PHS Top Spots
Minnesota's best places for families with special needs
PHS Top Spots makes it easier for families of children with special needs to find the best spots throughout the state that are set-up to accommodate their needs. Check out the 2019 Minnesota Top Spots list below, as voted by families in the special needs community. Comprised of 12 categories, this list is sure to help your family get out and about year round!
Active Lifestyle
The 16,000-square-foot all-inclusive playground offers sun-shade covered play decks, swings, sensory play equipment and ramps for wheelchair access. Madison’s Place will serve as a regional gathering place for children of all ages and abilities to foster friendships, experience the excitement of climbing on a playground and spend time outdoors.
This incredible organization offers trainings and competitions all year across the state for people with intellectual disabilities. With 16 Olympic-style sports, there’s something for everyone.
Hope is powerful medicine, and that message is at the heart of what this organization does. With its HopeDay and HopeCommunity programs, HopeKids provides monthly events and a network of support for families of children who have a life-threatening medical condition.
With attractions like Nickelodeon Universe, The Sea Life Minnesota Aquarium, The Crayola Experience, The Lego Store, and more, there is something for everybody here – and much of it is accessible. You can also check out Toddler Tuesdays for a free morning of fun from 10:00 am-noon.
Getaways
An indoor waterpark, arcade, outside play area, pool and hot tub, plus proximity to the Lakewalk and other attractions make the Edgewater a fun getaway for the whole family.
Whether you stay overnight in the campground or just stop in to see the falls, Gooseberry is a welcoming park for all abilities.
Camp Friendship is one location of True Friends, whose programs include camp, respite, therapeutic horseback riding, conference and retreat, travel and team building.With locations near Maple Lake, Annandale, Plymouth, Eden Prairie and Bemidji, True Friends serves individuals in Minnesota and throughout the United States.
It’s not surprising that Minnesota families with special needs chose somewhere peaceful like a lake or favorite spot up north to recharge. After all, its importance was the very reason Pediatric Home Service started – to help kids live as fully as possible in their communities, with their families, rather than in the hospital.
Pastimes
As part of the comprehensive approach to care at Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare, they curated a list of resources to help parents connect with other parents.
The Science Museum of MN offers an incredible range of exhibits, from the human body and dinosaurs to the Mississippi River – all created to encourage children to explore the science happening around them!
This Washington County library opens a world of wonder, play, and knowledge. Our librarians are ready to help you explore! This is your space to inspire curiosity, champion innovation, and spark opportunity.
Home to the Minnesota Twins, Target Field offers UCare Accessible Seating, assistive-listening devices, and convenient drop-off/pick-up locations. Plus, the ballpark allows guests to bring in backpacks, coolers, children’s beverages, and even their own food.