After kicking off our According to the Kids travel series in the hustle and bustle of New York City, we decided to slow things down a bit and explore a different kind of charm—and travel with kids to Connecticut. This New England gem gave us a change of pace from skyscrapers and street performers, offering instead a sweet mix of quirky museums, peaceful beaches, and postcard-perfect towns.
While the adults may have been drawn to cobblestone streets and campus tours, the kids found their own kind of magic—and let’s just say, a certain candy-themed museum made a big impression. Here’s what made the top of everyone’s list.
Sam’s Pick: PEZ Visitor Center
In the town of Orange, Connecticut, the PEZ Visitor Center is a one-of-a-kind experience that had Sam instantly hooked. With rows and rows of PEZ dispensers, interactive exhibits, and a clear view of the candy being packaged in real time, it’s a sugary, colorful walk through pop culture history. Sam loved scanning his scavenger hunt card and earning a free dispenser—and we all walked away with our own souvenir packs.
👉 Plan your visit
Paige’s Pick: PEZ Again, Please!
When two siblings agree on a favorite, you know it’s a winner. Paige was all about the build-your-own dispenser station and couldn’t resist the walls full of princesses, superheroes, and animal-themed PEZ. We may or may not have had to stop her from spending all her money in the gift shop.
Andrew’s Favorite: Hidden Gem Card Shop
Andrew’s highlight wasn’t flashy or famous—it was local. A small card and collectibles shop nestled on a quiet main street gave him the chance to browse sports cards, talk about trades, and add a few new packs to his collection. Sometimes the best part of a trip is finding that unexpected spot that feels like it was made just for you.
Mom & Dad’s Favorites: Quaint Towns, Coastal Views, and Ivy League Vibes
While the kids went all in on candy and collectibles, we found our joy in Connecticut’s classic New England charm.
• The quaint downtowns were full of bookstores, bakeries, and locally owned boutiques—perfect for slow strolling and window shopping.
• A sunny afternoon at Walnut Beach gave us a relaxing break with soft sand and calm waves. It’s a family-friendly shoreline spot that feels far from the usual tourist rush.
👉 Explore Walnut Beach
• And a walk around Yale University’s campus in New Haven brought some quiet awe. The Gothic architecture, manicured greens, and sense of history made it feel like we were on a movie set.
👉 Yale University Visitor Info
If You’re Planning a Trip to Connecticut…
It’s time to travel with kids to Connecticut! Connecticut might be small, but it’s packed with things to do for families of all ages and interests. From museums and aquariums to beaches and college towns, it offers a more relaxed rhythm that’s perfect for a long weekend or road trip stop.
Here are a few resources we found helpful while planning:
Final Thoughts
Connecticut was a reminder that slower-paced adventures can be just as memorable—especially when you see them through the eyes of your kids. Whether it’s a candy factory, a collectible card shop, or a peaceful beach afternoon, the best travel memories are the ones everyone talks about long after you’ve unpacked the bags.
Stay tuned for the next stop in our According to the Kids series—we’re heading deeper into New England next!
