The fall activity options for families in Indianapolis seem endless by the time October rolls around. Pumpkin patches and apple orchards are open for u-pick, fall festival season is in full swing, and trunk-or-treat events bring out hundreds of costumed kids in search of candy and treats. However, not all of these events meet the unique requirements of families with members who have special needs.
If your family is searching for events and activities this fall that offer accessibility, options for those with sensory sensitivities, or other adaptations to fit your needs, this list is for you! There are destinations and organizations around Central Indiana that prioritize creating options for children with special needs and we’ve rounded up some top-notch events for your crew to attend in October. Let the fall fun begin!
October Events for Children with Special Needs
From craft days to accessible ice skating to sensory-friendly trunk or treats, this month’s activity list features plenty of options planned with your child in mind.
Sensory Friendly Sundays
Chuck E Cheese, 5501 E 82nd Street, Indianapolis
October 6, 9-11 am
On the first Sunday of each month, select Chuck E Cheese locations participate in Sensory Friendly Sundays. Indy’s own 82nd Street location opens two hours before the normal 11 am open time on these days and offers reduced noise and lighting throughout the facility. The arcade will feature less stimulating settings on all the games and trained, caring staff will be on hand to help families have an amazing experience on these special mornings.
Sensory Friendly Hours at Waterman’s Family Farm
Waterman’s Family Farm, 7010 East Raymond Street, Indianapolis
Tuesdays in October, 9-11 am
Experience all the fun at Waterman’s Family Farm Fall Harvest Festival, in a calm, sensory-friendly environment. Expect smaller crowds and lower volumes during these hours.
Museum My Way
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, 3000 N Meridian Street, Indianapolis
October 9, 4-7 pm
Explore the popular Children’s Museum Haunted House in a sensory-friendly environment! Join friendly “haunters” for the Witch Way Road Trip, adapted for groups of all abilities with softened background music, lighting turned up, no flashing lights, and wheelchair-accessible pathways. Each child who attends will also receive a goody bag and a sensory toy. Capacity is limited, so reserve your $10 tickets ($8 for members and Access Pass holders) early!
Swiftly Strung Beading Workshop
Indianapolis Public Library – Irvington Branch, 5625 E Washington St, Indianapolis
October 10, 4-5 pm
Taylor Swift fans are invited to the Irvington Branch of the Indianapolis Public Library to make some friendship bracelets featuring your favorite song lyrics. This event is totally free and each participant can take home two beaded bracelets. Everyone ages 8 and up is invited, but ASL interpretation will be provided! For more special events presented in American Sign Language, search the library program guide for “ASL Interpreted” programs.
Better Together: ArtMix’s Snapshot of True Inclusion
The Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields, 4000 N Michigan Road, Indianapolis
October 11-November 24, During museum hours
Be inspired when you visit this special exhibit on display at Newfields during the months of October and November. ArtMix is a not-for-profit serving people with and without disabilities, using the creation of art to transform lives. This display includes pieces created by 31 local artists of all abilities and backgrounds, giving visitors a glimpse of what true inclusion and accessibility look like in the arts. Better Together is located in the Waller Gallery on the first level of the museum, near the Museum Shop, and can be accessed for free during regular museum hours.
Learn more about ArtMix and their community art classes for all ages and abilities on their website.
Sensory Friendly Movie: The Wild Robot
AMC Castleton Square 14, 6020 E 82nd Street, Indianapolis
October 12, 12 pm
Join AMC for a showing of the new movie The Wild Robot in a sensory-friendly setting! During these special showings, the theater turns the lights up and the sound down, so guests with autism or other special needs can enjoy a more comfortable experience. Sensory Friendly Films are shown on the 2nd and 4th Saturday (family-friendly) and Wednesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month. Other local AMC Theaters participate, including AMC Indianapolis 17 and AMC CLASSIC Kokomo 12.
Sensory Friendly Trunk or Treat
Unlocking the Spectrum, 8646 Guion Road, Indianapolis
October 18, 4:30-6:30 pm
Wear your favorite costume for this free event at Unlocking the Spectrum! Families are invited to come over for face painting, sensory games, a food truck, and trunk-or-treating.
Bierman Autism Centers Trunk or Treat
Bierman Autism Center, 16414 Soutpark Drive, Westfield
October 24, 5-7 pm
Current families and new friends are invited to trunk or treat their way through this free event at Bierman Autism Center in Westfield. This event is totally free, but please RSVP in advance. In addition to decorated trunks, treats, and a sensory-friendly environment, you can expect simple games designed to be accessible to all abilities, face painting, and craft opportunities.
Sensory Friendly Trick-or-Treat Trail
River Heritage Park, 11813 River Rd, Carmel
October 26, 1-3 pm
River Heritage Park in Carmel was designed with accessibility in mind, making it the perfect place for this Trick-or-Treat Trail! Bring a bag and wear a costume, then enjoy an afternoon collecting treats from costumed volunteers at your own pace. Themed activities will also be available. Be sure to register and pay your $10 fee in advance.
Adaptive Spooky Skate
Perry Park Ice Arena, 451 East Stop 11 Road, Indianapolis
October 26, 3:30-5 pm
Join Indy Parks and Recreation for this sensory-friendly afternoon on the ice rink at Perry Park! Lights will be up, music will be down, and the theming will have just the right amount of spookiness. Wheelchairs will be permitted on the ice, and skate walkers and ice sleds will be available for those who need them. Volunteers will also be on the ice to assist and give instruction. Be sure to register, as spots are free but limited!
Find accessible parks and playgrounds in Indianapolis.
Soak up some fall fun at the most wheelchair-friendly pumpkin patches in Central Indiana.
