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Article

Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month in Myrtle Beach

  By  Leslie Perkins

A Look at Sensory-Friendly Attractions and Offers

April is a special month in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, as the city comes alive with events and activities that cater to individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autism Acceptance Month, formerly known as Autism Awareness Month, is a time to celebrate the unique talents and abilities of those with autism, while also promoting understanding and acceptance within the community. In Myrtle Beach, this month is marked by a variety of autism-friendly and sensory-friendly events that provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals with ASD and their families.

Birthday Bowl

Join us on April 14th from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a fun-filled bowling event at Myrtle Beach Bowl! We'll have the entire alley to ourselves, with lights up and music down! Bowling costs only $1 per person, and shoe rental is also just $1. Enjoy a meal deal for our families, including hotdogs, chicken nuggets, grilled cheese, and a 3 oz. drink, all for only $3. Plus, at the end of the bowling session, we'll celebrate all the April birthdays with cupcakes courtesy of Kroger Foods Carolina Forest. Don't miss out on this exciting event!

SkyWheel Myrtle Beach

When planning your sensory-friendly vacation, consider the SkyWheel for a unique experience the whole family will enjoy! Purchase tickets online for any time and reserve a VIP Experience for first-class service at new heights. Come and enjoy the pinnacle of Myrtle Beach attractions at SkyWheel! As a member of the Champion Autism Network, you can enjoy exclusive discounts when visiting the SkyWheel. Purchase your tickets online and present your CAN membership to enjoy these special offers. Be sure to present your CAN Travel Card once you arrive to be escorted to the front of the line. Experience the thrill of the SkyWheel at a great value, tailored for families looking for sensory-friendly adventures.

Ripley’s Aquarium

Experience one of the largest collections of giant sharks on the East Coast as you stroll through a 330-foot underwater tunnel at Ripley’s Aquarium. Don't miss the hourly dive shows and multiple animal touch tanks. If you need them, noise-canceling headphones are available at Guest Services upon request. Show your CAN Travel Card at Guest Services to receive a discounted rate. Ripley’s Aquarium offers a mesmerizing underwater adventure for visitors of all ages. From the colorful coral reefs to the mysterious depths of the ocean, there's so much to see and explore at this amazing aquarium. Whether you're watching the graceful movements of the giant sharks, getting up close and personal with the sea turtles, or marveling at the delicate beauty of the jellyfish, you're sure to be amazed by the wonders of the underwater world. Plus, with the discounted rate available for CAN Travel Card holders, you can enjoy all the excitement of Ripley’s Aquarium at a great price!

Wonder Works Museum

Explore WonderWorks, an amusement park for the mind! This unique attraction seamlessly combines education and entertainment with over 100 hands-on exhibits that stimulate the mind and ignite the imagination. Please be aware that WonderWorks is a highly popular destination, especially in the mornings with field trip groups and on rainy days. Show your CAN Travel Card to receive a discount on tickets. WonderWorks offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. From the thrilling rides and games to the mind-bending illusions and educational exhibits, there's something for everyone to enjoy at WonderWorks. Whether you're exploring the depths of the ocean in the Underwater Tunnel, defying gravity in the Anti-Gravity Chamber, or experiencing a simulated earthquake in the Earthquake Cafe, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience at this one-of-a-kind attraction. Plus, with the discount available for CAN Travel Card holders, you can enjoy all the fun and excitement of WonderWorks at a great price!

Brookgreen Gardens

Brookgreen Gardens is a captivating blend of art, nature, and history, featuring sculptures, a zoo, butterfly garden, boat tours, and more. Present your CAN Travel Card at the ticket booth to alert the Brookgreen team of your family's autism and receive extra support if needed. Be sure to share your card if you participate in any excursions for added assistance from the staff. Located in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, this expansive garden and sculpture park is a perfect destination for families looking to immerse themselves in a peaceful and inspiring environment. With over 9,000 acres of gardens, sculptures, and wildlife, there's always something new to discover at Brookgreen Gardens. Whether you're strolling through the butterfly garden, taking a boat tour along the creek, or exploring one of the many exhibits, you're sure to have a memorable experience at this unique attraction. Plus, with the extra support available for families with autism, you can relax and enjoy your visit knowing that your needs are being taken care of.

Leslie Perkins

Leslie Perkins grew up outside of Raleigh, North Carolina but has lived in Myrtle Beach since 2016. She graduated from East Carolina University in 2012 with a B.A. in Public Relations and Communication. Leslie is an active realtor, mother of three, autism advocate, and adoption advocate. She enjoys exploring the Low Country with her kids, walking her golden retriever, and sipping a great cup of coffee on her front porch.