Dates & times
All times are local to the venue · America/New York
- 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM
These are the previously published dates. Check the organizer for a new edition.
Check the organizer’s latest schedule ↗Sensory Saturdays opens Selby Gardens early for a sensory-friendly visit
Sensory Saturdays at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens offers neurodivergent and sensory-sensitive visitors a chance to explore before the garden opens to the general public. Selby lists the next visit for November 10, 2026—a Tuesday despite the event’s name—so confirm the date when registering.
Choosing a route with the sensory map
Guests receive a map with symbols marking interactive areas and displays with pronounced sensory features, such as loud sounds or strong odors. It is a tool for deciding which parts of the garden to seek out or avoid.
Noise-canceling earmuffs, sensory kits and wheelchairs are available to borrow at no charge, and visitors may bring their own tools, toys or stimming devices. Selby says its complimentary wheelchairs are first come, first served and cannot be reserved.
Further reading: Sensory Saturdays - Marie Selby Botanical Gardens ↗ · Accessibility - Marie Selby Botanical Gardens ↗
An hour outdoors
The Children’s Rainforest Garden, Florida Lagoon and Mangrove Boardwalk are open during the visit, along with walking paths and restrooms. The Tropical Conservatory, gift shop, cafe and Museum of Botany and the Arts are closed during the event, so this is a visit centered on the grounds rather than the full range of campus attractions.
For a visit at another time, Selby also offers sensory maps, sensory kits, wheelchairs and noise-canceling earmuffs from the Welcome Center during regular business hours.
Further reading: Sensory Saturdays - Marie Selby Botanical Gardens ↗
Before you go
Confirm the Tuesday listing
Selby lists November 10, 2026, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., with check-in beginning at 8:20 a.m. Because that date is a Tuesday, ask the organizer to confirm it before making plans.
Register every guest
Advance registration is required for visitors and accompanying family members or caregivers. Request the link by emailing [email protected] or calling 941.366.5731 ext. 243. Registrants receive an informational email the day before.
Getting to the Downtown Sarasota campus
Parking and check-in
The event is at 1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL 34236, not the Historic Spanish Point campus. Park in the Morganroth Family Living Energy Access Facility (LEAF); Selby says the structure is accessible from Mound Street/US 41 and South Orange Avenue. Parking is complimentary.
Follow event signs to check in at the Welcome Center. Designated accessible parking is available, and passengers can be dropped off or picked up outside the center. Bike racks are nearby.
Sensory Saturdays - Marie Selby Botanical Gardens ↗ · Visit the Downtown Sarasota Campus - Marie Selby Botanical Gardens ↗ · Accessibility - Marie Selby Botanical Gardens ↗
Garden paths
Selby says the primary paths are paved, though some areas are unpaved. Visitors who need a wheelchair should note that the garden’s complimentary chairs cannot be reserved.
Before you make a plan
Is the November 10 date definitely a Saturday?
No. November 10, 2026, is a Tuesday, although Selby lists the event as Sensory Saturdays. Confirm the date with the organizer when requesting registration.
Can family members or caregivers attend?
Yes. Accompanying family members and caregivers receive free admission, but everyone must register in advance.
Can I bring my own sensory aids?
Yes. Selby welcomes visitors to bring their own tools, toys or stimming devices; earmuffs and sensory kits are also available to borrow free.
Will the cafe and conservatory be open?
No. Both are closed during the event, as are the gift shop and Museum of Botany and the Arts. The outdoor walking paths and restrooms remain open.
Location & Google Maps
Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Downtown Sarasota campus
1534 Mound Street, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
Map search by venue and address. Check the organiser’s entrance details before travelling.