Autism-Friendly Activities in Riverside, CA

Finding sensory-friendly and inclusive activities for children with autism can make a world of difference for families looking for fun, engaging experiences. Riverside, CA, offers a variety of autism-friendly places where children can explore, play, and socialize in a comfortable environment. Whether you’re looking for quiet sensory spaces, adaptive sports, or interactive experiences, we’ve compiled a list of the best autism-friendly activities in Riverside to help you plan meaningful outings.

As a leader in personalized and compassionate ABA therapy, Behavior Frontiers is committed to supporting children with autism and their families by providing tailored, evidence-based therapy in a structured, play-based environment. With two state-of-the-art centers in Riverside and a third location opening this summer, we are here to help families access early intervention, school readiness, and social skills development through high-quality ABA therapy.

1. Universal Playground at Fairmount Park

Address: 2601 Fairmount Blvd, Riverside, CA 92501

Why It’s Great for Kids with Autism:

• Designed with sensory-friendly play zones

• Features adaptive playground equipment for all abilities

• Open green spaces and calm walking trails for a peaceful outdoor experience

This inclusive playground is perfect for children who need a structured yet open-ended environment to explore, play, and develop motor and social skills. The splash pad, sand play area, and separate age-appropriate play zones for ages 2-5 and 5-12 make it an ideal spot for kids of all abilities.

2. Events Hosted by Autism Society Inland Empire

Why It’s Great for Families with Kids on the Autism Spectrum:

• Virtual and in-person meetups

• Art therapy and bedtime story sessions

• Social groups for different ages, including young adult meetups

The Autism Society of Inland Empire hosts ongoing events that offer a welcoming space for kids with autism to interact with peers in a supportive setting.

Upcoming Event: Unity in Motion Walk 2025
Join Behavior Frontiers at the Unity in Motion Walk, a community-driven event that celebrates and supports individuals with autism and their families! Behavior Frontiers will be there with a booth, fun activities, and resources for families. Stop by, meet our team, and enjoy a day of awareness, connection, and inclusivity!

For event details and registration, visit the event page here.

3. Sky Zone Trampoline Park – Sensory Hours

Address: 4031 Flat Rock Dr., Riverside, CA 92505

Phone: (951) 554-2370

Why It’s Great for Kids with Autism:

• Sensory-friendly jumping sessions with low noise and dimmed lighting

• A structured, inclusive environment that encourages physical activity

• Safe space for kids to practice gross motor skills and coordination

Jumping activities at Sky Zone are an excellent way for children to release energy in a sensory-controlled environment. The reduced stimulation during Sensory Hours creates a comfortable experience for children with autism.

4. SoCal Adaptive Sports – Riverside

Why It’s Great for Families with Children on the Spectrum:

• Adaptive sports activities tailored for neurodiverse kids

• Social events including karaoke, arts & crafts, and weekly dances

• Encourages teamwork, social interaction, and confidence-building

For children who enjoy structured activities, SoCal Adaptive Sports offers an opportunity to build friendships, develop new skills, and participate in engaging sports and recreational programs.

5. Riverside County Libraries – Sensory Hour Programs

Addresses of participating branches include:

• Marcy Library – 6927 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA 92506

• La Sierra Library – 4600 La Sierra Ave, Riverside, CA 92505

• Arlington Library – 9556 Magnolia Ave, Riverside, CA 92503

Why It’s Great for Children with Autism:

• Quiet, sensory-friendly story time sessions

• Hands-on activities that encourage motor skills development

• Designed to be low-stimulation and welcoming for neurodivergent children

6. Queen of Hearts Therapeutic Riding Center

Address: 6407 Dana Ave, Jurupa Valley, CA 91752

Phone: (951) 734-6300

Why It’s Ideal for Kids with Autism:

• Therapeutic horseback riding to improve motor and emotional well-being

• Encourages communication, social skills, and self-confidence

• Trained instructors provide individualized riding sessions

Horses are known for their calming effect on children with autism. Queen of Hearts Therapeutic Riding Center provides personalized sessions tailored to each child’s comfort level.

7. Sensory-Friendly Movie Screenings

Participating Theaters Include:

• Galaxy Theatres Mission Grove – 121 East Alessandro Blvd, Riverside, CA 92508

• Regal Riverside Plaza – 3535 Riverside Plaza Drive, Riverside, CA 92506

• Harkins Theatres Mountain Grove – 27481 San Bernardino Ave, Redlands, CA 92374

Why It’s Great for Families with Children with Autism:

• Lights dimmed instead of off

• Lower sound levels

• No strict seating rules—kids can move around as needed

These sensory-friendly screenings provide a stress-free movie-going experience for families looking for an inclusive entertainment option.

8. Rising Stars Kids Gym (Corona)

Address: 623 N Main Street D-1, Corona, CA 92878

Phone: (951) 582-2196

Why Children with Autism will Love Rising Stars Kids Gym:

• Indoor sensory-friendly gym tailored for children with sensory processing needs

• Safe, engaging environment that promotes motor skills and social interaction

• Offers vestibular and proprioceptive activities for sensory development

For a structured yet flexible play environment, Rising Stars Kids Gym provides specialized equipment and targeted sensory play activities that support cognitive and physical development.

Discover Exceptional Autism Services in Riverside and the Inland Empire

At Behavior Frontiers, we provide the gold-standard in autism care: personalized center-based and in-home ABA therapy for children with autism. Our highly trained clinicians focus on early intervention, communication skills, social development, and school readiness to help children build confidence and independence so they can live a world without limits.

Behavior Frontiers is now accepting new clients Riverside at two state-of-the-art autism care centers, with a brand new center in Corona coming Summer 2025!

Why Choose Our ABA Centers?

• Comprehensive full-day programs

• One-on-one therapy tailored to each child’s unique needs

• Preschool-like environment focused on school readiness and life skiills

• Compassionate, highly trained behavior therapists and BCBAs

• Safe, structured setting designed for skill-building, growth, and most importantly, FUN!

Start Your Child’s Autism Therapy Journey Today!

Call us at 888-922-2843 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation and learn more about our services!

Did we miss an awesome autism-friendly activity in Riverside? Let us know in the comments!