Jennifer Coe

Whether you choose tangy, sweet, crunchy, or tart – or prefer apple pies, cider donuts, or apple crumble – apple picking by the peck is fun with kids in Connecticut. Starting in late August through October, farms and orchards around the state are bursting with U-pick apples. We are getting reports of a good apple growing season, so there should be loads of ripe varieities available for families to pick over the coming months. In addition to apple picking, many PYO farms offer wagon rides, hayrides, cider doughnuts, and other fall activities and treats children enjoy, too. 

To make the most of your apple picking harvest, try baking apple pie or apple muffins or mixing up fresh applesauce with our favorite apple recipes. For more seasonal activities, explore our Connecticut Fall Fun Guide.

Forget grocery store bouquets—by mid-summer, Connecticut fields are bursting with sunflowers and other brightly colored flowers, and many farms allow families to cut their own bouquets to bring home. Kids can enjoy selecting the most beautiful blooms to carefully arrange in vases, press into books, or weave into hair crowns. Bonus fun: One of these sunflower farms has a flower maze, too! 

For more PYO fun, see our list of Connecticut farms where kids can pick berries, summer fruit, and veggies.

Kids plus swimming pools are what summer dreams are made of, and the Hartford area has plenty to offer. We've rounded up our favorite outdoor pools where you and the kids can take a refreshing dip during the summer months around Hartford, Connecticut.

Read through our list of Hartford swimming pools to find the one right for your family, whether that's one with an adjacent playground or an inexpensive day pass. A number of these spots offer kiddie pools, but you can also check out our list of awesome splash pads in the area, too. 

One thing's for sure: There are plenty of ways to get wet and stay cool this summer in Connecticut!