Local Activities
Located in the heart of Connecticut, Hartford is a vibrant city that offers a wealth of opportunities for families looking to raise their children in a stimulating and enriching environment. Known for its world-class educational institutions and diverse array of entertainment options, Hartford provides an ideal setting for young minds to flourish. When it comes to education, Hartford boasts an exceptional school system that is dedicated to providing top-notch academics and fostering a love for learning. The city is home to prestigious public and private schools, including magnet schools that offer specialized programs in various fields such as science, technology, engineering, and the arts. Additionally, there are several esteemed colleges and universities in the area, ensuring that children have access to quality higher education options close to home. Beyond traditional education, Hartford offers numerous educational and cultural attractions that are perfect for children. Families can explore the Connecticut Science Center, a state-of-the-art museum that combines interactive exhibits with hands-on activities, sparking curiosity and scientific inquiry. The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, the oldest public art museum in the United States, presents a diverse collection of masterpieces that expose children to the world of art and creativity. For entertainment, Hartford is home to the XL Center, an arena that hosts a wide range of events, from professional sports games to concerts and family-friendly shows. The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts is another cultural gem, showcasing Broadway musicals, ballet performances, and orchestral concerts. Parks and recreational facilities are also abundant, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. In conclusion, Hartford, CT is a city that offers an ideal environment for families looking to raise children with ample educational and entertainment opportunities. With its excellent schools, educational institutions, and cultural attractions, Hartford ensures that children have access to a well-rounded and enriching upbringing.
Activities in Hartford
At Hartford Stage, we strive to provide innovative, quality theatrical opportunities and education programs, tailored to the needs of Connecticut students. Our programs are designed to build community and citizenship, promote a passion for literacy, and create expression, as well as encourage life-long learning. Each year, our education programs serve more than 21,000 students and adults. We offer student matinees, in-school theatre residencies, teen performance opportunities, theatre classes for students and adults, after-school programs, and professional development courses. Our goal is to help young people develop an appreciation for the arts, while also teaching them important life skills. We believe that theatre techniques can foster creativity, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking, and our programs are designed to help students gain these skills. We also strive to nurture the next generation of artists and theatre professionals, develop a new audience of theatre-goers, and be a leader in providing in-school, theatre-based programs.
At Sea Tea Comedy Theater, we’re dedicated to providing top-notch, affordable entertainment to all. We give comedians and performers a platform to hone their skills and foster an inclusive, diverse comedy community. Plus, we’re a great launching pad for regional talent to reach a wider audience. At Sea Tea Comedy Theater, we’re all about making sure families have access to quality, affordable entertainment. That’s why we offer a range of opportunities to comedians and performers, allowing them to cultivate their craft and build an inclusive comedy community. We’re also proud to be a platform for regional talent to take their acts to a national level.
At the Hartt School Community Division, we’re proud to offer an engaging and enriching learning environment for aspiring artists of all ages, from pre-k to adult. Our curriculum is designed to foster the development of the entire artist through a combination of instruction, collaboration, performance, outreach, and creative exploration. We’re also proud to be accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music and the National Association of Schools of Dance. So come join us and be a part of our vibrant community! Our mission is to provide a safe and inspiring learning environment that empowers students to grow and expand their creative potential. We strive to create an atmosphere of acceptance and collaboration, where all members of our community are respected and encouraged to reach their full potential. So if you’re looking for a place to explore your artistry and grow as an artist, look no further than the Hartt School Community Division!
WittyKaly provides a variety of arts services for everyone to enjoy! Whether you're looking to book individual art classes for yourself or enrol your preschooler in a bilingual program, WittyKaly has something for everyone. From small private groups to childcare centers and museums, WittyKaly can even accommodate large groups with ease. Yesenia, better known as Yesi (Jessie), is one of our talented artists who offers a wide range of services. Not only is she an amazing baker, but a talented makeup artist and face painter too. She loves bringing the magic of art to birthday parties and making them unforgettable! For parents looking to give their children an extra special birthday treat, Yesi is the perfect choice. She'll help make your child’s special day even more unique and memorable - a day that you'll both cherish for a lifetime!
Easterseals Camp Hemlocks is an accessible camp for youth and adults with physical, sensory, intellectual and developmental disabilities in the scenic woods of Central Connecticut. Camp Hemlocks offers a traditional camping experience for campers as young as eight and there is no aging out, allowing campers to attend into adulthood. Activities include, swimming in our indoor heated pool, boating and fishing on our 22-acre pond, arts and crafts, nature, health and fitness, and climbing our challenge tower. Camp Hemlocks programing is individually tailored to the needs of each camper to provide them the most enjoyable and successful camping experience possible. The benefits of summer camp extend beyond the exhilarating activities, campfires and friendship bracelets. Camp is a place to develop confidence. Camp is where social skills flourish. Camp promotes independence. Most importantly, camp is fun! Campers often say that they feel as if they are a part of a family while they are with us. They feel accepted and wanted with people who understand them. At Easterseals Camp Hemlocks we support the use of adaptive technology, equipment and creativity to support the needs of each individual camper. Camp Hemlocks is a place where each camper has the opportunity to socialize with old friends and make new ones. Camp Hemlocks offers the appropriate assistance needed to all campers around mobility, participation in program and activities of daily living. New activities and customized support encourages campers to try new things and allows even the most seasoned camper an exciting challenge!
YMCA Camp Dakota is a traditional camp, even though it is located in a school; we still do arts & crafts, fishing, hiking, swimming, field games and more. We serve preschool through teens and expose them to new things such as learning to swim, making new friends, and lifelong memories.