August 18 | Disability Day at Science Central
Explore hands-on science exhibits in a more accessible environment during Science Central's Disability Day, featuring reduced sensory input, additional accessibility supports, and free admission for individuals with developmental, intellectual, and emotional disabilities and their caregivers.
Event Details
When: Tuesday, August 18, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
Where: Science Central, 1950 N. Clinton St., Fort Wayne, IN 46805
Cost: Free for individuals with developmental, intellectual, and emotional disabilities and their caregivers (registration required)
Hosted By: Science Central
Registration: Required (deadline is one week before the event)
Event Details:Visit the Science Central Disability Days page.
About This Event
Science museums can offer incredible opportunities for hands-on exploration, but they can also present sensory challenges for some visitors. Science Central's Disability Day is designed to create a more accessible experience by offering environmental modifications and additional supports that help more individuals participate comfortably.
Throughout the day, guests can explore interactive exhibits while benefiting from accommodations such as lower ambient sound levels, increased lighting in darker areas, access to listening devices, a sensory room, and additional staff support. The museum also features an adult changing table and tactile demonstrations that encourage hands-on learning.
Accessibility Highlights
Features Families May Appreciate:
Free admission for eligible participants and caregivers
Lower ambient sound levels
Increased lighting in typically dark exhibit areas
Less-crowded environment
Sensory room available
Listening devices available
Adult changing table
Additional staff support
Interactive tactile demonstrations
Helpful Planning Tips:
Register at least one week before the event, as walk-up registration is not available.
Review the museum exhibits before your visit if your child benefits from knowing what to expect.
Pack any sensory supports your family typically uses.
Plan breaks throughout the day if your family intends to explore the museum for several hours.
Who Might Enjoy This Event?
This event may be a good fit for:
Individuals with developmental, intellectual, or emotional disabilities
Autistic children and adults
Families seeking accessible STEM experiences
Homeschooling families
Science-loving children and teens
Caregivers looking for an inclusive museum experience
What Families May Want to Know
Before you go:
Registration is required and closes one week before the event.
Proof of disability is not required.
Caregivers receive free admission.
Groups and classrooms are welcome with advance registration.
Other visitors may attend during regular museum hours with standard admission.
Why Families May Appreciate It
Accessible museum experiences allow more individuals to engage with science through exploration, curiosity, and play. By intentionally adjusting the environment and providing thoughtful accommodations, Science Central helps reduce barriers that can make traditional museum visits more difficult for some guests.
Programs like Disability Day demonstrate how small environmental changes can make interactive learning more welcoming and enjoyable for a wider range of visitors.
Plan Your Visit
☐ Register before the deadline
☐ Review the museum exhibits in advance
☐ Pack sensory supports if helpful
☐ Plan breaks throughout your visit
☐ Allow extra time to enjoy hands-on exhibits
What’s on Your Calendar?
Know about another sensory-friendly, inclusive, or family-friendly event happening in Central Indiana?
