For nearly 20 years, The Henry Ford has sought to provide safe, unique and engaging experiences to those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (APD) and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and their families. Many of our staff members have participated in the Michigan Autism Safety Training provided by the Autism Alliance of Michigan to better understand the characteristics of autism and how to recognize and communicate with someone with autism.

Quiet spaces are located throughout all venues of The Henry Ford:

Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation:

• Near the Allegheny Locomotive
• Back wall behind the Railroads and Driving America exhibits
• Back wall behind Made in America exhibit

Greenfield Village:

• Many quiet, open outdoor spaces

Ford Rouge Factory Tour:

• Lobby and Legacy Gallery
• Mezzanine before entering the assembly plant
• Small conference room at the end of the assembly plant walkway

Giant Screen Experience:

• Outside of the exit doors on the second level

The Henry Ford's sensory-friendly programming has been designed specifically for the ASD/SPD audience using expert advice and guidance from a network of medical and educational partnerships. Sensory-friendly days, events and programs vary throughout the year, but at their foundation are accommodations that provide access to a broad range of experiences across our venues, including the following:

• Pre-visit materials (i.e. social narratives)
• Sensory-friendly maps
• Noise-canceling headphones and earplugs
• Quiet zones
• Modifications to sensory input (for example, lights up, volume down in Giant Screen Experience)
• Access to exclusive time slots or customized programming (for select events)
• Free admission (for select events)
• Specialized training for our staff

Contact accessibility@thehenryford.org with any questions or comments.

For more information about The Henry Ford and the history of our ASD programming, check out our blog.

Join us at The Henry Ford's Giant Screen Experience for a customized movie experience designed for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (APD) and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) and their loved ones. Each month we'll feature a different film from our schedule of educational documentaries or family-friendly Hollywood favorites.

• Lighting: The house lights stay on throughout the film.
• Sound: The sound is turned down for sensitive ears.
• Format: No 3D — all movies are played in regular format, eliminating concerns about 3D glasses.
• Length/Topic: 30- to 45-minute documentary films, appropriate and engaging for all ages.
• Environment: Stress-free and welcoming.
• Concessions: Available in the Giant Screen Experience lobby.
• Sensory-friendly days are free, but ADVANCE REGISTRATION is required.