List of Chill Activities for Kids in Connecticut During the Summer Heatwave
Connecticut offers a wealth of family-friendly activities for those looking to beat the summer heat or enjoy the great outdoors. Here's a round-up of some of the best options the state has to offer.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the state's forests, open lands, ponds, and lakes provide the perfect setting for shady hikes. Nature centers, such as those found in Connecticut, offer opportunities to learn about local wildlife and see live critters. Fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding spots are also plentiful, making Connecticut a water sports lover's paradise.
Families seeking a glimpse into prehistoric times can visit the Dinosaur State Park, where dinosaur tracks are preserved in stone. For a cooler option, Connecticut's beaches, like Jennings Beach, offer a refreshing escape during a heatwave.
When the weather gets too hot, there's no shortage of indoor activities to keep the whole family entertained. Visiting museums, such as the Museum of Connecticut History in Hartford, provides a dose of education and culture. The Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport offers animal encounters, while indoor adventure parks, like Nomads Adventure Park in South Windsor, offer laser tag, mini golf, and other family-friendly activities.
Arts and crafts programs are also available at venues like Home Depot Kids Workshop and visitor centers such as Weir Farm in Wilton. For those seeking a more active indoor experience, indoor trampoline parks, zip lines, and rope courses are common in Connecticut.
Families can also cool off at splashpads or spraygrounds in the Hartford area, or take a dip at Wolfe Park's pool in Fairfield. Roller skating at Ron-a-Roll in Vernon and ice skating at the International Skating Center are other cool options.
For those looking for a break from the heat, arcades and fun centers, theaters like the Toyota Oakdale Theatre, community centers, and indoor facilities listed in local event guides for kids provide a variety of indoor activities. Drive-in movie theaters, malls offering air-conditioned play areas and shopping, and free summer concerts in Southington, Plainville, and Hartford are other great options.
Connecticut's rich maritime heritage can be explored at Mystic Seaport, while the Connecticut River Museum's boat RiverQuest and Mystic River Cruises offer boat rides. Families can also visit New London, CT, home to several lighthouses.
Families with younger children can enjoy the Dr. Seuss Museum, New England Air Museum, and The New England Carousel Museum, all of which cater to kids. For a sweet treat, Connecticut ice cream destinations offer delicious treats to beat the heat.
Lastly, for a unique experience, families can swim with fishes in Mystic, CT, or take a scenic train ride in Essex. The Hyatt Regency Hotel in Greenwich has a brand-new movie theater, and guides to indoor play spaces and fun zones are available for those seeking a cooler environment.
Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, indoor fun, or a mix of both, Connecticut has a wealth of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained this summer.
- After a day of exploring Connecticut's water sports, consider visiting its numerous fashion-and-beauty stores for a shopping spree.
- Post-adventure, families can unwind at a home-and-garden center, like The Home Depot, where arts-and-crafts programs are offered.
- Travelers in Connecticut can also spend time at pet-friendly hotels or pamper their pets at local pet-grooming salons.
- For couples wanting to rekindle their relationships, romantic dinners at Connecticut's food-and-drink establishments, or trips to car dealerships for a fun car shopping experience, are recommended.
- Wholesome travel itineraries might include visits to shopping malls or small towns offering unique stores and boutiques.
- Lastly, sports enthusiasts can attend a game at one of Connecticut's numerous sporting facilities or watch a race at the prominent local race tracks.
