Best Autism-Friendly Theme Parks to Spend Thanksgiving

Spending Thanksgiving at a theme park can be an unforgettable experience for the entire family, but if you’re traveling with an autistic child, choosing the right destination is crucial. The best parks offer autism-friendly services, accommodations, and sensory-friendly environments, ensuring your family can enjoy a fun and stress-free holiday. In this guide, I’ll highlight the best autism-friendly theme parks to spend Thanksgiving, where you can have a magical holiday experience without the overwhelm. As a Certified Autism Travel Professional, I’m here to help you plan every step of your Thanksgiving getaway! Ready to get started? Please fill out my trip planning form to start planning your perfect Thanksgiving trip.

Best Autism-Friendly Theme Parks to Spend Thanksgiving

1. Universal Orlando Resort (Florida)

Universal Orlando Resort is one of the top choices for families looking for an autism-friendly Thanksgiving experience. With its expansive parks, including Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, there’s something for everyone. The park offers services like the Guest Assistance Pass (GAP), which helps reduce wait times at attractions, and quiet spaces throughout the park to take breaks.

Why It’s a Great Thanksgiving Destination:

• Autism-Friendly Rides: Universal Orlando offers a variety of rides that are suitable for sensory-sensitive children, including calm experiences like the Hogwarts Express and The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride!.

  
  

• Accommodations: Several autism-friendly hotels at Universal Orlando cater to families, including Loews Royal Pacific Resort, which provides quiet rooms and a calming atmosphere.

  
  

• Special Events: During Thanksgiving, Universal Orlando kicks off its holiday celebrations, including festive decorations and parades, making it a magical time to visit.

Pro Tip: To make the most of your visit, be sure to apply for the Individual Accessibility Card (IAC) before your trip. This allows you to access the Guest Assistance Pass and enjoy a smoother experience throughout the parks. For more details on how to apply for the IAC, check out my blog post here.

2. Disneyland Resort (California)

Disneyland Resort is another top destination for an autism-friendly Thanksgiving celebration. Known for its inclusivity and accessibility, Disneyland offers the Disability Access Service (DAS), which helps families navigate the park more easily by reducing wait times for attractions. Both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure are great for families with sensory-sensitive children, offering a mix of thrilling and gentle rides.

Why It’s a Great Thanksgiving Destination:

• Autism-Friendly Services: The DAS system is highly flexible and allows you to schedule return times for attractions using the My Disney Experience app.

  
  

• Holiday Magic: Disneyland is transformed into a winter wonderland during the Thanksgiving season, with festive decor, parades, and special holiday events.

  
  

• Autism-Friendly Rides: Gentle attractions like It’s a Small World, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, and Jungle Cruise are perfect for children with sensory sensitivities.

Pro Tip: Disneyland can get busy during Thanksgiving, so make sure to use the DAS system to avoid long waits. Additionally, consider staying at one of Disneyland’s on-site hotels like the Disneyland Hotel or Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, which offer quiet, comfortable rooms and easy access to the parks.

3. Universal Studios Hollywood (California)

If you're on the West Coast, Universal Studios Hollywood is another fantastic option for an autism-friendly Thanksgiving getaway. The park offers the Guest Assistance Pass (GAP), which allows you to avoid long lines and wait times, making it easier to navigate the park with an autistic child. Universal Studios Hollywood is known for its focus on movie magic, offering a range of rides and attractions that appeal to different sensory levels.

Why It’s a Great Thanksgiving Destination:

• Autism-Friendly Services: Like Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood offers the GAP to assist families with disabilities. Plus, you can start the process by applying for the Individual Accessibility Card (IAC) before your trip.

  
  

• Autism-Friendly Rides: Attractions like The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash! and the Studio Tour is perfect for families looking for calmer experiences.

  
  

• Hollywood Magic: Universal Studios Hollywood also begins its holiday festivities around Thanksgiving, with festive decor and special events, adding a bit of holiday sparkle to your visit.

Pro Tip: For more details on how the Guest Assistance Pass works at Universal Studios Hollywood, check out my guide here. If you’re ready to plan your holiday visit, fill out my trip planning form for personalized assistance!

4. LEGOLAND Florida Resort (Florida)

LEGOLAND Florida is one of the most autism-friendly parks, making it an ideal choice for families during Thanksgiving. The park offers a Hero Pass, which is similar to Disney’s DAS and Universal’s GAP, allowing families with autistic children to skip long lines. LEGOLAND also has quiet rooms for families to use if anyone needs a sensory break.

Why It’s a Great Thanksgiving Destination:

• Autism-Friendly Rides: LEGOLAND is geared towards younger children, with plenty of gentle, interactive rides like The Dragon and Lost Kingdom Adventure that are perfect for sensory-sensitive guests.

  
  

• Quiet Spaces: The park offers multiple quiet areas and sensory rooms, providing a calm space to relax between attractions.

  
  

• Thanksgiving Events: LEGOLAND kicks off its Christmas Bricktacular during Thanksgiving, with fun holiday-themed LEGO displays and activities.

Pro Tip: If your family enjoys a quieter, more relaxed park experience, LEGOLAND is the perfect destination. The park is smaller and less crowded than other major theme parks, making it easier to manage during busy holiday periods.

5. Sesame Place (Pennsylvania or California)

For families with young children, Sesame Place is an excellent autism-friendly option for Thanksgiving. As the first theme park to become a Certified Autism Center, Sesame Place offers specialized services for families with autistic children, including quiet rooms, sensory guides, and the Ride Accessibility Program (RAP).

Why It’s a Great Thanksgiving Destination:

• Certified Autism Center: Sesame Place is designed with autistic guests in mind, offering sensory guides for each ride and attraction, quiet rooms, and trained staff who understand the needs of sensory-sensitive children.

  
  

• Autism-Friendly Rides: The park offers gentle, engaging rides like Elmo’s Cloud Chaser and Oscar’s Wacky Taxi that are perfect for young children with autism.

  
  

• Holiday Cheer: Sesame Place transforms into a holiday wonderland during Thanksgiving, with character meet-and-greets, festive shows, and holiday lights.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting the Pennsylvania location, plan for cooler weather during Thanksgiving. Both locations offer plenty of autism-friendly services to make your visit stress-free.

Ready to Plan Your Autism-Friendly Thanksgiving Getaway?

Spending Thanksgiving at an autism-friendly theme park can create magical memories for the entire family. Whether you’re visiting Universal Orlando, Disneyland, or Sesame Place, the right planning can make your holiday smooth and enjoyable. As a Certified Autism Travel Professional, I’m here to help you every step of the way, from choosing the best park to arranging autism-friendly services. Ready to start planning? Fill out my trip planning form today, and let’s make your Thanksgiving adventure one to remember!