Sensory Programs
Sensory programs at the Discovery Center are thoughtfully designed for individuals on the autism spectrum or with other sensory processing differences. During scheduled times, our exhibit gallery will adopt lower lighting, decreased noise levels, and focus on learning with the senses. All who would benefit from a lower sensory experience and hands-on learning are welcome!
Cost: $5 per participant
Walk-ins are welcome, or you can purchase tickets via the links below.
Sensory Sundays will be offered on the 3rd Sunday of every other month from 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM.
March 15, 2026: Mollusks
What is a mollusk? The Tampa Bay estuary is filled with mollusks in all shapes and sizes, which play a vital role in our ecosystems both on land and in the water. During this time of lower lighting, limited noise, and various stations set up in the exhibit gallery to explore, we will learn what a mollusk is and the creative adaptations that these animals use to survive in an ever-changing environment. Here’s a hint, our touch tank is full of mollusks - think animals with a hard shell and a slimy body!
May 17, 2026: Sea Turtles
Sea turtles are incredible creatures that rely on their acute senses of smell and sight to guide them through the murky water they swim through. During this time of lower lighting, limited noise, and various stations set up in the exhibit gallery to explore, we will learn about the amazing senses and adaptations that these turtles have to help them survive. Our sand box will transform into a mock turtle nesting site, and it is up to you to protect the turtles!
July 19, 2026: Sharks
Sharks are misunderstood creatures that need to be protected to keep our oceans and estuaries healthy! During this time of lower lighting, limited noise, and various stations set up in the exhibit gallery to explore, we will learn about the extra senses and adaptations that sharks have that aid in them being apex predators. Celebrate shark week with us, while learning to identify sharks by their jaws and hundreds of teeth, you may even get to keep one or two!
September 20, 2026: Marine Mammals
Dolphins and manatees are some of the most charismatic creatures in Tampa Bay that take very different approaches to life. During this time of lower lighting, limited noise, and various stations set up in the exhibit gallery to explore, we will explore the adaptations that our local marine mammals have to help them survive. What’s a melon and a peduncle, and what does it have to do with a dolphin? Find out at our dolphin anatomy matching station!
November 8, 2026: Snakes
The ecosystem of Tampa Bay is kept closely in check with the help of snakes, who play an important role in the food web. During this time of lower lighting, limited noise, and various stations set up in the exhibit gallery to explore, we will learn about the diversity and importance of Florida's snake population. Guests can look forward to meeting one of our snake animal ambassadors up close for an animal interaction during this ssspecial Sensory Sunday!
For more information, email education@tampabaywatch.org. Regular hours of operation will begin at 10 AM.