Just because Hartford isn't near a shoreline doesn't mean kids have venture far to enjoy the water. Plenty of Hartford-area parks are outfitted with fun spraygrounds, splash pads, and fountains to beat the heat, no pool membership required. Here are some of our kids' very favorite water play areas, most of which are free—so there's no need to bring your wallet (just towels and sunscreen)!

As with any public activity this summer, be sure to pack along a face mask along with your sunscreen and towels: Per state guidelines, face coverings are required in outdoor areas when 6 feet of social distance can't be maintained. Our Connecticut Summer Fun Guide includes more fun and safe ideas for keeping kids active and busy in July and August.

Sometimes we get so busy with our regular routines that we forget to do one of the most important and healthy things with our children: get outside! Spending time in the sunshine and among the trees is so healthy for kids (and parents) physically, mentally, and even emotionally. With nicer weather upon us, everyone’s itching to escape the house, and if you live anywhere near the Greater Hartford area, you're downright spoiled with outdoor options to choose from. Here are a dozen of our favorite parks and playgrounds to spend time as a family. 

After a long winter, families are eager to get outside with their kids.  While sledding and ice skating are fun, being stuck inside for four months is not, so springtime is always welcome for families with energetic little ones!  So, when you're ready to kick off the snow boots and to lose a few layers of clothes, and get outside in Connecticut, check out a few of our top spring activities in the Hartford area. And for more springtime fun make sure to check out our Mommy Poppins spring fun guide.