Quirky Free Museums & Exhibits That Kids Actually Love

Find outdoor activity and museum fun at the Boothe Memorial Park and Museum. Photo by Elizabeth Howar

1. Boothe Memorial Park & Museum - Stratford

Best for ages: 5 and up

Fun fact: This is the oldest homestead in the U.S.

This kid-friendly hidden gems is special because it combines outdoor activity with an educational museum experience. There are 20 different buildings to explore, from the original homestead to the last tollbooth in Connecticut. And visiting Boothe Memorial Park and Museum is FREE!

2. Ballard Institute and Museum of Puppetry - Storrs

Best for ages: 2 and up

Fun fact: The Ballard Museum has one of the world's largest puppet collections.

Sure kids love puppets, but Connecticut's own Ballard Institute and Museum houses puppets from around the world. And the onsite puppet theater hosts productions and performances, perfect to go with a visit to the Ballard.

3. Submarine Force Museum - Groton

Best for ages: 7 and up

Why it's a gem: They have an actual submarine.

What could be cooler than a visit to the USS Nautilus, a naval submarine that used to travel the oceans? America's first nuclear submarine is right here in Connecticut, and this free gem offers kids some hands-on history.

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4. Lavender Pond Farm - Kilingworth

Best for ages: 5 and up

Why it's a gem: You can enjoy a leisurely stroll for free

There's something so serene about Killingworth's Lavender Pond Farm; it's like stepping into an imressionist painting. The serene fields of aromatic lavendar are the perfect secret spot in Connecticut for families.

Get away from the hustle and bustle at these hidden gems for Connecticut families. Photo by Susan DeMark, via Flickr.

5. Elizabeth Park Rose Garden - Hartford & West Hartford 

Best for ages: 2 and up

Fun fact: Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, landscape architect of Centrral Park

Elizabeth Park is an urban oasis has stunning views and plenty of places for kids to explore. Best of all, it's FREE! The Helen S Kaman Rose Garden is a tranquil oasis away from the day-to-day.

6. Bruce Park - Greenwich

Best for ages: 2 and up

Why it's a gem: It might be the best urban park in the country

Visiting Greenwich has plenty of appeal for families (the Bruce Museum is one of Connecticut's top attractions). Bruce Park offers something for everyone, from nature lovers to outdoor enthusiasts. And this secret spot is packed with things to do, from play structures to hiking trails.

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7. Downtown Mystic

Best for ages: 5 and up

Fun Fact: Mystic Pizza was filmed (partly) in Mystic

Mystic Pizza put Julia Roberts on the map, and it also put the town of Mystic on the map for film buffs. Strolling the quaint streets of Mystic, Connecticut offer sights of where the movie was filmed, but it also gives Connecticut families the chance to find fun seasonal events and festivals that are FREE! Like the Downtown Mystic Holiday Stroll.

8. Yale University - New Haven

Best for ages: 7 and up

What makes it special: History and Hollywood

Yale has provided the set for screen franchises like Indiana Jones and the Gilmore Girls, New Haven's Ivy University also boasts alums like Meryl Streep, Lupita Nyong'o, and Jodie Foster. And besides cool free spots like the Peabody Museum, New Haven hosts fun free events ike the International Festival of Arts and Ideas. 

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9. Gilette Castle - East Haddam

Best for ages: 5 and up

What makes it special: A trip to Gillette Castle feels like stepping out of time.

Give the kids a little Harry Potter vibe whie they appreciate art and architecture at this family-friendly spot. This hidden gem in Connecticut is downright magical. One of the best roadside attractions in New England, Gillette Castle sits on a rise overooking the Connecticut River. Note: A parking pass for CT State Parks is a must.

Find magical moments at these hidden gems for Connecticut kids. Photo courtesy of Ally Noel

10. Grace Farms

Best for ages: 2 and up

Why it's a gem: The perfect mix of activity and quiet

With outdoor spaces and art exhibits to explore, there's always something new to enjoy with a trip to Grace Farms. This non-touristy spot for kids features opportunities for kids to make their own art and celebrate seasonal events.

Frequently Asked Questions About Secret Spots in Connecticut for Kids

Q: Are these locations stroller-friendly?
A: Many of the parks and outdoor areas are stroller-friendly, especially Bushnell Park and Downtown Mystic.

Q: Are these spots truly free?
A: Yes—all spots listed here are either completely free or have free access to outdoor elements or views. Any fee-only sections are noted with alternatives.

Q: How can I make a full day out of visiting just one of these?
A: Pair the location with nearby playgrounds, local cafes, or Connecticut ’s many free events and parks to stretch the fun.

Q: Is parking available near these spots?
A: Parking varies—some have free lots, like the Peabody Museum, while others rely on street parking. Some, like Gillette Castle require a (very reasonable) parking pass.