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14-Day Family Adventure Road Trip in Connecticut: Extreme Sports, Fun Activities, and Theme Parks

Viewed by 137 travelers

Day 1: Adventure Begins

Hartford, Connecticut

9:00AM

Breakfast at Max Downtown

Start your day with a sumptuous breakfast at Max Downtown, famous for their fluffy pancakes and fresh fruit.
Drive to the Connecticut Science Center.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Connecticut Science Center

Explore interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater, engaging both the kids and adults.
Head to the Hartford Riverfront for lunch.
USD 48, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Salute

Enjoy some delicious Italian dishes made from scratch at this family-friendly restaurant.
Travel to Lake Compounce for the afternoon.
USD 60, 1 hour

2:30PM

Lake Compounce Amusement Park

Spend the afternoon enjoying rides and attractions, with thrilling roller coasters for the adventurous and kid-friendly rides for the five-year-old.
Return to hotel for a break.
USD 100, 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Carbone's Ristorante

Cap the day with a hearty Italian meal in an atmospheric setting, perfect for families.
Head to your accommodation.
USD 70, 1 hour
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Day 2: Adventure Challenge

East Hartford, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at Panera Bread

Fuel up with healthy breakfast options and fresh pastries at Panera Bread.
Drive to Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park.
USD 80, 1 hour

9:30AM

Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park

Get your adrenaline pumping with ziplining and treetop adventures alongside your five-year-old on kid-friendly courses.
Go to lunch in a nearby café.
USD 55, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Pond House Cafe

Dine at this charming café located in Elizabeth Park, offering a variety of kid-friendly meals.
Head to the Mark Twain House.
USD 40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Mark Twain House & Museum

Learn about the life and works of the famous author in a family-friendly environment, with activities for children.
Drive to Polish National Home.
USD 45, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Polish National Home

Enjoy authentic Polish cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere; a great way to end your day.
Return to your accommodation.
USD 60, 1 hour
Find Hotels in East Hartford

Day 3: Museum and Thrills

Thomaston, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at Thomaston Pizza

Start your day with a hearty pizza breakfast with options appealing to adults and kids alike.
Travel to the Thomaston Railway Museum.
USD 30, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Thomaston Railway Museum

Explore the rich history of railroading in Connecticut with engaging exhibits for kids.
Lunch at The Olive Tree.
USD 50, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Olive Tree

Enjoy Mediterranean flavors with a kid’s menu to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Travel to Action Wildlife Foundation.
USD 60, 30 minutes

1:00PM

Action Wildlife Foundation

Get close to exotic animals and have fun interacting with wildlife in an outdoor setting.
Return for dinner at The Grumpy Grizzly.
USD 75, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Grumpy Grizzly

Unwind after an exhilarating day with comfort food and kid-friendly options.
Head back to your lodging.
USD 55, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Thomaston

Day 4: Water Adventures

Bristol, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Nook

Enjoy a classic American breakfast, featuring eggs and pancakes.
Drive to Lake Compounce.
USD 50, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Lake Compounce Water Park

Spend the day splashing around at Connecticut's largest water park, perfect for both extreme fun and family-friendly areas.
Head to lunch at The Chicken Coop.
USD 70, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Chicken Coop

Grab a casual lunch featuring fried chicken and sides, enjoyed by both kids and adults.
Drive to the Bristol Farmers Market.
USD 40, 30 minutes

1:30PM

Bristol Farmers Market

Explore local vendors and enjoy fresh produce, snacks, and handmade crafts - a treat for the whole family.
Return to your accommodation for rest.
USD 20, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Hungry Pioneer

Wrap up the day with hearty burgers and fries, a hit with the kids.
Back to your lodging to unwind.
USD 55, 1 hour
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Day 5: Play and Explore

Southington, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Southington Diner

Start the day with a classic diner breakfast; the perfect fuel for an adventurous day.
Drive to the YMCA for a family activity.
USD 50, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Southington YMCA Adventure Center

Participate in fun family activities such as obstacle courses and climbing walls at the adventure center.
Lunch at pizza restaurant nearby.
USD 60, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Naples Pizza

Indulge in delicious pizza, perfect for recharging after a busy morning.
Head to the local park for playtime.
USD 50, 30 minutes

1:00PM

Enjoy Southington Park

Let your five-year-old enjoy the playground while you relax or partake in family sports.
Travel to the Next Level Climbing Gym.
USD 50, 2 hours

4:00PM

Next Level Climbing Gym

Challenge yourself with climbing walls, creating an exhilarating experience for all ages.
Dinner at Red Robin.
USD 75, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Red Robin

Enjoy a family-friendly dining experience featuring gourmet burgers and shakes.
Return to your accommodation.
USD 60, 1 hour
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Day 6: Cultural Insights

Middletown, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at O’Rourke’s Diner

Savor a delicious breakfast at this local favorite diner known for its pancakes.
Travel to Kidcity Children's Museum.
USD 40, 20 minutes

9:00AM

Kidcity Children's Museum

Explore this interactive children’s museum where your five-year-old can engage in imaginative play.
Head to lunch at the nearby café.
USD 50, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Common Grounds

Enjoy a cozy lunch at this family-friendly café serving sandwiches and salads.
Head to Wadsworth Falls State Park.
USD 40, 30 minutes

2:00PM

Wadsworth Falls State Park

Take a family hike through scenic nature trails, perfect for making memories outdoors.
Drive to dinner at the local favorite.
USD 90, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Gelato Shop

Wind down with delicious gelato after a long day, the ideal treat for the whole family.
Return to your lodging.
USD 30, 20 minutes
Find Hotels in Middletown

Day 7: Coastal Fun

New Haven, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at Claire’s Corner Copia

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this beloved local vegetarian café that caters to every appetite.
Head to the Connecticut Science Center.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Connecticut Science Center

Uncover a world of science with interactive exhibits that will amaze children and adults alike.
Drive to lighthouse.
USD 40, 25 minutes

11:30AM

East Haven Lighthouse

Visit this beautiful lighthouse for some memorable family photos against the coastal backdrop.
Lunch at a seaside restaurant.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Lobster Shack

Savor freshest seafood while enjoying beautiful ocean views, a great family stop.
Take a scenic walk along the beach.
USD 30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Beachcombing at Lighthouse Point Park

Spend the afternoon beachcombing and enjoying the sun on the sandy shore.
Visit a local ice cream shop.
USD 20, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Ashley’s Ice Cream

Satisfy your sweet tooth with renowned homemade ice cream and desserts, the perfect end to a beach day.
Return to the hotel.
USD 30, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in New Haven

Day 8: Outdoor Adventure

Farmington, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Farmington Deli

Start the day with fresh bagels and coffee at this popular local favorite.
Drive to West Adventure Park.
USD 40, 30 minutes

9:00AM

West Adventure Park

Tackle exciting activities such as safari swings and climbing walls, perfect for thrill-seeking families.
Go for lunch.
USD 70, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Trattoria

Indulge in some of the best pizza in the area in a relaxed atmosphere.
Explore the local Botanical Gardens.
USD 20, 30 minutes

1:30PM

Farmington Botanical Gardens

Take a leisurely stroll through beautiful gardens, allowing your little one to explore nature.
Visit the Mark Twain House.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Mark Twain House

Discover the fascinating history of Mark Twain's life and works, with plenty of interactive sections for kids.
Return for dinner at Chip’s.
USD 60, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Chip's

End your day with casual dining and desserts the kids will love.
Return to the hotel.
USD 25, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Farmington

Day 9: Arts and Culture

West Hartford, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Corner Pug

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this cozy neighborhood pub.
A short drive to the West Hartford Art Gallery.
USD 30, 20 minutes

9:00AM

West Hartford Art Gallery

Explore contemporary artwork in an engaging environment that captivates both children and adults.
Travel to a fun, kid-friendly café.
USD 40, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Lunch at Café Au Bon Pain

Enjoy fresh pastries and light lunch offerings, perfect for refueling.
Head to the West Hartford Reservoir.
USD 30, 20 minutes

1:00PM

West Hartford Reservoir

Take a scenic walk or bike around the reservoir; it's an ideal place for outdoor fun.
Visit nearby theme park for thrilling rides.
USD 50, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Rocky Hill - Glastonbury Ferry

Take a ferry ride that provides breathtaking views of the Connecticut River.
Go for dinner slightly away from the ferry.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Elbow Room

Taste American cuisine in a vibrant atmosphere; enjoyable for the entire family.
Return to your lodging.
USD 50, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in West Hartford

Day 10: Exploring Mystic

Mystic, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kitchen Little

Savor a relaxing breakfast with views of the harbor at this quaint spot.
Drive to the Mystic Aquarium.
USD 40, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Mystic Aquarium

Explore marine exhibits and enjoy engaging sea life shows that thrill children.
Visit Mystic Seaport nearby.
USD 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at S & P Oyster Co.

Treat yourself to fresh, local seafood in a picturesque setting right by the water.
Explore more of Mystic Seaport Museum.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Mystic Seaport Museum

Learn the rich maritime history of New England with interactive experiences for all ages.
Walk to Mystic Pizza.
USD 50, 1 hour

4:00PM

Mystic Pizza

Indulge in famous pizza while reminiscing about the iconic movie; it’s a fun, family-friendly spot.
Go to dinner at a local pub.
USD 70, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Harp and Hound

Celebrate your day with ales and homestyle cooking that everyone will enjoy.
Return to your lodgings.
USD 60, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Mystic

Day 11: Nature's Beauty

Stonington, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at Stonington Borough Café

Start the day with a delicious breakfast enjoyed in the cozy atmosphere of this café.
Drive to Misquamicut State Beach.
USD 50, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Misquamicut State Beach

Spend the day soaking up the sun and enjoying the waves, perfect for family fun.
Head towards the local seafood shack.
USD 80, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Little Mermaid Seafood Shack

Enjoy fresh seafood right by the beach – a true coastal experience.
Stonington Harbor to take a boat tour.
USD 100, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stonington Harbor Boat Tour

Experience the beauty of nature on this family-friendly boat ride; keep an eye out for wildlife.
Return to the beach for some evening fun.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Evening Beach Fun

Wrap up the day with beach games and sandcastle building.
Head to dinner at a local favorite.
USD 50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Skipper’s Dock

Finish the day with a delightful meal featuring local seafood and family-friendly options.
Return to your lodging.
USD 60, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Stonington

Day 12: Charming Coastal Towns

Old Saybrook, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at Old Saybrook Diner

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast in this classic diner known for its warm service.
Travel to the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center.
USD 30, 20 minutes

9:00AM

Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center

Visit this historical and beautiful venue often referred to by locals as the 'Kate' for inspiring shows.
Lunch at a local café.
USD 40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Saybrook Soup & Sandwich Co.

Grab a light lunch from their menu of locally sourced ingredients.
Explore the local beaches.
USD 20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Beaches of Old Saybrook

Enjoy the coast, letting your young one build sandcastles and splash in the surf.
Visit the local parkland.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Mad Murphy's

Indulge in a delightful dinner featuring a variety of American cuisine for the entire family.
Return to your lodging.
USD 50, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Evening Stroll at Saybrook Point

Enjoy a relaxing evening stroll by the point and marvel at the sunset along the coast.
Return to your accommodations.
USD 10, 20 minutes
Find Hotels in Old Saybrook

Day 13: Thrills and Joys

Fairfield, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Shack

Kickstart your morning with hearty breakfast items that both kids and adults will love.
Drive to the Beardsley Zoo.
USD 40, 20 minutes

9:00AM

Beardsley Zoo

Experience a small yet rich wildlife experience with animals and interactive programs for kids.
Lunch at a local pizzeria.
USD 60, 2.5 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Colony Grill

Dine at this iconic pizzeria serving some of the best thin-crust pizza in Connecticut.
Drive to Adventure Park at Storrs.
USD 50, 30 minutes

2:30PM

Adventure Park at Storrs

Challenge your family with ropes courses and zip lines that will get your hearts racing.
Dinner at a steakhouse.
USD 80, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Celebrate your last night in Connecticut with an extravagant dining experience featuring delicious meals and great ambiance.
Head back to your hotel.
USD 90, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Fairfield

Day 14: Final Explorations

Bridgeport, Connecticut

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Treat yourselves to breakfast at this vibrant coffee shop that has delicious options.
Visit the Bridgeport Discovery Museum.
USD 30, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Bridgeport Discovery Museum

Wrap up your trip with hands-on exhibits where kids can interact and learn in a fun environment.
Head to lunch at a local restaurant.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Red Lobster

Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch, a perfect ending to your culinary adventure.
Drive to Bridgeport's shoreline park.
USD 40, 30 minutes

2:00PM

Seaside Park

Relax and let the kids play on the beach or enjoy a quiet walk along the shore to reflect on the trip's memories.
Drive back to your accommodations.
USD 20, 1 hour

4:00PM

Wrap Up Dinner at The Bridgeport Mill

Celebrate your final evening in Connecticut with a group dinner at this charming spot featuring a family-style dining experience.
Return to the hotel or airport.
USD 70, 30 minutes
Find Hotels in Bridgeport
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