Winter Day Trips in Connecticut for Families

1. Beardsley Zoo

Head to Bridgeport and Connecticut's only zoo, which stays open through the winter (with decidedly fewer crowds). Tigers, leopards, otters, owls, eagles, and more stay outside during the colder months, and are available for visitors. Afterwards, head to nearby Vinny's Pizza for a hot slice!

The cows don't mind the cold—and some love to be pet. Photo courtesy of the Stamford Museum and Nature Center

2. Stamford Museum and Nature Center

There are 80 miles of nature trails at the property to roam and get some much needed Vitamin D, lots of friendly barn animals to visit, and plenty of family programs happening throughout the year—from guided winter strolls (complete with warm cider) in early winter to maple sugaring programs (complete with treats) in early March. Grab a bite at Long Ridge Tavern afterwards, where you'll find yummy lunch options for both kids and adults.

3. Earthplace

Home to 50 animals, Westport's Earthplace features an Animal Hall and Connecticut Birds of Prey exhibit that totally delight kids. Outdoor morning story time, which goes on in all but inclement weather, complete a visit. This 62-acre sanctuary includes a "nature's playground" to climb around. What's really exciting is snowshoes and skis are often left out for kids to try. Check the calendar for seasonal events as well, including a family campfire during winter solstice.

4. Connecticut Science Center

This beloved, mainly indoor science museum located in Hartford is open Wednesdays-Sundays from 10am-4pm. Along with the typical engaging exhibits and daily storytimes, the Connecticut Science Center is also offering a "STEM in a Box" package that includes 3 weeks of science projects to do at home with kids.

 
Some of Connecticut's best winter day trips are spent outdoors. Photo courtesy of the Roaring Brook Nature Center 

5. Roaring Brook Nature Center

Fun, guided winter hikes for families fill Roaring Brook's calendar, but little visitors will also appreciate the indoor/outdoor animal exhibits, a beaver exhibit, a replica Native American longhouse, and more local natural history to explore at this nature center in Canton.

6. IT Adventure Ropes Course

IT Adventure Ropes Course in New Haven is indoors, but has plenty of space for kids to keep socially distant while climbing and swinging on the various levels of obstacles—including a "Little IT and Zip IT" for small children. Receive a discount and avoid waiting in line by booking your visit online. Walk-in admission isn't guaranteed.

7. Powder Ridge Park

Head to Middlefield for a fun-filled day at Powder Ridge Park. This is truly the place to get your winter chills and thrills on in Connecticut—kids can snow tube, snowbike, or hit the Kid's Snow Zone for mini tubing runs and snow play areas. Skiing is on the menu, too, and lessons are available for little beginners.

Related: Best Snow Tubing in Connecticut for Families

8. New England Air Museum

This indoor/outdoor museum in Windsor Locks features over 100 aircraft, from early flying machines to supersonic jets. During the weekend, Flights of Fun Family programs include scavenger hunts, flight simulators, and open cockpit experiences. Build and Fly Challenges feature a different take-home activity each day. 

9. Connecticut River Museum Winter Wildlife Cruise

Bundle up and climb aboard to see eagles and other winter birds on an exhilarating, family-friendly cruise on the Connecticut River in Essex. Captains are full of interesting information about the majestic birds kids will see on the water.

10. White Memorial Conservation Center

Litchfield is the place to try your hand (feet?) at snowshoeing this winter. White Memorial Conservation Center has 35 miles of trails to explore via snowshoe or on foot. Check out the viewing platform on Apple Hill for great views, the Nature Museum for exploring different local habitats, and the calendar to keep tabs on family ice fishing lessons.

11. Winding Trails

This gem in Farmington is another great place to snowshoe, as well as or cross country ski, as it's equipped with a trail pass reservation system and all the rental gear you'd need. There are also sledding hills and a skating pond, making it a one-stop shop for outdoor winter exercise.

12. Brooksvale Park

Known as "a park for all seasons," Brooksvale Park in Hamden has hiking trails and a barn where you can check out the animals. Download the trail map via the website, and keep an eye out for winter events including at the sugar shack.

13. Valley Falls

Get some fresh air on the hiking trails, and then be rewarded with a view of the falls, which look stunning when frozen over. Afterwards, grab a bite to eat at the nearby Vernon Diner, or warm up with a hot cocoa from the Starbucks up the road. 

 
Mystic aquarium awaits Connecticut families on a winter day trip! Mystic Aquarium photo by Jocelyn Sherman Avidan for Mommy Poppins

14. Mystic Aquarium

Enjoy a fun-filled day at the aquarium and support sea research while you're at it! Mystic Aquarium has something for everyone. Check out African penguins, beluga whales, sea lions, sharks, and more. 

Updated December 2021, January 2024