Looking for Sensory-Friendly Activities? Try These 5 Spots in Menomonie, WI
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Do you have a child who experiences sensory sensitivities? Outings can sometimes feel overwhelming when loud noises, bright lights, and crowds are involved.
For families looking for a quieter experience, sensory-friendly places can offer a refuge. These spaces adjust their environment to create calm, welcoming experiences.
In Western Wisconsin, along the Red Cedar River and Lake Menomin, the city of Menomonie offers a few hidden gems that provide a peaceful and sensory-considerate experience. Here are five sensory-friendly places for families craving connection without sensory overload.
1. Learn and Play at the Russell J. Rassbach Heritage Museum
Looking for a quieter way to spark curiosity? The Russell J. Rassbach Heritage Museum provides a low-pressure learning environment. With hands-on exhibits exploring local history, it allows kids to thrive on discovery without too much noise or distraction.
Tip for Families: Plan your visit during the morning hours or weekdays for the calmest experience. Call ahead to let the staff know about your needs, and they’ll be happy to provide accommodations for a more relaxed visit.
2. Unwind on the Red Cedar State Trail
If your child feels most at ease in natural surroundings, head to the Red Cedar State Trail. It offers miles of peaceful walking and biking paths along the Red Cedar River. Nature sounds replace city noise, and there’s plenty of space for kids to roam or pause as needed.
Tip for Families: The trail is especially quiet on weekday mornings.
3. Enjoy Low-Key Play at Wakanda Park
With its wide, open green spaces and shaded picnic areas, Wakanda Park is a great spot for families seeking unstructured play in a peaceful environment. It features a playground for active adventures, ball fields and pickleball courts for some low-key competition, and borders scenic Lake Menomin.
Tip for Families: Don’t miss the nearby lakeside beach, another quiet and picturesque spot for relaxing or playing.
4. Explore the Menomonie Public Library
The Menomonie Public Library offers a cozy children’s section, calm lighting, and quiet reading areas. Staff are welcoming and often happy to help create a relaxing experience. The library sometimes offers sensory-friendly story times or special programs.
Tip for Families: Ask about noise-reducing headphones or sensory kits available at the desk.
5. Visit the Mabel Tainter Theater During Sensory-Friendly Shows
The historic Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts occasionally hosts sensory-friendly performances. These shows feature lower volumes, softer lighting, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Tip for Families: Contact the box office to find out when sensory-friendly events are scheduled or to request accommodations.
Check out our LEARN Behavioral blog on 5 simple play ideas for more sensory-friendly ideas.
Looking for additional support for your child in Menomonie, WI? At Wisconsin Early Autism Project (WEAP), part of LEARN Behavioral, we use science and data to deliver contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, tailored exclusively to your child’s unique needs, behavior, and personality. Learn more about our services in the Menomonie area and contact us today.