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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.

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.

Winter Break Fun in CT

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Fri, 02/16/2018 - 7:16pm

This winter break stay busy with one (or all) of the following activity ideas in your area. There are so many fun options to choose from that you'll be sure to find one that you and your family will enjoy.

Also don't forget to check out our Winter Guide of Activities.

Holiday Strolls and Tree Lighting Events in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Pam Hegner on Fri, 11/03/2017 - 12:47pm

One of the best things about living in Connecticut is the small-town feel our communities work so hard to capture. This sentiment can especially be felt around the holidays when people come together. So even if you don't live in these towns in Hartford County, you are welcome and encouraged to celebrate the season at these events. Check out our Holiday Guide and our list of Holiday Light Shows for even more tips on fun ways to celebrate the season.

Old School Diners and Ice Cream Parlors in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Wed, 07/05/2017 - 11:29am

For some good, old-fashioned comfort food and a blast from the past, check out these vintage, retro diners and ice cream parlors in the Hartford area. Adults will love the old school vibe while kids will love farm fresh ice cream and shakes!

Restaurants Where Kids Eat Free in Central CT

Submitted by Tania Pesce on Mon, 12/07/2015 - 12:43am

During the summer months we try to spend as much time out of the house as possible. Between all the beach days, zoo visits, farmers markets, weekend getaways and festivals, the cost of all these things can quickly rack up. After all this, it's nice to find ways to save money in as many ways as possible. Many restaurants allow children to eat free so I have compiled a list of places where kids can eat free so that your money can be spent on other entertaining things to do. For a list of some of our fave family friendly restaurants in Central CT, but not necessarily free, check out our other post also.

10 Places to Throw a Birthday Party in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Tania Pesce on Tue, 09/01/2015 - 10:56am

Do you have a budding artist or historian? We have the perfect party ideas for them! You won’t be disappointed with the choices Hartford's Party Guide has to offer. Whether it be a bounce house, air or trolley museum, we've listed ten fun places to throw your next soiree.

Honoring Veterans on Veterans Day in Hartford County Area

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Sat, 11/08/2014 - 6:17am

As Veterans Day approaches, you may be thinking about ways to teach kids about the importance of the day. There are many ways that they can pay tribute to America’s veterans, such as making cards and distributing them to relatives who are veterans or veterans at nursing homes and VA medical centers, or putting together care packages (a good use for excess Halloween candy!) for veterans stationed overseas. In addition, there are several events and memorial celebrations in the Hartford area beginning the weekend of November 8-9, and on the actual day, November 11. Use your discretion, as some of these activities may be more suitable for older children.

Family Friendly Bike Paths in the Hartford Area

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Thu, 10/16/2014 - 9:40pm

Our family loves biking but doesn't live in a neighborhood with sidewalks. In fact, the road is very busy and would be dangerous on two wheels. Because of that, we travel from home to bike and get out and nature and explore. It can be boring going to the same place over and over again, so, If you're like us, you might like to see Mommy Poppins' list of family friendly bike rides in and around Hartford.

Family Friendly Bike Baths in Greater Hartford

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Mon, 10/13/2014 - 9:48pm

In between hayrides to pumpkin patches, Halloween-themed events, and other fun, fall activities, this is my favorite time of year to bike -- warm enough so that you don’t need gloves, cool enough not to melt into a sweaty mess. A bonus is the beautiful foliage you will take in on most of these rides. Now that my oldest daughter has shed her training wheels and mastered her two-wheeler, we are ready to venture out of the neighborhood and try an adventure on a scenic bike path. Listed below are some options for a family friendly bike ride in the Hartford area, depending on how skilled your child is.