Family Attractions
The metropolitan area offers a wealth of beautiful parks, vibrant entertainment hubs, and a variety of attractions focusing on science and nature, all catered to engage children and youth. Numerous cities and towns within the region have established recreational programs and structured activities, encompassing everything from sports leagues to arts and crafts. Facilities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, sports courts and fields, recreation centers, bike paths, skate parks, and extensive greenbelts are readily available for family enjoyment.
Amusements
Allegra Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides & Sleigh Rides
Beardsley Zoological Gardens
Dinosaur State Park
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat Ride
Howard T. Brown Park
Lake Compounce Theme Park
Mystic Aquarium
Mystic Seaport & Museum
Quassy Amusement Park
Seaport Ferry and Sheffield Island Lighthouse
Wood Acres Farm
Kids & Culture
Exploration
Science & Discovery
The Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum
Bruce Museum of Arts & Science
The Children’s Museum
Connecticut State Museum of Natural History
Copernican Observatory & Planetarium
Kidcity Children’s Museum
Lutz Children’s Museum
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration
New Britain Youth Museum
Niantic Children’s Museum
Peabody Museum of Natural History
Stepping Stones Museum for Children
Nature Centers
Action Wildlife Foundation
Audubon Center in Greenwich
The Connecticut Audubon Society
Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
Earth Place
Goodwin Conservation Center
Kellogg Environmental Center
Meigs Point Nature Center
New Canann Nature Center
Northwest Park & Nature Center
Roaring Brook Nature Center
Sessions Woods Management Area
Sheffield Island Nature Trail
Stamford Museum & Nature Center
Woodcock Nature Center
Libraries & Library Systems
Residents of Connecticut benefit from a comprehensive system of public libraries supported by the Connecticut Library Consortium, which enhances their services through cost-effective initiatives. To find information about the nearest library, including the website, address, phone number, and hours, visit the Connecticut Library Consortium website and use the CT Libraries & Librarians option, or explore the Connecticut Digital Library’s searchable directory.
Connecticut Library Consortium
Connecticut Free Online Resources
Connecticut State Library