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Connecticut kids get hands-on fun for free this summer! Photo courtesy of the Mystic Aquarium, Facebook
Connecticut kids get hands-on fun for free this summer! Photo courtesy of the Mystic Aquarium, Facebook
6/26/23 - By Rose Gordon Sala

It's back, and Connecticut kids have another summer freebie. More than 125(!) of the state's museums will provide free admission for Connecticut kids and an accompanying adult this summer. Read on for more details.

And don't miss our roundup of the 50 best things to do for FREE in Connecticut with kids this summer. And our Ultimate Connecticut Kids Summer Vacation Guide is here to help you with the best things to do in Connecticut, from beaches and pools to water parks and festivals, plus cool deals, and giveaways—all summer long.

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Connecticut's Summer at the Museum program began in 2021 to help with the possible learning loss of the pandemic school year; the governor said he pushed for the summer perk to further kids' education in a hands-on way.

The free admission runs July 1 through September 4. It applies to all Connecticut kids ages 18 and under and one adult. Some restrictions may apply in terms of capacity, certain dates, or special events, so check museums' websites before heading out the door.

This year, over 125 Connecticut museums received grants to participate in CT Summer at the Museum. CT Visit has the full list of museums waiving admission all summer. It has included some of our favorites, such as the Mystic Aquarium, New England Air Museum, the Beardsley Zoo, the Connecticut Science Center, and many more children's museums and historical sites around the state!

Also, check out our list of the best museums in Connecticut that always offer free admission to kids!