“Traveling the Spectrum,” an unscripted documentary series following three families with members on the autism spectrum as they vacation in the Myrtle Beach, S.C. area, is set to debut on Peacock on Dec. 12.

In the six-episode season, the families embark on sensory-friendly trips in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach and Surfside Beach.

All three municipalities are designated as autism-friendly destinations by Autism Travel Club, a program that connects families with autism-friendly experiences, environments and businesses.

“‘Traveling the Spectrum’ has the potential to change the world by helping families on the autism spectrum feel more comfortable exploring new destinations,” Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce Chief Marketing Officer Stuart Butler said in a statement.

“By following along on their vacations and hearing their personal stories, we see the unique challenges each family faces and how our community steps up to provide a welcoming, inclusive experience,” Butler said.

Autism and travel

Of the parents of children with autism asked, 87% said they don’t currently take family vacations and 93% said they’d be more likely to travel if autism-certified options were available, according to a survey by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards’ website Autism Travel.

The show will follow the Gielink, Hall and Tilk families as they navigate travel and make vacation memories at Myrtle Beach-area attractions like the Intracoastal Waterway, Pelicans Ballpark and Ripley’s Aquarium.

Myrtle Beach

With a history of working to create a welcoming environment for visitors with autism, the Grand Strand is a natural fit for “Traveling the Spectrum.”

According to the Autism Travel Club, Myrtle Beach is “the birthplace of the autism-friendly travel initiative,” and the area is home to more than a dozen restaurants, attractions and stores offering accommodations and discounts to club members.

“I just think it’s pretty remarkable. Like, if I allow myself to think about it, I feel blessed and honored and stoked,” said Becky Large, Champion Autism Network and Autism Travel Club executive director. “If we can spread autism awareness like how this show is starting, it’s pretty epic.”

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