Accessibility

At Discovery Place, we make science and hands-on learning accessible to everyone.

Everyone is welcome

Accessibility and Inclusion

We strive to exceed federal, state and local accessibility standards. We welcome individuals with disabilities to our Museum.

We offer monthly sensory-friendly hours for a more relaxed experience with reduced crowds and sensory stimuli. Your visit will involve some walking and standing.

See below for tips on planning a successful visit and more!

Visitors With Sensory Processing Disorders

+ The Sensory Map identifies sensory-friendly spaces within the Museum.

+ Our Comfort Station on Level 2 behind the rainforest exhibit serves as a “low sensory zone” for visitors needing a quiet space. Inside, you’ll find a cushioned bench and free-to-use sensory tools for a calming break from the Museum’s stimulating environment.

+ We provide headphones for noise cancellation, upon request.

+ Sensory-Friendly Hours allow families to enjoy the Museum’s hands-on exhibit spaces in a calmer, quieter environment. This recurring event happens monthly and gives visitors access to a sensory-friendly IMAX show and sensory backpacks for free checkout on Levels 1 and 3 at the Admissions Desk.

+ We offer Visual Checklists that provide a clear, step-by-step guide to navigating the Museum, highlighting key exhibitions and quiet areas.

For Limited-Mobility Visitors

+ Wheelchairs are available to use for free near the entrances on both Level 1 and 3 of the Museum.

+ For entry to IMAX, wheelchair accessible seating is available at the Level 3 entrance.

+ Push Buttons (Automatic Doors) are located at the entrances on Levels 1 and 3 of the Museum.

+ Elevators operate between each level of the Discovery Place Science Parking Deck and each level inside the Museum. Check out our sensory map below for elevator locations inside the Museum.

+ In our lab spaces, we offer various mobility aids upon request. These include grip adapters, weighted utensils and loop scissors. These tools are designed to assist guests who may experience tremors or have difficulty with fine motor skills, ensuring everyone can participate comfortably in our workshops.

For Hearing Impaired Visitors

+ Sign language interpretation for live presentations or programs are available upon request. Please make requests no less than 48 hours in advance for programs and events by emailing  bgolden@discoveryplace.org.

+ Our IMAX theatre offers closed captioning and assistive listening devices for visitors. Simply request these devices at the theatre’s entrance to enhance your viewing experience.

For Visually Impaired Visitors

+ Braille descriptions are available for all special exhibitions. Use the sensory map below to find the special exhibition hall.

+ We offer complimentary admission for personal care attendants. This is only available when accompanying a guest who has purchased their own admission ticket.

+ Sensory-Friendly Hours allow families to enjoy the Museum’s hands-on exhibit spaces in a calmer, quieter environment. This recurring event happens monthly and allows visitors access to a sensory-friendly IMAX show and sensory backpacks for free checkout on Levels 1 and 3 at the Admissions Desk.

For Visitors with Young Children

+ The Comfort Station is on Level 2 behind the rainforest exhibit. It offers a spacious changing area and bathroom. Changing tables are also available in bathrooms on both Levels 1 and 2. Breastfeeding is also welcome throughout the Museum.

+ Strollers are permitted in all of our Museums. Please remember that elevator access will be limited to one family or group at a time, so we ask for your patience when using the elevators with strollers.

+ Elevators operate between each level of the Discovery Place Science Parking Deck and each level inside the Museum. Check out our sensory map for elevator locations inside the Museum.

More Info