The city of Visalia is nestled between Fresno and Bakersfield about half way between Los Angeles and San Francisco. To the South East is the Sequoia National Forest. It’s location is an ideal stopping off point on a California road trip or as a base to explore the verdant forests of California.

This month Visalia became the first Certified Autism Destination in America. A report days that 87% of parents with Autistic children don’t travel but 93% would consider travelling if there were Autism certified options available.

The city has spent the last year training all Visalia’s tourism partners providing accommodation, such as adding sensory guides, signage, introducing quiet spaces, low-sensory nights and more. For example, the city is hosting three sensory-friendly holiday events this year and the ImagineU Children’s Museum created sensory-friendly nights once a month beginning in September and resuming in the new year.