Visalia, the nation’s first Certified Autism Destination, recognizes Autism Awareness month in April. Visit Visalia and local tourism partners will highlight Visalia’s initiative: Every day is autism acceptance day in our community. A recent survey conducted by Autism Travel (https://autismtravel.com/) shows that 78% of parents with an autistic child do not travel, but 94% would be more likely to if autism certified options were available.

Visalia leads the country in deploying training and initiatives to welcome neurodiverse travelers, earning the Country’s first Certified Autism Destination.

“Visalia acknowledges Autism Awareness each April to reinforce our commitment to autistic and sensory sensitive adventurers every day, every month, all year long,” said Sherrie Bakke, executive director of Visit Visalia. “A trip to spectacular Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks offers health benefits and a full-sensory experience for every family member.”

Visalia tourism partners are committed to empowering travelers of all abilities to confidently plan their trip to our destination and our nearby national parks. Properties complete specialized training provided by International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to earn their designation as a Certified Autism Center.

Autism awareness will be highlighted in Visalia throughout the month of April:

Social Media Takeover: Certified Autism Destination (CAD) Partners will bring awareness to the “Every day is autism acceptance day in our community” campaign through social media posts and profile page graphics.
Visual Displays: Hotels and attractions designated as Certified Autism Centers (CAC) and key locations throughout the city will have awareness posters.
Visalia Rawhide Baseball at Valley Strong Ballpark: April 23, Valley Strong Ballpark will host the “Free to Be Me” night celebrating those with developmental disabilities including autism. Sponsored by Able, Inc., complimentary tickets to individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, and/or their caretakers are available. (https://www.milb.com/visalia).
Growing Options
Visalia entertainment, recreation and travel options continue to increase for autistic or sensory sensitive adventurers. Visalia visitors are cared for by trained staff at these tourism designated Certified Autism Centers (CAC): (https://www.visitvisalia.com/certified-autism-center)

Comfort Suites Visalia
Hampton Inn Visalia
Visalia Marriott Hotel
Visalia Wyndham Hotel
Best Western Visalia
Lamp Liter Inn
Visalia Adventure Park
Imagine U Children’s Museum
Valley Oaks Golf Course
Tulare County Museum
Arts Visalia
Visalia Fox Theatre
Downtown Visalians Merchants Assn
Visit Visalia
Newly opened lodging properties are pursuing the CAC Designation and intend to complete the IBCCES Certification before the peak summer travel season.