Mission Statement

The Hidden Haptic exists to highlight the unique way that special needs individuals perceive and experience experiential spaces and events.

Background

Ryan Getz, the founder and chief writer, was born with a hearing impairment. He has mild to moderate hearing loss in his right ear and significant hearing loss in his left ear. However, this went undiagnosed until he was 7 years old.

As a result, Ryan endured delays in social development that have had a ripple effect in how he interacts in social settings. All the while, there has been a silver lining; other ways Ryan perceives the world are accelerated. As long as he can remember, Ryan has been drawn to “vibey” and unorthodox environments. Lights enthrall him. He’s a deep feeler in terms of emotions and touch. And he has developed a passion for developing genuine intrapersonal connection that goes beyond the surface.

When he visits new places he perceives things that others may not. And, the sights and “feel” of an environment often are noticed before anything else.

Ultimately, The Hidden Haptic exists not to weaponize disabilities to call out how spaces are deficient in their accommodation, but rather to celebrate the unique things differently abled people perceive experiences.

We hope that anyone can use this site as a guide for destinations for a night out or a trip. We also hope to spotlight places excelling in friendliness toward individuals with specific needs. 

Why “The Hidden Haptic?”

Haptic notifications occur when your phone vibrates instead of ringing. If you will, this is an alternate way of perceiving something. The Hidden Haptic calls out places that may fly under the radar (and some that don’t), and also the individuals with hidden special needs that patronize them.

What will the Hidden Haptic visit?

Restaurants, bars, attractions, and events with special emphasis on immersive, quirky, and innovative concepts.