Submitted by Clementina Verge on
Located on the southwestern border of Hartford County, Bristol’s influence dates back to the 19th century when it was known as the clock-making city. Today, it is primarily famous as the home of ESPN and Lake Compounce, America’s oldest still-running theme park.
Submitted by Clementina Verge on
Where can you find a two-headed calf, Mark Twain's bicycle, and an alligator dangling from the ceiling? At Connecticut's Old State House, of course. It took us a while to “discover” this museum – because sometimes it’s difficult to persuade kids that anything featuring the word “old” in the title can be enjoyable – but once we visited, we realized that this Hartford County attraction is a historical treasure and a fun destination. In fact, the kids became so immersed in one activity (keep reading) that only a bribe persuaded them to leave.
Submitted by Clementina Verge on
Dinosaurs—the word alone conjures up powerful images and a sense of mystery. Most children go through a dinosaur-loving period, often fueled by cartoons and movies. If your kids are enjoying such a phase now, they have embarked upon an exciting adventure, and there are many engaging destinations in Connecticut where they can pursue their Jurassic Park-like quest, whether your family enjoys science museums, amusement parks, or artistic expressions. And remember to check our Event Calendar regularly for special dinosaur-themed activities, like this week's Dino Days at Stepping Stones Children's Museum.
Submitted by Clementina Verge on
Ice cream. Two words that instantly trigger giggles and screeches from most kids. This treat is delicious year-round, but definitely even better in summer. In my household, we take ice cream very seriously—in fact, we celebrate National Ice Cream Day in July (yes, there is such a thing!) by driving around in search of frozen delights to fill our bellies.
We find that Farmington Valley near Hartford, Connecticut boasts top-notch ice cream. Whether you get it in a cup or a chocolate-dipped cone, with rainbow sprinkles or gummy bears, atop a fluffy waffle or in a banana split, the ice cream in Farmington is sure to tickle your taste buds and cool you down. Below are some of our favorite local parlors. Want more? Check out our roundups of top scoop spots in New Haven County and Fairfield County.
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Behold the beautiful month of June! The days are longer and warmer but not yet scorching, and nature is dressed in a bright shade of green. Opportunities to explore our state's great outdoors abound at Connecticut Trails Weekend, part of the National Trails Day celebration. So put on your hiking boots and make a day of it.
Literary-minded families can enjoy a book sale or all the adventures planned for Tom Sawyer Day at The Mark Twain House. In New London County, you can let loose at the four-day Cajun Zydeco Festival at Strawberry Park.
If you'd rather stay indoors, you can get crafty at Home Depot's Kids' Workshop. Or peruse our jam-packed Connecticut Summer Fun Guide and let your kids plan a few family outings.
Whatever you decide to do, we hope you have a wonderful weekend. Be sure to check out our Event Calendar for more kid-friendly activities throughout the state. And if you're still figuring out summer, see our list of camps that still have openings. To keep up with everything happening in CT, subscribe to our FREE newsletters, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Submitted by Clementina Verge on
Wish you could visit a chocolate factory, make your own candy bar, and then burn off those calories at a nearby amusement park? You don’t need to drive to Hershey, PA for this kind of adventure. Just head on over to Fascia's Chocolates in Waterbury. This New Haven County family-owned business has been making life sweet in Connecticut for the past 50 years.
Submitted by Clementina Verge on
Life in Connecticut is challenging... especially in 2015, when there are so many trails and so little time. Say what? You haven’t started The Sky’s the Limit hiking competition yet? Designed to encourage exploration of our state’s natural wonders (all free!) while spending time together, this outdoor recreation campaign launched in January. Thus far, my family has visited seven state parks and we have three more to go before becoming eligible for a shiny medallion. With spring in full swing, it's time for your family to sign on. May the winner take all!
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Carnival games, thrilling roller-coaster rides, and fried dough are just some of what's on tap this Mother's Day weekend. Quassy Amusement Park and Lake Compounce are honoring moms by offering them complimentary day passes with the purchase of a child's ticket.
Many other attractions throughout the state are offering free admission for moms on Sunday as well; they are listed below. Plus we've rounded up top Mother’s Day events in Hartford County and Fairfield County. For other areas, be sure to browse our Event Calendar which has a wide array of suggestions.
To keep up with everything going on in CT, subscribe to our FREE newsletters, and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
