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Farms to Pick Your Own Berries, Peaches, Plums, and More in Connecticut

Submitted by Jacqueline Miller on Fri, 06/28/2019 - 9:00am

Fresh summer fruit is treat enough, but when kids can pick their own berries, peaches, and plums themselves, dessert is all the sweeter. For more pick-your-own options in Connecticut, check out our berrylicious posts devoted to just strawberry picking and blueberry picking in Connecticut. Happy picking—and baking, and best of all, eating! For more summer fun, check out our Connecticut Summer Fun Guide.

Summer Day Trips in Connecticut for Families that are Fun for Kids

Submitted by Anna Fader on Sun, 06/23/2019 - 3:00pm

When you live in Connecticut and within a short drive of great beaches, state parks, and amuseument park rides, every summer weekend is an opportunity for a quick, easy family day trip with kids. Here, we've collected some outings that Connecticut kids will love, grouped by area so you can easily double up on attractions and create your own itinerary. Click through each link for more information and inspiration, whether you are looking to explore natural beauty, expand knowledge, or scream with delight on a water slide or roller coaster. Find even more summer activities in our Connecticut Summer Fun Guide.

Great Connecticut Beaches for Toddlers and Preschoolers: Gentle Surf, Tide Pools, Bathrooms, Playgrounds, and More

Submitted by Ally Noel on Fri, 06/21/2019 - 4:00pm

Parenthood may have put an end to lazy lounging in the sun, but visiting a great Connecticut beach with a curious, playful toddler or preschooler in tow is a whole new kind of fun. What makes a good beach or lake experience with a little one? These tot- and mom-approved spots have features like bathrooms, concessions, gentle (or no) surf, tide pools, or spraygrounds that allow for more independent exploration with fewer meltdowns. Just pack some toys, sunscreen, and your patience, and your bound for a fun beach day.

12 Amazing Playgrounds Worth Driving to Across Connecticut

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Fri, 04/19/2019 - 8:14pm

Now that we have had a few 60 degree days on the books, it's time to pull out the water bottles and pile the kids in the car to hit some of the best playgrounds in Connecticut. All of these playgrounds are unique, fun, and are less than a 45-minute drive away from anywhere in the state. Also, don't forget to check out some of our favorite neighborhood playgrounds in the Hartford and Fairfield areas.

Easter Egg Hunts and Bunny Trains for Kids in Connecticut

Submitted by Makayla O'Keefe on Sun, 03/24/2019 - 1:52pm

Hippity hoppity hooray—Easter is on its way! If you're like us and you can't wait any longer for springtime, Cadbury Eggs and cute bonnets, we've got you covered. With everything from glow-in-the-dark egg hunts to egg decorating workshops to Easter train rides, we have rounded up a list of bunny sightings and egg-stravaganzas across the state. Most of these events are geared towards preschoolers and younger elementary age children, so keep that in mind if you have older kids. Also note that some events require pre-registration and are dependent on decent weather, so be sure to check updates before heading out. Have a hopping good time...and check out our post about Easter breakfasts and brunches for even more bunny-themed fun.

Easter Bunny Breakfasts and Brunches for Kids and Families in Connecticut

Submitted by Kelley Heyworth on Sun, 03/17/2019 - 9:26am

With spring in the air, it's time to polish up those dress shoes and think about a special Easter breakfast or brunch with kids. If your kiddo is keen be treated to a very special meal and maybe hunt for eggs or shake a paw, check out these Easter-themed meals at community centers and restaurants around the state. For more ideas to celebrate this gorgeous season in Connecticut, bookmark our spring fun guide.

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

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

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. Check out our March GoList for more handpicked fun this month.

Free Museum Days in Connecticut

Submitted by Ally Noel on Sun, 01/06/2019 - 6:00pm

Connecticut may be one of the nation’s smallest states, but what it lacks in square footage it makes up for in culture. Connecticut boasts hundreds of art museums, historical homesteads, science museums, children’s museums, and cultural centers across the state. If you want to take advantage of everything the Nutmeg State has to offer, but don’t love the price tag that comes along with it, then this list of family-friendly cultural attractions featuring free days for visitors is for you! From the Lyman AIlyn Art Museum in New London to the Wadsworth Antheneum in Hartford, there's something for every interest and age group. Still craving more? Check out our complete Connecticut museum guide.

Below is a list of free visiting hours in various museums and cultural centers around the state. Please confirm these free days and evenings with the museums before heading out. Sometimes, especially near a national or religious holiday, schedules may change. Also, keep in mind that teachers, veterans, or seniors may also receive extra discounts.

Things to Do on New Year's Day in Connecticut

Submitted by Ally Noel on Tue, 12/25/2018 - 11:38am

Sure, you have amazing plans watching the clock strike midnight, but if your kids are anything like mine -- they will still be up at the crack of dawn on New Year's Day looking for something to do. Whether you choose to bundle up and head outdoors, or leave the coats at home and check out an indoor activity, there is plenty of excitement awaiting in every corner of the state. Spend a nice day with your family skating by the Sound, or take in the IMAX at the Maritime Aquarium. From First Day Hikes to the Connecticut cience Center, something on this list will ensure that everyone starts 2019 off right.

24 Family Friendly New Year's Eve Celebrations in Connecticut

Submitted by Jacqueline Miller on Fri, 12/21/2018 - 2:00pm

I have crossed over. Dreams of elegant parties and midnight champagne toasts have been replaced with longing for easy bedtimes and a good night's sleep. But it feels wrong not to celebrate the end of one year and the beginning of another without some sort of revelry. Happily, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate New Year's Eve together as a family: no baby sitter required! Whether you're interested in skating, swimming, or roller skating; there's something for everyone.

For more great ideas to finish up 2018 and make plans for 2019, be sure to check our frequently updated events calendar.