365.3300http://www.adventureaquarium.com/
NJWest OrangeTurtle Back Zoo973-731-5800http://turtlebackzoo.com/
NMAlbuquerqueAlbuquerque Biological Park Zoo505.768.2000http://www.cabq.gov/culturalservices/biopark
NMAlbuquerqueABQ Bio Park Aquarium505.768.2000https://www.cabq.gov/culturalservices/biopark/aquarium
North CarolinaFlat RockCarl Sandburg Home National Historic Site, Flat Rock, North Carolina(828) 693-4178https://www.nps.gov/carl/index.htm
North CarolinaCurrieMoores Creek National Battlefield, Currie, North Carolina(910) 283-5591 x2234https://www.nps.gov/mocr/index.htm
North CarolinaManteoWright Brothers National Memorial, Manteo, North Carolina(252) 473-2111 https://www.nps.gov/wrbr/index.htm
North DakotaStantonKnife River Indian Villages National Historic Site, Stanton, North Dakota(701) 745-3300https://www.nps.gov/knri/index.htm
North DakotaWillistonFort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, Williston, North Dakota(701) 572-9083https://www.nps.gov/fous/index.htm
NVRenoAnimal Ark775.970.3111http://animalark.org/
NVLas VegasShark Reef Aquarium702.632.4555http://www.sharkreef.com/
NYBronxBronx Zoo (The Wildlife Conservation Society)718.220.5100http://bronxzoo.com/
NYBronxNew York Aquarium718.220.5100https://nyaquarium.com/
NYNew YorkSmithsonian – American Indian Museum’s Heye Center (in New York) 212-514-3700http://nmai.si.edu/visit/newyork/accessibility/
NYNYChildren’s Museum of Manhattan212-721-1223http://cmom.org/visit/accessibility
OHCincinnatiCincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden513.281.4700http://cincinnatizoo.org/
OHClevelandCleveland Metroparks Zoo216.661.6500http://www.clevelandmetroparks.com/Zoo/Zoo.aspx
OHPowellColumbus Zoo and Aquarium614.645.3400https://www.columbuszoo.org/
OH/KYCincinnati/ NewportNewport Aquarium800.406.3474http://www.newportaquarium.com/
OhioSanduskyCedar Point Amusement Park(419) 627-2350https://www.cedarpoint.com/help/accessibility
OhioMasonKings Island +1 513-754-5700https://www.visitkingsisland.com/
OhioBrecksvilleCuyahoga Valley National Park, Cleveland and Akron, Ohio(330) 657-2752 https://www.nps.gov/cuva/index.htm
OhioDaytonDayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, Dayton, Ohio(937) 225-7705 https://www.nps.gov/daav/index.htm
OhioChillicotheHopewell Culture National Historical Park, Chillicothe, Ohio(740) 774-1126 https://www.nps.gov/hocu/index.htm
OhioDaytonNational Aviation National Heritage Site, Dayton, Ohio(937) 225-7705 https://www.nps.gov/avia/index.htm
OKOklahoma CityOklahoma City Zoological Park405.424.3344http://www.okczoo.org/
OKOklahomaOklahoma Aquarium918.296.3474http://www.okaquarium.org/
OklahomaSulphurChickasaw National Recreation Area, Sulphur, Oklahoma(580) 622-7234https://www.nps.gov/chic/index.htm
ORPortlandOregon Zoo503.226.1561http://www.oregonzoo.org/
ORBandonWest Coast Game Park Safari541.347.3106http://www.westcoastgameparksafari.com/
OregonPortlandPortland Children’s Museum(503) 223-6500http://www.portlandcm.org/visit/accessibility
OregonKimberlyJohn Day Fossil Beds National Monument, Kimberly, Oregon(541) 987-2333https://www.nps.gov/joda/index.htm
OregonCrater LakeCrater Lake National Park, Crater Lake, Oregon(541) 594-3000https://www.nps.gov/crla/index.htm
PAPittsburghPittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium412.665.3640http://www.pittsburghzoo.org/
PAPhiladelphiaPhiladelphia Zoo215.243.1100http://www.philadelphiazoo.org/
PennsylvaniaAllentownDorney Park Wildwater Kingdom +1 610-395-3724https://www.dorneypark.com/
PennsylvaniaPittsburghCarnegie Museum Of Art(412) 622-3131http://cmoa.org/visit/accessibility/
PennsylvaniaPittsburghChildren’s Museum Pittsburgh412.322.5058https://pittsburghkids.org/visit/accessibility/
PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaWashington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail(215) 597-1581https://www.nps.gov/waro/index.htm
PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaEdgar Allen Poe National Historic Site, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania(215) 965-2305https://www.nps.gov/edal/index.htm
PennsylvaniaStoystownFlight 93 National Memorial, Stoystown, Pennsylvania(814) 893-6322https://www.nps.gov/flni/index.htm
PennsylvaniaGettysburgGettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania(717) 334-1124https://www.nps.gov/gett/index.htm
PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaIndependence National Historical Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania(215) 965-2305https://www.nps.gov/inde/index.htm
Rhode IslandNewportTouro Synagogue National Historic Site, Newport, Rhode Island(401) 847-4794https://www.nps.gov/tosy/index.htm
Rhode IslandProvidenceRoger Williams National Memorial, Providence, Rhode Island(401) 521-7266https://www.nps.gov/rowi/index.htm
RIProvidenceRoger Williams Park Zoo401.785.3510http://www.rwpzoo.org/
RINorth KingstownBiomes Marine Biology Center401.885.4690http://biomescenter.com/
SCColumbiaRiverbanks Zoo and Gardens803.779.8717http://www.riverbanks.org/
SCMyrtle BeachRipley’s Aquarium843.916.0888https://www.ripleyaquariums.com/myrtlebeach/
SDSioux FallsButterfly House and Marine Cove605.334.9466https://butterflyhousemarinecove.org/
SDSioux FallsGreat Plains Zoo and Delbridge Museum of Natural History605.367.7003http://www.greatzoo.org/
South CarolinaMount PleasanCharles Pinkney National Historic Site, Mount Pleasant, South Carolina(843) 881-5516https://www.nps.gov/chpi/index.htm
South CarolinaHopkindCongaree National Park, Hopkins, South Carolina(803) 776-4396https://www.nps.gov/cong/index.htm
South CarolinaGaffneyCowpens National Battlefield, Gaffney, South Carolina (864) 461-2828https://www.nps.gov/cowp/index.htm
South dakotaHot SpringsWind Cave National Park, Hot Springs, South Dakota(605) 745-4600https://www.nps.gov/wica/index.htm
South DakotaInteriorBadlands National Park, Interior, South Dakota(605) 433-5361https://www.nps.gov/badl/index.htm
South DakotaKeystoneMount Rushmore National Memorial, Keystone, South Dakota(605) 574-2523 https://www.nps.gov/moru/index.htm
South DakotaCusterJewel Cave National Monument, Custer, South Dakota(605) 673-8300 https://www.nps.gov/jeca/index.htm
TennesseeGatinburgGreat Smoky Mountains National Park (NC, TN)(865) 436-1200 https://www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm
TennesseeWartburgObed National Wild & Scenic River, Wartburg, Tennessee(423) 346-6294https://www.nps.gov/obed/index.htm
TexasFort DavisFort Davis National Historic Site, Fort Davis, Texas(432) 426-3224https://www.nps.gov/foda/index.htm
TexasPotter CountyAlibates Flint Quarries National Monument, Fritch, Texas(806) 857-6680https://www.nps.gov/alfl/index.htm
TexasWacoWaco Mammoth National Monument, Waco, Texas(254) 750-7946https://www.nps.gov/waco/index.htm
TexasBig Bend National ParkBig Bend National Park, Big Bend National Park, Texas(432) 477-2251https://www.nps.gov/bibe/index.htm
TexasCorpus ChristiPadre Island National Seashore, Corpus Christi, Texas(361) 949-8068https://www.nps.gov/pais/index.htm
TexasSan AntonioSeaWorld San Antonio2105204132https://seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-sanantonio/park-info/accessibility-guide?from=Top_Nav
TNMemphisMemphis Zoo901.333.6500http://www.memphiszoo.org/
TNChattanoogaTennessee Aquarium800.262.0695http://www.tnaqua.org/
TNPigeon ForgeDollywood Theme Park(800) 365-5996http://www.dollywood.com/themepark/Guest-Services/Accessibility
TupeloMississippiNatchez Trace Parkway(800) 305-7417https://www.nps.gov/natr/index.htm
TXDallasDallas Zoo469.554.7500http://www.dallaszoo.com/
TXFort WorthFort Worth Zoo817.759.7555http://www.fortworthzoo.org/
TXCorpus ChristiTexas State Aquarium800.477.4853https://texasstateaquarium.org/
TXSan AntonioSeaWorld San Antonio800.700.7786https://seaworldparks.com/
TXHoustonHouston Zoo(713) 533-6500http://www.houstonzoo.org/
TXHoustonDowntown Aquarium(713) -223-3474http://www.aquariumrestaurants.com/downtownaquariumhouston/
TXSan AntonioMorgan’s Wonderland(210) 495-5888http://morganswonderland.com/
UTSalt Lake CityHogle Zoo801.584.1700https://www.hoglezoo.org/
UTDraperThe Loveland Living Planet801.355.3474http://www.thelivingplanet.com/
UtahMoabArches National Park, Moab, Utah(435) 719-2299https://www.nps.gov/arch/index.htm
UtahJensenDinosaur National Monument (Vernal, Utah and Dinosaur, Colorado)(435) 781-7700https://www.nps.gov/dino/index.htm
UtahTorreyCapital Reef National Park, Torrey, Utah435-425-3791https://www.nps.gov/care/index.htm
VANatural BridgeVirginia Safari Park540.291.3205http://www.virginiasafaripark.com/
VAVirginia BeachVirginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center757.385.3474https://www.virginiaaquarium.com/
VermontWoodstockMarsh–Billings–Rockefeller National Historic Park, Woodstock, Vermont(802) 457-3368 x222https://www.nps.gov/mabi/index.htm
VirginiaHardyBooker T. Washington National Monument, Hardy, Virginia(540) 721-2094https://www.nps.gov/bowa/index.htm
VirginiaJamestownHistoric Jamestowne Part of Colonial National Historical Park, Virginia(757) 856-1200https://www.nps.gov/jame/index.htm
VirginiaViennaWolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts, Vienna, Virginia(703) 255-1800https://www.nps.gov/wotr/index.htm
VirginiaAppomattoxAppomattox Court House National Historical Park, Appomattox, Virginia(434) 352-8987 x226https://www.nps.gov/apco/index.htm
VTBurlingtonEcho Lake Aquarium and Science Center802.864.1848http://echovermont.org/
WATacomaPoint Defiance Zoo and Aquarium253.591.5337http://www.pdza.org/
WASeattleWoodland Park Zoo206.548.2500http://www.zoo.org/
WashingtonSpokaneMobius Children’s Museum509.321.7121http://mobiusspokane.org/mobius-childrens-museum/visit
WashingtonVancouverFort Vancouver National Historic Site, Vancouver, WA(360) 816-6230https://www.nps.gov/fova/index.htm
WashingtonAshfordMount Rainier, Ashford (NPS office building), Washington(360) 569-2211https://www.nps.gov/mora/index.htm
WashingtonPort AngelesOlympic National Park, Port Angeles, Washington(360) 565-3130https://www.nps.gov/olym/index.htm
WashingtonFriday HarborSan Juan Island National Historical Park, Friday Harbor, Washington(360) 378-2240https://www.nps.gov/sajh/index.htm
West VirginiaWheelingWheeling National Heritage Area, Wheeling, West Virginia(304) 232-3087https://www.nps.gov/whee/index.htm
West VirginiaHarpers FerryAppalachian National Scenic Trail(304) 535-6278https://www.nps.gov/appa/index.htm
West VirginiaHarpers FerryHarpers Ferry National Historical Park, Harpers Ferry, Virginia (MD, VA, WV)(304) 535-6029https://www.nps.gov/hafe/index.htm
WIMilwaukeeMilwaukee County Zoo414.256.5412http://www.milwaukeezoo.org/
WIMadisonHenry Vilas Zoo608.266.4732http://www.vilaszoo.org/
WisconsinBayfieldApostle Islands National Lakeshore, Bayfield, Wisconsin(715) 779-3397https://www.nps.gov/apis/index.htm
WisconsinMadisonIce Age National Scenic Trail, Madison, Wisconsin(608) 441-5610https://www.nps.gov/iatr/index.htm
WisconsinSt. Croix FallsSaint Croix National Scenic Riverway, St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin(715) 483-2274https://www.nps.gov/sacn/index.htm
WVWheelingOglebay Park Good Zoo800.624.6988http://www.oglebay-resort.com/goodzoo/
WVKingwoodHovatter’s Wildlife Zoo304.329.3122http://www.westvirginiazoo.com/
WyomingYellowstone National ParkYellowstone National Park (ID, MT, WY), Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming(307) 344-7381 https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm
WyomingDevils TowerDevils Tower National Monument, Devils Tower, Wyoming(307) 467-5283, ext. 635https://www.nps.gov/deto/index.htm
WyomingKemmererFossil Butte National Monument, Kemmerer, Wyoming(307) 877-4455 https://www.nps.gov/fobu/index.htm
  • Tip Icon

    TIP 1

    Border Icon

    for a perfect day out

    Be an informed visitor.

    Before you go, take some time to find out about the facilities at your destination and how your child with special needs can access them. If you can’t find enough information online or in travel guides, call the destination and explain your situation.

  • Tip Icon

    TIP 2

    Border Icon

    for a perfect day out

    Make a trial run.

    Knowing what to expect is an easy way to reduce everyone’s stress about your trip. If you are planning an extended vacation to the beach, for example, try making a day trip to a local park to see what issues could arise during a longer getaway.

  • Tip Icon

    TIP 3

    Border Icon

    for a perfect day out

    Choose a hotel with more amenities.

    It’s generally better to book a cheaper room at a more expensive hotel than the best room at a more economical hotel. That’s because more expensive hotels usually offer more amenities and better guest services – including accommodating a child’s special needs.

  • Tip Icon

    TIP 4

    Border Icon

    for a perfect day out

    Try before you fly.

    Getting through security and navigating an airport is hard enough on your own. If you’re concerned about managing this process with your child, you may be able to check out the process before your trip. Some airports offer programs that allow children with special needs to try out the airport experience without the pressure of trying to make a flight.

  • Tip Icon

    TIP 5

    Border Icon

    for a perfect day out

    Ask for help.

    Remember that the travel and leisure industry is in business to provide customers with a pleasant experience. Don’t hesitate to ask representatives for help with accommodating your child’s special needs. In many cases, a simple adjustment can open a door of possibilities for your child to participate.

  • Tip Icon

    TIP 6

    Border Icon

    for a perfect day out

    Consider a destination designed around special needs.

    There are a growing number of theme parks, resorts and other vacation destinations just for children with special needs, and many others that go above and beyond to ensure everyone gets the most out of a visit. Start your research with this blog post about travel and legal rights of a child with Cerebral Palsy.

  • Tip Icon

    TIP 7

    Border Icon

    for a perfect day out

    Talk to your child’s doctor.

    Let your child’s doctor know what sort of excursion you have planned. Discuss any special medical preparations or precautions you should take while on your vacation. Also have a plan in place in case your child needs medical attention while you’re traveling.

  • Tip Icon

    TIP 8

    Border Icon

    for a perfect day out

    Plan something the whole family can enjoy.

    Everyone – including your child with special needs – will have a better experience if you select a destination that suits everyone’s recreation preferences. Plan your trip as a family so everyone has input about the vacation plans.

  • Tip Icon

    TIP 9

    Border Icon

    for a perfect day out

    Carry a vacation backpack.

    Even if you are just taking a day trip to a local attraction, be sure to bring a backpack filled with essential items for your child. This should include not only medications and food, but also toys, videos and special items that bring comfort, like a beloved blankie or stuffed animal.

  • Tip Icon

    TIP 10

    Border Icon

    for a perfect day out

    Just have fun!

    Enjoyment and enrichment are the reason we go to new places. Don’t let the goal of having fun get lost in the stress of traveling. By preparing and planning ahead of time, you, your child with special needs, and the rest of your family can enjoy a memorable outing and return to daily life with your batteries recharged.

See all tips for a perfect day out

  • Before you go, take some time to find out about the facilities at your destination and how your child with special needs can access them. If you can’t find enough information online or in travel guides, call the destination and explain your situation.

    Be an informed visitor.

  • Knowing what to expect is an easy way to reduce everyone’s stress about your trip. If you are planning an extended vacation to the beach, for example, try making a day trip to a local park to see what issues could arise during a longer getaway.

    Make a trial run.

  • It’s generally better to book a cheaper room at a more expensive hotel than the best room at a more economical hotel. That’s because more expensive hotels usually offer more amenities and better guest services – including accommodating a child’s special needs.

    Choose a hotel with more amenities.

  • Getting through security and navigating an airport is hard enough on your own. If you’re concerned about managing this process with your child, you may be able to check out the process before your trip. Some airports offer programs that allow children with special needs to try out the airport experience without the pressure of trying to make a flight.

    Try before you fly.

  • Remember that the travel and leisure industry is in business to provide customers with a pleasant experience. Don’t hesitate to ask representatives for help with accommodating your child’s special needs. In many cases, a simple adjustment can open a door of possibilities for your child to participate.

    Ask for help.

  • There are a growing number of theme parks, resorts and other vacation destinations just for children with special needs, and many others that go above and beyond to ensure everyone gets the most out of a visit. Start your research with this blog post about travel and legal rights of a child with Cerebral Palsy.

    Consider a destination designed around special needs.

  • Let your child’s doctor know what sort of excursion you have planned. Discuss any special medical preparations or precautions you should take while on your vacation. Also have a plan in place in case your child needs medical attention while you’re traveling.

    Talk to your child's doctor.

  • Everyone – including your child with special needs – will have a better experience if you select a destination that suits everyone’s recreation preferences. Plan your trip as a family so everyone has input about the vacation plans.

    Plan something the whole family can enjoy.

  • Even if you are just taking a day trip to a local attraction, be sure to bring a backpack filled with essential items for your child. This should include not only medications and food, but also toys, videos and special items that bring comfort, like a beloved blankie or stuffed animal.

    Carry a vacation backpack.

  • Enjoyment and enrichment are the reason we go to new places. Don’t let the goal of having fun get lost in the stress of traveling. By preparing and planning ahead of time, you, your child with special needs, and the rest of your family can enjoy a memorable outing and return to daily life with your batteries recharged.

    Just have fun!
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