Stroller Brigade — Ideas for Moms, Dads & Kids in Connecticut Last Updated: November 2023
Not sure what a Stroller Brigade is? It’s a trend where new moms (or dads!) band together for fun outings — and take their young kids with them! These groups give these parents a network of support plus great ways to get out of the house while still watching their children. Ready to form your mom squad? Here are some spots to get those stroller wheels spinning.
And find more ideas here.
Aquariums
Round up the moms and head to iconic seaside town, Mystic to visit with thousands of creatures including beluga whales, African penguins, rescued seals, colorful fish and more at the Mystic Aquarium or a waterfront walk by the historic ships at Mystic Seaport Museum. Then stop by Sift Bake Shop for award-winning pastries, cookies, and more — plus coffee for a much-needed caffeine boost.
Or explore Connecticut's other world-class marine life destination, the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk. Afterwards, stop for a sweet treat that both parents and kids can enjoy: handcrafted ice cream at Sweet Ashley's. You'll find 60+ flavors, plus if you call a few days in advance, you can even create your own flavor!
Kids’ Museums
And of course, there are always spots just for kids – but a lot of them are so engaging that moms can enjoy them too. Bring the little ones to these kids’ museums for imaginative play while you hang with the mom gang.
Day Trip Spots
Plan a whole day at Nature’s Art Village, offering unique experiences for toddlers including a walkable (and stroller-friendly) dinosaur park, a Digging Zone indoors in their Discovery Depot, a pumpkin passage during October, and a zero depth “splash pad” for cooling off in the summer. Then finish the day with a sundae at Salem Valley Farms Ice Cream.
Or take the kiddos to Jones Family Farms for pick-your-own fruit experiences. Moms or dads can grab a glass at Jones Winery while they enjoy the open field with their toddlers.
Get out with the group for a whole day of fun. Find day trip destination ideas in the carousel below, or more ideas here.
Parks & Walking Trails
An obvious choice for your Stroller Brigade is the classic spot for walking: parks and trails. Leisurely roam with the ladies at one of the places below, or feel the sand in your toes while delighting the kiddos waterfront at Connecticut beaches. Plus, find more parks here.
Coffee Shops & Cafés
Planning a quick morning or afternoon meetup? Try these must-try coffee shops or the suggestions below.
Creative Outings
They're never too young to introduce them to art and imagination! Take all the little ones to art classes, music classes, and more — and moms or dads can join in the fun. Here are some ideas to get started.
Picture-Perfect Photo Spots
At this age, you want to capture every little moment. Head out with the group to beautiful backdrops and snap pictures of the little ones.
Capture a vibrant floral scene at Wicked Tulip Farm, Lavender Pond Farm, Halfinger Farms, and Buttonwood Farms. Or try historic homes and gardens like the Hill-Stead Museum, Florence Griswold Museum, and Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden. Plus, you’ll find more garden spots and other kid-friendly photo destinations all over the state.