Trying to fit in a few more day trips before school returned with the boys and the Connecticut Science Center in Hartford had been on our to do list for a few weeks. We were delighted when they allowed us to visit the Science Center as their guests this past week.
The drive to Hartford was as expected, about an hour and 20 minutes from the NY boarder right up I-84. There are 2 parking garages available, one at the convention center (located across the street from the Science Center) and one at the Science Center. We actually did not see the entrance to the Science Center garage because the sign was covered by a huge tree, but it is attached to the building itself. Parking for 3 hours (how long we stayed) at the convention center was $7.00. Rates are biased on how long you park so plan accordingly. On street parking is not an option in this section of Downtown Hartford.
Once we enter the Science Center it was a lot of fun. 4 Floors of all hands on activities for kids. A majority of the activities are for kids ages 7 and up, but there are several geared for younger kids but they are pretty spaced out, so Warren was in his stroller more then I had expected. We decided to start at the top floor and work our way back down as most people did. The elevators are small, but stairs are an option if you do not want to wait for the elevators.
The amount of exhibits was actually more then I had expected by looking at the outside of the Science Center. I would have to say the favorites were The Adventure of Mr. Potato Head, Invention Dimension, Forces in Motion and KidSpace (of course where the water tables were!). The entire Center was clean and there was staff just about at every exhibit section to explain how something worked if you were unsure or just had a general question.
You can bring lunch or snack and there are a few tables set up for you to eat. Please note: no food is allowed into the Science Center itself, expect water bottles. After a quick lunch at Subway (since we had arrived later then I we had expected) located in the Science Center lobby, we stopped by the Gift Shop. Just about anything a science loving boy or girl could want it there.
The Science Center also offers everything from Birthday Parties to Vacation Science Camps. You can find more information on their website or by calling 860-724-3623. Hours from Tuesday to Sunday 10am-5pm, however they are open on Mondays during the Summer and some Holidays.
