">
Planning a day out can be a lot. Planning a day out when someone in your family needs sensory support, quiet space, extra transition time, or a more predictable environment can be even more. That does not mean families should have to stay home.
Across Trumbull County, more organizations, attractions, and community partners are thinking about what it really means to be welcoming. Not just “everyone is invited” welcoming, but the kind of welcoming that says: we thought about the noise, the crowds, the lights, the waiting, the transitions, and the need for a break.
This guide is a starting point for sensory-friendly and inclusive spaces in Trumbull County, especially for autistic visitors, neurodivergent children and adults, and individuals with sensory needs or disabilities.
Where can families find sensory-friendly spaces in Trumbull County?
Families can find sensory support and inclusive spaces at places like Logan’s Landing Project, Eastwood Field during Mahoning Valley Scrappers games, Warren-Trumbull County Public Library locations, Eastwood Mall, local parks, splash pads, and other community spaces.
Options include sensory support kits, calming rooms, communication boards, inclusive playground features, sensory-friendly events, and flexible family experiences that make it easier to say yes to an outing.
Logan’s Landing Project
Logan’s Landing Project is helping lead the conversation locally around inclusive travel, play, and community spaces.
The nonprofit was inspired by Logan, who is autistic, and by the very real experience many families know well: travel and community outings often require a great deal of planning and preparation when a child or family member has autism or sensory sensitivities.
The goal of Logan’s Landing Project is to help make Trumbull County, and beyond, a more inclusive destination where families of all abilities feel welcomed, supported, and able to create lasting memories together.
Since launching, Logan’s Landing Project has helped move several meaningful efforts forward, including sensory support kits, sensory spaces, communication boards, and inclusive recreation projects.
A few of their initiatives include:
- Partnering with 10 hotels across Ohio, including locations in Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, Youngstown, and beyond, to provide Sensory Support Kits
- Partnering with Covelli Centre, Youngstown State University, and The Grand Resort to provide Sensory Support Kits
- Supporting Grace Fellowship Church and Residence Inn & Suites in implementing sensory rooms
- Installing a Communication Board at Imagination Station Playground in Bazetta, with additional boards in progress for Howland Park and Packard Park in Warren
- Fully funding a fence around Howland Park’s Tiger Town Playground, expected to be installed soon
Looking ahead, Logan’s Landing Project is working toward dedicated sensory spaces and events throughout the region, a mobile sensory unit, expanded travel resources for families with sensory needs, and more inclusive playgrounds and recreational opportunities where every child can play and belong.
Sensory Safe Spaces at Mahoning Valley Scrappers Games
A baseball game should be fun, but for some fans, the noise, lights, crowds, and long stretches of stimulation can be overwhelming. The Mahoning Valley Scrappers have taken meaningful steps to make the 717 Credit Union Field at Eastwood more accessible and comfortable.
At 717 Credit Union Field at Eastwood, families can find sensory-friendly spaces designed to offer a calmer environment during Scrappers games and select events.
The Sensory Safe Suite, presented by The Rich Center for Autism, includes sensory-safe amenities such as interactive play displays, sensory kits, lighting options, and window shades that allow families to have more control over their environment. Families can request game dates and tickets in advance, courtesy of The Rich Center for Autism.
The field is also home to Scrappy’s Safe Haven, presented by the Fairhaven Foundation. This sensory and calming room includes dimmed lighting, a sensory activity wall, calming light features, comfortable seating, sound reduction elements, and a silent live feed of the game.
For families who want to enjoy a night at the ballpark but may need a break during the game, this kind of space can make all the difference.
Sensory Support Kits at Warren-Trumbull County Public Library
The Warren-Trumbull County Public Library system is another important local resource for families looking for sensory support.
Through its Library of Things collection, W-TCPL offers sensory support kits that can be used during a library visit or checked out for home and community use. These kits are part of a partnership with Logan’s Landing Project and are designed to help create a more comfortable and accessible experience.
Kits may include items such as noise-cancelling earmuffs or headphones, tinted safety glasses, fidget tools, and communication cards. For some families, having access to these tools can make a library visit, appointment, event, or outing feel more manageable.
The library also offers sensory-friendly programming, storytimes, interactive activities, and welcoming spaces that many local families enjoy throughout the year.
Before visiting, check with your preferred W-TCPL branch for current availability, checkout rules, and upcoming sensory-friendly programs.
Eastwood Mall: Indoor Fun and Sensory-Friendly Events
Eastwood Mall is a helpful stop for families because it offers indoor space, room to move, and several kid-friendly experiences all in one place.
Families can visit the aquarium, take a break at the indoor play area near JCPenney and Target, or enjoy train rides through the mall. A special note for families: autistic individuals ride the train for free.
Eastwood Mall has also served as a host site for sensory-friendly seasonal events in partnership with the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley. These events have included sensory-friendly visits with the Easter Bunny and Santa, where families can enjoy a quieter experience before regular mall activity begins.
Inclusive Parks, Playgrounds, and Outdoor Stops
Sometimes the best outing is the one with fresh air, space to move, and the ability to leave when everyone is ready.
Here are a few sensory-friendly outdoor ideas in Trumbull County:
Imagination Station in Bazetta Township
Imagination Station is an inclusive playground with a variety of sensory experiences and accessible play opportunities for children of all abilities. It is also home to Logan’s Landing Project’s first Communication Board.
Logan’s Landing Project is also actively fundraising to bring more inclusive equipment to the park and install an ADA-accessible walking trail.
Storybook Trail in Bazetta Township
Located near Mosquito Lake, the Storybook Trail combines literacy, nature, and movement. Families can enjoy a peaceful walk while reading pages of a children’s book displayed along the trail.
It is a nice option for families who want a quieter activity with a little structure built in.
Cortland Splash Pad and Packard Park Splash Pad
During the summer months, local splash pads can be a great option for sensory-rich water play. Families can engage at their own comfort level, take breaks as needed, and enjoy open-air play without needing a full-day plan.
Packard Park in Warren also includes playground space, and a Communication Board is in progress there through Logan’s Landing Project.
Howland Park and Tiger Town
Howland Park’s Tiger Town Playground is another space to watch. Once the new fence funded by Logan’s Landing Project is installed, it will become an even stronger option for families looking for a playground environment with added peace of mind.
Inclusion Makes the Whole Community Better
Sensory-friendly spaces are not just nice extras. They help families participate more fully in community life. They make it easier to attend a baseball game, visit the library, enjoy a holiday tradition, stay in a hotel, play at the park, or simply say yes to an outing.
This work matters, and it helps more families feel safe, supported, and seen.
We will continue adding to this guide as more sensory-friendly and inclusive resources become available across Trumbull County.
