Bristol is a city that is located in the northern central region of the state of Connecticut, in England. The city is classified as being a suburb of Hartford, which is the state's capital, due to being just under half an hour away by car, about 20 miles in distance. Bristol is a family-friendly community, and offers many different attractions for people of all ages, including children.
Imagine Nation is a Bristol museum that takes a hands-on and interactive approach to teaching children and their families. Imagine Nation is suitable for children that are between the ages of two and 10-years-old. The non-profit museum is part of the Boys and Girls Club of Bristol, and is open five days a week, with the exception of Mondays and Tuesdays. The downtown Bristol attraction features many different displays, including the "Glockenspiel," which teaches musical notes with the use of charts, "gravity well," which explains the science of inertia, "whisper dishes," which depicts sound waves and "Stretch It," which helps kids create different designs and patterns.
Imagine Nation
1 Pleasant St.
Bristol, CT 06010
860-314-1400
imaginenation.org
Lake Compounce is a popular family amusement park that has been in existence since 1846. Lake Compounce is one of the continent's oldest theme parks. The park spans more than 330 acres, and consists of a water park and a private beach. Some of the park's most well-known rides include the bumper cars, the carousel, the "Pirate Ship" and the "Thunder Rapids" raft ride. For younger children, an assortment of kiddie rides are also available, including a kiddie roller coaster and a "caterpillar" train. Apart from rides, the park also offers entertainment including magic shows, circus acts, dancing and street performers.
Lake Compounce
822 Lake Ave.
Bristol, CT 06010
860-583-3300
lakecompounce.com
The New England Carousel Museum is a fun activity for people of all ages, from wide-eyed children to adults that have a fascination in the history of the carousel which has been a staple at carnivals, theme parks and shopping centers for decades. The New England Carousel Museum is home to one of the United States' biggest displays of antique carousel pieces, and offers displays detailing the evolution and history of carousels and their hand-carved animals. The museum focuses on the preservation and restoration of carousels and their importance within the nation's folk art past. Guided tours are available. The not-for-profit Bristol museum is open every day of the week. However, Sunday hours are limited. For children that are under the age of four, admission to the museum is free. Many different child-friendly programs are organized by the Carousel Museum, including lectures about carousel kicks and a "museum sleepover," which involves folk art, activities and games.
The New England Carousel Museum
95 Riverside Ave.
Bristol, CT 06010
860-585-5411
thecarouselmuseum.org
