Disclaimer: London, Ontario has a wealth of great local spots. Here are just a few local and family-friendly options that are particularly accommodating for those with sensory sensitivities. We encourage you to contact the businesses directly before visiting to ensure they can meet all needs for the individual.
London, Ontario is an emerging destination for neurodivergent travellers and their families, thanks to its growing efforts to offer sensory-friendly and inclusive experiences. From museums and theatres to parks and restaurants, London is dedicated to creating an environment where everyone can enjoy their visit comfortably.
Sensory-Friendly Experiences
1. London Children's Museum
The London Children's Museum offers special Sensory-Friendly Evenings where the environment is quieter, with reduced noise, crowds, and stimulation. These evenings provide a welcoming space for individuals with sensory processing needs and their families. The event is free but requires pre-registration to ensure a manageable number of attendees.
2. Grand Theatre
The Grand Theatre hosts Accessible Performances designed to accommodate neurodivergent audiences. These performances feature adjusted sound and lighting levels and offer a calm area where guests can watch the show on video if they need a break from the main theatre. This thoughtful approach ensures that everyone can enjoy the magic of live theatre.
Open Captioned Performances:
As You Like It: October 26th, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.
The Sound of Music: November 30th, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.
Waitress: April 5th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
Relaxed Performances:
The Sound of Music: December 15th, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.
Performance With ASL:
Pride and Prejudice: May 10th, 2025 at 2:00 p.m.
3. Victoria Park
Victoria Park, located in the downtown core, is perfect for a relaxed outdoor day. With green spaces and walking paths, it provides a peaceful environment for families to enjoy nature without overwhelming sensory input.
4. Growing Chefs! Ontario
Growing Chefs! Ontario is known for its inclusive and supportive environment, especially for children on the autism spectrum. There are staff members who are trained to work with neurodivergent individuals, making it a welcoming place for families looking for educational and fun cooking experiences. They offer tons of online recipe videos for at-home cooking lessons.
5. The Factory at 100 Kellogg Lane
The Factory, Canada's largest indoor adventure park, is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all guests visiting and enjoying the attractions offered at 100 Kellogg Lane. 100 Kellogg Lane provides equal enjoyment for the attractions and services they offer to all guests, whether it be dining, shopping, entertainment, or special events. Visitors are encouraged to reach out in advance to ensure any specific needs are accommodated. If you or your travel companions have sensitivities to light and noise, we'd recommend choosing one of the other options instead.
6. Fanshawe Pioneer Village
Fanshawe Pioneer Village is a quieter historical site that offers educational experiences in a less stimulating environment. It’s a great spot for families to learn about local history in a calm and engaging setting.
7. Museum London
Museum London is committed to accessibility for all visitors. They offer free Sensory Support Kits with noise-reducing ear covers, fidget items, and tinted glasses. Borrow a kit by leaving a valid ID at the front desk. Staff and volunteers are trained in accessibility, ensuring a respectful experience for all visitors.
8. Storybook Gardens
Storybook Gardens hosts Sensory Friendly Thursdays during the summer, offering a quieter and less crowded environment. This initiative allows children with sensory processing needs to explore and enjoy the park at their own pace.
Where to Stay
1. The Park Hotel
The Park Hotel is located in Downtown London. All goods and services provided by The Park Hotel London shall follow the principles of dignity, independence, integration and equal opportunity. They have several assistive devices and they allow service animals.
2. Residence Inn by Marriott London Downtown
The Residence Inn offers larger suite-style rooms with kitchen facilities, providing more control over meals and a home-like environment. This can be especially helpful for families who prefer to prepare their own food and maintain routines.
Where to Eat
While the following places aren't specifically designed to be sensory-friendly, we have selected them for their simple and uncomplicated food options. These choices are ideal for those who prefer milder flavours and less complex dishes. Don’t forget – London, Ontario has many great stops to eat, and these are only a few!
1. Piping Kettle Soup Company
Piping Kettle Soup Company offers a variety of soups made from fresh, wholesome ingredients. Their mild and comforting flavours are perfect for those who prefer simple, soothing meals. Piping Kettle offers both an eat-in and takeout options providing flexibility for your dining preference.
2. Covent Garden Market
Covent Garden Market provides a range of food options in an accessible building. With numerous vendors offering fresh, locally sourced foods, it's a great place to find something that suits everyone’s tastes, especially for parents who may have children with texture sensitivities. The Covent Garden Market offers great seating options to eat in or take your meal to go! However, if your travel companions have sensitivities to noise, we'd recommend taking your meal to go.
3. The Bag Lady
The Bag Lady offers a selection of comforting and familiar foods like sandwiches, wraps, and baked goods. Their simple, wholesome menu is designed to be gentle on the palate, making it a great option for those with sensory sensitivities. Enjoy the aesthetic of The Bag Lady while eating your meal or order it to go.
4. Pizza
Both options are available to go.
- Stobie's Pizza
Stobie’s Pizza is a local favourite offering a wide range of pizza options that are perfect for families. Their take-out service is quick and efficient, making it an easy choice for a family meal. Check their Facebook page daily for their “Name of the Day!”
- Byron Pizza
Byron Pizza is known for its delicious pizzas and friendly service. Their extensive menu includes a variety of toppings and styles, ensuring there's something for everyone.
5. Bakery/Cafe
- Black Walnut Bakery Cafe
Black Walnut Bakery Cafe offers a variety of baked goods and light meals. Their focus on fresh, simple ingredients ensures that their offerings are suitable for sensory-sensitive individuals. Options include mild-flavoured pastries, sandwiches, and salads. There is plenty of seating to eat at the café or get your items to go.
- The Artisan Bakery
The Artisan Bakery provides a range of freshly baked goods and light meals. Their menu features items like simple pastries, sandwiches, and salads, all made with high-quality ingredients and mild flavours. The bakery offers customers to eat-in or takeout.
Events
For a comprehensive list of upcoming sensory-friendly events in London, Ontario, you can visit Autism Ontario's Events page. This resource provides information on various activities and events designed to accommodate neurodivergent individuals and their families.
London, Ontario’s commitment to providing sensory-friendly and inclusive experiences makes it an excellent destination for neurodivergent travellers. Whether you’re exploring museums, enjoying a theatre performance, or simply relaxing in a park, there are plenty of options to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
