Recently my eight-year old daughter was invited to a laser tag party. I was admittedly apprehensive at first -- my little girl, battling with lasers? But she wanted to try it and I’m glad we gave it a shot. If you aren’t aware of how it works, the kids wear packs on their bodies that track if they are struck by a laser beam shot by another kid. Most places have obstacles to hide behind as well as for sneaking up on opponents. Kids work in teams so that they are not alone. Different places have varying themes and special effects. If your child likes high adventure and is looking for a thrill, check out the following places in the Hartford and New Haven areas for his or her next birthday party. For more birthday party ideas, check out our Connecticut Kids' Birthday Party Guide. 

There's nothing like fall in New England. The crisp air ushers in many time-honored traditions -- foliage hikes, apple picking, hay rides to pumpkin patches, and the start of the fall fair and festival season. Connecticut offers some of the best fairs in New England, filled with family fun and activities. Nothing is better than fried dough, midway games, rides, kettle corn, and the sweet stickiness of caramel apples and apple cider. Check out the options below along with our Halloween and Fall Fun Guide; with the variety of fairs offered in greater Hartford, there is something for everyone! 

Although only five miles from the New Haven Green at the lighthouse, Lighthouse Point Park feels much farther removed from the noise and bustle of the city. This 82-acre park on Long Island Sound, with it’s historic lighthouse, antique carousel, and stretch of coastline is a beautiful summer sanctuary. In addition, it has a splash pad water play area, playground, and swings right on the beach, making it a great destination for young kids in the New Haven area, and a perfect day trip destination.

There are a lot of family friendly steakhouses in Greater Hartford, including restaurants where you can bring the whole gang without worrying about breaking a wineglass (or the bank). Below I’ve rounded up steakhouses for the whole family and another list for those special date nights out. You might even want to start a steakhouse tour -- write back and tell us your favorites! (For other dining options check out our list of Greater Hartford restaurants.)

In the Eastern quadrant of the state, nestled among Shenipsit State Forest, Shenipsit Lake Reservoir, and Soapstone Mountain, is the town of Ellington. Once a rural farm town, Ellington, due to its relative proximity to Hartford from Tolland County, is growing fast (it has the 6th fastest growth rate of all towns in the state). It has, however, retained much of its bucolic charm. With its beautiful public beach, airport, dwarf orchards, and handcrafted furniture at Kloter Farms, it is worth a visit if you are in Eastern Connecticut.

If your child’s birthday falls during the summer months you have hit the jackpot in terms of party options. Let’s face it, keeping 20 little munchkins, or your entire extended family, happy outside is a much more appealing option than in your living room, right? If your own backyard isn’t suitable there are a plethora of choices for hosting an outdoor event such as a birthday party or family reunion in the Hartford area.

Nothing says summer like mini golf -- it’s pretty much a requisite activity, along with swimming and ice cream. One of these courses, Farmington Miniature Golf & Ice Cream Parlor, marries two of these things perfectly! There are several other courses in the Hartford area and each have their own unique flavor, so when you are ready to try out your putter, check this guide to choose one your kids might be most interested in. Better yet, work your way down the list and then report back which one was your favorite! We've also rounded up mini golf in Fairfield County.

The Farmington Valley, located along the western border of Hartford County, comprises the quaint towns of Avon, Simsbury, Farmington, Canton, and Granby. Traversed by the Farmington River and dotted with lakes, farms, and horse stables, the area is quiet and picturesque yet also home to great restaurants, top-notch sports facilities, and a plethora of cultural events. Check out our list below and take advantage of some of the area’s attractions (many of which are free!).