Photo Credit: photogolfer for Adobe Stock
Greater Palm Springs has become the first destination in Southern California to achieve the Certified Autism Destination designation, demonstrating its commitment to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for autistic and sensory-sensitive travelers.
The CAD designation is awarded to destination marketing organizations by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. To earn it, a representative selection of hotels, attractions and entertainment venues must have completed specialized training and certification to better accommodate autistic visitors and those with sensory sensitivities. Nearly 30 hotels, venues, restaurants, community organizations and local governments in the area earned Certified Autism Center status en route to Greater Palm Springs being awarded the designation.
"We are proud to see Greater Palm Springs recognized as a Certified Autism Destination," said Scott White, president and CEO of Visit Greater Palm Springs. "Creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment is at the heart of our destination’s values. This designation reaffirms our commitment to ensuring that all visitors, regardless of their unique needs, can enjoy the beauty, adventure and relaxation that Greater Palm Springs offers."
Greater Palm Springs is just the fifth location worldwide to be awarded that title, joining Visalia, Calif.; High Point, N.C.; Traverse City, Mich.; and Dubai.
"This prestigious achievement represents a significant step in accessibility, ensuring both visitors and community members alike can experience all Greater Palm Springs has to offer with confidence and ease," explained IBCCES board chair Myron Pincomb, founder and chair of business consulting and private-equity firm the Pincomb Group. "We look forward to seeing the impact this designation will have on the entire valley."
More than three-quarters (78 percent) of people with autism or their families hesitate to book travel due to the lack of autism-certified options, according to a study conducted by IBCCES. The organization now offers the free IBCCES Accessibility App, which provides lists of certified locations, sensory-friendly spaces and tailored recommendations for travelers and community members with a variety of disabilities.
Certified centers in Greater Palm Springs
The following local organizations have been recognized as Certified Autism Centers or, where noted, as Certified Neurodiverse Workplaces. Nearly a dozen community partners and city governments earned the designations as well.
Hotels
Activities and Venues
Restaurants