The University of Connecticut's Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry, is one of America’s hidden treasures -- an exhibition, performance, workshop, and information center about the wide world of puppetry, its global roots and its exciting possibilities for the 21st century. The Ballard Institute includes a superb collection of more than 2,500 puppets from all over the world; an archive of books, manuscripts, posters, drawings, audio-visual materials and photographs all covering the history of puppetry, including the Puppeteers of America Audio-Visual Collection. The museum curates and

River Bend Campground presents the Lucky Strike Mine and Sluice. Guided by the light of a miner's helmet, prospectors enter an authentic man made mine to search the recesses for gems and minerals (be sure to bring your camera!). They can view a fluorescent rock exhibit and wildlife exhibit with over 40 mounted specimens. Mine is open 9-5, daily. Weekday canoe, paddleboat and kayak rentals also available. Camping mid-April to mid-October. Tour time: 30 minutes Other amenities: Parking, Parking

Located high on a hill in New Preston, Connecticut, The Windemere B&B offers a quiet and peaceful setting with expansive views to the west and north. Two beautifully appointed rooms are available, one on the first floor with a queen size canopy bed and one on the second floor with a queen size bed. Each has an adjoining full bath. Guests have the use of a fireplace equipped den for simple relaxation, conversation, watching television or listening to music. Our accommodations provide a relaxed atmosphere in which to prepare for the day’s adventures or to unwind following them. Breakfast is

The Vintage Radio and Communications Museum of Connecticut traces the development of electronic communications from the early 1800s up to the invention of radio, television, telephone, the personal computer and other technologies. Full of hands-on fun for the entire family. Classes are offered in crystal radio building and radio repair. Other amenities: Dining Nearby, Dining nearby, Gift Shop, Parking, Parking

A value-oriented, pet-friendly hotel in Old Saybrook within easy reach of several popular Connecticut attractions. These include Mohegan Sun Casino, Mystic Seaport and Mystic Aquarium, and more. 44 units, TV, a/c; outdoor pool, beach passes. Other amenities: parking

Activities include bicycling, birding, camping, hiking, picnicking and stream fishing. Could the round holes in the falls really be the work of the devil? Or, just nature and water making their makr for future generations? Visit the park and find your own answer to this age-old mystery. The park offers 21 campground sites in a wooded setting. Camping is available from mid-April through the end of September. No pets allowed in the campground. Pets on a leash are permitted in picnic areas and on hiking trails.

The Windham Textile and History Museum (the Mill Museum of Connecticut), located in the historic former headquarters of the American Thread Company in Willimantic, is a nonprofit educational institution housing a museum, a library, and an archive. Through its exhibits, programs, and collections, the Museum preserves and interprets for the general public the history of textiles, the textile arts, and the textile industry, with special emphasis on the experiences of craftspeople, industrial workers, manufacturers, inventors, designers, and consumers. The Museum also promotes a greater

National Historic Landmark. Innovative home (1853) designed by Gamaliel King and built by clipper ship designer/captain, who at age 21 discovered Antarctica. Tours, exhibits, gardens. Tour time: Self Guided Other amenities: Dining Nearby, Dining nearby, Gift Shop, Parking, Parking, Printed Guides

Ellsworth was a famous Revolutionary patriot, jurist, statesman, and one of the framers of the U.S. Constitution. His house, built in 1780, remained in the family until 1903. Tour time: 1 hour

Fort Hill Farms has 300 lavender plants in Quintessential Gardens not in fields so we can grow it organically. Corn Maze Adventure , the pumpkin picking patch , and the Creamery is always open for The Farmer’s Cow ice cream, made with milk and cream from our farm. Maze time: 2 hours