Traverse City Becomes Michigan’s First Certified Autism Destination

Traverse City, located on the scenic coast of Lake Michigan, has become the state’s first Certified Autism Destination by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). 

Several attractions, accommodations and Traverse City Tourism have undergone training on the needs of people on the autism spectrum, and many offer adaptations and resources aligned with autism accessibility.

“The goal is to create a welcoming environment for all residents and visitors regardless of their unique needs, and to make the travel experience friendlier for families,” said Traverse City Tourism Chief Operating Officer, Whitney Waara. “Sometimes it’s as simple as creating a quiet space or helping provide accurate information about what a certain experience is like and how to navigate it easily before the visitors arrive." 

The certified attractions and accommodations include:

• Traverse City Tourism & Traverse City Visitor Center
• Blossom Hotel & Suites
• COGNITION Science & Discovery Center
• Crystal Mountain
• Dennos Museum Center
• Great Lakes Children’s Museum
• Great Wolf Lodge
• Inland Seas Education Association
• KOTI Experiences
• Lake 'n Pines Lodge
• Michigan Legacy Art Park 
• Mt. Holiday 
• National Writers Series
• Rainbow Valley Family Farm
• Seaside Sailing Excursions 
• TART Trail 
• The Garden Theater
• The Inn at Black Star Farms
• Traverse Area District Library
• Traverse Tall Ship Company

The list is available to view on Traverse City Tourism’s website, and will be updated as it expands. There are also accessibility resources for travelers with disabilities.

"True community inclusion exceeds simply removing physical accessibility barriers for people with mobility related disabilities." said Alanna M. Lahey, Executive Director of Disability Network Northern Michigan. "Creating safe places for neurodiverse people who live with low sensory stimulation thresholds demonstrates Traverse City’s dedication and commitment to building a community that welcomes people of all abilities."

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