Sensory-Friendly Zoo and Animal Experiences Near the Lehigh Valley
Zoos can be overstimulating places, especially during the busiest hours. Plenty of zoos and animal experiences near the Lehigh Valley go the extra mile to make sensory-sensitive guests feel welcome and to help them enjoy the experience as much as possible.
Sensory-friendly zoos and animal experiences near the Lehigh Valley include the Lehigh Valley Zoo, the Elmwood Park Zoo, the Philadelphia Zoo, the Helping Friendly Farm, and the Kindle Hill Foundation. These different experiences allow you to engage with a special interest, practice self-regulation, and have successful, low-pressure social interactions. End your day at the zoo with some food at Rollieās Place, our accessible, sensory-friendly cafĆ©.
Come to Rollieās Place in Reading, Pennsylvania, for a one-of-a-kind sensory-friendly dining experience.
What Are Sensory-Friendly Zoo and Animal Experiences Near the Lehigh Valley?
There may be more sensory-friendly zoo and animal experiences near the Lehigh Valley than you anticipated. After spending the morning or afternoon interacting with or observing animals, stop by Rollieās Place for a coffee pick-me-up or a quick bite.
Lehigh Valley Zoo
The Lehigh Valley Zoo offers a great sensory-friendly zoo experience. Sensory bags are available from the administrative building upon request, and service dogs are welcome to attend with their owners.
The Lehigh Valley Zoo also offers a variety of sensory programs featuring engaging activities and conversations. Sessions last 45 to 60 minutes and can accommodate up to 30 people, making them a popular choice for birthdays.
Elmwood Park Zoo
The Elmwood Park Zoo offers early-access mornings and quiet evenings for guests with sensory sensitivities who are uncomfortable in large crowds. There are specific early and late access dates on the zooās calendar.
The Elmwood Park Zoo also provides complimentary access to sensory backpacks that include noise-canceling headphones, stress balls, thinking putty, a sensory map, a sensory guide, and fidget toys. The sensory guide rates the level of stimulation in different zoo exhibits, helping sensory-sensitive guests avoid areas that may trigger them.
Philadelphia Zoo
Before visiting the Philadelphia Zoo, check out its quiet areas map that highlights calming, low-stimulation exhibits. There is also signage inside the zoo directing guests to quiet areas if they are overstimulated. The Philadelphia Zoo also offers sensory bags that contain noise-reducing headphones, fidget toys, sunglasses, and non-verbal cue cards. Sensory bags are complimentary and come at no additional cost.
Helping Friendly Farm
The Helping Friendly Farm features three activity rooms in the barn, an open-play sensory gym, a yoga/meditation room, and a light and sound therapy room. Visitors can also interact with the goats, donkeys, and pigs on the property, using that interaction to support self-regulation. You can even get your hands dirty in Helping Friendly Farmās accessible gardens to reduce muscle tension and stress.
Kindle Hill Foundation
The Kindle Hill Foundation offers sensory-friendly riding and non-riding equine therapy. The Kindle Hill Foundation helps children, teens, and young adults develop essential life skills, improve their communication, and gain much-needed confidence through equine-assisted learning and therapy.
What Are the Benefits of Attending Sensory-Friendly Zoos and Animal Experiences?
Interacting with animals has tons of benefits for sensory-sensitive people, especially when their sensitivities are taken into account.
Engaging with Special Interests
Zoos and other sensory-friendly animal experiences are a great opportunity for people to engage with a special interest, whether that be a specific animal, species, or wildlife in general. Zoos provide endless opportunities to learn, which can be grounding for sensory-sensitive people.
Stress Reduction
Sensory-friendly zoo and animal experiences are designed to reduce sensory input and enhance the experience for guests with sensory sensitivities. Being provided with noise-canceling headphones or attending designated quiet hours can make all the difference in your experience.
Self-Regulation
Petting zoos and animal-assisted therapy are great self-regulation tools. Interacting with animals, holding them, and petting them can be a low-pressure social interaction that eases anxiety or discomfort.
Low-Pressure Social Interactions
Sensory-friendly zoos and animal experiences can offer great opportunities for low-pressure social situations. Participating in specific animal-assisted therapy or educational programs can help you meet people you are compatible with in a low-pressure environment.
Top FAQs About Our Sensory-Friendly Restaurant
What Makes Rollieās Place Sensory Friendly?
Rollieās Place was designed to be a sensory-sensitive and inclusive space. Not only does it feature hooded chairs and private seating options, but it also serves as a welcoming place to bring friends and make new ones.
When is Rollieās Place Open?
Our accessible cafĆ© is open Monday through Friday, from 8 to 4. On Saturdays, we are open from 10 to 4. Rollieās Place is closed on Sundays. If you plan to stop by on a holiday, call ahead to make sure we are open.
Where is Rollieās Place Located?
You can find Rollieās Place at 755 Hiesters Lane in Reading, Pennsylvania. We are located at the Abilities in Motion headquarters, where you can partake in different sensory-friendly gaming and assistive tech programs.
What is Rollieās Place Good For?
Rollieās Place is the right choice for anyone looking for a low-stimulus, calm breakfast and lunch dining experience near the Lehigh Valley.
Can Rollieās Place Accommodate Large Parties?
Rollieās Place can accommodate larger parties, but we ask that you call us before arriving with six or more people so that you donāt have to wait long to be seated.
Is Rollieās Place Universally Accessible?
Rollieās Place is not just accessible for those with sensory sensitivities. It is universally accessible for all people, including wheelchair users. Everyone is welcome at Rollieās Place, no matter their disability.
Does Rollieās Place Offer Employment Opportunities for Sensory-Sensitive People?
In addition to providing a comfortable dining experience for people with sensory sensitivities, Rollieās Place offers meaningful employment opportunities for those seeking work experience.
Try Rollieās Place if You Are Near the Lehigh Valley
Get breakfast or lunch at Rollieās Place and enjoy our sensory-friendly cafĆ©.