Rainy Days on the Shoreline
Have you taken a peek at the weather? It's not looking good. And not just for one day, or a few days, we have a major system coming through. And as the mom of two little ones, I know rainy days can be tough, especially when little ones are out of school like they are now. So I wanted to get ahead of the storm, and share the best rainy day activities for families along the Shoreline. Have another favorite? Let me know in the comments below!
Kidcity is a children's museum with three floors of imagination play, where kids ages 1 to 7 play pretend with their favorite grown-up. Their exhibits are handmade and one-of-a-kind, built by in-house artists who love inspiring playfulness in visitors of all ages.
Located in Middletown
The Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History contains more than four billion years of natural history, along with captivating exhibits and exciting programs! For little ones, I have one word for you...DINOSAURS!
Located in New Haven
The Submarine Force Museum, located on the Thames River in Groton, Connecticut, maintains the world's finest collection of submarine artifacts. It's the only submarine museum operated by the United States Navy. One of the best parts is being able to explore the USS Nautilus submarine. Even better, admission and parking are FREE!
Located in Groton
Image courtesy of guilfordfreelibrary.org
One of the best parts of living on the Connecticut Shoreline is the vast array of libraries with amazing children's programs. Click below for a few of our favorites...
The Family Fun Center at the Connecticut Sportsplex in North Branford, is a great place to let kids be kids on rainy days. The sportsplex offers lastertag, cybersport, kid's playscape, arcade and group sports activities.
Located in North Branford
While the Mystic Aquarium does have outdoor exhibits, it's one of my favorite places to visit on a rainy day. Often the rain scares off the crowd, so you're left enjoying all of the interior tanks including sharks and sting rays, the sea lion show, their new exhibit Jurassic Giants, and their 3D movie all on your own!
Located in Mystic
While the Connecticut Children's Museum is only open on Friday and Saturday's from 12-5pm, it's one of my favorite spots. The museum is housed in an historic and recently renovated building within the cultural 'corridor' of the city's Town Green District The museum is made of eight thematic and community-inspired rooms, the best one being the "goodnight moon room" pictured left.
Located in New Haven
R.J. Julia Booksellers offers an amazing selection of books, but also great children's programs and a children's section on their second floor. Dive into their collection of best sellers, or indulge in a sweet treat at their cafe. Right now stop by for their weekly "Small Events for Small People"on Thursdays - they offer unique stories, activities, drawing, coloring, dance, stretching and yoga.
Located in Madison