Encompassing a historic mansion, natural history museum, and a Planetarium with a 60-feet (18.28 meters) domed Sky Theater, the Vanderbilt is a Suffolk County attraction well worth the drive. Take a "living history" tour through the 24-room mansion, view the specimens and exhibits of the museum, and round out the day with a show as big as the sky - the Planetarium features educational explorations of outer space throughout the year and several times each day. At night, however, the show turns musical: Laser showings of classic Beatles, Pink Floyd, and Led Zeppelin songs draw fans of all ages for an unbeatable experience.
Being the foremost state park of Connecticut, Sherwood Island State Park is a special spot in more ways than one. Blending the thrill of the outdoors with the tranquility of a sequestered location, the park is an inviting destination for all. Families can head to the picnic grove, while curious naturalists make their way to the nature center. Take a dip in Long Island Sound or stand atop the observation platform for a view of the marshes; the Sherwood Island State Park is just the right place for spending a day amidst nature’s charming gifts.
Founded in 1943, Fairfield University is one of the nation's leading small, liberal arts colleges, conveniently located between New York City and New Haven. There are lovely buildings on campus, including Egan Chapel (a modern church dedicated to St. Ignatius Loyola) and The Quick Center (a performing arts facility). Also on campus, is the boys high school, Fairfield Prep. It is a member of the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities and the campus offers lovely views of Long Island Sound from the hillside.
The PEZ Visitor Center is a marvelous reflection of America’s legendary candy brand. With interactive games, myriad PEZ dispensers and tours around the candy-making factory, the PEZ visitor center is the perfect destination for a day out with your family and loved ones. Home to the world’s largest candy dispenser, the visitor’s center promises a fun-filled, fascinating time. You can be a part of a detailed candy-making demonstration and even get to relish a freshly minted candy. Given its allure among children, it no surprise that the PEZ Visitor Center is the go-to destination for hosting memorable birthday parties. Learn and experience everything about the PEZ brand and take in the unending wonders of the world of candy, only at the PEZ Visitor Center.
The Hopkins School in New Haven is one of the nation's oldest continuously-run preparatory school in the United States. The school was founded by Edward Hopkins, a governor of the Connecticut Colony, who left the land to the Colony to found the school in 1660. Grades at this day school go from 7th to 12 grades. This liberal arts school thrives on academics, the arts and athletics, so there are always events open to students and campus visitors to showcase the school's special talents.
Constantly expanding over the past decade, the University of New Haven is a small private college located in West Haven, Connecticut. Founded in 1920, this school overlooking Long Island Sound covers 84 acres (34 hectares) offers a wide variety of academic programs for students pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree. There are special events throughout the year, such as the University of New Haven International Festival.
The Stamford Historical Society is not just a regular museum, it is a treasure trove of information on the rich history of Stamford from the 17th Century to the present day. Through theater, exhibitions, school days and charity sales, the society engages both adults and children in the cultural and historic events that shaped the city. The exhibitions throw light on Stamford's participation in the Civil and World Wars, the lives of its richest and poorest families, and gruesome stories of the Colonial Era. The kids' exhibits talk about the toys and lifestyles of children in the past centuries. Attend historic dramas, tea parties, antique sales and history lectures for a holistic blend of fun and education. Stop by at their library and book corner to view vintage photographs and read collector's editions.
The spectacular gardens at PepsiCo’s headquarters in Purchase, the Donald M. Kendall Sculpture Gardens are a splendid mix of nature and art. Also known as the PepsiCo Gardens, the 168-acres of greens are beautifully landscaped with over 45 pieces of contemporary art, ponds, and flower beds scattered over it grounds. With installations by artists like Henry Moore, Alberto Giacometti, Auguste Rodin, and other renowned sculptors of the twentieth century, the lawn itself is a work of art. Open for public on weekends around the year, you can visit the facility free of charge.
A historical library and museum in Setauket-East Setauket, Emma S. Clark Library serves as an iconic landmark. The library was founded in 1892 by Thomas Hodgkins and has been an institution of significance. This oldest public library showcases a staggering collection of books, e-books, and museum exhibits. The library was founded in 1892 by Thomas Hodgkins and has been an institution of significance. It is here that you can come and explore the general history of the place or delve into the pages of interesting reads.
The Sweetbriar Nature Center's mission is to provide Long Island residents with natural science education services and programs to further the preservation of local wildlife and ecosystems. Visitors can explore their local habitats and plant communities through the center while exploring the 54 acres that Sweetbriar is located on. The Center is a non-profit organization but donations are encouraged.
Boasting a permanent collection which contains over 40,000 artifacts from the 18th century through the present day (including almost 200 carriages), the Long Island Museum of American Art, History and Carriages is an inspiring location to visit and explore the regional heritage. The impressive collections are used for school and after-school educational programming, as a basis for special events, and to foster appreciation of local history. Gardens and historic structures dot the grounds, welcoming visitors on summer days. Guided tours or maps are available.