Hartford

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.

45 Unmissable Things to do with Kids in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Tania Pesce on Fri, 04/12/2019 - 8:38pm

Smack in the middle of the state, Hartford County is a place you'll probably have lots of occasions to pass through even if you don't live nearby. Luckily, this county, the second most populous in Connecticut, is packed with museums, parks, and other attractions that are worth a stop for a morning or afternoon. While there are many more things to do with kids than this 50-item list shares, we have collected some unmissable places and events Connecticut has to share. Whether you and the brood are in the mood to learn, soak up nature, or get some exercise, this list has a family fun idea for you.

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.

25 Free and Affordable Summer Camps in Connecticut

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Mon, 03/04/2019 - 8:26pm

Once school ends here in Connecticut, parents suddenly face a whole lot of unstructured time for the kids. But don't stress: This is where summer camps come into the picture—and it doesn't have to break the bank. We've made it easy for Connecticut parents to find some less expensive camps throughout the state to keep kids busy and happy this summer. Check out our picks for cheap (and even free) Connecticut summer camps. Remember to inquire with your town's parks and rec department; these camps tend to be very affordable options, too.

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.

Connecticut STEM Camps Keep Science and Math Fun All Summer

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Mon, 02/18/2019 - 9:00am

Got a Connecticut kiddo who loves all things science and tech? If so, a STEM summer camp could be a great way to broaden those interests and start your little scientist on a path of lifelong learning. At these enriching, hands-on summer programs in Connecticut, kids ranging in age from preschoolers to teens will have a chance to learn STEM principles, from building a model coral reef to designing and printing 3-D objects to powering a circuit using solar energy.

Check out these STEM summer camps across the state, or take a look at our extensive Summer Camp Guide and Summer Camp Directory for tons of options fit for all interests, including affordable Connecticut camps and sleepway camps.

Where to Celebrate Maple Sugaring Season with Kids in Connecticut

Submitted by Jacqueline Miller on Sun, 02/17/2019 - 8:30pm

Soon, sugar houses all across the state get to work on the process of collecting and evaporating clear watery sap into tasty, golden syrup. The traditional maple sugaring season extends from February until late March, though that depends greatly on the weather (freezing nights and warm, sunny days are necessary to provide good sap yields). If you and the kids are interested in learning more about this sweet New England tradition, choose among the many open houses, demonstrations and festivals in Litchfield, Hartford, Fairfield, and New Haven counties. Some sugar houses invite you to stop in anytime the evaporator is running (but call before heading out).

10 Preschool Summer Camps in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Mon, 01/28/2019 - 9:38pm

Your Connecticut preschooler might finally be ready for camp! Before children enter school, whether it’s preschool or kindergarten, parents often look for opportunities to help prepare them for the upcoming school year—and summer camp is a great option. Many great summer camps in the Hartford County area fill this need. We've found short sessions, indoor and outdoor options, and plenty of summer fun for Hartford-area preschoolers and toddlers. Closer to Fairfield? You might want to see our Preschooler Camps for Fairfield County Kids instead.

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.