Vikings add sensory-inclusive room at U.S. Bank Stadium
The Minnesota Vikings are introducing a new sensory-inclusive space at U.S. Bank Stadium for the 2019 season.
The new space is for fans with autism, Down syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder, dementia and other conditions who may require a calm, quiet place at times during games in what can be a loud and overwhelming stadium.
“Games should be as accessible as possible, particularly for fans with special needs,” Vikings chief operating officer Kevin Warren said in a news release.
The room is 6-by-12 feet and has low lighting, bean bag chairs, sensory toys and wall displays.
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Ear plugs and noise-canceling headphones will be given to those who use the room.
The sound-protected space will be staffed by two licensed behavioral specialists for every home game. The Vikings and U.S. Bank Stadium staff were also trained by KultureCity, a nonprofit focused on creating inclusive environments for people with autism.
The room is located on the Upper Concourse near the southwest escalator, behind Section 346. The Vikings partnered with KultureCity, the Minnesota Sports Facilities Authority and 3M to design and build the space.