Children & Families

Destination Plymouth
Plymouth, MA
Toll-Free: 800-USA-1620

History is just the beginning!

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Bring the whole family to Plymouth, MA for some unforgettable fun! Adults and children alike will be able to enjoy their visit to Plymouth with a wide variety of activities on land or on the water. The Atlantic Ocean itself is a playground, and trips such as whale watches, lobster excursions and pirate adventures have proven popular with visitors both young and not quite as young. Our beaches and parks offer families a place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Edaville USA is open year-round and features a restored narrow gauge train ride through acres of cranberry bogs, and Plimoth Plantation provides a living history museum depicting life in Plymouth in 1627. Please call 1.800.USA.1620, or visit our website to learn more about these activities and others to prepare for your trip to Plymouth.

EcoTarium, A Museum of Science and Nature
222 Harrington Way
Worcester, MA  01604
Phone: 508-929-2700
Fax: 508-929-2701

Inspiring a Passion for Science and Nature

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Children of all ages love exploring the EcoTarium, a unique indoor-outdoor museum of science and nature. Set in an urban oasis, the EcoTarium offers a chance to walk through the treetops and journey through the galaxy at a digital planetarium. You’ll meet wildlife like turtles, owls, eagles, an otter and a fox – even a polar bear! Plus, stroll nature trails, ride a narrow-gauge railroad, and get hands-on with family-friendly exhibits. The EcoTarium is always changing with special events, exhibits, digital planetarium shows and programming for families year round. For a special offer, visit www.ecotarium.org/coupon.

Edaville USA
5 Pine Street
Carver, MA  02330
Phone: 508- 866-8190
Toll-Free: 877-EDAVILLE

Where the good times keep on rollin
Click here for a money saving coupon!

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A variety of different children's characters will entertain on weekends during the summer and fall, along with musicians, fascinating guests and other types of entertainment. Please click on events above for the latest information on our 2009 season.
Also, the annual National Cranberry Festival™ will once again return over the three day Columbus Day weekend. And, of course, no season at Edaville USA would be complete without the famous "Christmas Festival of Lights", which begins in November and continues throughout the holiday season.
Keep checking the website for updated information, and make your plans to visit Edaville USA in 2009...again and again!!!

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
One Railroad Avenue
Essex, CT  06426
Phone: 860-767-0103
Toll-Free: 800-377-3987
Fax: 860-767-0104

Ride the Steam Train, Ride the Riverboat!

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The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat ride is a fun-filled trip for adults and children of all ages. We have two coal-fired locomotives available to pull our collection of lovingly restored railroad cars. From the exciting "All Aboard" to the clickety-clack of the tracks, you will experience an authentic journey back to the days of steam. We are pleased to take you through some of the most beautiful country in the state, where you’ll find forests and streams, beautiful vistas and nostalgic towns, and some gorgeous views of the Connecticut River, all year long. Winter is an exciting time to ride the train, as the Locomotive comes alive in the crisp winter air. In the spring and summer, you will see pristine meadows, picturesque farms, a millpond with a waterfall, and several bridges over rivers and creeks. And of course, in the Autumn, the colors of New England are an unforgettable sight. Come visit us anytime!

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.

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The Home of American Impressionism gives visitors a glimpse of life in an artists’ colony not found elsewhere in America. At the heart of this historic site is the Griswold House, where the artists lived and worked. Their artwork can be seen in the famed dining room where they painted directly on the walls. The award winning Krieble Gallery hosts changing exhibitions and fun gallery games for children. Families will also enjoy scavenger hunts in the house and gardens. Free with your admission on Sundays, stop by the Hartman Education Center and pick up all the supplies you need (canvas, brushes, palettes, and paint) to make a painting down by the river or in Miss Florence's garden. All ages and skill levels welcome.

Franklin Park Zoo
One Franklin Park Road
Boston, MA  02121
Phone: 617-541-LION (5466)
Fax: 617-989-2025

Get Close.

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Opened in 1912, this 72-acre site nestled in Boston’s historic Franklin Park features an array of wildlife from all over the world. Come face-to-face with an African lion in the Kalahari Kingdom, visit Masai giraffe and Grevy’s zebra of the Giraffe Savannah and discover the Tropical Forest, home to western lowland gorillas, lemurs, mandrills and much more! Be sure not to miss the Tiger Tales exhibit or Butterfly Landing, open seasonally from mid-June through mid-September. Franklin Park Zoo has many activities for children including education classes, Zoo Camp and Snorin’ Roarin’ sleepovers. The zoo is available for rentals and offers unique indoor and outdoor facilities and catering services to turn your child’s birthday party or your next meeting or event into an adventure! Open year round - except Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Harvard Museum of Natural History
26 Oxford Street
Cambridge, MA  02138
Phone: 617-495-3045
Fax: 617-496-8782

Dinosaurs, Glass Flowers, Meteorites – Explorers Welcome

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Explore 12,000 specimens at the Harvard Museum of Natural History -- dinosaurs, meteorites, gemstones, and hundreds of animals from around the globe. Get close to the world’s only mounted Kronosaurus, a 42 ft-long marine reptile; one of the first Triceratops ever discovered; a 1,642 lb. amethyst geode; whale skeletons. Don’t miss the world famous exhibit of 3,000 ‘Glass Flowers’, amazingly realistic models of plants, fruits and flowers created by father-son glass artists Leopold and Rudolph Blaschka from 1886-1936. You won’t believe they’re not real! The museum is on the University campus, just a 7-10 minute walk through historic Harvard Yard from the Harvard Square Red Line ‘T’ station. Check out lectures, films, classes & changing exhibitions.

Heritage Museums & Gardens
67 Grove Street
Sandwich, MA  02563
Phone: 508-888-3300

Celebrating 40 Years of Educational Family Fun

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The Heritage Museum & Gardens is a great place for families to spend a day. We’re famous for our beautifully landscaped grounds, providing a naturalized woodland park on the edge of upper Shawme Pond. A Shaker round barn houses our J. K. Lilly III Antique Automobile Collection with its stunning display of antique automobiles. The American History Museum will be opening this summer with several New Exhibits. An operating hand-carved carousel and many of America's most distinguished artists' works are on exhibit in the Art Museum. We offer loads of special and educational children’s activities in a setting parents can enjoy too.

Historic Deerfield
88 Old Main Street
Deerfield, MA  01342
Phone: 413-775-7214

Open: Daily, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; call for seasonal changes.

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At Historic Deerfield children and their families can enjoy a trip through time at the Wells-Thorne house, a visit to the one-room schoolhouse, or using the looms at Hall Tavern. A special activity pack is also available to enhance the outdoor experience of the Blake Meadow Walk. Starting May 10, each weekend from noon to 4:00 pm families can visit the History Workshop where they will enjoy dressing up like an 18th century family, participating in games, using reproduction artifacts, and making a project to take home. Check our program calendar for other opportunities including open hearth cooking demonstrations, performances, and our monthly Hands-on History events.

Alpine Adventures Outdoor Recreation
41 Main Street
Lincoln, NH
Toll-Free: 888-745-1919

Unique and exciting outdoor adventures

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Enjoy all that Alpine Adventures has to offer, including New England’s very first zip-line tour! Our original course is a true treetop canopy tour that your kids are sure to enjoy. Zip from tree to tree through the forest, among the pine, hemlock, oak, beech and birch trees and the wildlife that call them home. Ride dual ziplines, and race your friends and family. Take part in our Summer Safari off-road tours or visit us in winter for our highly recommended snowmobile tours. Adventure is calling. Pick up the phone.

Audubon Society of Rhode Island
Environmental Education Center
1401 Hope Street, Route 114
Bristol, RI  02809
Phone: 401-245-7500

Stay in touch with the great outdoors

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The Audubon Environmental Education Center is a state-of-the art natural history museum and aquarium that puts fun and excitement into experiencing nature. Look inside a 33-foot life size Right Whale, discover life in a tide pool, and observe Narragansett Bay’s marine life. The Center’s interactive exhibits feature local habitats. Situated on the 28-acre McIntosh Wildlife Refuge the Environmental Education Center has walking trails with a ¼ mile boardwalk that winds through fresh and saltwater marshes leading to a majestic view of Narragansett Bay. The refuge is along the East Bay Bike Path allowing bikers and walkers access to the refuge’s natural beauty. The Center offers guided tours, nature walks, special family programs and much more throughout the year. The facility and trails are handicapped accessible.

Billings Farm & Museum
Route 12N & River Road
Woodstock, VT  05091
Phone: 802-457-2355
Fax: 802-457-4663

Explore one of the finest operating dairy farms in America and a museum of Vermont's rural past.

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Enter the gateway to Vermont’s rural heritage and explore one of the finest Jersey farms in America, featuring interactive farm programs and activities and award-winning historical exhibits. Explore the barns and calf nursery and stop by for the afternoon milking. The restored farm house, engaging farm life exhibits, and visitor center featuring the Academy Award nominee film A Place in the Land, showcase this model farm, a Woodstock landmark since 1871. Hands-on activities are available each day, as well as a variety of seasonal events, museum shop, and dairy bar. We are handicapped accessible.
Open: May–October, daily, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. and weekends November - February 10 a.m- 4 p.m. and December 26 - January 1 10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Boston Common Frog Pond Skating Rink
Boston Common
Boston, MA
Phone: 617-635-2120

Open November 20, 2008 through March 17, 2009

Capture the scent of wood smoke in the air. Hear the sound of metal blades skimming over smooth ice. Close your eyes and your senses return you to 1634, as you skate on the Frog Pond in America's oldest public park.

Here at the coolest gathering place in Boston you can join local residents and visitors alike as they glide over the carefully manicured, refrigerated surface. In 1997, people were able to skate on this type of surface for the first time in Downtown Boston. The Frog Pond Skating Rink is now open from November to mid-March with at least 100 days of seasonal skating. Whether you're practicing for a 9.9 at the Winter Olympics or simply trying to stand on two feet, the ice at the Frog Pond will always be accommodating.

Bromley Sun Mountain Adventure Park
Route 11
Six miles east of Manchester, VT
Phone: 802-824-5522

Family Fun!

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Grab top-to-bottom summertime fun at Bromley’s Sun Mountain Adventure Park, featuring America’s greatest Alpine Slide, Vermont’s longest water-slide raft ride, the towering Giant Swing, the 100’ Adrenaline ZipLine, SpaceBikes, "realrock" climbing-wall, Bungee-Trampoline Things, an 18 hole championship mini-golf, scenic chairlift rides, trail hiking and more. The six-and-under adventurers in the crowd have their own place to play in the Kiddie Park, boasting Bumper Boats, the Bounce House and a Super Slide all their own. Open Memorial Day through mid-October.

Camden Snow Bowl-Parks & Recreation
20 Barnestown Road
Camden, ME
Phone: 207-236-3438

"Where the Mountains Meet the Sea"

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The Snow Bowl is on the 1,300-foot Ragged Mountain and is just a short drive from picturesque Camden harbor. Nowhere else in the East can you glide down challenging ski slopes while enjoying a thrilling ocean vista unknown to other Eastern slopes. Ten trails are served by a 3,100-foot double chairlift and two T-bars, including the longest in the state-4,088 feet. Major trails are equipped with snowmaking and lighting. Cross country skiing, tobogganing, snowboarding, snowtubing, ice skating, and snowshoeing also are available at the Camden Snow Bowl. The Snow Bowl is the location for the annual U.S. National Toboggan Championships the first weekend in February. Come ski the Snow Bowl and experience "where the mountains meet the sea." Summer activities include lodge rentals, hiking, mountain bike trails, tennis, swimming, boat launch, and ball field. The Camden Snow Bowl has something for everyone!

Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway & Ski Area
Franconia Notch State Park
I-93 to Exit 34B & 34C
Franconia, NH  03580
Phone: 603-823-8800
Fax: 603-823-8088

Be a part of the Cannon Mountain tradition

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Cannon Mountain in Franconia Notch State Park offers the best value and the most exciting skiing and riding on New Hampshire's greatest vertical drop. The more gentle side Cannon offers the Brookside Family area with 11 beginner and intermediate trails serviced by four lifts. Cannon has 60 trails, nine lifts, including New Hampshire's only 70-passenger aerial tram, a brand new cafeteria and deck, glades, children's programs and day care, lessons, rentals (including high performance skis) and a whole mountain of very nice people whose families have skied Cannon Mountain for generations.

Canterbury Shaker Village
288 Shaker Road
Canterbury, NH  03224
Phone: 603-783-9511

Take a step back in time...

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Children will enjoy the Village, especially the authentic Shaker school and guided Family tours. Also popular are the Family Activity Center and One Girl’s Story, an exhibit on the life of the last girl taken in by the Canterbury Shakers; Simply Colorful Exhibit, a hands - on experience in the Dwelling House, and special event days with activities just for children. The Village is open daily May 10-Oct. 31, daily 10am-5pm; November open Fri., Sat. & Sun. 10am-4pm.

Charles River Canoe & Kayak
2401 Commonwealth Avenue
Newton, MA  02466
Phone: 617-965-5110

You’re Ready for Some Fun and Adventure…

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but don't want to go it alone, a Charles River Canoe & Kayak trip or tour may be just what you're looking for. If you want to stay close to home, try out a Moonlight Canoe Tour departing from our Newton Boathouse, or our famous Boston BBQ Kayak Tour, which explores the Charles in Boston and Cambridge and is capped by a picnic at the dock catered by Redbones. For those who are feeling adventurous, we offer a variety of guided sea kayaking trips along the Massachusetts coast. No matter your ability level, you can find a trip that's right for you - from our introductory trips for those who have never kayaked before, to open-water voyages like the Cape Ann circumnavigation. Charles River Canoe & Kayak has 3 locations - Boston, Newton and Natick. Hourly boat rentals are also available.

Children's Museum of Portsmouth
280 Marcy Street
Portsmouth, NH  03801
Phone: 603-436-3853
Fax: 603-436-7706

Get curious!

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Explore and experience the wonders of science, art, music, math and more at the award-winning Children's Museum of Portsmouth. 19 hands-on exhibits ­ conceived and created in conjunction with local artisans ­ include submarine play structure, lobster boat, space shuttle cockpit, walk-in kaleidoscope, and Primary Place for toddlers. A creative art or science activity is offered daily. The museum also hosts numerous classes, workshops, live performances and special events. Please click on our link above for a full schedule of events. Open year-round: Tues.-Sat. 10-5, Sun. 1-5. Also open Mon. 10-5 during summer and school vacations. Museum shop, on-site parking, air conditioning.

CoCo Key Water Resort
at the Holiday Inn Grand Waterbury
3580 East Main Street
Waterbury, CT  06705
Phone: 203-706-1043

Every day is a bright, sunny 84 degrees at CoCo Key

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Wouldn't it be great to be able to get away to the tropical islands any time you want without having to leave Connecticut? Now you can, at CoCo Key Water Resort, Waterbury’s Newest & Largest Indoor Water Resort. CoCo Key combines the relaxation and enchantment of the islands with the wild excitement of a 55,000-sq. ft. indoor water park. Every day is a bright, sunny 84 degrees at CoCo Key, featuring a selection of signature attractions. A day in the tropics can create quite an appetite. Fortunately, CoCo Key has delicious dining options located within the water resort.

When you dry off and head on over to Key Quest Arcade, our interactive game room filled with state-of-the-art video games.

Concord Museum
Cambridge Turnpike at Lexington Road
Concord, MA  01742
Phone: 978-369-9763
Fax: 978-369-9660

Family-friendly history

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Exploring historic Concord? Begin at the Concord Museum! An inspiring collection of American treasures includes the 1775 “one, if by land, two, if by sea” Revere lantern and Thoreau’s Walden desk. Enjoy engaging, self-touring history galleries that present intriguing ideas relevant to today – concepts of liberty, self-reliance, independent thinking and the preservation of the environment. Family favorites include the engaging “Why Concord?” history galleries, Exploring Concord film, and child-friendly treasure hunts. A year round calendar of programs for adults and children includes story hours, nature explorations, crafts, and a holiday celebration of children’s literature. Open daily year round.

Connecticut College Arboretum
270 Mohegan Avenue
New London, CT  06320
Phone: 860-439-5020

Over 750 acres of beautifully preserved open space

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Connecticut College Arboretum's 750 acres include the college campus, plant collections, natural areas, and managed areas. Its three major plants collections for public enjoyment are the Campus Landscape with 120 acres of trees and shrubs from around the world; the Native Plant collection, with 20 acres of woody plants and wildflowers indigenous to North America with a pond, and walking trails; Caroline Black Garden with an exquisite display of diverse woody plants in a garden setting. Open every day from sunrise to sunset. Free public guided tours every Sunday afternoon May - October at 2 p.m. Call 860-439-5060 for more information. Private group tours can be arranged upon request.

Crab Apple Whitewater
Route 2
Charlemont, MA  01339
Toll-Free: 800-553-7238

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Crab Apple Whitewater is New England’s largest rafting company, offering 5 rafting and inflatable kayaking trips on the Deerfield River in western Massachusetts as well as trips in Maine and Vermont. Trips are run daily April through October. Crab Apple offers fun, easy raft trips which are great for families with children as young as 6 or advanced trips for those seeking thrilling Class IV whitewater. Trips are fully outfitted, guided and include lunch. Half-day inflatable kayak and float trips are also available. Crab Apple has been family owned and operated since 1983 and is proud to offer the finest service in the whitewater industry with a personal touch. Call 1-800-553-7238 (8am-10pm) for a Catalog of River Trips or visit our website at www.crabappleinc.com for more information and internet specials.

Roger Williams Park Zoo
1000 Elmwood Avenue
Providence, RI  02907
Phone: 401-785-3510

From the arctic to our own backyard

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Roger Williams Park Zoo is home to well over 100 species of rare and fascinating animals from around the world including elephants, giraffes, snow leopards, kangaroos, moon bears, gibbons and many others, all in naturalistic settings. The Zoo is open year ‘round, with special events scheduled throughout the year. Visit our link or call for more information.

Santa's Village
528 Presidential Highway
Jefferson, NH  03583
Phone: 603-586-4445

A day at Santa's Village is one you won't soon forget

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Oh what fun… it is at Santa’s Village where exciting rides, live shows and great food combine to provide an unparalleled family experience at a very affordable price. For over 50 years families like yours have enJOYed the festive atmosphere of Santa’s Village. Yule love our new live show straight from Broadway and our award-winning 3-D show “A Thinkerdoodle Christmas.” Visit with Santa and feed his reindeer at the Reindeer Rendezvous. Play the Elfabet Game to win a prize, decorate a gingerbread man and become an “Official Helper” at Santa’s Workshop. Ride Rudy’s Rapid Transit coaster, the Reindeer Carousel, the S.S. Peppermint Twist and all of Santa’s rides over and over - - without long waits.

Seven B's V Deep Sea Fishing
Port of Galilee - Dock RR
Narragansett, RI  02882
Phone: 401-789-9250
Toll-Free: 800-371-FISH

Click here for a money saving coupon!

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Half-Day Fishing Safaris
Take a kid fishing - It's a great feeling!

The Seven B's V family owned-and-operated custom yacht originated the Half-Day fishing safaris over 35 years ago. Specifically aimed as an introduction to fishing for children and their families, Half-Day safaris run from July to August, with specials available on Monday and Wednesday - save $30 per family!

**PAY ON BOARD**

Shawnee Peak
119 Mountain Road
Bridgton, ME  04009
Phone: 207-647-8444
Fax: 207-647-3203

Your "Maine" Mountain

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As Maine’s longest-running ski area, Shawnee Peak is the perfect choice for skiers and riders who want modern facilities and snowmaking coupled with tradition and familiarity. As Maine’s largest family-run ski resort, we never forget that value, quality and friendliness go a long way toward providing all of our guests with the “perfect ski vacation experience.” With 1300 vertical feet, more than 40 trails and glades and skiing from sunrise to well after the sun sets, Shawnee Peak offers the most skiing and riding for your dollar. Join the e-mail club for deals, specials and weekly events.

Shelburne Museum
U.S. Route 7 / P.O. Box 10
Shelburne, VT  05482
Phone: 802-985-3346

Open May - October

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Dynamic new exhibitions and special events each year generate fresh perspectives on art, history and culture from the settlement era to the present. Children enjoy daily hands-on craft workshops in the summer, rides on a vintage 1920s carousel and the interactive touch and learn comportments of many exhibitions.

Southwick’s Zoo
2 Southwick Street
Mendon, MA  01756
Toll-Free: 800-258-9182
Fax: 508-883-0242

New Skyfari Sky Ride - Explore the Zoo from New Heights

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Southwick’s Zoo is situated within the historic Blackstone Valley. Surrounded by 300 shady acres and home to hundreds of animals representing many species, Southwick's is more than a zoo, it's an adventure for all ages! As well as an impressive display of animals, Southwick's also offers educational programs, live animal presentations, a petting zoo, deer forest, elephant rides, and children’s play park. There are also picnic grounds, kiddie rides, food venues, and free parking. Visit our new and extensive gift shop, the Purple Peacock. Operating hours for Southwick's Zoo are 10:00am to 5:00pm from April through October 18th... 7 days a week including holidays. Check out our non-profit Earth Eco-Education Center.

Springfield Museums
21 Edwards Street
Springfield, MA  01103
Phone: 413-263-6800

Art, history, science, and a Dr. Suess sculpture museum!

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A welcoming committee of Dr. Seuss characters greets you at New England’s own “mini Smithsonian” – four outstanding museums filled with art, science and history, plus the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden. Kids will especially love the Springfield Science Museum where they’ll encounter a life-size Tyrannosaurus rex, a volcano they can crawl through, live animals, and hands-on exhibits and activities. Then they can visit the Hasbro Games Art Discovery Center at the museum next door and try on costumes and make art projects. Young children will also enjoy SeussScape, a small playroom outfitted with Dr. Seuss books and toys. Four museums. One admission fee. Free parking. Endless fun.

Stone Zoo
149 Pond Street
Stoneham, MA  02180
Phone: 781-438-5100

Jaguar cub now on exhibit!

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Stone Zoo features a wildly popular black bear exhibit and, opening in June 2009, greater Boston’s only gibbon exhibit. The Zoo is also home to colobus monkeys, Canadian lynx, a snow leopard, Mexican gray wolves, river otters, spider monkeys, capybara and many other interesting and fascinating animals from around the world. The Treasures of the Sierra Madre exhibit features, jaguars, cougars, coyote, and Gila monsters.” At Windows to the Wild, view hyacinth macaws, flamingos, emperor tamarins, silvery-cheeked hornbills, Inca terns and Geoffroy’s tamarins. Open year round - except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Stone Zoo is located off Exit 34 on 93 North and Exit 35 off 93 South.

Story Land
Routes 16
Glen, NH  03838
Phone: 603-383-4186

The Children’s Theme Park Where Fantasy Lives!

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From the first friendly greeting from a storybook character to the last lick of ice cream your child’s experience at Story Land will be one of wide-eyed wonder that will be remembered for a lifetime. Story Land's 21 rides, including a pumpkin coach, antique cars, and a pirate ship, are designed for parents and children to enjoy together. New in 2008: join the circus for three shows daily through Labor Day under the big top, it’s included in the low pay-one-price admission to Story Land. Our unique playgrounds feed children’s imaginations, with the Loopy Lab, our yellow submarine, and many others. Story Land is in the beautiful White Mountains on 35 acres of hilly terrain. There are many family-oriented lodgings nearby.

Strawbery Banke Museum
14 Hancock Street
Portsmouth, NH  03801
Phone: 603-433-1100

Open May 1 through October 31, 10AM- 5PM Daily
Guided Tours and Holiday Events available November-December

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Our Family Activity Center provides period crafts and games. Children also enjoy the gardens, the Abbott Corner Store with its groceries from the 1940s, the cooper and the 1950s house. New this season, Wheelwright will be furnished with reproductions so that children and families can touch, feel, see and smell to get a real feeling for what it might have been like to a child in the past.

The Dinosaur Place
1650 Route 85
Montville, CT  06370
Phone: 860-443-4367

Discover an interactive science and nature adventure

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Join us at the “The Dinosaur Place” for an adventure of the prehistoric kind! Visit the indoor Activity Center and check out geodes- volcanic formations that are million of years old! Choose one for us to cut open and be the first to see inside this ancient gas bubble! Children of all ages enjoy digging for gems and crystals, panning for “gold” and excavating a dinosaur skeleton.

Spend the day enjoying Outdoor Adventure! Over 25 life-sized dinosaurs can be found along 1 mile of easy walking trails. Visit the “What am I?” touch and learn stations and romp in Monty’s Playground. Bring sunscreen and flip-flops and enjoy New England’s largest SPLASHPAD®! Monty’s SPLASHPAD® is a zero-depth, fully automated interactive aquatic play system that consists of over 30 dinosaur-themed features designed to stimulate and cool off children of all ages. Changing rooms available. Picnic areas, snack bar and ice cream shop on site. Visit our website for hours, rates, and directions.

The House of the Seven Gables
115 Derby Street
Salem, MA  01970
Phone: 978-744-0991
Fax: 978-741-4350

Visit Kids Cove

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Climb up the Secret Staircase at The House of the Seven Gables in Salem, Massachusetts! This seaside historic site features Turner-Ingersoll Mansion (1668), forever immortalized as “The House of the Seven Gables” by author Nathaniel Hawthorne. Visit Kid’s Cove at the Gables for a glimpse of what life was like aboard the Turner’s ships in this interactive learning space featuring hands-on family activities. Admission also includes a visit to Nathaniel Hawthorne’s Birthplace to learn more about how the author’s life in Salem influenced his work. Stroll through three-season gardens and a unique museum store. Open mid-January through December, 10:00am-5:00pm.

The Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center
Sumner Avenue (Route 83)
Springfield, MA  01138
Phone: 413-733-2251

Celebrating Nature's Diversity

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The Forest Park Zoo, located in Forest Park, a 735 acre woodland park in Springfield, features exotic and indigenous animals representing a large variety of species found throughout the world and in North America. Experience the world of exotic animals and local wildlife as never before. Take a train trip around the park, explore freshwater pond life, learn about endangered animals and captive breeding programs. Get to know the creatures that frequent your backyard, and visit a Heritage Breeds Barn. Shop in our unique gift shop for unusual, educational, or whimsical gift items. Enjoy the gardens, seasonal exhibits, programs, and events.

Topsfield Fair
207 Boston Street, Route 1
Topsfield, MA  01983
Phone: 978-887-5000
Fax: 978-887-3016

America’s Oldest Fair!
October 2 - October 12, 2009

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The 191st annual Topsfield Fair will run from Friday, October 2, 2009 through Columbus Day, October 12, 2008. The country's oldest continuously operating county fair features family entertainment, agricultural exhibits including the New England Giant Pumpkin weigh-off on opening day, a premier fall flower show, poultry, fruit and vegetables, rabbits, 4-H, a draft horse show, horse and oxen pulling, pigs, goats, sheep, llamas and alpacas, the Essex County Farm Yard, a Farm/Fair Museum, Home Arts, art show and much, much more including the Fiesta Shows Midway.

Worcester Art Museum
55 Salisbury Street
Worcester, MA  01609
Phone: 508-799-4406
Fax: 508-798-5646

Open: Wednesday-Sunday, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.; third Thursday of every month, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

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The Worcester Art Museum provides year-round occasions to learn about and celebrate the arts. The Museum’s arts education and appreciation program promotes lifelong learning through interpretation in the galleries, family-oriented activities and performances, and creative classes and workshops for all ages and abilities. Special guides for children available to ignite thought and inspire creativity as you stroll though the galleries. Enjoy a delectable lunch in the Museum Café, browse the Shop for unique gifts. Public tours are offered Saturdays at 11 a.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m., September through May. Audio tours are also available in English and Spanish.

Wed-Sun, 11am - 5pm; Third Thursday’s of every month, 11am-8pm.; and Sat, 10am-5pm

Free for members, $10 adults, $8 seniors, free for youth 17 and under. Free for all Saturdays, 10am-noon

Yankee Fleet Whale Watch & Deep Sea Fishing
121 East Main Street
Gloucester Harbor, MA  01930
Phone: 978-283-0313
Toll-Free: 800-942-5464
Fax: 978-283-6089

Yankee Whale Watching Voted Best Whale Watch in New England

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Our whale watching captains communicate about current whale sightings with our early morning Deep Sea Fishing captains who have already been out for hours. This allows us to bring you directly to the whales' location. This up-to-date communication coupled with the speed of our vessels means our whale watching passengers spend more time enjoying the whales. We know where the whales are before other captains are even out of bed! -- A unique Yankee Whale Watching advantage.

What to bring on your Yankee Whale Watching Adventure

• A camera and lots of film
• An extra jacket or sweater
• A hat or visor, sun glasses and sunscreen
• Rubber soled shoes or sneakers

Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort
37 Corey Road
Route 43
Hancock, MA  01237
Phone: 413-738-5500
Toll-Free: 800-882-8859
Fax: 413-738-5729

Your family belongs here

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Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort offers lodging accommodations perfect for any family Berkshire getaway. Choose from our Country Inn Suites, two or three bedroom mountainside Vacation Homes, or Town Homes. We offer a host of amenities to make you feel at home, including shopping and dining in the Village Center and Country Inn, outdoor heated swimming pool, the In-Touch Day Spa, fitness room, game room and more. During your stay enjoy some outdoor summer fun at our Mountain Adventure Park featuring a roller-coaster, kids’ super slide, a giant swing, a six-passenger scenic chairlift, a rock-climbing wall, rope adventures, and more. Enjoy the convenience of our New England Country Inn, a beautiful, spacious all-suite hotel located at the base of Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort.

John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
Columbia Point
Boston, MA  02125
Phone: 617-514-1600
Toll-Free: 866-JFK-1960
Fax: 617-436-3395

The life, leadership, and legacy of President Kennedy

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Situated on a 10-acre park overlooking Boston Harbor, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum is the nation's official memorial to John F. Kennedy, 35th President of the United States. The museum at the Kennedy Library enables visitors to step back into the recreated world of the early 1960s and experience first-hand the life and legacy of John F. Kennedy. In 25 dramatic exhibits, including three theaters and 20 video presentations, visitors are inspired by the stirring eloquence of John F. Kennedy and by the grace of Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy. Open daily, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; closed New Year’s, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Kahuna Laguna Indoor Water Park
2251 White Mountain Hwy (Route 16)
North Conway, NH  03860
Phone: 603-356-5411

The ocean has arrived in New Hampshire!

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Dive into a tropical family adventure at Kahuna Laguna, northern New England’s first indoor water park at the Red Jacket Mountain View Resort in North Conway, NH. No matter the season, it’s a constant 82 degrees in our tropical oasis! Zoom through 40,000 square feet of splash-tacular fun with four high-speed tubes, a wave pool, 175-gallon tipping bucket, water cannons, a play tower, arcade and more. Your smallest kahunas will have a great time in the shallow activity pool, and the Tiki Tide Café is ready with a snack or lunch when you need a break. Resort guests may enjoy Kahuna Laguna all year long, and during the warmer months the new outdoor pool will also be open.

Look Memorial Park
300 North Main Street
Florence, MA  01062
Phone: 413-584-5457

Come out and Play!

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Open Saturdays and Sundays starting in April and Seven Days a week from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Look Memorial Park is full of family fun. Our full schedule events includes everything from Breakfast with the Easter Bunny followed by the Northampton Recreation Department Easter Egg Hunt to Breakfast with Santa Claus and Santa’s Workshop. We have events year round that take place in the Park or at the Garden House. Check out the “Special Events” page of our website for a full list of event information. Don’t forget to put the Franklin King III Children’s Entertainment Series in your calendars. Every Wednesday in July at 10AM, we hold children’s performances from Ed Popielarczyk’s Magical Moments to the UNH Little Red Wagon Troup. After the performance, HALF PRICE WEDNESDAY. All attractions are half price each and every Wednesday throughout the summer!

Mary Baker Eddy Library™
200 Massachusetts Avenue
Boston, MA  02115
Toll-Free: 888-222-3711

Home of the world-famous Mapparium®

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The Mary Baker Eddy Library features some of the most thought-provoking and fun exhibits in the city, exploring the life and achievements of Mary Baker Eddy. She was a controversial New England woman who defied conventional 19th-century thinking to become an influential religious leader, author, teacher, and founder of the Christian Science Monitor at age 87. The museum also houses the world-famous Mapparium®, an achievement in art and architecture from 1935 giving visitors a unique look at how ideas have the power to change the world. The Lending & Reference Services and Research Room provide access to further subject reading, books, archival documents, photographs, and artifacts of the Mary Baker Eddy Library Collections.

Mohawk Mountain Ski Area
46 Great Hollow Road
Cornwall, CT  06753
Toll-Free: 800-895-5222
Fax: (860) 672-0117

Every day is a snow day at the Mohawk Mountain Ski Area!

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Welcome to Mohawk Mountain, serving southern New England since 1947. Mohawk offers 24 trails for skiing and snowboarding - using state-of-the-art snowmaking equipment - five chairlifts, a “wonder carpet” for beginners and amenities for all snow sport enthusiasts. Cross-country skiing is available in the adjacent Mohawk State Forest. Join us for the best skiing and snowboarding in Connecticut.

Mt. Washington Auto Road
Route 16, Pinkham Notch
Gorham, NH  03581
Phone: 603-466-3988

"This car climbed Mt. Washington"

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Make the summit of New England’s highest peak the highlight of your travels. Your trip on the Mount Washington Auto Road will create a lifelong memory. The mountain is renowned for its weather. But for visitors there are spectacular views, mountain ecology, short hikes, and legendary tales of the road and mountain. You may drive the mountain yourself or take one of our guided tours. And come winter our one-of-a-kind SnowCoach travels the road where you can view the majesty of the season on Mount Washington. Be sure to view our website for special events and impressive records of climbs by runners, bikers and cars.

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
465 Huntington Avenue
Boston, MA  02115
Phone: 617-267-9300

Fine Art and Family Fun at the MFA

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Bring the whole family to the MFA to see masterpieces from around the world and across the ages. At every turn, you’ll find breathtaking works of art, from masters of American painting to the icons of Impressionism, from exquisite Asian scrolls to ancient Egyptian mummies.
The MFA offers hands-on activities designed for children ages four and up at the Family Art Cart. Uncover ancient Egyptian mysteries, read stories from Southeast Asia, or travel through the Museum with a set of Art Cards, looking at animals, treasures, and children in art. (May-Jun, Sat and Sun, 11 am-4 pm; Jul-Aug, Tue and Thu noon-4pm, Wed noon-8 pm)
Pick up a guide with tips for parents and a variety of gallery games and ideas that can be used throughout the Museum. Or explore the galleries with the help of one of our Art Connections activity sheets, each focused on a specific theme. And don’t miss school vacation weeks with lively performances and art-making activities throughout the galleries.

Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration
55 Coogan Boulevard
Mystic, CT
Phone: 860-572-5955
Fax: 860-572-5969

Get closer than you ever thought possible!

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Encounter ocean animals in an exciting new way – no scuba gear required! Reach in and touch a ray, go beak-to-nose with a penguin and feel the splash of a beluga whale. Through spring 2009, see the seven belugas (including two calves!) and four Pacific white-sided dolphins visiting from Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. Watch our California sea lions – including Boomerang, the sea lion pup – strut their stuff during a live show, and meet a variety of animals, from African penguins and Steller sea lions to sharks and blue-tongued skinks. Take a ride in the XD Motion Theater “Deep Sea 3D.” Explore the deep ocean with the world’s only exhibits on Dr. Robert Ballard’s fascinating expeditions, including his discovery of the R.M.S. Titanic and visit his newest exhibit, “Exploring Your National Marine Sanctuaries,” which takes you live into some of the country’s sanctuaries to discover shipwrecks and see colorful corals – all without ever leaving the aquarium!

Mystic Seaport
75 Greenmanville Avenue
Mystic, CT  06355-0990
Phone: 860-572-5315
Toll-Free: 888-973-2767

Open: Daily April through October, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and November through March, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Christmas Day.

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Mystic Seaport – The Museum of America and the Sea – encourages every child to discover their connection to the sea. Kids of all ages roll up their sleeves and find out what keeps a boat above water in our new interactive exhibit, How Boats Float. The Discovery Barn gives older children hands-on experience with nautical knots, signal flags and more, while the Children’s Museum encourages younger sailors to explore a lobster boat, cook in the galley and swab the decks. Help set a tall ship’s sails, participate in a traditional “dead horse” sailor’s ceremony and create nautical crafts at Inspiration Station.

Old Sturbridge Village
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, Off Rte 20
Sturbridge, MA  01566
Phone: 508-347-3362
Toll-Free: 800-SEE-1830

Old Sturbridge Village: The Story of a New Nation

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Open year-round: daily 9:30am to 5pm, May-late October; call for seasonal hours.
Admission, good for two visits within 10 days: $20 adults, $18 seniors (65 and up).
New low youth rate: $5 (ages 3-17). Children under 3 free.

Come play in the past with us! Our new Kidstory early learning gallery invites children to use their imaginations and thinking skills as they do chores in the farmhouse, barnyard, and country store -- all dressed in 1830s frocks and vests (bring your camera!). Out in the museum Village, play 1830s games, work a water pump, milk Holly the (life-size, resin-cast) Holstein, build a stone wall or quarter-scale snake-rail fence with lightweight materials, and visit “A Child’s Life,” our new hands-on exhibit in the Fitch House. Enjoy an overnight getaway with a family package from our Lodges, dine at one of our taverns, and shop for treasures to take home at the Museum Gift Shop and New England Bookstore.

Plimoth Plantation
137 Warren Avenue
Plymouth, MA  02360
Phone: 508-746-1622

A compelling approach to history; a memorable visitor experience.

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Plimoth Plantation, a bicultural museum, offers powerful personal encounters with history built on thorough research about the Wampanoag People and the Colonial English community in the 1600s. The 1627 English Village is a re-creation of the small farming town built by English colonists in the midst of the Wampanoag homeland. At the Wampanoag Homesite, the people you will meet talk of the past, speaking from a modern perspective. Mayflower II is an extraordinary experience. Details of the ship are all carefully recreated to give a sense of what the original 17th-century vessel was like. A visit to Plimoth Plantation encourages a new level of understanding about present-day issues affecting communities around the world. Please allow at least 3 hours to visit to Plimoth Plantation and about 45 minutes for Mayflower II.