Things to do in CT with kids: Your ultimate family adventure guide

Welcome to Connecticut, where family adventures await around every corner! This guide is your passport to a world of family-friendly attractions tailored for unforgettable experiences with your kids. At the heart of our adventure guide is Lake Compounce, Connecticut's premier destination for family fun, offering thrilling theme park rides and refreshing water attractions. Alongside Lake Compounce, we explore a variety of other captivating options including vibrant museums, scenic parks, and seasonal events. Whether you're riding the coasters or exploring historic sites, Connecticut promises a curated experience that will delight every member of the family. Let's dive into the excitement!

Theme & Water Park

Explore the ultimate family-friendly activities in CT at Lake Compounce, where the excitement never ends. It's a top destination for fun places for kids in Connecticut, featuring rides and water parks that promise a splash-tacular day out for all ages.

Lake Compounce: The Ultimate Theme Park in Connecticut

Lake Compounce stands as the crown jewel of Connecticut's family attractions, offering an unforgettable adventure for all ages. As the oldest continuously-operating amusement park in North America, it blends historic charm with modern thrills. The park boasts a wide array of rides, from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like Boulder Dash to the gentler, kid-friendly carousels. With its sprawling water park, including wave pools and exhilarating water slides, Lake Compounce provides a refreshing escape on hot summer days. It's the perfect destination for family outings, promising a day packed with fun and excitement.

Best attractions for kids

Lake Compounce shines with attractions tailored for younger guests. Kids can delight in the whimsical Rainbow Riders, soar on the American Flyers, and explore the Little Critters play area among many others. Each ride is designed to ensure safety and fun, making them perfect for family memories.

Rainbow Riders

Float up to the sky on the Rainbow Riders, a mild kiddie ride located in Circus World. Children can spin their own balloon and enjoy panoramic views of the park. It's a colorful adventure in the sky, perfect for families with young children who meet the 48-inch height minimum or are accompanied by an adult.

Little Critters

Little Critters offers a fun-sized version of a classic car ride, tailored for the amusement of younger guests. Situated in Kiddie Land, this mild kiddie ride allows little ones to take the wheel under safe conditions. It’s an ideal choice for children between 39 and 56 inches tall.

American Flyers

Soar to new heights with the American Flyers, a family ride that lets you pilot a themed plane. This attraction offers a thrilling experience as you control how high you fly, making it a favorite among adventurous kids and families. Suitable for children over 36 inches with adult supervision required for those under 48 inches.

Best water attractions for kids

Cool off in style at Lake Compounce's kid-friendly water attractions. Thunder Rapids offers gentle thrills, Anchor Bay is perfect for little swimmers, and Keeper's Cottage provides interactive water play. These attractions ensure that the water fun is both safe and exciting for our youngest visitors.

Thunder Rapids

Thunder Rapids invites families to brave its moderate currents in a raft ride through natural scenery. Each twist and turn offers a chance to get soaked, making it a thrilling experience for those over 36 inches tall. It's a wild ride that promises splashes and laughter.

Anchor Bay

Anchor Bay, a mild wave pool in Crocodile Cove, provides a refreshing retreat for families. It’s a safe and relaxing environment where visitors of all ages can cool down, with life jackets required for children under 48 inches. Adults must accompany children under 42 inches, ensuring a secure experience.

Keeper's Cottage

Keeper's Cottage in Crocodile Cove is the ultimate water play area for little ones. Featuring kid-sized waterslides and interactive sea creature features, children can splash and play in a safe, fun-filled setting. This attraction is open to children up to 54 inches tall and 250 pounds.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Lake Compounce goes beyond rides to make your visit comfortable and convenient. With plentiful dining options, rest areas, and family restrooms, the park caters to all family needs. Baby care centers and rental strollers are also available to ensure a hassle-free experience for parents with young children.

Activities to enjoy with your family and friends

Beyond the rides, Lake Compounce offers a variety of activities that bring families and friends together. Enjoy live entertainment, participate in interactive shows, or visit during our many special events.

Lake Compounce offers a vibrant array of special events throughout the year. Kick off with Opening Weekend to enjoy the new Wildcat ride and exclusive perks for Season Passholders. In June, Kids Fest transforms weekends with special shows and character meet-and-greets. The Summer Concert Series lights up July with live music and fireworks, while August's Beach Bash brings beachside DJ fun to Crocodile Cove. As autumn arrives, Phantom Fall Fest offers spooky nighttime thrills, and Holiday Lights in November and December dazzles with spectacular light displays, making Lake Compounce a year-round destination for family fun and festive gatherings. These experiences are designed to enhance your visit and create lasting bonds with whomever you choose to visit the park.

Museums

Connecticut's museums are treasure troves of knowledge and fun, making them perfect for family outings in CT. From the wonders of the Connecticut Science Center to the historical insights of the Mark Twain House, these venues offer enriching experiences that are both educational and entertaining.

The Children's Museum

The Children's Museum in Connecticut is a wonderland of interactive exhibits and educational programs, making it a top destination for children's activities in CT. Here, young minds can explore science and nature through hands-on experiences that are both fun and informative, including live animal encounters and space exhibitions. It's a vibrant space where curiosity leads to discovery.

The Mark Twain House & Museum

Step back in time at The Mark Twain House & Museum, one of the most intriguing family-friendly activities in CT. Tour the beautifully preserved home where Mark Twain wrote his most famous works. This historic site not only celebrates the legacy of a great American writer but also offers educational programs that bring history to life for all ages.

Connecticut Science Center

Ignite your child's passion for science at the Connecticut Science Center, a premier destination for kid-friendly attractions in Connecticut. With over 150 hands-on exhibits, a state-of-the-art 3D digital theater, and various educational programs, the Science Center makes learning about technology, physics, and biology exciting for everyone.

New England Air Museum

The New England Air Museum presents an impressive collection of aircraft and aviation artifacts, making it a thrilling visit for fun places for kids in Connecticut. Explore interactive exhibits, flight simulators, and educational programs that provide a comprehensive look at the history and technology of aviation.

Mystic Seaport Museum

Experience maritime history firsthand at Mystic Seaport Museum, where history floats and comes to life. This dynamic museum offers a glimpse into America’s seafaring past with historic ships, a recreated 19th-century coastal village, and live demonstrations. It's an engaging and educational outing that ranks high among family-friendly activities in CT.

Parks and Nature Centers

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Connecticut with parks and nature centers that offer serene settings and a plethora of outdoor activities. These spots provide a peaceful retreat and are fantastic options for children's activities in CT, perfect for families looking to explore the great outdoors.

Hammonasset Beach State Park

Hammonasset Beach State Park offers the longest shoreline park in Connecticut, making it a perfect destination for fun places for kids in Connecticut. Families can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and exploring the nature center, which offers educational programs about the local marine life and environment, ensuring a fun and informative day out by the sea.

Gillette Castle State Park

Gillette Castle State Park stands out among family-friendly activities in CT with its unique medieval fortress-like structure and picturesque grounds. Explore the hiking trails, enjoy scenic river views, and tour the intriguing castle, which offers a glimpse into the eccentric life of actor William Gillette, famous for portraying Sherlock Holmes.

Thimble Islands

Embark on a boat tour around the Thimble Islands to discover a hidden gem among Connecticut's coastal destinations. This archipelago of small islands offers breathtaking views, intriguing history, and the chance to spot local wildlife. It's a peaceful escape that ranks as a must-see for CT family outings, perfect for those looking to combine adventure with natural beauty.

Seasonal Events

Celebrate the seasons in Connecticut with family-friendly festivals and events that bring joy and community spirit. From the spooky delights of Phantom Fall Fest to the charming Apple Festival, these are must-visit kid-friendly attractions in Connecticut that offer fun and festivity for all ages.

Phantom Fall Fest

Phantom Fall Fest transforms Lake Compounce into a Halloween haven, making it one of the top seasonal kid-friendly attractions in Connecticut. Enjoy themed rides, haunted houses, and live entertainment that provide spooky fun for all ages. It's a perfect blend of thrills and chills, making it an unforgettable family outing during the autumn season.

Durham Fair

Experience the traditional charm of Connecticut at the Durham Fair, one of the largest fairs in North America. With livestock exhibits, craft displays, and carnival rides, it offers a variety of fun places for kids in Connecticut. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and a range of competitions, making it a quintessential New England experience for the whole family.

Apple Festival

Celebrate the fall season at the Apple Festival, a delightful event for CT family outings. Participate in apple picking, cider making, and pie baking contests, or simply enjoy the crafts, live music, and festive atmosphere. This annual event is a great way for families to enjoy the crisp autumn air while indulging in seasonal treats and activities.

Other Family-Friendly Attractions

Discover more fun places for kids in Connecticut with a visit to Beardsley Zoo or the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. These attractions offer engaging and interactive experiences, making them ideal choices for CT family outings that are both educational and entertaining.

Visit Beardsley Zoo

Beardsley Zoo in Connecticut offers a fun-filled day with exotic animals from around the world, making it a highlight among kid-friendly attractions in Connecticut. Explore diverse habitats, attend educational talks, and meet fascinating wildlife up close. It's an ideal destination for families looking to combine adventure with learning about biodiversity and conservation.

Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk

Dive into the aquatic world at the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, where sea life and hands-on learning come together. This aquarium is renowned for its interactive exhibits, including touch tanks and IMAX documentaries, making it a standout for children's activities in CT. Witness sharks, jellyfish, and other marine species in action, offering an educational yet entertaining experience.

The Adventure Park at The Discovery Museum

Climb, swing, and zip through the trees at The Adventure Park at The Discovery Museum, one of the most thrilling family-friendly activities in CT. This aerial forest adventure park combines outdoor fun with challenging courses suitable for all ages and skill levels, promoting teamwork and physical fitness in a natural setting.

Bishop´s Orchard

Bishop’s Orchard is a must-visit for families who enjoy fresh produce and outdoor activities. Participate in the seasonal pick-your-own fruits like apples and strawberries, and visit the farm market for homemade goods. Educational farm tours and tastings make this location not only one of the fun places for kids in Connecticut but also a tasty adventure.

The Dinosaur Place at Nature's Art Village

Step back in time at The Dinosaur Place at Nature's Art Village, where prehistoric creatures and modern-day fun meet. Explore a dinosaur-filled outdoor adventure park with over 40 life-sized models, a maze, and a splash pad that are perfect for a hot day. It's a fantastic destination for dinosaur enthusiasts and one of the top things to do in CT with kids.

Little River State Park

Explore the serene beauty of Little River State Park, where families can enjoy hiking, fishing, and picnicking in a lush setting. The park's calm waters are ideal for canoeing and kayaking, making it a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and engage in relaxing nature-based activities.

Smugglers Notch State Park

Discover the rugged beauty of Smugglers Notch State Park, known for its dramatic landscapes and outdoor activities. Hike through the notch's towering cliffs, explore caves, and enjoy the stunning views. The park's rich history and scenic trails make it a perfect spot for families looking to add a little adventure to their CT family outings.

Conclusion

Your adventure in Connecticut is sure to be filled with memorable moments, thanks to the plethora of kid-friendly attractions and family-friendly activities across the state. Whether it's exploring theme parks, museums, or natural wonders, Connecticut offers endless opportunities for fun and learning.

Conclude your exploration of Connecticut's finest family-friendly attractions by starting your adventure at Lake Compounce. As the oldest continuously-operating amusement park in North America, it offers thrilling rides, lively events, and refreshing water attractions that are sure to delight every member of the family.

With a wide range of activities and events throughout the year, Lake Compounce is your gateway to creating unforgettable memories. Don't wait to experience the magic—plan your visit now, and purchase your tickets today to ensure that your family's journey through Connecticut begins with excitement and joy at Lake Compounce.