Still So Much Summer Left, Here’s What Local Moms Say You Have to Do

With over six weeks of summer still ahead, we rounded up some amazing local suggestions from fellow moms in the Neighbors and Friends in West Hartford group. Whether you’re planning family adventures, low-key staycations, or date nights close to home, here’s a community-sourced guide to savor every sunny moment.

🎟️ Hidden Gems & Easy Wins

• West Hartford Library Museum Passes
  Skip admission fees with free museum passes available through the West Hartford Library. A great way to try new spots on a budget.

• The Children’s Museum (Mohegan Drive, WH)
  A longtime local favorite for hands-on play and STEM learning. Learn more.

🌳 Hikes, Parks & Outdoor Fun

• Heublein Tower + Enders Falls
  Take a short scenic hike up to Heublein Tower, then cool off at Enders Falls. Top it off with a scoop at Grassroots Ice Cream in Granby.

• Buckingham Park & Avon Library
  Enjoy open art studios on Wednesdays, a great playground, and don’t forget to sign up for the Avon Summer Reading Program, kids can earn coupons for local treats!

• Kayaking in Collinsville
  Perfect for older kids or adults. Rentals and calm waters make this a great intro to summer paddling.

🎭 Theater & Music Events

• West Hartford Summer Arts Festival
  Catch Alice in Wonderland Jr. on July 17 and The Hunchback of Notre Dame July 24–27. Get tickets.

• Elizabeth Park Music Series
  Outdoor concerts and even “ballet under the stars”—a dreamy summer night option. Concert info here.

• Capital Classics Shakespeare
  Don’t miss their annual summer productions. This year’s lineup is available here.

• Hartford Jazz Festival
  Stunning, free, and family-friendly. Full schedule.

🎬 Cool Indoor Options

• Wadsworth Atheneum Film Series
  Free kids’ movies running all summer long! See the lineup.

• Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill (Bridgeport)
  A bit of a drive but totally worth it—a restaurant meets bowling alley meets underwater-themed experience. Learn more.

🎨 Classes & Local Fun

• Mrs. Gomes on the Go
  A GHM favorite—weekly sensory and process art classes. Check the schedule and pop-ups at mrsgomesonthego.com

🎶 Free & Festive

• Free Concerts in Local Parks
  Keep your evenings spontaneous—check your town rec page for weekly park concerts.

🦖 Worth the Drive

• The Dinosaur Place at Nature’s Art Village (Montville, CT)
  One mom called it “worth every penny.” Dino trails, splash pad, and a full day of adventure. Plan your visit.

✨ Got a tip we missed? DM us or tag @greaterhartfordmoms to get featured!

📍 For more family fun and local summer guides, visit GreaterHartfordMoms.com and check out our Events Calendar and Summer Guide!