Sensory-Friendly Shopping Hours Are Growing! Here’s Where to Find Them

Ever wish shopping was just a little calmer? For individuals with sensory sensitivities, a calmer store with dimmed lights, lower music, and fewer distractions can make all the difference. Thankfully, more and more stores are making that possible with sensory-friendly shopping hours.

Here’s where to find sensory-friendly shopping hours:

• Walmart, daily from 8am – 10am – dimmed lights, lowered music, and static screens
• Sephora, varies by store –  quieter music and fewer fragrances
• Target, periodically testing at select locations – dimmed lights, lowered music
• Barnes & Noble, periodic or weekly – reduced ambient noise for a relaxing atmosphere
• AMC Theaters, 2nd & 4th Saturdays, Wednesday evenings – lights are turned up and sound is turned down, while the audience is encouraged to get up, dance, and sing. More details here.
• Chuck E Cheese – first Sunday of every month. Enjoy a quieter, calmer environment with dimmed lights, lower volume, and specially trained staff to help kids with sensory needs have a fun visit.
• Harkins Theaters, one Saturday a month 2:00pm – reduced sound, brightened lights, outside snacks welcome

The benefits of sensory-friendly shopping…

Sensory-friendly shopping hours help create a more welcoming and comfortable experience by reducing common in-store triggers, making errands easier for families and individuals, especially those with sensory sensitivities. These hours may:

• Help prevent stress and meltdowns by minimizing overstimulating sights and sounds
• Provide a better experience for caregivers and families, allowing them to participate in daily routines
• Encourage retailers to prioritize accessibility

We’re excited to see more retailers embrace these sensory-friendly shopping hours, and we hope even more stores follow suit.

Will you be taking advantage of these quieter shopping times?

OR shop in the quiet of your own home with the best deals around!