Things to do with kids in Norwalk, CT
If you’re looking for things to do with kids in Norwalk, CT now that school is out for the summer, read on. Whether you’re searching for a rainy day activity, or a place to burn energy outdoors, these kid-friendly spot in Norwalk and the surrounding areas are guaranteed to make a memory-filled day.
Things to do with Kids in Norwalk, CT
Visit the Maritime Aquarium
This is a must-visit spot for families with kids. The aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, jellyfish, sea turtles, and more. Kids can even touch and feed some of the animals. Be sure to catch a sea lion show while you’re there.
Stepping Stones Museum for Children
This interactive museum is perfect for kids under 10. It features hands-on exhibits and activities that encourage learning and creativity. Kids can explore the outdoors in the Energy Lab, pretend to be a chef in the Healthyville Cafe, and learn about sound waves in the Sonic Sensation exhibit.
Sheffield Island Lighthouse
Take a ferry ride to Sheffield Island and explore the historic lighthouse. Kids will love climbing to the top of the lighthouse and taking in the panoramic views of the Long Island Sound. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the beautiful island scenery.
Norwalk River Valley Trail
Enjoy a scenic walk along the Norwalk River Valley Trail. The trail is a hard surface and stone dust trail that starts at Calf Pasture Beach and stretches 5 miles through town. It’s perfect for a family bike ride or stroll. Along the way, you’ll pass many of the spots on this list, including the aquarium and Stepping Stones museum.
Here’s a full description from the NRVT website. “Beginning at Calf Pasture Beach, the trail is on-road via bike lanes and shared roadway to the Maritime Aquarium. From the Aquarium, an off-road 10-foot-wide trail continues to Oyster Shell Park, up to Stepping Stones Museum and Lockwood Mathews Mansion and then on to Union Park. From Union Park, new off-road trail returns to the riverside and runs almost 2 miles to Deering Pond at Broad St.”
PinStripes
PinStripes offers bowling and bocce for the whole family at the SoNo Collection mall in Nowalk. The on-site Italian restaurant means you can turn your visit into a whole evening (or afternoon). Lanes and courts are booked by the hour, and reservations are recommended.
CAMP Norwalk
CAMP, also in the SoNo collection, is a toy store and a whole lot more. The space features regular special events, which turn its “secret” space (to get there, you pass through a door inside the retail storefront) into themed activity centers for kids. Past events included a Paw Patrol Experience, and Bluey-themed events. When events aren’t going on, families can purchase passes to make crafts, slime, or seasonal-themed projects.
Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum
(Note: The Museum is closed for tours for repairs until Fall 2024.)
This historic mansion is a hidden gem in Norwalk. The museum features guided tours that take you through the elegant rooms and showcase the history of the Gilded Age. Kids will love learning about life in the late 1800s and exploring the beautiful gardens and grounds.
Calf Pasture Beach
Spend a day at the beach at Calf Pasture Beach. The beach features a boardwalk, playground, and concession stands. Kids will love building sandcastles, flying kites, and splashing in the waves.
Nearby beaches in Darien also make a great spot to spend a summer day.