Visit High Point is now a Certified Autism Center™ (CAC), a designation granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to organizations that have completed training and certification to better understand and assist visitors who are autistic or have other sensory needs. Visit High Point is the first Destination Marketing Organization on the East Coast to achieve this designation.
Certified Autism Destination
The City of High Point is in the process of becoming the first Certified Autism Destination (CAD) on the East Coast. This designation ensures that all visitors with autism or other sensory sensitivities are welcomed and safe. Local hotels, attractions, and restaurants are working to complete training from IBCCES. This training will ensure that management and staff are equipped to support neurodivergent guests and their families.
High Point has made incredible progress towards this goal and currently has 90% of the necessary organizations on board. We look forward to becoming a CAD and being the most welcoming city in North Carolina!
Events
Certified Autism Centers
Many High Point hospitality partners and businesses have made the commitment to become Certified Autism Centers (CAC) through IBCCES. Meaning, they have gone through autism and sensory-sensitivity and awareness training and are equipped to serve guests on the autism spectrum.
Visit High Point
Visit High Point is proud to be the first Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) in North Carolina and on the east coast to become a Certified Autism Center. The Visit High Point team are all Certified Autism Travel Professionals (CATP) and are dedicated to ensuring a welcoming environment to families on the spectrum.
Read more about our Certified Autism Center here!
High Point Museum tells the story of the local community. Children can engage in the history through monthly hands-on crafts and activities. The museum provides designated quiet spaces both inside and outside the museum for easy access to calming areas.
Read more about their Certified Autism Center here!
Q’s Corner provides a “judgment-free zone” for people of all abilities to play! This indoor play gym offers a soft play room, designed for people with visual impairments, a sensory room, intended to provide a calming environment, and a main gym with swings, trampolines, and more!
Read more about their Certified Autism Center here!
JH Adams Inn, an historic property featuring 31 guest rooms and a full-service restaurant, offers headphones, tactile toys and a low-sensory area for when guests with sensory sensitivities need to take a break. They are committed to making the inn a more inclusive place for families to stay and eat in High Point.
Read more about their Certified Autism Center here!
High Point Public Library’s Children’s Department now offers a Sensory Friendly Storytime! This time consists of a song, two or three books, and unstructured playtime. This will take place once a month and have a consistent schedule so parents and children know what to expect.
Read more about their Certified Autism Center here!
Sweet Old Bill’s combines traditional NC BBQ with Texas style brisket, smoked chicken, ribs as well as a variety of appetizers, salads and sandwiches. Giving back has always been a part of their mission and they are excited to expand their training to be able to welcome and serve those on the autism spectrum.
Read more about our Certified Autism Center here!
Wingate by Wyndham, offering 81 guest rooms, is just minutes from Interstate 40 and easily accessible to many of the Certified Autism Centers. Their staff is trained and welcoming of all guests, especially those with sensory needs.
Read more about their Certified Autism Center here!
Truist Point Stadium, home of the High Point Rockers baseball team, is now a Certified Autism Center! This hub for family-friendly fun is now even more welcoming to families and individuals with autism.
Read more about their Certified Autism Center here!
The Qubein Children’s Museum, North Carolina’s 2022 Visitor Attraction of the Year, is home to many exciting exhibits and a double-decker carousel. Kids have access to many different play areas and options depending on their sensory needs.
Courtyard by Marriott
Courtyard by Marriott staff underwent training and a site visit through IBCCES. They offer comfortable accommodations for travelers and their families as well as a low-sensory area for when guests with sensory sensitivities need to take a break.
Read more about their Certified Autism Center here!
Soon-to-Be Certified Autism Centers!
The following hotels, attractions, and restaurants have made the commitment to becoming Certified Autism Centers and are in the process of completing their training.
Join The Initiative
Visit High Point is inviting tourism partners, including hotels, attractions, restaurants and venues, to join us as we strive to become the most inclusive destination in North Carolina and on the East Coast.
Ready to become certified or have questions? Contact Nancy Bowman, nbowman@visithighpoint.com or call 336.884.5255. Additional information can be found below: