Autism and Sensory Friendly Places to Visit in Maryland

Maryland is our home state, and over the years we have discovered many places that are welcoming for families traveling with autistic children. From indoor sensory gyms to outdoor nature spaces, there are many locations across the state that make it easier for families to explore comfortably. There are so many places to list so I will give my highlights.

Great Wolf Lodge – Perryville

One of our go to places in Maryland is Great Wolf Lodge in Perryville. The resort is an autism certified destination, which means staff receive training on how to support guests with autism and sensory sensitivities.

The indoor water park stays warm year round and offers different play areas, including shallow zones for younger kids. There are also quieter areas around the resort where families can take breaks if a child becomes overwhelmed. Beyond the water park, families can enjoy arcade games, mini bowling, and interactive activities throughout the resort.

We Rock the Spectrum – Maryland Locations

We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym is designed specifically for children with autism and sensory processing needs. The gym provides a safe environment where children of all abilities can play and explore together.

The equipment supports sensory development and movement. You will find swings, climbing structures, crash mats, and other sensory equipment that help children regulate their energy and explore safely. These gyms focus on inclusion so siblings and children of all abilities can play together.

Maryland locations include areas such as Owings Mills and Gaithersburg. This is a great indoor option when the weather is bad or when kids need a safe space to move and release energy.

Port Discovery Children’s Museum – Baltimore

Port Discovery offers programs designed for children who benefit from quieter environments. During sensory friendly events, lighting and sound levels are adjusted to create a calmer atmosphere.

Children can enjoy climbing structures, hands on exhibits, and creative play areas while exploring the museum at their own pace.

National Aquarium – Baltimore

The National Aquarium can be a calming experience for children who enjoy watching marine life. Many families find that observing fish, sharks, and other sea creatures provides a relaxing sensory experience.

The aquarium also offers accommodations and resources that help support visitors with sensory sensitivities.

B&O Railroad Museum – Baltimore

The B&O Railroad Museum hosts sensory friendly events where lighting and sound are adjusted to help reduce overstimulation. Families can explore historic trains, interactive exhibits, and even enjoy train rides during special programs designed for visitors with sensory needs.

Maryland Zoo – Baltimore

The Maryland Zoo is a sensory inclusive facility that offers accommodations for visitors with sensory sensitivities. The large outdoor space allows families to explore animals while avoiding the crowded indoor environments that can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Western Maryland Scenic Railroad – Cumberland

The Western Maryland Scenic Railroad is a certified autism center. Staff receive specialized training to support visitors with autism and sensory sensitivities. Train rides through the mountains can be a relaxing experience for children who enjoy watching the scenery and feeling the movement of the train.

Nature Centers and Outdoor Spaces

Maryland has many parks and nature centers that provide peaceful environments for families who prefer outdoor activities. Places like Irvine Nature Center and Robinson Nature Center offer trails, hands on exhibits, and open spaces where children can explore comfortably.

Wide open outdoor spaces can often help children regulate sensory input while enjoying nature.

Deep Creek Lake – Western Maryland

Deep Creek Lake is another great place in Maryland for families with kids. We visited the area and stayed in a cabin that we booked through VRBO, which gave us plenty of space to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Staying in a cabin made the trip feel cozy and peaceful. In the evenings we made s’mores and other tasty treats, which quickly became one of our favorite parts of the trip. The quiet setting and fresh mountain air made it a relaxing experience for the entire family.

There are also plenty of family friendly activities nearby. Kids can enjoy bumper cars, miniature golf, arcade games, and other attractions around the Deep Creek Lake area. The combination of outdoor scenery and fun activities makes this destination a great option for families looking for a mix of relaxation and entertainment.

The surrounding nature creates a calmer environment compared to busier tourist destinations. Families can explore the area at their own pace and enjoy time outdoors together.

To see these adventures in action and discover more autism friendly travel ideas, make sure you are following me on Instagram @autismspectrumadventures.