Why Winter's Better In Clinton: Beat The Blues With These Local Picks

Winter may be here, but the fun doesn’t slow down in Clinton. From family outings to seasonal events and easy day trips, there’s plenty around town to keep your calendar full. Just remember to double-check hours, weather updates and ticket details before heading out. And if you want even more local winter ideas, keep scrolling — you’ll find a way to get personalized suggestions based on what you love to do.

Clinton Premium Outlets - Outdoor Shopping

Address: 20 Killingworth Tpk, Clinton, CT 06413
Phone: (860) 664-0700
Details: Spend the day shopping at Clinton Premium Outlets, a relaxed outdoor shopping center just off I-95. Browse more than 70 designer and name-brand stores and enjoy everyday savings of 25 to 65 percent off retail prices. Check the website for store hours and take advantage of some serious shopping deals.

Connecticut Sportsplex Family Fun Center - Arcade, Laser Tag & Indoor Entertainment

Address: 216 Foxon Rd, North Branford, CT 06471
Phone: (203) 484-4383
Details: In nearby North Branford, guests can play a wide range of arcade games and battle it out in a spacious, multi-level laser tag arena equipped with modern features. The family fun center is an energetic indoor option that’s perfect for keeping the whole family entertained during the winter months.

Henry Carter Hull Library - Family Programs

Address: 10 Killingworth Tpk, Clinton, CT 06413
Phone: (860) 669-234
Details: Spend a quiet winter afternoon at the Henry Carter Hull Library, a welcoming community space with a large selection of books, movies and CDs for all ages. Visitors will find comfortable seating, helpful staff and engaging programs for kids, teens and adults. Check the events calendar and plan a cozy, low-key outing at one of the area’s standout libraries.

Meigs Point Nature Center - Nature Exhibits & Animal Displays

Address: 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443
Phone: (203) 245-8743
Details: Down the road in Madison, explore the Meigs Point Nature Center Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Hammonasset Beach State Park. The educational spot is focused on Connecticut’s wildlife and natural habitats. Visitors can browse indoor exhibits, including live animal displays and touch tanks.

Northford Ice Pavilion - Ice Skating

Address: 24 Firelite Pl, Northford, CT 06472
Phone: (203) 484-4054
Details: Take advantage of public skating sessions, open to all ages, for a casual day of ice skating (no figure skating moves permitted) in North Branford. Skate rentals and walkers can be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. The current public skate hours are every Tuesday and Thursday from 12-1:30 p.m.; check online for the most up-to-date information.

Coastline Brewing Co. - Craft Beers.

Address: 4 Grove Beach Road N, Westbrook, CT 06498
Phone: (860) 664-5185
Details: Grab a drink at a laid-back craft brewery just minutes from the shoreline, down the road from Clinton in Westbrook. Coastline Brewing Co. visitors can enjoy a rotating lineup of house-brewed beers—from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts—along with food service and a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere.

The Shore Line Trolley Museum - Trolley Rides & Historic Exhibits

Address: 17 River St, East Haven, CT 06512
Phone: (203) 467-6927
Details: Head to the Shore Line Trolley Museum in nearby East Haven. Home to the oldest continuously operating suburban trolley line in the country, the museum offers historic exhibits and rides aboard restored vintage trolleys. Be sure to check their program calendar for current hours and trolley trips.

Connecticut Science Center - STEM Exhibits

Address: 250 Columbus Blvd, Hartford, CT 06103
Phone: (860) 724-3623
Details: This nine-story museum is well worth the ~45 to 50-minute drive to Hartford for a day of family fun and learning. The Connecticut Science Center’s hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations and immersive STEM experiences are great for visitors of all ages. During the winter, the museum operates on standard hours (Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). See website for ticket pricing and current exhibits.

Want ideas that fit your family and your budget? Enter your ZIP code and preferences — kid-friendly, outdoor, educational and more — for winter getaway recommendations made for you.

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