Connecticut museums & galleries offer fine art, science, children's exhibits

Connecticut's museums and galleries have a wide range of wonderful offerings. Major art museums includes the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford, host to paintings of the Hudson River School; the Bruce Museum in Greenwich; and the Florence Griswold Museum in East Lyme, a historic colony of American Impressionists. The Connecticut Science Center in Hartford is an up-to-the-minute presenter of topics in science. The state has many wonderful children's museums in every region. And don't forget the Barnum Museum of circus lore in Bridgeport.

Fairfield/Southwest Hartford/Central Litchfield/Northwest
Mystic/Eastern New Haven/South Central
Fairfield/Southwest top of listings

Boothe Memorial Park & Museum

5774 Main St. Putney Stratford, CT 06614 Phone: 203-381-2046

This 32-acre former homestead of the Boothe Family (1663-1949) offers with picnic facilities, rose garden, and wedding garden. Buildings on National Historic Landmark site with displays of early farm equipment, carriages and baskets; trolley history, toll booth exhibit. Hours: Park grounds are open year-round, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Museums and displays are open June 1 through October 1, Tuesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Free admission.

Bruce Museum of Arts & Science

One Museum Dr. Greenwich, CT 06830 Phone: 203-869-0376

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Closed major holidays.

Over 12 changing exhibitions, environmental galleries, marine touch tank, lectures, educational workshops, museum store. Admission: Adults, $7; seniors and children age 5-12, $6l free admission on Tuesdays.

Catharine B. Mitchell Museum and Captain David Judson House

967 Academy Hill Stratford, CT 06615 Phone: 203-378-0630

Open: June–October; Wednesdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Catharine B. Mitchell Museum exhibits local Native American artifacts and displays devoted to early town government, early African-American history, changing exhibits. Captain David Judson House (1750) furnished with period accessories and furniture. Open June through October, Wednesdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Adults, $5; seniors, $4; students, $2.

Connecticut Audubon Society Birdcraft Museum

314 Unquowa Road Fairfield, CT 06824 Phone: 203-259-0416

Open: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Historic (1914) museum highlights natural history of the state with dioramas, wildlife exhibits, and dinosaur footprints. Adjacent 6-acre sanctuary with trails. A National Historic Landmark, first nature center in America, on the Connecticut Women’s Heritage Trail. Admissions: Adults, $2; children, $1.

Discovery Museum

4450 Park Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06604 Phone: 203-372-3521

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; open Mondays in July and August. Closed major holidays.

An interactive science museum with hands-on displays, changing exhibits, gift shop, and food court. Challenger Learning Center features computer-simulated space missions. A planetarium and CineMuse Hi-Definition Theater both with daily shows. Children will find themselves getting excited about science with help from this museum’s physical science exhibits, planetarium programs, and Challenger Learning Center. Programs for kids cover topics like space travel, robotics, and ocean exploration. Admission: Adults, $8.50; seniors and children, $7; extra fee for Challenger missions.

Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum

Mathews Park, 295 West Ave. Norwalk, CT 06850 Phone: 203-838-9799

Open: Mid-March to January 1; Wednesday-Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment

America's first chateau; 62-room Victorian palace with stenciled walls, inlaid woodwork and skylit rotunda; gift shop. National Historic Landmark. Guided and audio tours. Admission: Adults, $8; seniors and students, $5; children under age 12, free

National Helicopter Museum

2480 Main St. Stratford, CT 06615 Phone: 203-375-5766

Open: Memorial Day-mid-October, Wednesday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m.

Large collection of photographs and documents showing the development of helicopters, from 1910 to the present. Many helicopter models and artifacts, gas turbine engines that were produced in Stratford. Admission: Free.

New Canaan Historical Society

13 Oenoke Ridge New Canaan, CT 06840 Phone: 203-966-1776

Open: Town House: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Other buildings: summer hours, Tuesday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; other months, Wednesday and Thursday, 2-4 p.m. Call for Sunday hours.

The historic society maintains several buildings, housing a variety of exhibits. Buildings include the old Town House, with its costume collection, changing exhibits, library of genealogy and local history; the Pharmacy (1845); the Hanford-Silliman House (1764), the Rock Schoolhouse (1799), the John Rogers Sculpture Studio (1878), and the Tool Museum and Print Shop. Donation requested.

Stamford Historical Society Museum

1508 High Ridge Road Stamford, CT 06903 Phone: 203-329-1183

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Closed major holidays.

Permanent and changing exhibits, principally local history. Research and genealogy library. Hoyt-Barnum House (c.1699), 713 Bedford St., restored blacksmith’s home, open by appt. Thrift shop. Admission: Adults, $5; students, $3.

Stamford Museum & Nature Center

39 Scofieldtown Road Stamford, CT 06903 Phone: 203-322-1646

Open: Monday-Saturday and holidays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Main Building galleries closed Mondays January to March.

Experience nature, science and the outdoors at this 118-acre site. Includes New England working farm, hiking trails, picnic area, nature's playground, boardwalk (accessible to wheelchairs), galleries for interactive exhibitions with hands-on area for children, two stores, special events, planetarium. Observatory Friday evenings (weather permitting). Admission: Adults, $6; seniors and children age 4 to 14, $5.

Stepping Stones Museum for Children

303 West Ave. Norwalk, CT 06850 Phone: 203-899-0606

Open: Memorial Day-Labor Day, daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; September-May, Tuesday, 1-5 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Award-winning interactive museum for children ages 10 and under, with a variety of exhibits and activities that inspire learning and discovery. Explore tropical rain forests, report the weather, or experiment with water. Admission: $8 per person.

The Barnum Museum

820 Main St. Bridgeport, CT 06604 Phone: 203-331-1104

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4:30; Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m.

Dedicated to the life of Circus imnpresario Phineas Taylor Barnum and those who were influenced by his presence in their lives. 1892 building houses exhibits including a miniature circus model, ancient mummy, historic costumes, Tom Thumb carriages. Museum store. Admission: Adults, $5; seniors and students, $4; children age 4-17, $3.

Wilton Heritage Museum

249 Danbury Road (Route 7) Wilton, CT 06897 Phone: 203-762-7257

Open: Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 1-4 p.m. for special exhibitions; call for tour and exhibition schedules.

Two 18th-century classic center-chimney houses feature period rooms furnished to show the development of domestic life in New England homes 1740-1910. 19th-century barn contains changing exhibits, toy loft, costume and textile collection. Blacksmith's shop, tool exhibition. Admission: Adults, $4; senior, $3; children, free.
Hartford/Central top of listings

Amasa Day House

Moodus Green (Routes 149 and 151) East Haddam, CT 06469 Phone: 860-247-8996

Open: Mid-May to mid-October, Sunday, 1-4 p.m.

A Federal style house (1816) remained in the hands of Day's heirs until 1967. Furnished primarily with Day family possessions. Admission: Adults, $4; children, $2.

Barnes Museum

85 North Main Street Southington, CT 06489 Phone: 860-628-5426

Open: Monday-Wednesday and Friday, 1-5 p.m.; Thursday, 1-7 p.m.; September-June, first and last Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Closed major holidays.

Built in 1836, this house belonged to the same family for over a century. Exhibits feature original furniture and household items, as well as a historical library. Free admission.

Canton Historical Museum

11 Front Street Collinsville, CT 06019 Phone: 860-693-2793

Open: April-November, Wednesday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m. and Thursday, 1-8 p.m.; December-March, Saturday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m.

The history of Canton is chronicled in this museum. Collins Company tools and exhibits, Canton history, Victorian antiques and clothes, toys, dolls, farming equipment, railroad diorama, general store and post office, research library. Admissions: Adults, $3; seniors, $2; children (age 6-15), $1; 5 and under, free.

Connecticut Fire Museum

58 North Road East Windsor, CT 06088 Phone: 860-623-4732

Open: May and June, Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; July and August, Monday and Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; September-October, Saturday and Sunday, noon-4 p.m.

Exhibits detail the history of firefighting. Includes models and authentic historic firefighting trucks and equipment. Adults, $7; seniors, $6; children age 6-12, $5; children age 5 and younger, free.

Connecticut River Museum

67 Main St., Steamboat Dock Essex, CT 06426 Phone: 860-767-8269

Open: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Housed in an 1878 Steamboat Dock warehouse located on the waterfront, the museum tells the Connecticut River Valley story in four galleries, with a working reproduction of the American Turtle, America’s first submarine. Gift shop. Admission: Adults, $6; seniors and students, $5; children age 6-12, $3; 5 and under free.

Connecticut Science Center

250 Columbus Blvd. Hartford, CT 06103 Phone: 860-724-3623

A visit to the Center is a high-impact learning experience in a green, clean, bright, and stimulating environment. Adults and children alike will find entertainment and educational value in hands-on, engaging, and exciting exhibits and programs that emphasize current science and science you can use every day. Open year-round. Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission: Adults, $17; seniors above age 65, $15.50; youth ages 3 to 17, $14. Information: www.ctsciencecenter.org

Connecticut Trolley Museum

58 North Road (Route 140) East Windsor, CT 06088 Phone: 860-627-6540

Open: Charters from January through March; April to Memorial Day, Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 1-4 p.m.; Memorial day to Labor Day, Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; Sundays in October, Pumpkin Patch rides

Three-mile round trip ride on antique trolleys. Tour the Visitor's Center display and stationary trolleys. Gift shop, deli and cafe. Admission: Adults, $7; seniors, $6; children age 2-12, $4. Includes admission to the nearby Connecticut Fire Museum.

Day-Lewis Museum

158 Main Street Farmington, CT 06032 Phone: 860-678-1645

Open: March – November, Wednesday, 2:30-4:30 p.m.; closed August

Yale University-owned Indian archaeology museum displaying artifacts found on site. Housed in authentic post and beam building, last of Tunxis Indian homes. Adjacent dig site. Admission Adults, $2; seniors and children, $1.

Fire Museum

230 Pine Street Manchester, CT 06040 Phone: 860-649-9436

Open: Mid-April-Mid-November, Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Located in turn-of-the-century firehouse with hand- and horse-pulled firefighting equipment, 1860 steam fire engine, 1915 water tower, antique firefighting items, reference library, gift shop. Admission: Adults, $4; seniors and firefighters, $2; children age 5 and older, $1.

Harriet Beecher Stowe House

77 Forest Street Hartford, CT 06105 Phone: 860-522-9258

Open: Tours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m.; open on Mondays, Memorial Day to Columbus Day and December. Closed major holidays.

Her words changed the world with "Uncle Tom's Cabin," the groundbreaking anti-slavery novel (1852). Tour the Victorian Gothic home (1871), the Katharine Seymour Day House (1884), and the Victorian grounds and gardens. Stowe Visitor Center showcases exhibitions, museum shop. Admission: Adults, $8; seniors,$7; children age 4-12, $4.

Hicks-Stearns Museum

42 Tolland Green Tolland, CT 06084 Phone: 860-875-7552

Open: Mid-March to mid-December by appointment only

This structure has an interesting history: Originally a tavern built in the 18th century, it was later turned into a 19th century home. The house contains antique family heirlooms, which are on display during much of the year. In December, the site becomes a Victorian Christmas Open House.

Hill-Stead Museum

35 Mountain Road Farmington, CT 06032 Phone: 860-677-4787

Open: May-October, Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; November-April, Tuesday-Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

National Historic Landmark. Colonial Revival style house (1901) set on 150 acres with sunken garden. Collection of French Impressionist paintings, decorative arts and original furnishings. Hour-long guided tour. Admission: Adults, $9; seniors, $8; students, $7; children age 6-12, $4.

Imagine Nation Children's Museum

1 Pleasant Street Bristol, CT 06010 Phone: 860-314-1400

Open: Call for schedule

This science museum for kids age 2 to 10 is packed with fun exhibits that allow children to dig into science projects and experiments of all kinds. Some activities that will fascinate children are the Sandsational Sand Pendulum; the Gravity Well; the Tuning Fork Table; a construction zone; Dolls of the World; and Waterplay. Admission: $4 per person.

Lock 12 Historical Park

487 North Brooksvale Road (Route 42) Cheshire, CT 06410 Phone: 203-272-2743

Open: Biking trail and picnic area open year-round, call for museum schedule.

Restored section of Farmington Canal (1828-48). Park also includes museum, lockkeeper's house, helicoidal bridge, 2.9-mile hiking/biking trail, picnic area. Admission: Free.

Luddy/Taylor Connecticut Valley Tobacco Museum

Northwest Park, 135 Lang Rd. Windsor, CT 06095 Phone: 860-285-1888

Open: March – Mid-December, Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday, noon-4 p.m. and by appointment

Displays of artifacts and history of "Tobacco Valley." Tobacco curing shed houses exhibits of early and modern equipment. Other facility exhibits photographs, writings, and other documents. Admission: Free.

Menczer Museum of Medicine & Dentistry

230 Scarborough St. Hartford, CT 06105 Phone: 860-236-5613

Open: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed holidays.

Instruments and medications used from the 18th- to the 20th-century. Historical medical library. Admission: Adults, $2; children, $1.

Museum of Connecticut History

231 Capitol Ave. Hartford, CT 06106 Phone: 860-566-3056

Open: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Closed on state holidays

Historic documents, including Connecticut's Royal Charter, are just part of the exhibit material in this museum. Special exhibits feature Colt firearms, Connecticut's Governors and changing exhibits. Admission: free.

Museum on the Green

1944 Main Street Glastonbury, CT 06033 Phone: 860-633-6890

Open: Monday and Thursday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; third Sunday of each month, 1-4 p.m.; and by appointment

Former Town Hall (c. 1840) displays local history, early industry, Native American artifacts, changing exhibits; genealogical and research library. Adjacent to old town cemetery (1690). Admission: free.

New Britain Industrial Museum

185 Main Street New Britain, CT 06051 Phone: 860-832-8654

Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 2-5 p.m.; Wednesday, noon-5 p.m.; and by appointment

This history of manufacturing in Central Connecticut is detailed in this museum, featuring exhibits of products made in the region over the past 200 years. Admission: free.

New Britain Museum of American Art

56 Lexington Street New Britain, CT 06052 Phone: 860-229-0257

Open: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; Wednesday, noon-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed holidays.

More than 5,000 American works of art from 1740 to the present. Works by Benton, Cassatt, Church, Cole, LeWitt, Sargent, Stuart, Whistler, and Wyeth; changing exhibitions. Gift shop. Admission: Adults, $9; seniors, $8; students, $7; under 12 free. Saturday, 10 a.m.-noon, free.

New Britain Youth Museum

30 High Street New Britain, CT 06051 Phone: 860-225-3020

Open: September-June, Tuesday-Friday, 1-5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; July - August, Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Exhibits of Americana, different cultures, children's artifacts, hands-on activities, puppet theater, prehistoric Connecticut room, garden. Admission: Free, donation suggested.

Noden-Reed Park Museum

58 West Street Windsor Locks, CT 06096 Phone: 860-627-9212

Open: May-October, Sunday, 1 -5 p.m. and by appointment

A 22-acre park with 1840 house and 1826 brick barn contain period artifacts. Site of Connecticut's first Christmas tree. Admission: free.

Northeast States Civilian Conservation Corps Museum

166 Chestnut Hill Road (Route 190) Stafford Springs, CT 06076 Phone: 860-684-3013

Open: Memorial Day-Labor Day, Saturday, Sunday, holidays, noon-4 p.m.

Housed in original (c.1935) CCC camp building with documents and memorabilia. Exhibits include campsite life, work areas, photographs, equipment, and tools. Admission: Free.

Old Manchester Museum

126 Cedar Street Manchester, CT 06040 Phone: 860-647-9983

Open: Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 1-4 p.m. and by appointment

Local historical artifacts including Pitkin Glass Works, Cheney Brothers Silk Mills, Bon Ami Soap Co., military memorial. Manchester Sports Hall of Fame, research and genealogy library, gift shop. Admission: Adults, $2; children age 16 and younger, free.

Phelps Tavern Museum

800 Hopmeadow Street (Route 10) Simsbury, CT 06070 Phone: 860-658-2500

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, noon-4 p.m.; hour-long tours begin 12:15 p.m. and last tour is 3:15 p.m.. Closed major holidays.

Period rooms and interactive exhibition galleries illustrate the use of the Captain Elisha Phelps house as an inn from 1786 to 1849. Two-acre complex includes museum store, research archives, period gardens. Admission: Adults, $6; seniors, $5; children age 6-17, $4.

The Living Museum of Avon

8 East Main Street (Route 44) Avon, CT 06001 Phone: 860-678-7621

Open: June-September, Sunday, 2-4 p.m., and by appointment

Restored 19th-century schoolhouse contains maps, photographs, implements and clothes, diorama of the Farmington Canal all relating to 1830s. Admission: Donation.

The Mark Twain House & Museum

351 Farmington Ave. Hartford, CT 06105 Phone: 860-247-0998

Open: Monday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5:30 p.m.; first Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; closed Tuesday from January-April; Closed January 1, Easter, Thanksgiving, December 24 and 25.

Elaborate Victorian (1874) mansion with rare interiors by Louis Comfort Tiffany (1881) was the author's home for 17 years (1874-1891). Nineteen furnished rooms including many of Twain's possessions. National Historic Landmark. The Museum Center features fine gift shop, cafe, Ken Burns' documentary, orientation and changing exhibition galleries, lectures and special programs. Admission: Adults, $12; seniors, $11; students age13-18, $10; children age 6-12, $8.

The Trash Museum

211 Murphy Rd. Hartford, CT 06114 Phone: 860-757-7765

Open: September-June, Wednesday-Friday, noon-4 p.m.; July and August, Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Educational facility, tours and hands-on exhibits on solid waste management and recycling, including the "Temple of Trash;" adjacent to recycle center. Admission: Free.

Wadsworth Atheneum

600 Main Street Hartford, CT 06103 Phone: 860-278-2670

Open: Wednesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; open first Thursday of each month until 8 p.m. Closed major holidays.

The nation's oldest public art museum (1842). World-renowned collections include Hudson River School landscapes, Old Master paintings, modernist masterpieces, Impressionist paintings, American furniture, decorative arts, cutting-edge contemporary art. Restaurant (860-728-5989); gift shop. Admission: Adults, $10; seniors, $8; students with ID, $5; children age 12 and under, free; first Thursday of each month, $5 from 5-8 p.m.

Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum

211 Main Street Wethersfield, CT 06109 Phone: 860-529-0612

Open: May 1–October 31, Wednesday-Monday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; November 1-April 30, Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Last tour 3 p.m.

This museum consists of 3 houses, each built in the 18th century. 2 are now National Historic Landmarks, with each furnished to represent a different period in American history. In 1781, on this site, Washington and his partners planned their strategy that led to the American victory at Yorktown. Tours begin every hour on the hour up until 3 pm. Admission: Adults, $6, seniors, $5, students, $2.50.

Litchfield/Northwest top of listings

American Clock and Watch Museum

100 Maple Street (off Route 6) Bristol, CT 06010 Phone: 860-583-6070

Open: April 1-November 30, daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and by appointment

Permanent exhibit on the history of Connecticut clockmaking and the Industrial Revolution, housed in an 1801 mansion. Largest collection of American production clocks on display. Many clocks striking hourly. Admission: Adults, $5; seniors, $4; children, $2.

Brookfield Craft Center

286 Whisconier Road (Route 25) Brookfield, CT 06804 Phone: Phone: 203-775-4526

Open: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, noon-5 p.m. Closed major holidays.

Founded in 1954, the Brookfield Craft Center promotes and preserves the skills and values of fine craftsmanship, creativity, and good design. The Multiple Gallery Gift Shop features craftwork by hundreds of artisans. The center’s six buildings span the banks of the Still River at Halfway Falls. Admission: free.

Carousel Museum of New England

95 Riverside Avenue Bristol, CT 06010 Phone: 860-585-5411

Open: April-November, Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon- 5 p.m.; December-March, Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Closed major holidays

One of two branches of this unique museum. Exhibits feature antique carousel horses, miniature carousels, and a historic carving shop. Exhibits represent the finest pieces of antique carousel art in existence. The Bristol Center for Arts and Culture features three galleries that include fine art exhibits. The Museum of Fire History displays fire department and firehouse memorabilia. Gift shop. Admission: Adults, $5; seniors, $4.50, children age 4-14, $2.50

Connecticut Antique Machinery Association

U.S. Route 7 Kent, CT 06557 Phone: 860-927-0050

Open: May through October, Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Museum dedicated to the preservation, restoration and demonstration of antique machinery from our rich industrial and agricultural past. Areas of focus include Agricultural equipment and mechanical farm implements, The Cream Hill Agricultural School, Internal Combustion Engines, Industrial steam power, Connecticut Museum of Mining and Mineral Science, Narrow gauge railroad. Admission: Adults, $3; children under age 12, free.

Danbury Museum & Historical Society

43 Main Street Danbury, CT 06810 Phone: 203-743-5200

Open: Year-round, call for public hours

Late 18th- and early 19th-century furnishings in the John and Mary Rider House (1785). Local hatting industry exhibits in John Dodd Shop (1790). Research library, gift shop. Birthplace (5 Mountainville Rd., c.1829) of Pulitzer Prize-winning composer Charles Ives. Contralto Marion Anderson studio. Admission: Adults, $6; seniors, $5; children, $2; under age 5, free.

Danbury Railway Museum

120 White Street and Patriot Drive Danbury, CT 06810 Phone: 203-778-8337

Open: January-March, Wednesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; April-December, Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Rail yard train rides: April-December, Saturday and Sunday

This museum is set in Union Station, restored to its appearance as it was in 1903. Inside visitors will find antique railroad cars, railroad artifacts and memorabilia, and changing exhibits. Train rides of varying lengths are scheduled throughout the year. Admission: Adults, $6; children age 5-12, $4.

Gay-Hoyt House Museum

18 Main Street (Route 41) Sharon, CT 06069 Phone: 860-364-5688

Open: Tuesday-Friday, 1-4 p.m. or by appointment

Built in 1775, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring furniture, paintings, photographs, textile collection, hands-on history room for children, changing exhibits. Admission: free.

Gunn Memorial Library & Museum

Wykeham Road and Route 47 Washington, CT 06793 Phone: 860-868-7756

Open: May-December, Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday, noon-4 p.m., closed major holidays. January-April by appointment only.

Local history museum in c.1781 house with changing exhibits. 1908 library includes Connecticut Room with state, local, and geneaological books. Admission: Donation.

Historical Society Museum

22 DeForest Street Watertown, CT 06795 Phone: 860-274-1050

Open: Wednesday, 2-4 p.m. and by appointment

Chronicles industrial, social and cultural history of the town, Victorian parlor exhibit, local research library. 1853 Nova Scotia School House. Admission: Free.

Institute for American Indian Studies

38 Curtis Rd.(off Route 199) Washington, CT 06793 Phone: 860-868-0518

Open: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m.; closed major holidays.

Artifacts and art from 10,000 years ago to the present; indoor longhouse exhibit, changing exhibits, gift shop. Outdoor simulated archaeological site, trails, replica of a 17th-century Algonkian village. Admission: Adults, $4; seniors, $3.50; children age 5-16, $2.

Keeler Tavern Museum

132 Main Street Ridgefield, CT 06877 Phone: 203-438-5485

Open: February-December, tours and gift shop, Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday, 1-4 p.m.; Garden, daily, dawn to dusk.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. British cannonball embedded in its exterior, souvenir of 1777 battle. Late 18th-century furnishings; guides in Colonial costume. Garden with reflecting pool. Gift shop. Admission: Adults, $5; seniors, $3; children under age 12, $2.

Litchfield Historical Society Museum

7 South Street Litchfield, CT 06759 Phone: 860-567-4501

Open: Mid-May to Mid-November, Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 - 5 p.m.

Changing exhibits on local history and historical art. The society also maintains a library and offers wares in a gift shop. Admission: $3 adults, children under 16 are free.

Mattatuck Museum

144 West Main Street, Waterbury, CT 06702 Phone: 203-753-0381

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon - 5 p.m.; closed major holidays

Exhibits chronicle the industrial history of the Naugatuck Valley as well as its social, architectural and cultural past. Period settings, decorative arts, furniture, 19th- and 20th-century art, changing exhibits. Cafe, museum shop. Admission: Adults, $4; Children under age 16, free.

Military Museum of Southern New England

125 Park Avenue Danbury, CT 06810 Phone: 203-790-9277

Open: April 1-December 30, Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon - 5 p.m.; January 2-March 31, Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Closed major holidays

Life-size interior dioramas with military vehicles and equipment. Large collection of models and dioramas depicting World War II scenes. Outdoor exhibits of tanks and heavy material. Gift shop. Admission: Adults, $4; seniors, children, and active-duty military member, $2.

New Milford Historical Society Museum

6 Aspetuck Avenue New Milford, CT 06776 Phone: 860-354-3069

Open: May-October, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. and by appointment

Main gallery contains works by artists Ralph Earl and Richard Jennys, Connecticut furniture, New Milford pottery. Boardman Store (1796). Knapp House (c.1810). Special events; research on local history and genealogy. Admission: Adults, $3; students, $2.

Salisbury Cannon Museum

15 Millerton Road (Route 44) Lakeville, CT 06039 Phone: 860-435-0566

Open: July-Labor Day and Columbus Day, Saturday-Sunday and holidays, noon-5 p.m.

Hands-on children's museum focusing on local iron industry and individuals who shaped the American Revolution. Adjacent to site of the first iron blast furnace (1762), built by Ethan Allen. Admission: Suggested donation, adults, $5; seniors and students, $3.

Sloane-Stanley Museum and Kent Furnace

Route 7 Kent, CT 06757 Phone: 860-927-3849

Open: Mid-May-October 31, Wednesday- Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

This museum features a collection of woodworking tools, dating from the 17th century. The ruins of the Kent Furnace, in use through the 19th century are also found on the grounds. Admission: Adults, $4; seniors, $3; children, $2.50; under age 6, free.

The Golden Age of Trucking Museum

1101 Southford Rd. Middlebury, CT 06762 Phone: 203-577-2181

Open: Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4 p.m.; closed Easter, July 4, December 24 and 25, December 31 and January. 1

Facility containing over 36 antique trucks from the early 1900s through 1960s, antique boats, trucking memorabilia, photographs, and publications. Hands-on children?s area, library, movie, art gallery, gift shop, picnic area. Admission: Adults, $8; seniors, $7; children age 3-16, $5; family, $20.
Mystic/Eastern top of listings

Ballard Institute & Museum of Puppetry

Weaver Road (off Route 44) Storrs, CT 06269 Phone: 860-486-4605

Open: Late April-early November,Friday-Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Collection of more than 2,000 puppets from the world over. Each exhibition features a different view of the variety of styles and periods in puppetry. Admission: Free; donations accepted.

Brayton Grist Mill and Marcy Blacksmith Museum

Route 44 Pomfret, CT 06258 Phone: 860-928-0304

Open: Memorial Day to Labor Day, Sundays 2-5 p.m.

This fine example of a one-man mill operation of the 1890's has original milling equipment. The tool exhibit represents the craft of three generations of blacksmiths. Maintained by the Pomfret Historical Society. Admission: Free; donations welcome.

Chaplin Museum

1 Chaplin Street Chaplin, CT 06235 Phone: 860-455-9209

Open: Mid-July–September 30, Sundays, 1-4 p.m.

This one room museum features historic memorabilia and local artifacts. Themed exhibits are changed every year. Admission: free.

Children's Museum of Southeastern Connecticut

409 Main Street Niantic, CT 06357 Phone: 860-691-1111

Interactive hands-on exhibits for the entire family. Don’t miss our Long Island Sound Marinelife Tank, Parent Pockets, a self guided tour of the Museum and Kidsville, an entire kid-sized town. Themes include arts and science, health and history. Have fun while learning. Explore the Discovery Room, see live animals and say hello to Richter the Red Tailed Boa Constrictor.

Summer Hours (Mid-June - Labor Day): Monday-Saturday, 9:30am-5pm ; Sundays Noon-5pm
Winter Hours: Tuesday-Thursdays 9:30am-4:30pm ; Friday 9:30am-6pm ; Saturdays 9:30am-5pm ; Sunday Noon-5pm

Connecticut River Museum

67 Main St., Steamboat Dock Essex, CT 06426 Phone: 860-767-8269

Open: Tuesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Housed in an 1878 Steamboat Dock warehouse located on the waterfront, the museum tells the Connecticut River Valley story in four galleries, with a working reproduction of the American Turtle, America’s first submarine. Gift shop. Admission: Adults, $6; seniors and students, $5; children age 6-12, $3; 5 and under free.

Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center

109 Pequotsepos Road Mystic, CT 06355 Phone: 860-536-1216

Open: Year-round, Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed January 1, Easter, Christmas

The Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center welcomes visitors into a typical Southeastern Connecticut woodland setting to discover and enjoy nature throughout the seasons. Originally founded as a nonprofit organization in 1946, the Center maintains a commitment to promoting environmental awareness. We believe local understanding and firsthand experiences with the natural world lead to global concern and respect toward nature. DPNC offers a variety of programs and activities for people of all ages. From birding and wildflower walks to special evening lectures, school programs and field trips, visitors have opportunities to experience many aspects of our natural world. The Nature Center provides a year-round haven for wildlife and a peaceful respite for local citizens, tourists, nature enthusiasts, hikers and students. We invite you to discover our sanctuary, trail-side museum and the natural beauty of southeastern Connecticut. Admission: Adults, $6; seniors and children age 121 and under, $4.

Florence Griswold Museum

96 Lyme Street Old Lyme, CT 06371 Phone: 860-434-5542 Fax: 860-434-9778

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

An 11-acre riverfront campus for lovers of art, architecture, nature, and history. The award-winning Krieble Gallery hosts changing exhibitions of American art. The permanent collection includes works by Church, Cole, Twachtman, Hassam, and others. Step into a 1910 artist colony through the historic Griswold House and see the famed dining room where artists painted directly on the walls. Opening this summer is the John and Dyanne Rafal Landscape Center, an original structure located in the Museum’s historic gardens, offering a self-guided exhibition as well as an array of special events, lectures and tours. There is also the Hartman Education Center and a restored 1920’s artist studio.

Admission: $9 adults, $8 seniors, and $7 students, Children 12 and under are free. For exhibition and program information visit

Jillson House Museum

627 Main Street Willimantic, CT 06226 Phone: 860-456-2316

Open: Call for hours of operation

This home was built in 1825 for a mill owner. The structure is made from stone taken locally from the banks of the Willimantic River. Exhibits include artifacts, antique furniture and local memorabilia.

Kidcity Children's Museum

119 Washington St. Middletown, CT 06457 Phone: 860-347-0495

Open: Sunday-Tuesday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Wednesday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Call for holiday schedule.

Whimsical, one-of-a-kind rooms filled with hands-on play and learning, for kids ages 1 to 8 and their grown-ups. Admission: $6 per person.

Lutz Children's Museum

247 S. Main St. (Route 83) Manchester, CT 06040 Phone: 860-643-0949

Open: Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Exhibits change frequently and special programs are offered almost daily for children age 2 through 12. Some current exhibits allow kids to climb aboard a plane full of museum artifacts from Africa or race off on a motorcycle; explore the mysteries of the five senses; see rescued animals; and tour a children’s art gallery. Admission: $4.

Lyman Allyn Art Museum

625 Williams St. New London, CT 06320 Phone: 860-443-2545

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Closed major holidays.

Eighteenth-, 19th- and 20th-century art and decorative arts, American Impressionist paintings, contemporary American art, changing exhibits. Nearby at the Deshon-Allyn Mansion contains dolls and dollhouses. Outdoor Children's Art Park. Admission: Adults, $5; seniors and students; $4; children age 8 and under, free.

Mansfield Historical Society Museum

954 Storrs Road (Route 195) Storrs, CT 06268 Phone: 860-429-6575

Open: June-September, Thursday and Sunday, 1:30-4:30 p.m.; library open year-round by appointment

Collection of furnishings, costumes, photographs and historical artifacts relating to local history, housed in the former town office building and Old Town Hall (1843), changing exhibits, research library. Admission: Adults, $2; children 12 and younger, free.

Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center

110 Pequot Trail Mashantucket, CT 06338 Phone: 800) 411-9671

Open: Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., last admission at 3 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving Eve, Thanksgiving day, December 24 and 25, December 31 and January 1

Permanent exhibits on the Native and natural history of southern New England include a cool descent into a glacial crevasse from 18,000 years ago. Walk through a 1550 Pequot Village. Interactive computer programs, films providing additional information and interpretation of the exhibits. Two research libraries, one for children. Museum store and restaurant. Admission: Adults, $15; seniors, $13; children age 6-15, $10; under 6 free.

Military Historians Museum

N. Main St. Westbrook, CT 06498 Phone: 860-399-9460

Open: Tuesday-Friday, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and by appointment.

The largest collection of American military uniforms in the country. Unit crest insignia, vehicles from World War II Weasel to a Desert Storm truck, music room, research center. Admission: Free.

Museum of the Fife and Drum

Highland Terrace at 63 North Main Street Ivoryton, CT 06442 Phone: 860-767-2237

Open: June 30 through Labor Day weekend, Saturday and Sunday, 1-5 p.m.; third weekend of July and fourth weekend of August reserved for private activities

Exhibits focus on the fife and drum, not only as an important symbol of American patriotism during the Revolutionary period, but as an integral part of military strategy in the 17th and 18th centuries. The museum is a visual and musical history of America on parade, from the Revolutionary War to the present. Theme displays feature drums, fifes, military swords, music, uniforms, medals, awards and photographs. Admission; Adults, $3; youth age 13-17, $2; seniors, $2; children under age 12, free.

Mystic River Historical Society Museum

74 High Street at Old New London Road Mystic, CT 06355 Phone: 860-536-4779

Open: Mid-May-mid-October, Tuesday, 9 a.m.-noon; Wednesday-Thursday, 1-4 p.m. Archives building is open year-round

Visitors to the museum can see two sites, the Portersville Academy (built in 1839) and the William A. Downes Archives Building. The Academy contains a recreated 1840's school room and changing exhibits relating to Mystic history. The Archives Building contains a growing collection of artifacts, printed material, maps and photographs. Admission: free.

New England Air Museum

36 Perimeter Rd. (off Route 75) Windsor Locks, CT 06096 Phone: 860-623-3305

Open: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; closed January 1, Thanksgiving, December 25.

Largest aviation museum in the Northeastern U.S. 80 aircraft featured in three display buildings, exhibits, films, gift shop. Admission: Adults, $8.50; seniors,$7.50; children age 6-11, $4.50.

New England Center for Contemporary Art

7 Putnam Place Brooklyn, CT 06234 Phone: 860-774-8899

Open: Saturday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Three-story late Colonial converted to museum of 20th-century modern art, contemporary Chinese art. Changing exhibits, gift shop. Admission: Free.

Prudence Crandall Museum

Junction Routes 14 and 169 Canterbury, CT 06331 Phone: 860-546-7800

Open: Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; closed December 15-January 31; open February and March by appointment only

New England's first academy for Black women (1833-34), established by Connecticut's female state hero. Changing exhibits, period furnishings, research library, gift shop. National Historic Landmark; part of the Connecticut Freedom Trail and the Connecticut Women’s Heritage Trail. Gift shop. Admission: Adults, $3; seniors and children, $2; children age 5 and younger, free.

Slater Memorial Museum and Converse Art Gallery

Norwich Free Academy, 108 Crescent Street Norwich, CT 06360 Phone: 860-887-2506

Open: Tuesday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Closed holidays.

Housed in a Neo-Romanesque structure built in 1886; collection of Greek, Roman and Renaissance casts; American art and furniture, Native American artifacts; Asian, African and European art; historic gun collection and textiles. Rotating exhibitions in Converse Art Gallery. Admission: Adults, $3; seniors and students, $2; children under age 12, free.

Vintage Radio & Communications Museum

115 Pierson Lane Windsor, CT 06095 Phone: 860-683-2903

Open: Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 1-4 p.m.

History of electronic communications from telegraphs of the late 1800s to radio to television. Over 750 rare radios and televisions on display, reference library. Admission: Adults, $7; children age 6-11, $4.

Windham Textile and History Museum

411 Main Street Willimantic, CT 06226 Phone: 860-456-2178

Open: Memorial Day-Columbus Day, Friday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m.; closed January and major holidays.

Museum preserves the textile industry of southern New England at the height of the Industrial Revolution. Exhibits include thread factory floor, rooms from a workers rowhouse and owner’s mansion. Admission: Adults, $5; seniors and students, $3.50; children under age 6, free.
New Haven/South Central top of listings

Barker Character, Comic & Cartoon Museum

1188 Highland Ave. (Route 10) Cheshire, CT 06410 Phone: 203-699-3822

Open Saturdays 12-4pm

Over 80,000 items including toys and character collectibles from 1873 to present; Western, TV and advertising collectibles; cartoon memorabilia; official musuem for Celebriducks, the California Raisin and Gumby; sculpture gallery. Admission: Free.

Connecticut Children's Museum

22 Wall Street New Haven, CT 06511 Phone: 203-562-5437

Open: Friday and Saturday, noon-5 p.m.

Interactive, innovative and inclusive museum with eight rooms of hands-on exhibits, observation bee hive, the Great Green Room from Goodnight Moon, and a pint-size post office. Admission: $5 per person.

Eli Whitney Museum

915 Whitney Avenue Hamden, CT 06517 Phone: 203-777-1833

Open: Memorial Day-Labor Day, daily 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Other times, Wednesday-Friday and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Closed major holidays.

Museum focusing on Eli Whitney's life, his inventions and his legacy. In addition to historic exhibits, the museum also holds a water learning lab and outdoor study areas. The barn, built in 1816, is the site of special events throughout the year. Admission: free; charge for programs.

Henry Whitfield State Museum

248 Old Whitfield Street Guilford, CT 06437 Phone: 203-453-2457

Open: April 1- December 14, Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Dec. 15-March by appointment.

Connecticut's oldest house (1639) and New England's oldest stone house, built as a minister's home and town stronghold, Colonial Revival restorations 1903 and 1930s. 17th- to 19th-century furnishings, museum shop, visitor center. National Historic Landmark. Admission: Adults, $4; seniors, $3; children age 6-17, $2.50.

New Haven Colony Historical Society Museum

114 Whitney Avenue New Haven, CT 06510 Phone: 203-562-4183

Open: Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, noon-5 pm. Closed major holidays.

Permanent exhibits detail the history of New Haven from 1638 to the present. Of particular interest is the exhibit of tableware from 1640 - 1840. The museum also contains a library, photo exhibit and gift shop. Admission: $2 adults, $1.50 seniors and students.

Osborne Homestead Museum

500 Hawthorne Avenue (near Osbornedale State Park) Derby, CT 06418 Phone: 203-734-2513

Open: Late April-mid-December, Thursday-Friday, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4 p.m. Grounds: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4 p.m.

Former estate of Frances Osborne Kellogg. Elegant Colonial Revival home (1850), original antiques and fine arts. Formal rose and flower garden, English rock garden. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Admission: Donation requested.

Peabody Museum of Natural History (Yale University)

170 Whitney Avenue New Haven, CT 06511 Phone: 203-432-5050

Open: Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m. Closed major holidays.

Brontosaurus and Stegosaurus haunt the Great Hall of Dinosaurs, where Rudolph Zallinger's famous Age of Reptiles mural spans 108 feet. Live animals inhabit, exhibits on Native America, Ancient Egypt, human origins, birds, minerals, meteorites. Gift shop. Admission: Adults, $7; seniors, $6; students and children aged 3-18, $5; free admission Thursdays, 2-5 p.m. from September to June.

Shore Line Trolley Museum

17 River Street East Haven, CT 06512 Phone: 203-467-6927

Open: April, Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; May and September-November, Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Memorial Day-Labor Day, daily, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; late November-late December, Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Ride vintage streetcars through scenic woods and wetlands. View exhibits on the trolley era and tour the trolley collection. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Admission: Adults, $6; seniors, $5; children age 2-15, $3; under 2 free.

Yale Center for British Art

1080 Chapel Street New Haven, CT 06520 Phone: 203-432-2800

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5 p.m.

Designed by Louis Kahn, the museum houses the largest and most comprehensive collection of British art outside the United Kingdom. Its foundation is the gift of paintings, drawings prints, rare books, manuscripts, and sculpture donated by Paul Mellon (Yale class 1929). Admission: free.

Yale Collection of Musical Instruments

15 Hillhouse Avenue New Haven, CT 06520 Phone: 203-432-0822

Open: September-June, Tuesday-Thursday, 1-4 p.m.; closed July, August, and university holidays

More than 800 16th- to 20th-century musical instruments documenting European and American music tradition. Concert series September to April. Admission: $2 donation.

Yale University Art Gallery

1111 Chapel Street New Haven, CT 06520 Phone: 203-432-0600

Open: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-6 p.m.; September-June, Thursday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; closed major holidays

Founded in 1832, with more than 185,000 objects dating from ancient Egypt to the present. Paintings by van Gogh, Manet, Monet and Picasso, one of the finest collections of American paintings and decorative arts; changing exhibitions. Free admission.