Where to Take the Kids to Enjoy CT Summer at the Museum!

It's time to explore all that Eastern Connecticut has to offer! From July 1 to September 4, Connecticut children aged 18 and under plus one accompanying Connecticut resident adult can visit participating museums free of charge through the Connecticut Summer at the Museum program. Before you visit, check each participant’s website for specific program details and ticket availability.

Governor Ned Lamont first administered this program back in 2021 after the COVID-19 pandemic, in hopes to provide accessible educational and enrichment opportunities for kids. Now in its third year, the same mission still lives on.

With this program, kids have access to an array of engaging, fun activities. Throughout the Eastern Connection region, kids have the opportunity to visit state parks and landmarks, historical societies, farms and gardens, art exhibits, science museums, and more.

Here are just some of this year’s many CT Summer at the Museum destinations:

1. The Dinosaur Place (Montville)

The Dinosaur Place is a 60-acre dinosaur theme park where kids can roam among life-sized dinosaur sculptures, explore a maze, and have fun in a waterpark and two story playscape!

● Hours: Open 7 days a week from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
● https://naturesartvillage.com/experience/the-dinosaur-place/#

2. The Mystic Aquarium (Mystic)

Mystic Aquarium, one of Mystic’s most famous attractions, is home to over 300 different species of marine animals. Come visit with the Beluga Whales, African Penguins, and watch the famous California Sea Lion show!

● Hours: Open 7 days a week from 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
● https://www.mysticaquarium.org/

3. The Niantic Children’s Museum (East Lyme)

The Niantic Children’s Museum offers both an educational and imaginative experience for kids. It offers hands-on exhibits like The Imagination Room, The Discovery Room, and The Outdoor Playscape. Kids can experience piloting a fishing boat, running a market, and playing instruments, all in one afternoon!

● Hours: Mon.-Sat. from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
● https://www.nianticchildrensmuseum.org/hours-admission/

So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now for one of these great locations, and explore the many others to add to your summer bucket list at : https://www.ctvisit.com/articles/connecticut-summer-museum-2023-free-admission-kids

Please note: To be eligible for this program guardians must be a resident of Connecticut and have proper proof of residency (i.e. CT driver’s license or ID card). Some museums may require reservations and have regulations, so be sure to check websites online before visiting.

If your family ends up enjoying a day at one of these participating museums, feel free to share your photos and videos under the hashtag #CTSummerMuseums to be featured on the state’s website!

We hope you have a great CT Summer at the Museum!