11th Annual Autism Family Day: Sensory Splash

Autism Family Day: Sensory Splash is a special sensory-friendly morning at the aquarium, created to support children and families affected by autism and sensory sensitivities. Autism Family Day directly supports the Laurette Scholarships, which provide financial assistance to students with autism and related needs as they pursue educational opportunities.

Now in its 11th year, this experience allows families to explore the aquarium in a calmer, more comfortable environment before regular hours.

Important Sensory-Friendly Access Notice

Autism Family Day tickets are valid only during the designated sensory-friendly hours of 7:30–9:00 AM.

By purchasing a ticket, you acknowledge and agree to arrive during the event hours to support the purpose and integrity of Autism Family Day.

What to Expect:

• Reduced lighting and sound
• Lower capacity
• Sensory-aware environment
• Family-centered experience

Mark your calendars for this special day at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. We can't wait to see you there.

• You must arrive between 7:30-9:00am to check in for this private event.
• You will be welcome to stay as long as you like (into the afternoon if you want!) after the general public begins arriving at 9am.
• A Quiet Room will be available.
• Volunteers will be on hand to help visitors as needed.
• Please register here and pay $20.00 per person ages 2 and up or $65 per family of 4. AFA volunteers will check you in as you arrive. Parking is available in the aquarium's parking garage located directly behind the aquarium.
• Online registration is REQUIRED for this private event. The registration fee is non-refundable to hold your family's spot for this limited space private event. Even if you hold an aquarium membership, please still register for this event.

Autism Family Day: Sensory Splash is more than a special morning at the aquarium. It is also a fundraiser that directly supports the Laurette Scholarships, which provide financial assistance to students with autism and related needs as they pursue educational opportunities. Proceeds from this event help us offset the cost of hosting a sensory-friendly experience, keep ticket prices accessible for families, fund Laurette Scholarships that support educational growth, independence, and opportunity

By attending or purchasing a donor ticket, families and supporters are helping create both immediate access and long-term impact for individuals on the autism spectrum.

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