West Hartford is considered one of the best towns to live in Connecticut. A suburb of Hartford with an urban feel, West Hartford has incredible restaurants, parks, and family-friendly venues to explore. Homes in the area are growing in value, and the area is considered a great one for families. West Hartford’s public school district is highly rated, and the two main high schools in town are ranked as some of the best in Connecticut. So if you’re thinking about relocating your family to West Hartford and want to know more about what there is to do around town, keep reading for six of the top family-friendly activities to try.
1. Jump On In
Photo courtesy of Unsplash
West Hartford homes for sale are only 15 minutes from a fun children’s amusement center called Jump On In, which invites families to experience a day of recreation and enjoyment at the largest inflatable play facility in New England. The center has multiple inflatable obstacle courses and slides to help kids burn off energy, while having fun with their peers. Families can host birthday parties or other celebrations at Jump On In or stop by to participate in the open jump sessions. Pizza can be provided for parties upon request, though families are encouraged to bring their own drinks, snacks, or birthday cakes. Jump On In is located on Alumni Road.
2. The Children’s Museum
Photo courtesy of The Children’s Museum
Founded in 1927, The Children’s Museum in West Hartford holds the title of the oldest youth museum in the state. It’s also one of the largest. Previously known as the Science Center of Connecticut, the facility became The Children’s Museum in 2006 and specializes in exhibits that teach children about science and nature. Hands-on, interactive areas invite children to learn through doing, whether they are measuring themselves compared to some of the largest amphibians in the world or learning about the fundamentals of composting. The museum has nine different exhibits and a host of seasonal programming. Families that want to visit the Children’s Museum can find it on Trout Brook Drive. It’s open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
3. The Claypen
The Claypen is a fun ceramics and art studio on Farmington Avenue where families can spend an afternoon creating pottery. Part of the West Hartford community since 1997, the Claypen hosts classes, kids camps, and private events for birthday parties and other celebrations. Children’s birthday parties include a studio tour, special paints, and the opportunity to design and decorate individual pottery pieces. The annual summer camps invite kids to spend a few hours each day learning about a new pottery technique and creating a piece based on themes ranging from interstellar exploration to backyard nature. Families can spend time at the Claypen Monday through Saturday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
4. Playhouse on Park
Photo courtesy of Playhouse on Park
The Playhouse on Park is a performing arts theater on Park Road known for its many family-friendly shows and musicals. The professional theater hosts performances each season that showcase a variety of styles, from dance to historical drama to musicals and more. Their Theater for Young Audiences season features a couple of shows specifically produced with families in mind. Catch the tale of a shy lion learning to accept who he is or the intergalactic adventures of a kid scientist and her dog — all at the Playhouse on Park.
5. A.C. Petersen Farms
Photo courtesy of A.C. Petersen Farms
Before taking in a show at the Playhouse on Park, stop by A.C. Petersen Farms, a fun family restaurant down the street. With vintage 1940s flair, the restaurant features indoor and outdoor seating and is known for serving all-day breakfast and having more than 40 ice cream flavors for families to try. Serving arguably the best milkshake in Connecticut, A.C. Petersen Farms is a must see for every family considering West Hartford real estate. Many in the community love A.C. Petersen Farms for its down-to-earth feel, friendly service, and unbeatable kid-friendly favorites. Stop by between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. A.C. Petersen also has extended hours on Friday and Saturday.
6. Elizabeth Park
Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Park
To get out and enjoy the beautiful West Hartford scenery, take a stroll through Elizabeth Park. With more than 100 acres to explore, Elizabeth Park is one of the best places in town to get outside. The park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places in recognition of its 125-year history in West Hartford. Explore manicured gardens, walking trails, and playgrounds. You can grab breakfast at the Pond House Cafe or bring a picnic to one of the park's many picnic areas. Or, take part in one of the park’s many year-round events, not limited to ballet under the stars, concert series, and tree tours.
West Hartford is a great place to settle down as a family, with excellent schools and plenty of fun opportunities for recreation. Whether you prefer to stay active outdoors, learn through play at a museum, or do a little of both, West Hartford has something for your family.
When deciding to invest in West Hartford real estate, make sure you partner with a real estate team with your best interests at heart. The Julie Corrado Team can ensure you’re relocating to a neighborhood with the right schools, parks, and amenities for your family. Julie Corrado and her team help clients navigate each step of the home buying process quickly and efficiently. So when you’re ready to start browsing West Hartford homes for sale, get in touch with The Julie Corrado Team.
*Header photo courtesy of The Claypen
*Header photo courtesy of The Claypen
