Artis held its first sensory-friendly evening at its Micropia microbe museum on Thursday 8 October, one of a growing number of quiet sessions at Dutch museums, zoos, fairs and amusement parks.
Up to eight visitors aged 13 and over were let in per time slot, and young children were not admitted.
The LED screens and background sound were switched off, the lighting was brighter, stools could be borrowed and a quiet room was available.
Companions got in free.
Project leader Kai Vasmel said the evening fits the zoo’s aim of becoming more diverse and accessible, and he hopes the renovated aquarium can follow, although that needs more technical work.
The Nijmegen autumn fair will hold a quieter hour on the afternoon of Saturday 10 October, with less noise, fewer flashing lights and slower rides.
The Hersenstichting brain foundation uses estimates that four million people in the Netherlands are sometimes overstimulated, with people with ADHD or autism affected most.
Gwen van Diermen started a sensory pass three years ago that now has 550 holders and gives them special terms at dozens of parks, museums and zoos across the country.
Check out our guide to quiet places in Amsterdam away from the crowds.