New York State is home to thousands of incredible attractions that satisfy any interest, many of which have accessibility features for visitors with disabilities, including programs specifically designed for travelers who are autistic or have developmental disabilities. A number of cultural institutions are also offering live and taped accessible virtual events led by trained educators.
Hudson Valley
ThinkDIFFERENTLY in Dutchess County
Thanks to a local initiative called ThinkDIFFERENTLY, Dutchess County was officially designated as the first Autism Supportive County in New York State by The Anderson Center for Autism. With dozens of sensory-friendly attractions, events, and businesses, such as the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum and Walkway Over the Hudson (pictured), which have provided employees with special training to help welcome autistic visitors, Dutchess County is one of the best destinations in the world for autistic travelers and their families. In fact, the adorable village of Rhinebeck alone boasts 40 places to stay, visit, shop, and eat that have been deemed Autism Supportive Environments by Anderson Center for Autism.