Say goodbye to the boring weekends and routine birthday parties. Think outside the box and dare to try something new. Take a look at what your city has to offer – all within driving distance of your location. You might be surprised!
(860) 585-5411
1 Jewell StHartford, CT 06103 Directions Website
It isn't uncommon to see babies and pre-school kids playing with iPads and being even more tech savvy than their parents. But in an age of cold technology, family experiences like a visit to the classic Bushnell Park Carousel can definitely warm things up. This vintage hand-carved carousel is a highlight of the park, and with good reason. The old-style music, the eye-catching but not overbearing lights and the friendly people make taking the kids out for a spin on their favorite wooden horse an activity that they will want to experience again and again, no matter how old they grow.
(860) 520-2160
250 Columbus BlvdHartford, CT Directions Website
Exploration and discovery is what your whole family will be experiencing when you take them for a visit to the Connecticut Science Center. This incredible facility is a nine-story museum located on the Connecticut River and welcomes a constant stream of visitors. Through exciting exhibits and attractions, you'll learn about the art of animation, check out a movie in the 3-D theater, get inside a tornado to see how it is formed and much more. The museum welcomes groups and school organizations and also is an ideal place to host your child's birthday party. Call or check the website for more details.
(860) 231-9443
1561 Asylum AveHartford, CT Directions Website
Amid the day to day hustle and bustle of the city, escaping to a natural haven isn't as difficult as you would think thanks to Hartford's Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens. Your senses will be stirred in this beautiful natural setting that features amazing views of meadows, fields and water. And of course, the roses of the park's namesake are the main attraction. A half-acre garden of rose bushes has attracted international attention, and once you see it, it's easy to see why. There are also several greenhouses, a picnic grove and recreational areas.
(860) 543-8518
Hartford, CTWebsite
Pack a picnic lunch, bring the football, baseball and Frisbee, and get ready to enjoy some good wholesome fun in the sun when you take the family to Hartford's Goodwin Park. This park was opened in August of 2006 and has been providing an excellent place for families to come and enjoy the city's comfortable climate as well as the facility's excellent amenities and attractions. These include a hugely expansive play area, an impressive playground, picnic areas, and easily accessible walking paths.
(860) 247-0998
351 Farmington AveHartford, CT 06105 Directions Website
Even if you've read Huckleberry Finn or Tom Sawyer several times, you still may not really know much about the man who created these timeless works of American literature. A visit to Hartford's Mark Twain House & Museum will change all that in a truly dramatic fashion. The historic home has been meticulously preserved and treats visitors to the sight of various personal items that belonged to Twain, who made his home here before and after he met with his staggering success. Among the most striking pieces at this house museum are his writing desk, eyeglasses and other personal curiosities, and various first editions of his most famous books.
(860) 278-2670
600 Main StHartford, CT 06103 Directions Website
Art that stays within expectations is alright, but that's not what you'll find at Hartford's Matrix Gallery. This is artwork that will challenge you and maybe even elicit feelings that bring about a new way of thinking. This gallery is located in the Wadsworth Atheneum and has attracted an impressive level of attention for its activist exhibitions and attractions that feature non-traditional media and themes that are meant to make the viewer just a little uncomfortable–but in a good way.
(860) 757-6535
231 Capitol AveHartford, CT 06106 Directions Website
The state of Connecticut is proud of the role it has played in American history, and you can delve deeper into the past when you visit the Museum of Connecticut History. The facility is housed in the same building as the Connecticut State Library and the State Supreme Court. From the state's colonial charter to the various significant events that have led to both progress and challenges, the museum presents them all in a dramatic yet honorable fashion through the use of various types of exhibits and attractions, artifacts, documents and photographs.
(860) 572-5955
55 Coogan BlvdMystic, CT 06355 Directions Website
Taking the plunge into the aquatic world is something that never ceases to amaze. The startling array of creatures are both wondrous and too numerous to mention. Get closer to that world when you spend some time at the Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration. There is much to marvel at when you make your way through the exhibit gallery, but perhaps the biggest highlight is the stunning reef that features 30,000 corals, sharks, and stingrays. Of course, be prepared to be captivated by the many colorful species of fish. You can get a more in-depth look at the various underwater life forms when you visit the Institute for Exploration. There's also a daily dolphin show, an outdoor Beluga exhibit and many other attractions.
(860) 521-5362
227 S Main StHartford, CT 06107 Directions Website
Noah Webster grew up in Hartford, and his contribution to American history is immeasurable. His surname graced the first dictionary, and his authorship of the first American edition of the dictionary is just one of the many fascinating aspects of visiting his historic home. Guides dressed in period clothes will not only tell you of Webster's life, but you can also experience that life for the length of your visit as flax breaking and wool carding are just a couple of the hands-on activities and attractions you can experience. You'll also see the original china, glassware and desk that Webster himself used. The whole visit is beyond words!
(860) 231-2824
950 Trout Brook DrHartford, CT 06119 Directions Website
Entertaining the kids is always a challenge. It becomes less of a chore when you take them to visit the Children's Museum. This impressive facility seamlessly melds education and entertainment to offer visitors a chance to have fun while they learn. Among the many highlights and attractions are a planetarium and a wildlife sanctuary that features over 30 animals. Star Station One is another popular exhibit, as it dramatically recreates the experience of outer space, complete with an amazing replica of the International Space Station.
(860) 278-2670
600 Main StHartford, CT 06103 Directions Website
The kids will love exploring the world of art that is presented at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. Multimedia pieces, paintings and various collections feature the best of European art as well as several visually challenging works that range from the modern to the impressionistic. In addition to the many exhibits and attractions throughout the various galleries, the museum features an impressive schedule of events that include poetry readings, musical performances and much more.
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