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I've been sensitive to loud noises (still can't drive with my windows down) since I was a kid, and I've been diagnosed by a doctor to be on the spectrum (albeit high functioning) for various other reasons as well.

It's obviously different for everyone, but for me it comes down to a few things:

* Generally the higher pitch noises are way worse then a low deep "growl"

* Sudden, high decibel noises, especially if they're unexpected are BAD

* High decibel repetitive noises (ever have only one window open in your car on the highway and hear a WOMPH WOMPH WOMPH sound?) are unbearable.

* Restaurant buzzers, alarms, etc. Even the alarms coming from inside McDonalds while I'm in the drive through make me uncomfortable/

* Anything shrilly, no matter the decibel.

Sounds that are lower pitch, and continuous are much easier to get used to. The AC kicking on is uncomfortable, but after ~30 seconds the fan noise doesn't bother me.

For me public places have an "ambient sound" that seems to get filtered out okay. Mostly only the occasional small child skrill bothers me. I also have social anxiety so I'll get uncomfortable anyway however.

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This seems to align with your observation that bowling alleys/swimming pools being okay. Most of the sounds are lower pitch, continuous, and most of the sudden noises are expected (kids splashing, bowling ball rolling, etc.)

The biggest difference is the decibel level though. Hand dryers. Leaf blowers. Hair dryers. Hoovers, are all LOUD.

Imagine your parents SCREAMING AS LOUD AS THEY CAN AT YOU. That's how those feel.

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I have a feeling my observations will apply to most people on the spectrum, but you'd have to multiply it by 10x/100x depending on the severity of the individual.