The latest trend in the NFL? Sensory rooms in stadiums for fans on the autistic spectrum or with other sensory issues.
In the 2019 season the Philadelphia Eagles, Seattle Seahawks, Minnesota Vikings and Jacksonville Jaguars have all unveiled rooms designed for people who require a calm, quiet place away from the roar of the game. The rooms are usually sound-proofed and have toys and other resources to relieve stress.
“When we think about families with children with autism coming to a game, there’s barriers to re-entry, there’s sensory overload when we score a touchdown and there’s pyrotechnics,” Ryan Hammond, executive director of the Eagles Autism Challenge, told the AP. “We felt the sensory room was what we needed to be fully accessible . The idea behind it was not to change the experience but deliver a solution if they needed to take a break.”
As the years progressed, more sensory features were added to additional football stadiums across the nation.
- NFC Teams
- Arizona Cardinals (State Farm Stadium)
- Atlanta Faclons (Mercedes-Benz Stadium)
- Minnesota Vikings / US Bank Stadium
- New Orleans Saints (Caesars Superdome)
- Philadelphia Eagles (Lincoln Financial Field)
- Seattle Seahawks (Lumen Field)
- Los Angles Rams and Chargers (SoFi Stadium)
- MetLife Stadium (NY Jets and NY Giants)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Raymond James Stadium)
- AFC Teams
- Baltimore Ravens (M&T Bank Stadium)
- Buffalo Bills (Highmark Stadium)
- Cincinati Bengals (Paycor Stadium)
- Cleveland Browns (First Energy Stadium)
- Denver Broncos (Empower Field at Mile High)
- Houston Texans (NRG Stadium)
- Indianapolis Colts (Lucas Oil Stadium)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (TIAA Bank Field)
- Kansas City Chiefs (GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium)
- Las Vegas Raiders/ Allegiant Stadium
- Miami Dolphins / Hard Rock Stadium
- Pittsburgh Steelers / Acrisure Stadium
- Tennessee Titans (Nissan Stadium)
NFC Teams
Arizona Cardinals (State Farm Stadium)
To make our stadium more inclusive, we’ve introduced new sensory kits!
Each kit is equipped with Cardinals branded earphones, two fidget toys and squeeze ball. Kits are available for keep at all Guest Services Booths should anyone need to use them.
Atlanta Faclons (Mercedes-Benz Stadium)
The Mercedes-Benz Stadium sensory room is located at Section 133 on the 100 Concourse Level (near the elevator bank). The sensory room is open to our fans, guests, and customers with sensory sensitivities. The sensory room is open for all events at the stadium from the time the stadium gates open through the end of the event. Children using the sensory room must be accompanied by an adult.
On event day, please contact any Guest Services team member with questions or assistance navigating to the sensory room. Access to the Sensory Room may be limited given certain circumstances (e.g., guests with extraordinary needs, demand, etc.).
If you have any questions prior to event day, please email GuestService@mercedesbenzstadium.com, or call the Mercedes-Benz Stadium general information line at (470) 341-5000 and choose Option #3 for Guest Service.
Detroit Lions
(Ford Field)
Ford Field’s Sensory Room is designed to provide a calming, safe environment for those who may feel overstimulated by
their surrounding environment. We ask that this room and the items in it are used for their intended purpose in a safe and respectful manner to provide our guests with the tools they need to manage their sensory needs adequately.
In an effort to provide this safe space to all guests when they may be experiencing difficulty managing
overstimulation/sensory overload, we ask that guests exit the sensory room once they have reached a level of stimulation that will allow them to safely return to the outside environment.
To gain access to the Sensory Room, please visit the nearest Guest Services desk for assistance or text us at 313-513-8398 (available on game and large event days only).
Thank you to Fredi the Pizzaman Foundation for providing all of the furnishing and supplies for the room and to The HopeNetwork for providing volunteers.
Green Bay Packers
(Lambeau Field)
A fan Sensory Bag was designed to help fans with special sensory needs feel comfortable and remain engaged during games. Items were chosen to mitigate environmental factors and provide engaging sensory input on multiple levels to meet the unique needs of users. Guests may check out a bag for use while visiting Lambeau Field at the Guest Services desk located in the Atrium, Fan Assistance at section 353, and at each Concierge desk located in premium locations throughout the stadium. Availability is limited. Noise canceling headphones are also available for check out.
Los Angeles Chargers
(So-Fi Stadium)
SoFi Stadium has two (2) sensory rooms located on Level 3 Northeast and Level 2 Southwest. Sensory rooms are available on a first-come, first-serve basis in 15-minute increments. Please visit a Guest Services Center for more information.
Sensory kits with noise reducing headphones and other sensory items are available at Guest Services Centers throughout the stadium.
Please note: There is no cost to rent a sensory kit, however, a driver’s license or another valid form of identification will be required as a deposit.
Minnesota Vikings / US Bank Stadium
A Fan Sensory Kit was designed to help fans with special sensory needs feel comfortable and remain engaged during games. Items were chosen to mitigate environmental factors and provide engaging sensory input on multiple level to meet the unique needs of users. Available at Guest Services located on the Main Concourse near the Purple and Gold lobbies or Section 307 on the Upper Concourse. Click here view the Autism Social Narrative. Special thanks to the Autism Society of Minnesota for their assistance with this program.
New Orleans Saints (Caesars Superdome)
During Saints games, guests may check out Kulture City Sensory Bags at no cost to utilize fidget toys, weighted lap pads, noise-canceling headphones, and other resources during the event. Sensory bags are located at the Guest Service Center located at Gate F Plaza Level. Please be advised you will need a Photo I.D. to check out a sensory bag.
Philadelphia Eagles (Lincoln Financial Field)
Presented by Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), the Lincoln Financial Field sensory room is located on the West Lower Suite Level. To access this room visit any Guest Services Booth or concierge desk to acquire a credential.
Seattle Seahawks (Lumen Field)
Autism Toolkit
Q: Where can I pick up an autism toolkit? What is included?
A: Fans can check-out a Kulture City Sensory Kit at the SW Guest Services Location on the Field Plaza, just south of the Pro Shop. The Sensory Kits include sensory toys, an ID card and noise cancelling headphones. The ID card will help Seahawks staff and fans recognize that a person has sensory needs, and give them an opportunity to assist, and provide extra time or other considerations.
Sensory Room
Lumen Field has Ben’s Sensory Room for fans with autism, sensory challenges or PTSD who may be feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated. The sensory room, which is located at the SW GuestLink Location on the Field Plaza, will be open for all full stadium events. Children using the room must be accompanied by an adult.
Los Angles Rams and Chargers
(SoFi Stadium)
Sensory toolkits and three (3) sensory rooms locations are available for Guest use. To rent a toolkit, or check availability for sensory rooms, please visit any Guest Services Center for assistance.
MetLife Stadium (NY Jets and NY Giants)
MetLife Stadium has partnered with Kulture City in an effort to provide a more inclusive and comfortable experience for our guests with sensory processing needs. Our team members are trained and certified to recognize opportunities to assist these guests in their enjoyment of our events. We also offer sensory bags containing noise-cancelling headphones brought to you by Bose, fidget toys and weighted lap pads among other resources for checkout at any Guest Service Booth or Concierge Desk located through the Stadium. For further information or assistance, please contact our Guest Services Department at (201) 559-1515.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
(Raymond James Stadium)
Guests looking to access a sensory room can do so by signing in at a Guest Services Booth. Both rooms are located along the main concourse, the first near Quad D next to the First Aid office behind Section 120 and the second in Quad C behind Section 131.
The sensory rooms are outfitted with bean bags from Yogibo, activity panels, Sparkle Interactive Light by NunoErin, a therapeutically fun furniture embedded with soft glowing lights that respond to motion, bubble walls, and custom tactile artwork created by an autistic artist.
In addition to the rooms, Raymond James Stadium offers sensory bags, available at Guest Services Booths along the main and upper concourses. These bags are equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards, with weighted lap pads available upon request.
AFC Teams
Baltimore Ravens (M&T Bank Stadium)
Our multi-purpose guest service locations in the lower level near sections 100 and 127 provide a space that can be used for both nursing mothers and/or guests with special needs who might need to escape the elements during the game. These spaces are stocked with sensory items such as headphones, toys, etc. allowing a comfortable, quiet, private area for those that need it.
Buffalo Bills (Highmark Stadium)
Guests with sensory issues may check-out a Sensory Inclusion Kit from any Guest Experience Booth. Kits typically include noise cancelling headphones, fidget toys, and a KultureCity VIP Identification Card. Guests in need of a quiet space can be directed to the Old Admin building and escorted to our Sensory Room on the third floor.
Cincinati Bengals (Paycor Stadium)
To make Paycor Stadium more inclusive, we are happy to provide sensory kits equipped with noise cancelling headphones. The kit also includes a fidget toy and a squeeze ball. Sensory kits can be borrowed from our Season Ticket Member HQ located just inside Gate E by section 152. A valid ID will need to be left in exchange for the sensory kit and the ID will be returned when the kit is brought back to Season Ticket Member HQ.
Cleveland Browns (Cleveland Browns Stadium)
First Energy Stadium offers comfort kits to guests with special sensory needs to make their stadium experience more enjoyable. Comfort kits items include, but not limited to, noise cancelling headphones, sunglasses, hand fidget toys, weighted lap pad, etc. Items can be checked out, free of charge, from all Guest Services Locations. A valid driver’s license or major credit card will need to be left as a deposit for the equipment.
In addition, nursing rooms are available for nursing mothers, children with sensory needs, and guests for prayer space. They can be found at the following sections 118, 349, and 514.
Denver Broncos (Empower Field at Mile High)
Empower Field at Mile High is proud to partner with KultureCity to provide sensory bags for guests with sensory needs. The sensory bags include noise cancelling headphones, fidget tools, and a non-verbal communication card. Sensory bags are available for checkout free of charge at each of the Guest Relations Centers. A photo I.D. will be required at time of checkout.
The KultureCity Sensory Rooms provide a dedicated space designed by medical professionals for those who may need a quieter and more secure environment. This is imperative to ensuring fans have a great guest experience. The sensory rooms are outfitted with bean bags from Yogibo, the visual light panels by Nanoleaf, activity panels, Sparkle Interactive Light (by NunoErin – a therapeutically fun furniture embedded with soft glowing lights that respond to motion), bubble walls, and a custom tactile artwork created by an autistic artist. The sensory rooms are located inside Gate 6 on the Lower Concourse and on Plaza Level adjacent to Suite 233 and will be open for all events taking place at Empower Field at Mile High. Please check-in with the Guest Relations center located near Section 121 or at the Guest Relations desk located at Gate 2 and they will escort you to the sensory room.
Houston Texans
(NRG Stadium)
Sensory Bag
NRG Park has partnered with Kulture City to ensure the stadium and events we host are sensory inclusive. Sensory bags are equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and are now available to all guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment. Sensory bags can be checked out with a valid ID and are located at Guest Service booths in NRG Stadium at sections 113, 133, 319, 346, 517 & 543.
Sensory Room
The NRG Stadium Sensory Room is located near the elevators at section 133 across from the Guest Services booth. You may use the Sensory Room for 15 minutes and can request to stay in the room longer if needed.
Indianapolis Colts (Lucas Oil Stadium)
Lucas Oil Stadium is now certified sensory inclusive and offers sensory bags. The bags are equipped with noise cancelling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads for guests who feel overwhelmed, but want to stay engaged in the game or event they are attending. Guests will still have access to a designated quiet space within the stadium if a quieter and more secure environment is needed. Click here for more information.
Jacksonville Jaguars (TIAA Bank Field)
The Jaguars are proud partners with KultureCity, the nation’s leading organization promoting invisible disability inclusion and sensory accessibility. Sensory bags will be available for guests to check out at all Guest Services Booths to enhance the game day experience. Sensory bags include items such as noise-canceling headphones, mood meters, and fidget tools. All items must be returned to the proper Guest Services Booth prior to leaving EverBank Stadium.
A sensory room is also located in the south end of the stadium on the plaza level at the Baptist Health Mom Pods.
Kansas City Chiefs
(GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium)
Two sensory rooms are located just inside Gate G on the Plaza Level. These rooms create a safe and calming environment for guests with sensory needs, allowing them to regulate and decompress. Each room is equipped with the proper items and tools best suited to help guests feel calm when overwhelmed.
Las Vegas Raiders (Allegiant Stadium)
For guests with sensory processing needs, the following resources and accommodations are available.
Sensory Kits: Allegiant Stadium has partnered with KultureCity to provide sensory kits and bags for guests. Sensory bags are available for guests to check out at any of our guest experience kiosk locations inside the stadium at no cost for individuals. Sensory bags include a VIP lanyard for guest recognition, fidget tools, noise-reducing headphones, and a visual cue card. Writable weighted lap pad with markers are also available as needed.
Sensory Nooks: Allegiant Stadium has two (2) Ford Sensory Nooks available for guests with sensory processing needs. The Ford Sensory Nooks are located on the 050 level inside the Northeast and Northwest Entry lobbies. Ford Sensory Nooks provide an inclusive and comfortable space and are equipped with vibration seating and dim lighting. For more information about the Ford Sensory Nook specifications, please visit nookpod.com/nook/sensory-nook.
Miami Dolphins / Hard Rock Stadium
The Sensory Room, made by possible by Altec Lansing, is located at Section 153 and is a private air-conditioned room for guests with special needs (children or adults) to use as a quiet space. The space has a padded floor, padded wall-mounted equipment and other sensory supplies donated by Altec Lansing to help ensure a comfortable experience. The room contains a tablet to play music, along with several noise canceling headsets. Additional noise canceling headsets are available at any of the Guest Experience Headquarters for use during major Hard Rock Stadium events at Sections 115, 143, 215, 243, 315 and 343. A Guest Experience team member may be staffed at the Sensory Room to ensure a comfortable and private experience. Access to the Sensory Room may be limited given the circumstances (e.g., guests with extraordinary needs, demand, etc.) and will be managed by the Guest Experience team member assigned to the Sensory Room. Any children/wards using the Sensory Room MUST be accompanied by a parent/guardian at all times.
Pittsburgh Steelers / Acrisure Stadium
Certified through KultureCity, Acrisure Stadium Team Members are equipped with training and tool kits to provide the best fan experience to individuals with autism or sensory needs. Kits are available at all Guest Services and First Aid locations and can be checked out with a Driver’s License on event days. All kits must be returned at the conclusion of the event.
Tennessee Titans (Nissan Stadium)
Guests with sensory needs can check out KultureCity Sensory Kits at our Fan Services window in Section 124 or visit our Sensory Room in Section 101. Sensory Kits include noise cancelling headphones, fidget items, and emotional rating cards. Our Sensory Room was designed by medical professionals specifically for the needs of those who may need a quieter and more secure environment while attending an event. We also have Quiet Areas located in the Mother’s Lounges at sections 310 and 337.
Revised: 08/11/2024: 05:28
