Sensory Friendly Day

Visit the Utah Museum of Fine Arts and the Natural History Museum of Utah for a sensory friendly museum day. Both museums will have a sensory modified environment, the UMFA for the full day (10 am–8 pm), and the NHMU for the evening (5–8 pm).

The UMFA will dim the lights, turn off installations with sound or flashing lights, and all programming will be suitable for those with sensory needs. Sensory bags with fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, smelling sensory toys, and sunglasses will be available at the front desk.  

This event is free to attend, and registration is not required. Touch tours and ASL tours can be requested at the UMFA two weeks in advance here. 

Activities/Resources

Lobby:
Sensory bags/earplugs available for check-out

North American gallery:
Guided hands-on activity – drawing

Southwest corner of the Great Hall:
Guided hands-on activity – movement

Central and South American gallery:
Guided hands-on activity – patterns with beads

Pacific gallery:
Guided hands-on activity – sculpting

Education Classroom:
Books
Drawing station
Model Magic station
Water

Social Stories 

We welcome students and families with children and adults on the autism spectrum. To help prepare for your visit, download a Social Story about what to expect while visiting the Museum. 

Map

For directions from the UMFA to the Natural History Museum of Utah click here.