Recently my eight-year old daughter was invited to a laser tag party. I was admittedly apprehensive at first -- my little girl, battling with lasers? But she wanted to try it and I’m glad we gave it a shot. If you aren’t aware of how it works, the kids wear packs on their bodies that track if they are struck by a laser beam shot by another kid. Most places have obstacles to hide behind as well as for sneaking up on opponents. Kids work in teams so that they are not alone. Different places have varying themes and special effects. If your child likes high adventure and is looking for a thrill, check out the following places in the Hartford and New Haven areas for his or her next birthday party. For more birthday party ideas, check out our Connecticut Kids' Birthday Party Guide. 

Although only five miles from the New Haven Green at the lighthouse, Lighthouse Point Park feels much farther removed from the noise and bustle of the city. This 82-acre park on Long Island Sound, with it’s historic lighthouse, antique carousel, and stretch of coastline is a beautiful summer sanctuary. In addition, it has a splash pad water play area, playground, and swings right on the beach, making it a great destination for young kids in the New Haven area, and a perfect day trip destination.

In the Eastern quadrant of the state, nestled among Shenipsit State Forest, Shenipsit Lake Reservoir, and Soapstone Mountain, is the town of Ellington. Once a rural farm town, Ellington, due to its relative proximity to Hartford from Tolland County, is growing fast (it has the 6th fastest growth rate of all towns in the state). It has, however, retained much of its bucolic charm. With its beautiful public beach, airport, dwarf orchards, and handcrafted furniture at Kloter Farms, it is worth a visit if you are in Eastern Connecticut.