Most children love carousels and Connecticut features quite a few places where you can catch a ride on a merry-go-round. The New England Carousel Museum, a little-known gem in the Hartford area, goes beyond offering the opportunity for a whirl. Here you will find hundreds of carousel figurines on display, or being repaired and restored. Though it is small, the Bristol-based museum is still a fascinating place, geared toward older children and adults -- artists, historians, and carousel connoisseurs are sure to appreciate the fragile exhibits. Young children will enjoy feasting their eyes upon the colorful figurines, but without much opportunity for hands-on interaction, they could also lose interest quicker. Still, this is definitely one of the Fun Things To Do With Kids in Bristol and can be a quick stop on a day filled with other in-town adventures.

Libraries are a great place to snuggle up with a book or listen to a good story, but for many families with young kids, they are also a destination for kids to socialize and get some energy out. We're grateful to these amazing public libraries in Connecticut that have recognized this need and created beautiful, free play spaces where toddlers, preschoolers, and young elementary school children can explore toys and interact with peers in between perusing books.

For more play zones that don't require a fee, see our post on Best Free Indoor Play Places for Connecticut Kids. Our guide to Connecticut Indoor Play Spaces highlights even more spots where kids can tinker, imagine, jump, climb, and run when the weather is wet or cold. 

The Nutmeg State is home to 110 state parks, which means there's a lot of outdoor adventure to be had from swimming to hiking and camping. We've compiled a list of favorite state parks to visit with children, taking into consideration terrain, views, access to restrooms, and other amenities or attractions associated with each destination. For wee ones, consider our suggestions for 1-mile hikes and fantastic stroller hikes. To challenge older children, plan a trek up a mountain. Grab your hiking shoes, pack snacks, and enjoy the park views and fresh air.