Animal Explorations
The Dinosaur State Park has one of the largest dinosaur tracks in North America, and can be a learning adventure for children of all ages. The Dinosaur State Park Arboretum is within the park, and contains more than 250 species of live plant families that lived during the dinosaur age. Besides tour-led dinosaur exhibits, children can partake in interactive nature trails, gem and fossil mining activities, films and nature-related crafts. As of 2010, the park entrance fee is $10 for teens and adults and $4 for children six to 12. Children under six are free.
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo has more than 300 animals from North and South America. There is a walk-through rain forest exhibit, a free-flight aviary and a petting farm area where children can experience goats, cows, pigs, sheep and other barnyard animals up close. Delicious finger foods and animal-inspired treats are made at the Peacock Café. The zoo provides a picnic grove area where families and large groups can eat and rest. The zoo also hosts children's birthday parties and private events. General adult admission is $11. Children three to 11 and seniors admission is $9.
Dinosaur State Track
400 W. Street
Rocky Hill, CT 06067
860-257-7601
dinosaurstatepark.org
Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo
1875 Noble Ave.
Bridgeport, CT 06610
203-394-6565
beardsleyzoo.org
Museums
The Lutz Children's Museum, designed for school ages children three to 12, is a multi-faceted exploration center that strives to teach children about culture, history and the natural sciences through interactive and fun learning exhibits, programs and events. Some of the exhibits featured are live animal barn, art and craft activities and an artifact collection exhibit. The museum has weekly classes that young learners a chance to see arts and culture on field trips, special plays and concerts.
The Discovery Museum has three floors of hands interactive learning games and exhibits. The museum focuses on science-related exhibits featuring physics and energy shows and experiments, a planetarium and its very own space station. Children birthday parties and group events are welcome.
The Lutz Childrens Museum
247 South Main Street
Manchester, CT 06040
860-643-0949
lutzmuseum.org
The Discovery Museum
4450 Park Ave.
Bridgeport, CT 06604
203-372-3521
discoverymuseum.org
Entertainment Center
Nomad's Adventure Quest is noted as one of the largest play land centers of New England. Nomad's has hundreds of arcade and video games, laser tag, outdoor miniature golf and bumper cars, basketball arena, wall climb and a 12,000 ft. inflatable bounce area and maze. An on-site snack bar is available. Nomad does party hosting for children and special events. General admissions for all ages is free.
Nomads Adventure Quest
100 Bidwell Road
South Windsor, CT 06074
860-290-1177
nomadsadventurequest.com
