All Meow Wolf locations are now Certified Autism Centers

The Santa Fe-based arts and entertainment company partnered with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to complete a company-wide accreditation, including House of Eternal Return in Sante Fe, Omega Mart in Las Vegas, Convergence Station in Denver, and The Real Unreal near Dallas.

“IBCCES is honored to partner with all Meow Wolf locations to help ensure autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and their families make treasured memories and enjoy all the amazing experiences Meow Wolf art spaces have to offer,” said IBCCES Board Chairman Myron Pincomb. “This is a huge need globally and we’re proud to provide comprehensive support and certification to work with our industry partners leading the way for accessibility.”

Autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals may find it challenging to visit new places or plan family trips due to the potential for sensory overload or the need for flexible options or accommodations. Meow Wolf initiated this certification as part of its ongoing commitment to providing accessible experiences for all guests.

“Meow Wolf believes that art and creativity should be accessible to all, and that’s why we’re so proud to be a Certified Autism Center™,” says Brian Loo, VP of Operations Development and Exhibition Engineering at Meow Wolf, who spearheaded the program with Assistant Manager of Operations Development Megan Sada. “By prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility, Meow Wolf creates a better experience for everyone, taking into account their individual needs and abilities. We want everyone who visits Meow Wolf to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to explore our immersive installations.”

Employees at existing locations in Santa Fe, Las Vegas, and Denver have completed the certification, with the upcoming Dallas and Houston locations opening as Certified Autism Centers in Summer 2023 and 2024, respectively.

“True accessibility means creating a space where everyone, regardless of their abilities, can feel welcomed and valued,” Sada says. “By becoming Certified Autism Centers, Meow Wolf is not only making a commitment to inclusivity, but also to unlocking the potential of creativity and imagination for every visitor.”

In addition to specialized staff training on how to interact with autistic visitors and those with other disabilities to provide a welcoming and supportive environment, the following measures have been implemented:

• Sensory Items and Bags – Noise-reduction headphones, sunglasses, and sensory toys are provided to support visitors who may be overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of the installations.
• Accessibility Consultants – Local accessibility consultants were involved with designing and developing new locations to ensure exhibitions are as accessible and inclusive as possible.
• Audio Description Tour – Meow Wolf Denver designed an audio experience specifically for audience members who are blind or have low vision, allowing for a more inclusive experience of the exhibition through storytelling, touch exploration, and play.
• Visual Description – Later this year, every location will offer a visual description of key spaces for blind and low-vision guests

For more information about Meow Wolf, visit meowwolf.com.

Click here for more information about IBCCES Autism Certifications. IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com, a free online resource that lists certified destinations and connects families to other resources and each other. Each destination listed has met the Certified Autism Center (CAC) requirements.