Best Travel Locations for Families with Neurodivergent Children

Families with neurodiverse children can sometimes face unique challenges when traveling — but there are also some great travel locales that are great at keeping neurodivergent families in mind.

MMGY Global recently released a new study that examines the unique travel preferences, behaviors and barriers that face families of neurodiverse children.

The study, Portrait of Family Travel: Autism, ADHD and Neurodiversity, highlights the significance of accommodations such as low-sensory/quiet areas, clear and transparent information up front, and – perhaps most importantly – a call for greater kindness and patience. 

The study listed six key insights into what families of autistic and neurodiverse children sometimes face. These include…

• Trip Planning: Seventy-seven percent of respondents planning to travel with their children in the next 12 months will likely visit a destination they have never visited before. To help get them there, nearly half (46%) of families traveling with neurodiverse children prefer to make plans and purchase decisions with the aid of an online travel agency. 

• Getting Around: Families traveling with neurodiverse children primarily rely on their personal vehicle due to the flexibility it provides (64%), the ability to pack everything they may need (61%) and the lower overall cost of travel (59%) compared to flying. 

• Hotel Selection: Nearly two-thirds (64%) of families traveling with neurodiverse children plan to stay in a traditional chain-affiliated hotel within the next 12 months. In addition, more than two-thirds (68%) of respondents find online photos of specific rooms very/extremely important when choosing their lodging. 

• Itinerary Activities: Nine in 10 families traveling with neurodiverse children are motivated by family fun, relaxation, and the ability to get away and unwind. These travelers are especially interested in outdoor and family-friendly activities such as beach experiences, theme parks, zoos and aquariums. 

• Barriers to Travel: Families traveling with neurodiverse children are most impacted by costs, safety and service when choosing a destination. In addition, three-quarters of respondents say their travel decision-making is affected by crowds within a destination, which can be overwhelming for their children, while two-thirds indicate the attitude of other travelers and residents is a factor when choosing a place to visit.

• Learning and Growing: The survey found that special accommodations at attractions, staff training and increased availability of destination information are the leading areas destinations can focus on to attract families traveling with neurodiverse children. When asked unaided what the CEO of an airline or a hotel should understand about families traveling with neurodiverse children, great emphasis was placed on patience and empathy. 

Best Autism-Friendly Travel Locations

So…where are the best places to vacation? Keeping those key insights in mind, here are some great travel locations for families with autistic or neurodivergent children…

Myrtle Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, SC. Surfside Beach and Myrtle Beach in South Carolina are well-known for being super welcoming to neurodivergent families. In fact, they are the first vacation destinations that were certified as autism-friendly, thanks to the efforts of a local mom.

You’ll find plenty of ways to vacation here in a way that works for you. Myrtle Beach is home to some great sensory-friendly experiences, inclusive environments and can’t-miss activities. Plus…they offer the CAN Card, which allows for special accommodations at select restaurants, hotels, and attractions, as well as adaptive beach activities.

Mesa, Arizona

Mesa, Arizona, is the first ever autism-certified city in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. The city’s commitment to neurodivergent families is amazing. This awesome desert location has plenty of kid-friendly and outdoor activities that everyone in your group will enjoy.

You’ll find more than 60 autism-friendly businesses in town, and even more things to do — which is why it’s known as “City Limitless.” Mesa also offers a mobile Passport program, which features a curated collection of Certified Autism Centers, including attractions, hotels, and restaurants — making it easy to plan where to go next!

Visalia, California

Visalia, California, is another autism-certified city that makes travel easier for families with neurodivergent children. Known as the “Gateway to the Sequoias,” this California town is full of outdoor adventures the whole family can enjoy.

They’ve got a whole list of autism-friendly hotels, restaurants, and activities. Visalia has a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, which allows guests to discreetly let hotel, attraction and restaurant staff know they are traveling with someone with special needs so they can receive special accommodations to make traveling a little easier.

St. Pete Beach, FL

Tradewinds Resorts in St. Pete Beach, Florida, is committed to welcoming everyone. There are so many restaurants and activities on site, its set-up makes transitions easier for families with neurodivergent children.

Tradewinds offers safety kits that include special stove knob covers, door alarms, and outlet covers. Temporary safety tattoos and waterproof mattresses are also offered. Their staff is specially trained in order to help and understand autism and how best to serve families — which is sure to make your beach vacation more enjoyable for all.