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.
Stamford Museum & Nature Center is a one-stop destination for all educational and fun activities. Sprawled over 118 acres (47.75 hectares), it is home to the large Hecksher Farm and the Tudor-style Bendel Mansion that houses an interactive center and museum. It also boasts a planetarium for astronomical shows and a four-level observatory equipped with a 22-inch (56-centimeter) telescope. Every exhibit within the museum is tailored towards kids and features interactive artifacts to teach them about animal life, culture, history, science and fine art. The myriad trails take you through glacial erratic rocks, ephemeral pools, woods, pastures and farmlands with alpacas, pigs, chicken and llamas. The highlights are the Edith and Robert Graham Otter Pond and the playground where kids befriend a variety of animals. This center organizes events like maple sugar and harvest festivals, farmers' markets, astronomy projects, wildlife camps, antique car shows and wine tastings.
The Harold Malkmes Wildlife Education and Ecology Center is a wildlife preserve and educational center that is managed and maintained by the Town of Brookhaven. Located on a former landfill site, the area had to be completely revamped and repurposed. It is a treasure for all those who have keen interest in wildlife and ecology. Featuring a wildlife center, several greenhouses, and a petting zoo, it is an ideal place for younger children to learn about animals and the environment. You can also enjoy tours that take you through the entire park. Please note that visitors are expected to follow rules and regulations for safety reasons and for the protection of the animals.
Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens is home to the indigenous flora and fauna of Southwest New England. Sprawled over 91 acres (36.82 hectares), it comprises of natural and semi-natural habitats that interest botanists. Visit the Magnolia Collection to view beautiful pink, purple and white blossoms, the Pollarded Tree Display for spectacular deciduous trees and the Conifer Garden to observe pines, junipers, firs, yews and spruces. The Mehlquist Garden houses exotic flowers from Europe, Korea and Japan, while the Nut Tree Collection is home to pecan, chestnut, hazelnut and walnut trees. Numerous trails take you to the Red Maple Wetland, the Woodland Pond with arrow arum and lilies, a magnificent tea garden and meadows dotted with wildflowers. Bartlett Arboretum conducts several educational camps throughout the year for both adults and children.
Mianus River Park is a 389 acre (157.4 hectare) stretch of forest squeezed between populated urban areas. This protected piece of forest land aims to reconnect people to nature through various initiatives. Full of lengthy trails, the park is ideal for hiking or walking, while exploring all that this magnificent green stretch has to offer. Revel in the serenity of nature, away from the harsh sounds of the city, with nothing but the sweet sounds of birds and rustling leaves filling the air. Included in its landscape is the majestic Mianus River which is also a good spot for fishing.
In the heart of Stamford lies an oasis of calm: the Mill River Park. Designed around the course of the serene Mill River, this park offers a recreational haven for the city's residents. Among the facilities on offer are a playground, basketball court, an amphitheater, carousel, an ice skating rink and a launch for kayaks. The park is a part of a massive project to restore the Mill River and preserve the surrounding environment. Visitors can choose to spend a day with the family, enjoying the various facilities at the park, or they can come for a jog, walk or a bicycle ride along the gorgeous Greenway.
Connecticut Air and Space Center is located in Stratford, Connecticut. It was founded by George Gunther in the year 1998. It features displays which speak about the history of the Stratford Army Engine Plant, and there are 14 aircrafts on display and eight engines that were built at the plant. The space center is spread on eight acres (3.2 hectares) of land and has six buildings out of which two are operational. Only visitors above the age of 18 are allowed inside the space center.
Most kids love a hands-on approach to education and at the Long Island Explorium in Port Jefferson, they have the perfect opportunity to do just that, whilst also learning about Long Island's rich maritime history. You can wander through a lovingly recreated ship's store, Pirate's Cove (a great storytelling area) or hop aboard the Big Ship, and learn about how to load cargo, or steer the ship. The excellent displays and the hands-on approach mean that the Maritime Museum is a great destination for kids of all ages. Call ahead for admission prices and opening hours.
Since its inception in 1931, Greenwich Historical Society has been showcasing the vibrant history and culture of Greenwich. Storing most of its historic artifacts at the Bush-Holley Historic Site, which also serves as a museum, visitors are taken through the life and times in Greenwich and are also offered a glimpse of its evolution. Extensive collection of literature and archives offer brilliant research material and detailed accounts of significant events and also of prominent personalities of this little town. A number of camps and excursions for kids, as well as tours and exhibitions are also conducted on site.
Guarding over the Fire Island National Seashore for approximately 160 years, Fire Island Lighthouse is a splendid spot to visit for its historical stature. For many immigrants arriving from Europe, it was the first sight of land, west of the Atlantic Ocean and today is lauded for its astounding views. Rising to a height of 180 feet (55 meters), it forms a part of the Fire Island Light Station. On a clear day, visitors can even catch a glimpse of the Empire State Building. It is interesting to note that this lighthouse was also featured in the film, What Happens in Vegas.
Once the residence of the Lockwood Family, Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum now serves as a window to the Victorian age and culture. A Second Empire style country house, the structure brilliantly showcases the unique architecture that was prevalent in the 1800s and is also a great example of fine craftsmanship of the era. Visitors are taken back to the Victorian age through displays of original items that have survived the test of time and present themselves as evidence of the golden lifestyle and culture of the past.
Nestled in the quaint hamlet of Brentwood, the Brentwood State Park is a sprawling sports facility and a renowned state park. Home to numerous soccer fields and a couple of baseball fields, the park welcomes many a sporting enthusiasts whether they’re looking to catch a game or play one. The go-to spot for locals, this park is equipped with all the modern facilities required to make your visit a comfortable one.