Play Your Way – Halloween
Families can enjoy a 'frighteningly fangtastic' Halloween at the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose. This special event, 'Play Your Way – Halloween,' is designed for children with autism, ages 2-15, and their families, offering a sensory-friendly experience with limited attendance, reduced noise, and fewer bright lights. It's a wonderful opportunity for children to explore the museum's offerings in a comfortable and positive environment, all while celebrating the spooky season in their favorite costumes.
What to Expect
Sensory-friendly Halloween event for children with autism
Event Details
Duration
Early evening
Ages
2-15 (for children with autism)
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose
Food & Drink
FoodShed Cafe offers beverages and healthy snacks. Light snacks (not full meals) can be brought in. Full meals available for purchase.
Local Insight & Ratings
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with children with autism
Vibe
Welcoming, sensory-friendly, festive
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Yes, but be mindful of other visitors' comfort.
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Several public and privately-owned parking lots are located near the Museum.
- Accessibility: Designed for children with autism, ages 2-15, with sensory-friendly activities, limited attendance, reduced noise, and fewer bright lights. Service animals are allowed.
- Pets: Service animals allowed
Tips & Advice
- Purchase tickets online in advance to ensure entry and for quicker admission.
- Consider arriving early to take advantage of the limited attendance and quieter atmosphere.
- Encourage children to wear their favorite costumes to fully embrace the Halloween spirit.
- Familiarize yourself with the museum's layout and sensory-friendly features beforehand to maximize comfort.
- Check the museum's website for any specific guidelines or recommendations for attending with children with autism.
Special Events & Promotions
- Sensory-friendly Halloween event designed for children with autism
- Limited attendance for a quieter, less crowded experience
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a ticket if my child is under age 1?
Yes, every person who enters the Museum must be accounted for, but children under age 1 are free.
Can I change the date of my tickets?
If you are unable to come on the day of your tickets, please contact admissiontickets@cdm.org to change the date. Tickets are non-refundable.
Are service animals allowed in the Museum?
Yes, designated service animals are allowed in the Museum, but support animals are not.
What should I know before I arrive?
Advance tickets are recommended. There are several parking lots nearby, and public transportation is available. Strollers are only allowed for children who cannot walk; bikes, wagons, and carts are not permitted. Light snacks are allowed, but not full meals.
Can I bring food or water into the Museum?
Yes, visiting families can bring light snacks (not full meals) into the Museum. Full meals can be purchased from the Foodshed cafe. Hydration stations are available for refilling personal water bottles.
More Halloween Events Near San Jose
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.