Finding activities that cater to kids with unique sensory needs can sometimes feel like a challenge, but Green Bay offers plenty of places that create inclusive experiences for every child. Sensory needs can vary greatly—what might seem like a mild distraction to one person can feel overwhelming to someone else. Whether it’s bright lights, loud sounds, or even the textures of certain surfaces, everyone’s sensory experience is different, which is why sensory-friendly spaces are so important.
To recognize Sensory Awareness Month in November, we put together a list of some of the best spots in Green Bay where kids with unique sensory needs can feel comfortable and have fun!
Integrated Sensory
3863 Norrie Dr Suite 2, Green Bay, WI 54229
Integrated Sensory is a unique space that opened in 2021 with a vision to create a dedicated space for kids to engage in activities that support their sensory needs. At Integrated Sensory, children can participate in open play sessions in an area uniquely designed for kids with special sensory needs and other disabilities. The center offers a variety of fun and engaging events like Bubble Time, Finger Dart Wars, game nights, and even Pokémon meet-ups, as well as personalized sensory play coaching sessions. Additionally, there’s a calming room designed with soft lighting, soothing sounds, and cozy textures for kids and families who need a peaceful escape to regulate their sensory input.
The Children’s Museum of Green Bay
1230 Bay Beach Rd, Green Bay, WI 54302
The Children’s Museum of Green Bay is a fantastic spot for kids to learn, play, and explore, and they host special sensory-friendly nights throughout the year to ensure that children with different sensory needs can enjoy the fun too. During these free, specially designed evenings, families can enjoy the museum with altered lighting, reduced noise levels, and plenty of sensory activities to engage kids in a calm and welcoming environment. The museum also provides helpful resources and directive signs to guide families through the experience, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and included.
Upcoming sensory-friendly nights are November 21st and December 19th. Visit their website to stay up to date on sensory-friendly nights in 2025.
Marcus Bay Park Cinema
755 Willard Dr, Ashwaubenon, WI 54304
Every child deserves to experience the magic of the movies! Through their Reel Movies for Real Needs program, Marcus Bay Park Cinema in Ashwaubenon gives families a sensory-friendly movie-going experience with screenings on most Saturday mornings each month. Families can enjoy newly released films in the theater with the sound turned down and lights kept up at a gentle brightness. Visit their website to see a line-up of movies playing each month!
Get Air Trampoline Park
790 Hansen Rd suite a, Green Bay, WI 54304
Every first Saturday of the month from 8:00am to 10:00am, Get Air Trampoline Park hosts a “Calmer Atmosphere” time specifically designed for kids with unique sensory needs. Jumpers can enjoy some trampoline time with music turned down, and parents can join their kids on the trampolines for free.
Chuck E. Cheese
1273 Lombardi Access Rd, Green Bay, WI 54304
Chuck E. Cheese hosts Sensory Sensitive Sundays each month, opening two hours early and providing a calm, sensory-friendly environment. During these special mornings, the arcade’s lighting is dimmed, the usual noise is turned down, and the staff is trained to ensure a comfortable and welcoming experience for all guests. It’s a great way for kids to have all the fun of the arcade in a relaxed, stress-free atmosphere. Visit their website to stay up to date on Sensory Sensitive Sundays.
Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve
2024 Lakeview Dr, Suamico, WI 54173
Looking for outdoor sensory-friendly opportunities? Barkhausen Waterfowl Preserve in Suamico is home to the innovative Sensory Woods, a unique outdoor space designed to be enjoyed by individuals with unique sensory needs and disabilities. The Sensory Woods includes interactive elements like a woodworking table, a chime wall, and a sensory wall, providing hands-on experiences for kids to explore. There are also raised wildflower beds, visual stations, and a magnifying station for curious minds. Scattered seating areas allow families to enjoy the surroundings at their own pace.
Green Bay Botanical Garden
2600 Larsen Rd, Green Bay, WI 54303
The Green Bay Botanical Garden offers a serene escape for anyone seeking a quiet and peaceful environment, making it a great destination for visitors with sensory needs. For those in search of a low-sensory experience, the garden features several tranquil areas, including the Johnson Woodland Garden and Wood Memorial Grove. These shady, tree-covered spots offer a calm retreat where guests can relax and enjoy the gardens at their own pace. For a low-sensory walk, the pond loop is a great option, offering a mix of sun and shade and the calming presence of the pond. Additionally, many of the garden’s events throughout the year offer sensory-friendly hours so everyone can enjoy the beauty of the garden in a way that feels comfortable. Visit their website to stay up to date on events and programming.
Sensory Safe Zone at the Resch Center
820 Armed Forces Dr, Green Bay, WI 54304
The Resch Center’s Sensory Safe Zone is a dedicated space designed to offer a calming retreat for children and adults who may become overstimulated during concerts, sporting events, and other entertainment experiences at the venue. The free-to-use room is equipped with weighted blankets, therapy tools, noise-canceling headphones, and other sensory-friendly items and includes a live video feed of the event so you don’t have to miss any of the action. So mark your calendars and grab those Disney on Ice tickets!
Sensory-Friendly Santa at Bay Park Square Mall
303 Bay Park Square, Green Bay, WI 54304
At Bay Park Square Mall, the Sensory-Friendly Santa event is all about ensuring that every child can experience the magic of meeting Santa during the holiday season. Scheduled for December 8th this year, this special event is part of the Santa Cares initiative, which creates a welcoming and inclusive environment for families with children who have sensory sensitivities. The Santa and staff are specially trained to support children with special needs so that children can participate in this time-honored Christmas tradition without stress or discomfort.