MAINE — Starry Nights at Acadia National Park
Mount Desert Island, Maine
Acadia National Park is “dark sky” territory –little man-made light interrupts the blackness of the night sky, an endless source of entertainment and beauty. Stargazers can easily see a breathtaking view of constellations. The Seawall Campground picnic area near Manset is an almost magically scenic stargazing spot: See the Milky Way and ocean meet. Bring your best telescope, or get a star map from the gift shop. What a thrill for kids and adults! Map.
MAINE — Boothbay Railway Village
Wiscasset Road, Boothbay, Maine
Your kids (adults, too) will love exploring a time when railroad lines laced the country and whisked people far and wide over the clacking rails. The museum’s exhibits include a coal-fired steam train, antique fire trucks, antique Model T Fords, Stanley Steamers, and a Rolls Royce. The Village includes a restored 1847 Town Hall and a historic fire house. Children love the 20-minute ride on Boothbay Central, a coal-fired narrow-gauge train. 207-633-4727. Map
MASSACHUSETTS — Art’s Dune Tours
4 Standish Street, Provincetown, MA
These tours, on dune buggies with seasoned guides, travel through the majestic dunes where your guide points out the dune shacks where famous artists and writers became inspired to create their art. You will also pass the remains of the Peaked Hill Life Saving Station and learn how the brave “life savers” saved the lives of thousands from shipwrecks. Access by the public to the dunes is limited, so this is the way to see them. 800-894-1951. Map
MASSACHUSETTS — Boston Harbor Islands National Park
Ferries depart from Long Wharf North in Boston and Hingham Shipyard in Hingham, MA
Thirty-four islands are located an easy ferry ride from downtown Boston comprise the Boston Harbor Islands National Park Area. Great for day trips, although camping is allowed on four islands (reservations are required). Two islands have great swimming beaches; one has life guards. Wonderful for walking, picnicking, swimming, and fishing. Find a ferry to the islands. Map.
VERMONT — Vermont Teddy Bear Factory
6655 Shelburne Road, Shelburne, VT
Bring your kids to meet Ted E. Bear and take a factory tour by one of our Bear Ambassadors. You’ll see how our Bears are made and kids get to decode a secret Bear message. After your tour, stop in our Bear Shop and let the kids create their own Bear. Then relax outside with a well-earned lunch break at one of our picnic tables and toss a Frisbee around to finish off the perfect family day. Map.
CONNECTICUT — Stamford Museum and Nature Center
39 Scofieldtown Road Stamford
This place is an inspired location for make farm life, the outdoors, nature and the sky a fascinating adventure for young children and families. This science and nature attraction encompasses a working farm, hiking trails, picnic area, a playground, art galleries, and a planetarium with observatory. Many special seasonal events and things to do for families include maple harvest, Easter egg hunts, and fall activities. Open all year. 203-322-1646. Map.
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RHODE ISLAND — Block Island Ferry Wind Farm Tours
Ferry departs 304 Great Island Road, Narragansett, RI
Block Island Wind Farm, the country’s first offshore wind farm, is only 3 miles off the coast of Block Island. You have a chance to see it up close and learn about it from a guide and wind farm enthusiast during a narrated cruise on the Block Island Ferry. The ferry leaves Old Harbor every Wednesday at 3:45 p.m. for a one-hour tour. Tour dates in summer 2018 are June 13 to August 29. Map.
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