Local Attractions

Fun For The Family

Mystic Seaport - Explore American maritime history firsthand as you climb aboard historical ships, stroll through a re-created 19th century coastal village, or watch a working preservation shipyard in action.

Mystic Aquarium - A unique experience in living marine creatures and the latest discoveries of out underwater world. Exhibits include Ray Touch Pool, Hidden Amazon, Sharks, Sea Lion Show, Return to Titanic, Penguins and Beluga Whales.

Norwalk Maritime Aquarium - The Aquarium features live exhibits, marine science and enviornmental education in a vibrant and entertaining enviornment.

Hammonasset State Park - Connecticut's largest shoreline park offers over two miles of beach to enjoy swimming, strolling along the boardwalk, biking, picnicking, trails, and The Nature Center.

Gillette's Castle - It looks like a midieval fortress but a step inside the stone castle reveals the genious that was William Gillette. This state park includes tours, a nature center, picnicking, and spectacular views of the Connecticut River.

Brown Stone Park The adventure sports activities at Brownstone are not for the Sunday afternoon walker or casual swimmer. Brownstone is hard-core recreation for those ready for a true interactive sports facility.Visitors of all ages will have the unique opportunity to explore the quarries 100-foot freshwater depths; traverse its 85-foot solid brownstone walls; discover the 300 years of quarrying history; navigate the waters smooth surface; or develop the ultimate team by taking on all of these sports in some of the most advanced challenge courses available today.

Kayak and Canoe Rentals - Enjoy a relaxing a scenic paddle along the local rivers and shoreline. Mingle with a variety of wildlife in these special tidal wetlands.

Essex Valley Steam Train - From the blast of the whistle you will be swept away by the experience of an authentic journey with picturesque views of meadows, farms, rivers, creeks, and a waterfall.

Dinosaur Park - Beneath the geodesic dome you will discover Jurassic fossil tracks that are over 200 million years old as well as a life size diorama, walking trails, and an arboratum.

Yale-Peabody Museum - The museum features breathtaking reconstructed dinosaur skeletons, The Age of Reptiles mural, life-like dioramas, fossils, and Native American artifacts.

Lake Compounce Theme Park - Whether you're interested in high speed coasters, wet and wild rapids, kiddie rides, or live entertainment you can find it all at Lake Compounce.

Beardsley Zoo - The zoo, which houses nearly 300 species such as lions and tigers, provides a wonderfully wild experience for anyone.

More for Kids

Stepping Stones Museum - It is clear why Stepping Stones was voted Best Children's Museum in Connecticut. The educational and interactive exhibits include, Healthyville,Waterscape, Bubbles, Toddler Terrain, and Rain Forest Adventure.

Connecticut Children's Museum - Children, ages 3 - 10, can learn at their own paces by interacting with creative exhibits in spaces built for their small size.

Connecticut Science Center - With 150 hands-on exhibits, a state-of-the-art 3D digital theater, four educational labs, plus daily programs and events, the Connecticut Science Center offers endless exploration for children, teens and adults. Every part of science will be at a visitor's fingertips, from Physics to Forensics, Geology to Astronomy.

Children's Museum Of Southeastern Connecticut - This museum engages, encourages, and challenges children up to Grade 5 in the arts, sciences, health, culture, and history with their various exhibits such as Global Villiage, Outdoor Garden, Climbing Wall, and Pond.

Imagine Nation - Bring your children ages 2 - 10 to explore the museums many hands-on exhibits such as, Dolls of the World, ESPN Play Your Way, Green House, and Sand Station.