Erin McNamee

Latest posts by Erin McNamee

Top Skate Parks in Connecticut

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Fri, 04/15/2022 - 10:10am

Practice new skills at Calf's Pasture Beach, photo courtesy of Norwalk Skate Park, Facebook

It seems like nearly every kid goes through a skateboarding phase, even if they don't see it through to Tony Hawk levels of expertise. Kicking, pushing, and gliding down the block is cool, but heading out to one of these local skate parks in Connecticut to practice tricks and catch some air is even better. Skateboarding may well be the most fun on four wheels that kids can have until they drive, so here are several well-kept skate parks in Connecticut for daredevil kiddos to explore.

Looking for more outdoor spaces to have a blast? Don't miss our Outdoor Adventures Guide and our Guide to Playgrounds and Parks in Connecticut.

Indoor Play Areas in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Fri, 12/06/2019 - 2:03pm

Kids have plenty of space to tumble (and swing) at My Gym in Orange. Photo by Jennifer Johnson-Saunders

Just because it's cold outside doesn't mean that you and your family have to go into hibernation. There are some great indoor play spaces in the Hartford area where your active child can burn off excess energy by climbing, bouncing, running, and jumping. He or she might even take a nap for you later! For even more ways to help kids burn off energy when the weather is wintry or wet, check out our Connecticut Indoor Play Guide.

St. Patrick's Day Events in Connecticut

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Sun, 03/03/2019 - 10:00am

Photo courtesy of Stamford St. Patrick's Day Parade

It's March and you know what that means...St. Patrick's Day! While St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are often thought of as mostly adult-oriented (usually associated with pints of Guinness), there are many kid-friendly ways to celebrate the holiday with wee little ones in Connecticut.

St. Patrick's Day Parades and Events for Kids and Families in Connecticut

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Fri, 03/01/2019 - 5:04pm

There are plenty of characters out at the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Stamford. Photo courtesy of the event

Cornfest, Hay Day, and Parks Galore: 25 Things to Do This Fall in Hartford County

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Wed, 08/23/2017 - 12:38pm

Fall is my favorite season: there are so many fun activities available in the greater Hartford region in that short stretch of comfortable weather punctuated by New England foliage. Inevitably, by the time November rolls around, there are at least ten things that I wished I’d done but either I didn’t think of them, or I didn’t get around to them. To help you make the most of this fall season, we've compiled a list of fall favorites (including some indoor activities for those rainy days). If you get around to all of them, you’re my hero.

Apple Picking Orchards in the New Haven Area

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Sat, 08/05/2017 - 8:00am

There's something about the way the air feels as summer fades to autumn that is uniquely New England. It's that time of year when we begin to break out hats and scarves and crave warm drinks on nippy days. One of our favorite fall activities is apple picking and the New Haven area surely doesn't disappoint when it comes to Pick Your Own orchards. In fact, the whole state is spilling over with fresh fruit just waiting to be harvested. Find an orchard near you in our CT Apple Picking Guide. And not to worry if your apple harvesters go a little overboard, we have some awesome recipes to help you turn your autumn bounty into a fruit-filled feast.

Old School Diners and Ice Cream Parlors in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Wed, 07/05/2017 - 11:29am

For some good, old-fashioned comfort food and a blast from the past, check out these vintage, retro diners and ice cream parlors in the Hartford area. Adults will love the old school vibe while kids will love farm fresh ice cream and shakes!

Paint Your Own Pottery Places for Connecticut Kids

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Thu, 06/29/2017 - 3:13pm

Now and then you need just a really good, crafty indoor activity with the kiddos. In winter, after we’ve skated indoors and outdoors, sledded, and tried winter sports, we are ready to head inside. The same is true for summer days! After hours of fishing, kayaking and hiking, my kids are ready for some good hands-on craft time. Even with a list of great indoor play places, sometimes the kids need an activity that's a little more relaxing. For this, any of the numerous paint your own pottery studios in the Hartford area or Fairfield County area fit the bill.