North Carolina Autism Resources

Autism Society of North Carolina

This statewide organization provides support groups, workshops, and resources for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families. The Autism Society of North Carolina provides autism services and autism-related services, including advocacy, assistance, and support. They also advocate for the rights and needs of individuals with autism at every age and offer autism-specific training to schools, businesses, and community organizations.

Autism Speaks – Mid-South

Autism Speaks partners with local agencies in North Carolina to expand access to support services, research, health care, and advocacy to better the lives of people with ASD at any age. The organization educates communities and supports families through advocacy and resources. Their events and resource toolkits are also beneficial.

Families can also seek assistance from relevant departments such as the NC Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Insurance for questions about autism services and health coverage.

Carl Chavis YMCA

Carl Chavis YMCA and its childcare center are Certified Autism Centers (CAC) and offer inclusive programs for youth and families. Their staff and teachers are trained in autism awareness and inclusion, and they host sensory-aware events and activities.

Glenn McNairy Library

This library offers all-abilities events like “Autism Afternoons,” “Touch-a-Truck,” and resource fairs, many of which offer a sensory-friendly experience.

Hartley Drive YMCA

This High Point YMCA includes an aquatics program and inclusive recreational offerings for children and adults. As a CAC, it provides a safe, understanding space for families navigating autism and other disabilities and developmental needs, with teachers and staff trained to deliver inclusive programs.

High Point Public Library

The High Point Public Library is a welcoming, inclusive community hub. Families can explore quiet reading spaces, participate in adaptive story times, and check out sensory kits available for in-library use to help regulation during visits. Just outside the children’s department, you’ll find the Sensory Garden, featuring fragrant plants, musical elements, and textured surfaces for sensory exploration.

Ackland Art Museum

Auckland Art Museum is the first museum in North Carolina to offer EnChroma glasses for color vision deficiency. Guests can borrow glasses for free to enhance their visit and experience color-rich artwork more fully.

Museum of Life and Science

This Durham-based museum offers sensory-friendly science nights with special programming, including calm lighting, quiet zones, and visual supports. Guests can enjoy a night of hands-on learning at their inclusive “Under the Stars” event.

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Partnering with KultureCity, the NASCAR Hall of Fame offers sensory bags, headphones, and quiet areas. Guests can also enjoy accessible racing simulators and adapted exhibits.

North Carolina Museum of Art

Visual schedules, earplugs, and noise-canceling headphones are available to guests for a more comfortable visit. The museum creates a welcoming space and services for neurodiverse visitors and offers special exhibitions and accommodations.

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

This museum in Raleigh hosts special nights and monthly events like Dueling Dinosaurs and Sensory Friendly Mornings. Visitors can request backpacks with fidget tools and noise-canceling headphones.

North Carolina Zoo

On the third Tuesday of each month, the Zoo limits large groups and turns off loud music to create a more relaxed experience. Staff are trained in autism awareness and sensory issues, and sensory bags are available upon request.

The ArtsCenter – Carrboro

This creative hub has trained staff and a mission to provide a neuro-inclusive space for the community. Events and classes are designed with sensory accommodations and self-expression in mind.

Blawesome Farm

This family-run flower farm, co-owned by an autistic adult, offers hands-on farm tours and workshops. It’s a peaceful, purposeful space that combines nature with community inclusion.

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte

Each Mainstage show includes a sensory-friendly performance with softened lighting, relaxed seating, fidgets, and quiet spaces. Virtual tours and resource guides are available online for preparation.

Distractions Art Studio

Offering designated sensory-safe hours for art creation, this studio is a calming space where children can explore creativity in a supportive space.

Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts – Sensory Performance

The theatre offers low-light, low-sound performances with designated quiet areas. Guests are welcome to stand, move, and bring comfort items as needed.

Cotton Bean Farms – Baby Goat Playdates

Enjoy one-on-one time with goats and dogs in a peaceful farm setting. Private appointments and the therapeutic benefits of animal interaction make this a popular pick for families.

Extreme Ice Center

Offers adaptive ice skating for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Skaters can also use specialized equipment and enjoy an inclusive rink.

Jump Street Trampoline Park – Cary

Special Needs Days are held the first Saturday of the month with reduced noise and reserved jump times for special needs families. Parents jump for free and outside food is permitted.

Q’s Corner – High Point

An indoor sensory-based play facility with therapeutic swings, a soft play room, and a virtual room for all abilities. Part of High Point’s Certified Autism Destination initiative.

Spectrum Sailing

This national organization brings free autism sailing camps to cities across North Carolina. Camps provide inclusive instruction in the calming outdoors.

We Rock the Spectrum – Triad

This inclusive kids’ gym is equipped with sensory swings, a zip line, and sensory-based toys to support kids of all abilities. The space encourages social and physical development through play.

AMC Theaters

In partnership with the Autism Society, select Charlotte-area AMC locations offer sensory-friendly showings twice a month. Options are available for both family and mature audiences.

Carolina Panthers & Charlotte FC – Bank of America Stadium

This stadium is a certified KultureCity Sensory Inclusive Venue. Sensory bags, ID lanyards, and cue cards are available on-site for fans who need accommodations.

Carowinds

As part of their Boarding Pass Program, Carowinds provides sensory accommodations and ride wait time flexibility for its autistic guests. The park is dedicated to creating an inclusive theme park experience.

The Gathering Place – Chapel Hill

This inclusive board game café hosts regular events like the Parents and Kids Club. The space is openly welcoming of neurodivergent individuals of all ages.

Millstone 14

This Fayetteville theater holds sensory screenings on Saturday mornings with lower volume, lights on, and freedom to move around. Includes discounted drinks and popcorn.

SEA LIFE Charlotte-Concord Aquarium

Held on the second Sunday of each month, these events offer reduced noise and crowd levels. Sensory bags and comfort rooms are also available. These entertainment options are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for every child, ensuring that children and their families can participate fully.

321 Coffee (Raleigh & Durham)

An inclusive coffee shop chain that employs individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism, intellectual disability, and other disabilities. The space is designed to be welcoming and supportive, with accessible workspaces and a mission centered around inclusion.

A Special Blend

Located in Greensboro, A Special Blend is a Certified Autism Center that provides meaningful employment and job training for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The calm, community-centered coffeehouse offers a sensory-friendly environment and a strong mission of inclusion.

Gianno’s of High Point

Gianno’s is a locally owned Italian restaurant and Certified Autism Center, known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and flexible seating options. Their menu includes classic pasta dishes, customizable pizzas, and allergen-friendly choices that cater to diverse dietary and sensory needs.

Sweet Old Bill’s

Sweet Old Bill’s says they have always welcomed any and every one any and every one, and getting additional autism awareness and training makes them even more equipped to care for their patrons’ needs. The restaurant combines traditional NC BBQ with Texas style brisket, smoked chicken, ribs as well as a variety of appetizers, salads and sandwiches.

Courtyard by Marriott High Point

This centrally located hotel is a Certified Autism Center and part of the High Point inclusive hospitality network. Guests can expect quiet spaces, helpful staff, and a relaxing experience tailored to diverse needs.

JH Adams Inn | Trademark Collection by Wyndham

This historic hotel in High Point is a Certified Autism Center that blends Southern charm with inclusive hospitality. Staff are trained to accommodate neurodiverse guests with sensory sensitivities and provide a welcoming stay for all.

Wingate by Wyndham – High Point

The Wingate by Wyndham offers a comfortable and autism-aware hotel experience for traveling families. As a CAC, the hotel supports guests with sensory accommodations and staff trained in autism sensitivity.