Explore the Indiana State Museum during a Sensory Friendly Afternoon designed for individuals with sensory processing needs. Families can enjoy an interactive museum experience in a comfortable, accepting environment, with social narratives, sensory-based activities, and sensory bags available to support their visit.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, November 15, 2026
Time: 3:00–5:00 PM
Location: Indiana State Museum
Address: 650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204
Ages: All ages
Admission: Included with regular museum admission
Parking: Admission includes $4 parking validation.
Tickets: Purchase admission online
About This Event
The Indiana State Museum invites visitors to experience the museum in a sensory-friendly way during this special afternoon designed for individuals with sensory processing needs.
Families can explore the museum's interactive learning experiences in a comfortable and accepting environment. Social narratives will be available at the museum ticket counter, sensory-based activities will be spaced throughout the museum, and visitors can check out a sensory bag to support their experience.
Whether your family enjoys exploring exhibits, trying hands-on activities, or taking time to experience the museum at your own pace, this afternoon offers an opportunity to enjoy the museum with additional sensory supports in place.
Accessibility Highlights
Features Families May Appreciate:
A dedicated sensory-friendly museum experience
An environment described by the museum as comfortable and accepting
Social narratives available at the ticket counter
Sensory-based activities located throughout the museum
Sensory bags available to check out
An all-ages event
Admission includes parking validation
Helpful Planning Tips:
Consider reviewing a social narrative before your visit or picking one up at the ticket counter.
Ask museum staff about checking out a sensory bag when you arrive.
Since activities are spread throughout the museum, families can explore areas of interest and take breaks as needed.
Online admission purchases save $1 per ticket.
If you use an Access Pass, remember that discounted tickets must be purchased in person or by phone.
Who Might Enjoy This Event?
Children and adults with sensory processing needs
Autistic and neurodivergent individuals
Families who enjoy museums and interactive learning
Visitors who appreciate additional sensory supports when exploring public spaces
Individuals looking for an accessible educational outing
What Families May Want to Know
This event is open to all ages, and admission is included with regular museum admission rather than requiring a separate event ticket.
The museum specifically lists social narratives, sensory-based activities, and sensory bags as available supports. The event page does not provide a detailed schedule of activities or specify whether other environmental adjustments, such as reduced lighting or sound, will be in place.
Why Families May Appreciate It
A museum visit can offer so many opportunities to explore, learn, and follow individual interests. Having social narratives and sensory supports available can help make that experience more approachable for visitors who benefit from additional preparation or accommodations.
We also appreciate that this event welcomes all ages. Sensory-friendly experiences aren't just for young children, and opportunities to explore community spaces with supportive accommodations matter throughout life.
Plan Your Visit
Date: Sunday, November 15, 2026
Time: 3:00–5:00 PM
Location: Indiana State Museum
Address: 650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46204
Admission: Regular museum admission
Pick up a social narrative at the ticket counter.
Ask about checking out a sensory bag.
What’s on Your Calendar?
Know about another sensory-friendly, inclusive, or family-friendly event happening in Central Indiana?
