Big Rock Pub earns Certified Autism Center designation

Big Rock Pub in Indio, California has earned IBCCES’ Certified Autism Center designation after more than 80% of front-facing staff completed autism and sensory training. The move expands the venue’s accessibility efforts for autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and adds another certified stop in the Greater Palm Springs area.

Why it matters: - Big Rock Pub’s certification is meant to make dining, entertainment and event visits more accessible for autistic and sensory-sensitive guests. - The designation adds to the list of trained venues in Greater Palm Springs, where visitors can find more autism-aware options across hospitality and recreation. - The certification may help families choose destinations with staff better prepared to support different sensory needs.

What happened: - IBCCES recognized Big Rock Pub in Indio, California, with the Certified Autism Center designation on October 15, 2026. - The pub is located alongside Big Rock Golf Course at Indian Springs. - More than 80% of Big Rock Pub’s front-facing staff completed autism and sensory training to qualify. - The venue offers indoor and outdoor dining, live music, sports viewing, special events and year-round community activities.

The details: - Stephanie McCormack, Big Rock Pub’s Food and Beverage Director, said the certification reflects the venue’s goal of helping guests feel comfortable, understood and welcome. - Big Rock Pub says accessible facilities and flexible guest assistance are part of its approach to creating a supported environment. - Myron Pincomb, IBCCES CEO and board chairman, said hospitality venues can take meaningful steps toward greater inclusion through autism and sensory training. - Big Rock Pub is now listed on the free IBCCES Accessibility App, which offers real-time guidance on certified destinations and sensory-inclusive spaces. - IBCCES also points families to AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com, which list certified locations and professionals.

Between the lines: - The certification is part of a broader regional effort tied to Visit Greater Palm Springs, which helped the area achieve Certified Autism Destination status. - That designation signals that visitors can find multiple trained and certified options across entertainment, recreation and lodging. - IBCCES has spent 25 years building autism, sensory and neurodiversity training programs for sectors including healthcare, education, public safety, travel and corporate services. - The organization says it operates in more than 125 countries and offers training in 8 languages.

What’s next: - Big Rock Pub will likely use the certification to strengthen its appeal to families and guests looking for more inclusive dining and entertainment options. - The IBCCES listing and related tools give visitors a way to find the venue and other certified destinations before they travel. - Continued renewal, training and facility review requirements are part of IBCCES certification programs, which are designed to maintain standards over time.

The bottom line: - Big Rock Pub is betting that accessibility training will broaden its audience while making the guest experience more welcoming for more people.