Autism Family Day
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Autism Family Day

Advocates for Autism (AFA) and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies present their annual Autism Family Day!

Sensory Friendly Fun

Hosted by Advocates for Autism, join us at the aquarium for the annual Autism Family Day! Join other families for a morning of sensory play and fun. Tickets must be purchased through Advocates for Autism event page. Tickets are not available through the aquarium or at the door for this special event.

Need to Know Info

Need to Know Info

What's Included

  • Ripley’s Aquarium will open early, from 7:30 - 10:00 a.m. to provide a sensory-friendly environment with welcoming lighting, no music, and a quiet room for guests who require a break.

  • Volunteers on hand to help visitors as needed.

  • Engaging sensory stations throughout the aquarium.

Swirling Pinstripe backdrop

Woah! The Aquarium sounds like alotl fun! But what are you doing all the way down here with the axolotls – some of the most secretive salamanders in the world?!

Did you know the Great Smoky Mountains are considered the Salamander Capital of the World? Salamanders are abundant in the Smokies and outnumber human visitors on even the park’s busiest days!