Gila River Arena in Glendale opens sensory room for eventgoers

PHOENIX — Gila River Arena has opened a sensory room for people who need the service during events at the Glendale venue.

The Ella Dean sensory room opened May 15 near section 106 and has bean bag chairs, fidget toys, a bubble wall and a quiet atmosphere for guests to relax if they are experiencing sensory overload.

The room was opened in collaboration with KultureCity, a nonprofit that focuses on sensory accessibility and acceptance for those with invisible disabilities, such as autism, dementia and post-traumatic stress disorder.

“Our communities are what shape our lives and to know that Gila River Arena is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing,” Uma Srivastava, KultureCity’s executive director, said in a press release.

Guests can use the KultureCity app to find available sensory features at the arena not at the room.

They include bags equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards and weighted lap pads.

The room was donated by the Witcher family and is named on behalf of their niece.

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