Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained? This list is filled with our family’s favorite playgrounds, indoor play spaces, parks, seasonal events, and kid-friendly activities that have been a hit with my girls. Whether you’re planning a quick out...
Sections
4
Outdoor Fun
Indoor Favorites
Seasonal Favorites
Amusement Parks
Outdoor Fun
One of our favorite playgrounds in Connecticut! This large, inclusive playground has something for kids of all ages, with plenty of climbing, slides, swings, and room to explore. My girls never want to leave, and it’s definitely worth the drive for a...
Jonathan's Dream - West Hartford, CT
A hidden gem where kids can see hundreds of animals up close. You can drive through part of the park, explore on foot, and even visit the petting area. It’s an easy way to spend a few hours, especially if your kids love animals.
Action Wildlife - Goshen, CT
One of our favorite family destinations! Meet farm animals, climb on the playground, and don’t miss the famous goat house where goats climb onto the roof. They also host fun seasonal events throughout the year.
Flamig Farm - Simsbury, CT
A perfect family outing any season. Pick-your-own fruit, grab donuts from the Apple Barrel, play on the playground, and enjoy seasonal attractions like sunflower fields, corn mazes, and holiday events.
Lyman Orchards Apple Orchard - Middlefield, Connecticut
Sonny’s Place is the perfect family destination if you’re looking for a little bit of everything! From mini golf and go-karts to zip lines, laser tag, batting cages, and an arcade, there’s something for kids of all ages. During the summer, the splash...
Sonny's Place - Somers, CT
Indoor Favorites
KidsPlay is one of our favorite places to visit in Torrington! It’s clean, well organized, and has so many fun activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. My girls always have a blast exploring, climbing, playing, and using their imaginations.
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KidsPlay Children's Museum - Torrington, CT
An indoor favorite packed with trampolines, climbing walls, obstacle courses, and play areas. Great for burning energy any time of year.
Fun Max Adventure Trampoline Park - Simsbury, CT
A hands-on children’s museum designed for imaginative play and learning. Kids can explore themed exhibits, climb, create, and pretend play for hours. Best suited for toddlers through elementary-aged kids.
Imagine Nation Children's Museum - Bristol, CT
A clean, modern indoor play space that’s perfect for younger kids. With climbing structures, slides, and plenty of room to explore, it’s a great place to burn energy any time of year.
It's Playtime - Avon CT
One of Connecticut’s best children’s museums! Every room has a unique theme filled with interactive exhibits that encourage creativity and imaginative play. It’s a place kids will want to visit again and again.
Kidcity Children's Museum - Middlebury, CT
Spare Time Bristol is one of our favorite family outings! My girls always have so much fun, and they do an amazing job making bowling enjoyable for kids. The dinosaur bowling ramps are a huge hit, and the interactive scoring keeps them entertained be...
Spare Time - Bristol, CT
A hands-on experience that’s perfect for creative kids. Making custom slime is interactive, fun, and gives children something unique to take home. It’s a great activity for birthdays, rainy days, or just trying something different.
The Slime Lab Co. - Oxford, CT
A must-visit for curious kids! Filled with interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and live science demonstrations, it’s educational without ever feeling boring. Plan to spend several hours exploring.
Connecticut Science Center - Hartford, CT
Seasonal Favorites
Connecticut’s only zoo is a great family outing. Home to a variety of animals, shaded walking paths, and seasonal events, it’s the perfect size for younger kids without feeling overwhelming.
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo - Bridgeport, CT
A dinosaur lover’s dream! Walk among life-sized dinosaurs, cool off at the splash pad in the summer, and enjoy one of the largest playgrounds in the area. It’s well worth the drive.
The Dinosaur Place - Oakdale, CT
One of the best family attractions in New England. From beluga whales and penguins to sea lions and interactive exhibits, there’s something exciting around every corner. A great day trip for all ages.
Mystic Aquarium - Mystic, CT
Step into a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies. It’s a peaceful, unique experience that’s just as magical for adults as it is for kids.
Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory - Deerfield, MA
A family favorite for seasonal fun! Depending on the time of year, you’ll find beautiful flowers, pumpkin displays, holiday décor, and fun photo opportunities. It’s a great place to stroll, shop, and let the kids enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Fair Weather Growers - Rocky Hill, CT
The ultimate New England fair! From carnival rides and farm animals to concerts, unique shopping, and incredible food, there’s something for every member of the family. It’s a fall tradition that’s worth visiting at least once every season. 🌽🎡🍩
The Big E - West Springfield, MA
Amusement Parks
Perfect for families with younger kids. It has rides, a water park, arcade games, and a beach, making it easy to spend the entire day there.
Quassy Amusement Park - Middlebury, CT
One of our favorite summer adventures! With rides for every age, a water park, live entertainment, and plenty of family attractions, it’s easy to spend the whole day here. Whether your kids love roller coasters or just want to meet the Looney Tunes c...
Six Flags New England - Springfield, MA
A classic Connecticut amusement park that’s perfect for families. It has rides for little ones and thrill seekers alike, plus Crocodile Cove Water Park to cool off during the summer. A fun destination for a full day of memories.
Lake Compounce - Bristol, CT
A magical destination designed with younger kids in mind. From gentle rides and interactive attractions to beloved storybook characters, every corner feels like stepping into a fairytale. It’s clean, family-friendly, and the perfect first amusement p...
Story Land - Glen, NH
A must-visit for families and thrill seekers alike! Hersheypark offers an incredible mix of roller coasters, kid-friendly rides, water attractions, and plenty of chocolate-themed fun. Be sure to make time for Hershey’s Chocolate World—it’s free to vi...