If you’ve found yourself asking, “What should we do today?” you’re definitely not alone.
Whether you’re trying to fill a few hours before dinner, keep the kids entertained without spending a fortune, or make the most of summer before school starts, we’ve put together a local cheat sheet to make planning easier.
Bookmark this guide, save it to your phone, or share it with another local mom. The next time you hear “I’m bored,” you’ll have plenty of ideas ready to go!
Looking for Something Free?
You don’t have to spend a lot to have a great day. Try these!
- Hike Webb Mountain Park
- Explore Collis P. Huntington State Park
- Visit your local library and join the summer reading program
- Check out a free summer concert
- Browse your local farmers market
- Visit a new playground
- Pack a picnic for your favorite park
Need to Beat the Heat?
When Connecticut temperatures start climbing, these spots are perfect for cooling off. Try these!
- Spend the day at Candlewood Lake
- Visit your community pool
- Find a local splash pad
- Grab ice cream from Ferris Acres Creamery, Dr. Mike’s, or Rich Farm
- Enjoy a shady nature walk early in the morning
Rainy Day?
Don’t let the weather ruin your plans. Head too!
- EverWonder Children’s Museum
- Danbury Railway Museum
- Stepping Stones Museum for Children
- The Maritime Aquarium
- Your local library
- A family movie matinee
Only Have an Hour?
Sometimes you don’t need a full-day adventure. Try these!
- Grab an ice cream cone
- Visit a nearby playground
- Take a short nature walk
- Stop by a local farm stand
- Pack a quick picnic dinner
- Walk around a farmers market
Ready for a Day Trip?
If everyone is ready for a little adventure, these destinations are all within an easy drive. Check these out!
- Beardsley Zoo
- The Maritime Aquarium
- Quassy Amusement & Waterpark
- Jones Family Farms
- Blue Jay Orchards (when in season)
- Southford Falls State Park
- Lovers Leap State Park
Want to Make a Memory?
The moments your kids remember are often the simplest ones.
Before summer ends, try to:
- Watch a sunset together.
- Eat dinner outside.
- Let your kids choose the day’s adventure.
- Visit a place you’ve never been before.
- Get in the photo instead of always taking it.
- Buy ice cream just because.
- Read a book together under a tree.
- Stay outside until the fireflies come out.
Make the Most of Summer
Summer has a way of flying by. It doesn’t have to be packed with expensive vacations or perfectly planned outings to be memorable. Sometimes the best days are the spontaneous ones spent exploring your own community.
We hope this cheat sheet helps answer that familiar question: “What should we do today?”
If you discover a local favorite that should be added to our list, let us know! We’d love to hear from you and continue sharing the best family-friendly spots around Newtown, Monroe, Brookfield, Bethel, Danbury, and beyond.
Have a wonderful summer, and don’t forget to tag @NewtownMoms in your adventures. We love seeing our community making memories together!
