The 413 Mom

Road Trip Worthy: Wadsworth Atheneum (Hartford, CT)

I get it that art museums and family fun don't go hand in hand for all families. But even my 8-year-old (who insists she couldn't even find any work of art at all that she liked in the whole place) said she'd like to go back. And my teenager was already asking when we could visit again before we were even back in the car. The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art in Hartford, CT has a universal appeal and all of the employees and docents were super friendly to families (not always the case in art museums). Unlike Faith, you should be able to find something that appeals to you in the collection here which includes more than 50,000 works of art. 

The European Art gallery was easily my favorite. But the American Art was a close second. We all adored the many "Collections of Curiosities" cabinets throughout the museum. Many of these displays are like a 3-D game of I Spy. The Made In Connecticut Exhibition (on display through February 2021) is a collection of fun, hyper-local works including a scavenged assembly of ocean trash found in Long Island Sound curated into a fascinating display. 

The museum is open Friday from noon to 8 p.m., Saturday, and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. There are special discount and FREE admission days throughout the year -- check the calendar for details. Admission is currently FREE to all through January 31, 2021. Advance ticket purchase is required through this link.

You can book a guided tour or an independent museum visit without a guide. Of course, right now, you can't just meander a path through the galleries as you'd like -- you do need to follow the path of arrows on the floor as with any public place right now. We followed the arrows and visited all of the rooms and it took us about 90 minutes to get a glimpse of all the collections. We reserved our admission for the museum's opening and were the first visitors through the doors and pretty much had the place to ourselves but by the time we left at 1:30 p.m., it was much busier (something to keep in mind if you're not comfortable around a lot of people right now). 

The museum is very accessible with elevators and stroller-friendly paths. As all hands-on activities are not taking place right now, there's nothing here I can tote as particularly geared toward children. But if your kids are entertained by seeing something new and different (or just getting out of the house) then they'll be satisfied just checking out the galleries here. I was very pleasantly surprised by the number of children in attendance on the Sunday afternoon that we visited. 

There is a fair amount of metered on-street parking ($2/hour) on the blocks surround the museum. You can also park in the Convention Center Garage for a $3 fee with museum validation. 

Masks are required to be worn by all and contactless temperature checks are required upon entry. The library, bistro and any hands-on exhibits are closed until further notice but even without these extras, an afternoon at the Wadsworth will not disappoint. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did! 

Road Trip Worthy: Cedar Hill Cemetery (Hartford, CT)

In the early to mid 1800s there was a trend of creating park-like cemeteries which included beautiful landscaping, inspiring monuments and wide open roads for walking and pondering. We are lucky to live within driving distance of several of these incredible spaces, but my all time favorite is in Hartford, CT -- Cedar Hill Cemetery. 

I know, I know...hanging out in a cemetery is not everyone's idea of a pleasant afternoon. But for those who enjoy the peaceful surroundings only a spot like this can offer, you'll find the drive down to Hartford worth the miles. Cedar Hill includes 270 acres of gently rolling hills and beautiful sculptures and memorials. It's such a beautiful place to get some fresh air, exercise and get away from all the drama of the world. 

Walking around Cedar Hill is like experiencing a Who's Who of Connecticut History. Memorials for notable politicians, business magnates, civil leaders, inventors, religious leaders, and actors who helped shape the state and the country can all be found here. 

Notable folks buried at Cedar Hill:

Isabella Beecher Hooker (suffragist)

Samuel Colt (inventor of the Colt revolver)

Katharine Hepburn (actress)

JP Morgan (financier)

Henry Barnard (educator)

Francis Ashbury Pratt (inventor & co-founder of Pratt & Whitney)

Gilbert Heublein (family known for bringing A-1 Steak Sauce to America)

Even though the property is deemed as belonging to Hartford, most of the acreage is actually in Wethersfield and Newington. That fact does not make it any less surprising though when you stumble upon a flock of geese or a few majestic deer while visiting Cedar Hill. 

Although right now any special events are on hold, when we're not under a global pandemic, there are many fascinating programs that are open to the public here. In years past we have attended a healing ceremony on the winter solstice, competed in a scavenger hunt, and attended "ghost" tours while learning about the lives of those interred here. Any event that takes place is a history nerd's delight. You can find out more by following the Cedar Hill Cemetery Foundation. 

Set the GPS for 453 Fairfield Avenue in Hartford, CT. The property is open to the public from 7 a.m. to dusk daily. No dogs allowed. #newenglandlife #getoutside #explore 

Road Trip Worthy: Scantic River Park South (East Windsor, CT) #hikingwithkids

Super fun explore ALERT!  Time to review the third leg of the Scantic River State Park, this trail is in East Windsor, CT. 

If you want to explore the entirety of the Scantic River State park, you can read my reviews of the Powder Hollow Loop and the Bailey Road trail both of which are in Enfield, CT. 

This is a gently sloping, easy hike with very clear, well marked, wide trails -- so much gratitude to the collection of volunteers who must spend many hours maintaining this site. 

When you arrive at the parking lot at 101 Melrose Road in Windsorville, CT (better known as East Windsor) you see this:

Even though the bridge is tempting, DON'T GO THERE! The bridge only leads to some rambling, brambly paths and some swampy ponds. There are no good trails here. Instead, head to the actual trail head here -- this is where the good hiking is:  

You'll start off walking along the river before you turn into the woods and get into some small hills. This is a loop trail so stay on the River Path and you'll eventually end up back at the parking lot. Follow the yellow diamonds. Along the way you'll see things like the cool teepee shown above and an old car graveyard. There's a geocache here in one of the vehicles but don't tell anyone I told you. There's also a few owls who might say hello. The loop trail is a little over two miles. 

Unlike other sections of the Scantic River trail, there are no rapids along this trail. There are some good spots to splash and and cool off your tootsies. This is the calmer, quieter section of the river.  

There is plenty of available parking on site, but no facilities. Bring a carrier if you have a little one, the trail is not stroller friendly. The park closes at sunset. The teepee is towards the end of the hike -- you can bribe your reluctant hikers along with the promise of this super cool added attraction. See you on the trail! 

Road Trip Worthy: Newgate Wildlife Management Area (East Granby, CT) #hikingwithkids

I've got another quick and easy explore to add to the list -- Newgate Wildlife Management Area in East Granby, CT. This property surrounds the Old Newgate Prison & Copper Mine, so once museums reopen to the public you can easily make a day of it and add a historical bent to the trip by purchasing tickets to the historical attraction; however, you do NOT need to purchase any admission to explore the trails surrounding the property. This is a FREE hiking area -- although the hiking description is generous. The trails are not maintained and while you can get a little ways into the woods, we could not discover any legit hike through points. It was all explore and turn around. But, still, worth the trip.

There are two entries to the trails -- we took the one just south of the Newgate property. It's a fun space to clamor around and explore some cool rocks and trees. The memorable feature of this spot is the land immediately surrounding the historic prison. You can check out a few of the museum's accessories as you head from the parking lot to the wide trail:

There are lots of fun photo ops here -- I'm sure they'll only improve with foliage season. If you plan to visit this space near sunset you will NOT be disappointed. There are a few good picnic spots too. I'd recommend making an evening of it and pack a dinner to eat in this beautiful space. As you can see there are some open spaces where kids can run around and play. 

These trails are NOT stroller friendly -- bring a carrier or hike with big kids only. This can be a quick visit to break up a day. I wouldn't plan for more than an hour here.  There is plenty of free parking on site -- easy in, easy out. Set the GPS for 115 Newgate Road in East Granby, CT -- the trail shares parking with the museum parking lot. Look for the Newgate sign. 

*Once museums are back open, if you want to extend your day, purchase admission tickets to explore the Old Newgate Prison & Copper Mine. You can work in a little sneaky learning for the very affordable admission price of $6/adults and FREE for kids ages 12 and under. History nerds will rejoice. Read my review here.

Road Trip Worthy: Scantic Rapids Powder Hollow Loop (Enfield, CT) #hikingwithkids

One of our new favorite hiking spots is right over the Massachusetts border in Enfield, CT-- The Powder Hollow section of Scantic State Park.  This hike has it all -- rapids, easy access to safe water, frog ponds, lots of fallen logs to practice balance on, wide open clear trails and old ruins. What more can you ask for? 

Powder Hollow is a local favorite. The trail is nearly always busy -- even though we're practicing 'social distancing' right now -- if you don't like to be alone on a trail this is a good pick. You're also close to a neighborhood the whole time so there's no deep woods creepiness. However, if you're worried about social distancing on the trail -- this might not be the right time for you to explore here. 

Powder Hollow is named for the Hazardville Powder Factory -- a gun powder factory that supplied over 40% of the gun powder used by the Union during the Civil War. Follow the obvious trail in this park to discover the remains of this old gem. This is the type of spot that immediately makes kids think of a "secret hideout." Take it from our experience: Stay. On. The Trail. There are a few spots where it seems like you can blaze ahead on a less travelled path but you will end up frustrated (you can't really get too lost here as you are right off Route 190 and surrounded by neighborhoods) and needing to cut through the brush. Not a pro move if you've got littles with you. The woods are very overgrown in season and who knows what itchy leaves are hiding in there. If you really want to explore, visit during the dead season and you can walk all around to the discover all the hidden remains without fear of poison anything. 

There are a few frog ponds to explore, lots of fallen trees to practice balance on, tons of bird calls to identify. This is a really fun spot. In the summer you can bring your bathing suit and a floaty if you want to enjoy the rapids at the entrance to the trail. Or pick any other of a number of spots to enjoy the water. Bring water shoes for the littles if they don't appreciate natural water. There are many fun spots with different depths to explore and even some spots with still water. Lots of opportunities to cool off. 

This is an approximate two-mile loop hike. The terrain is easy with some slight elevation. Not stroller friendly. You need a backpack carrier if you're bringing a toddler or younger. Very dog friendly trail. You will meet lots of furry friends along the way. The trail is obvious and easy to follow. Even off season there are a few spots where you can cross the dry stream bed to collect rocks. 

A good turnaround point is when you reach the high cliff over the river -- you'll find some barbed wire and no trespassing signs. Although you can continue the trail here around the private property it's a little risky for little kids. 

For a delicious treat after your hike visit Collins Creamery located right up the street at 9 Powder Hill Road. Some of the best locally made ice cream and soft serve around. (Open daily in season -- early spring through fall). 

If the parking lot at the corners of Maple Avenue and Powder Hollow Road is full (which it often is and often patrolled by police), head over the bridge and take a left past the big red barn. Follow Dusthouse Road back to the baseball fields and park there. Parking here adds a quarter mile to the hike, but it's worth it (and you'll miss out on a chance at a parking ticket). 

Set the GPS for Scantic River State park at 98 S. Dusthouse Road in Enfield, CT. You'll be glad you did. See you on the trail! 

Road Trip Worthy: Stony Brooke Park (Suffield, CT) #hikingwithkids

I needed a quick trail hit this afternoon as we were gifted a half-day of school by our district and it was 60 degrees outside. In March. I didn't want to drive too far so we finally checked the loop hike at Stony Brooke Park in Suffield, CT off of our to-hike list. 

This was a quick, easy jaunt -- perfect for when you need to get in the woods but are short on time, energy or initiative (or convincing other family members that the woods would do them good too). It's an approximately 1.5 mile loop trail of easy, rolling terrain. The park itself is easy to find, there's plenty of paved parking, and a small picnic pavilion at the trail head.

It's important to note that Stony Brooke Park has two entrances, and this hike detailed here is found at the Remington Street entrance. There is no access to cross the brook so if you want to hike the other side of the park you'll need to drive around to the Mountain Road entrance. 

While parts of the trail are obvious -- just follow the wide, open path -- in some spots it can be easy to lose the trail. Although to be fair we were hiking in March where everything looks the same --  dead and brown. But as a default, just follow the brook and you'll eventually get back on the trail. 

Some sites that keep the hike interesting: there is a lovely set of rapids, an old, abandoned trail trestle and you'll even find scattered pieces of an old (really old) car along the trail. There is also an abandoned camp site about 2/3 of the way into the trail -- like a broken down tent, old garbage, clothes and gross old mattress abandoned camp site. Tell the kids to steer clear.

Don't make my mistake: we decided we could hike in our street shoes. DUH. It's March. The mud on this trail reminded me of the mud run obstacle courses we do every summer. I thought for sure we were going to lose our shoes. Our Chucks and Vans are currently in the washing machine. Don't be dumb like me. Wear your hikers or your oldest sneakers -- ones that you don't care about tossing. Younger hikers should wear wellies. 

But TBH, I wouldn't recommend this trail for the littlest hikers. The brush surrounding the trail is very, very thorny and brambly. Our clothes got caught many, many times. Jean or thick pants are a must. I wouldn't recommend shorts or leggings on this trail, ever. (I've also read these woods are a poison ivy hotbed in season, so dress accordingly). I would be concerned about bringing anyone under age 7 here for fear that their faces or eyes could get scratched by the thorny branches. This trail is not stroller friendly. I'm not even sure I would bring a little one in a backpack for concern that their legs could get scratched. 

If deep woods creep you out, this hike is a good fit because you're surrounded by neighborhoods and farms the whole way. We consistently heard traffic or farm equipment throughout the entire trail so you never feel far from civilization. 

It took us just about an hour to complete the loop while hiking at a steady pace. Although this hike is a fun escape off season, we'll definitely return on a summer day when we can cool our tootsies in the stream. You can definitely make this a longer experience than just a quick loop hike. 

If you'd like to check it out, set the GPS for Stony Brooke Park, Remington Street, Suffield, CT. We'll see you on the trail! 

Gotta Visit: Hilltop Farm Trail (Suffield, CT)

When it hits 65 degrees on January 11 I just HAVE to hit the trail, but we didn't have a lot of time today so we headed to one of our favorite local spots -- Hilltop Farm in Suffield, CT. 

While not much of an actual hike (there are a few short trails that lead into the woods) we love it here for the wide open vehicle trail that loops around the property and along the river. It's clear, hard packed, gently sloping and easy for even the littlest hikers. Away from heavy traffic and offering a view of the river, but not close enough to the water to cause worry -- this spot offers a relaxing nature walk where you can let the kids meander on their own while always being able to see them. Just remember that this is a working access road so a vehicle may come along while you're on the path -- don't let littles wander too far. 

During the early 20th century the property was a dairy farm owned by George Hendee, co-founder of Indian Motorcycle, but is now operated by the nonprofit Friends of the Farm at Hilltop -- and is listed in the Register of Historic Places. 

Wellies or old sneakers are a must -- except in the driest part of summer this trail is delightful muddy. You could definitely use a jogging stroller here, just maybe not during peak mud season. A meander around the grasslands takes about 30 minutes for my crew -- perfect when time or tempers are short for a longer hike. Please stick to the path or trails in the woods, there is a lot of conservation work going on at the farm. 

And get this, you guys -- there is actually a bathroom on site! There are two compostable toilets on the property -- one adjacent to the path. These are way better than a porta-potty and so convenient when exploring with the kids. There's plenty of parking on site -- just pull off the road.

Hilltop Farm also hosts many unique events in season. The Friends of the Farm at Hilltop are working hard on conservation. Lots of cool stuff happens here. You can follow along on their Facebook page. 

Hilltop Farm is located at 1616 Mapleton Avenue, but there are entry points off of Route 159 -- approximately one mile down the road from Six Flags New England in Agawam. Look for the large white farmhouse on the left side of the road as you head south out of Massachusetts over the Connecticut line. There are several driveways into the property -- any one of them will lead you to the loop. See you on the trail! 

Experiences, Not Things Holiday Gift Guide 2019

It's here! It's here! The 2019 edition of The413Mom's "Experiences, Not Things Holiday Gift Guide." We all have enough stuff -- why not add a few local experiences to your gift giving list this year. 

Here we have a selection of some of the best experience gift ideas in the area: museum memberships, fitness opportunities, art and music lessons, educational programs and more for all ages. I hope you'll find a gift giving experience here that will strengthen and enrich your family or help a loved one discover a new passion -- because memories are so much better than things.

Link: Experiences, Not Things Holiday Gift Guide 2019

ENTER TO WIN: Family 4-pack of tickets to Dino-Light Theater at UMASS Fine Arts Center

Attention all paleontologists big and small -- dinosaurs are coming to the UMASS Fine Arts Center for one performance only this month and I've teamed up with the FAC to offer one lucky winner a family 4-pack of tickets (2 adult and 2 child admissions) to this first family-friendly performance of the season -- Lightwire Theater: Dino-Light on Sunday, October 20. 

Lightwire Theater (of America's Got Talent fame) uses their puppetry-based neon creatures to bring to life the adventures of a friendly dinosaur who wanders away from home and learns what love is through the creatures he meets along the way. The performance takes place at the Fine Arts Center Concert Hall on Sunday, October 20 at 2 p.m. with a pre-performance Family Fest in the lobby at 1 p.m. The performance runs approximately one hour and is appropriate for ages five and up. A food truck with family friendly options will be on the plaza starting at 12:30 p.m.

Lightwire Theater stemmed from a mutual passion for dance and an interest in technology. Co-creators Ian Carney and Corbin Popp share a love for art and theater, and combined the two in a different way through this electronic show of puppetry. With the help of their wives Eleanor and Whitney, the group stumbled upon the “el wire,” short for electroluminescent wire, which is powered by batteries and requires no theatrical lighting to create three-dimensional glowing light thereby allowing their vision to come to life.

Before the performance, ticket holders are invited to enjoy a Family Fest in the Fine Arts Center Lobby starting at 1 p.m, featuring interactive displays and activities for patrons of all ages. The Beneski Museum of Natural History along with the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association Jurassic Road Show will offer hands-on activities such as rock and mineral testing. The Beneski Museum (located on the nearby grounds of Amherst College) will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for pre and post-performance visits (admission to the Beneski museum is always FREE). The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art will be on hand with recommendations about dinosaur-themed books along with the Springfield Science Museum with information about their Dinosaur Hall.

To enter the ticket giveaway, use the comments field below to share one tip for how to foster a love of natural history in children. One winner will be chosen at random from all eligible entries. Entry period ends at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, October 15. Good luck to all who enter! 

Tickets for Dino-Light are $35, $25, $15; Five College Students and youth 17 and under are $15, $12, $10. This performance offers a family pack of tickets for two adults and two youth for $75. For tickets call the Box Office at 545-2511, toll-free at 800-999-UMAS, purchase online, or click on the link at the top right of this page.

You can read all about the entire upcoming season of family friendly shows at the FAC here. 

Gotta Visit: UMASS Fine Arts Center Family Performances 2019-2020 season (Amherst)

What comes to mind when you think of the UMASS Fine Arts Center in Amherst? Do you think of dinosaur light puppets? Peter Pan? Or a lovable wombat? Well, you should.

Because all of that and more will be part of their upcoming season of Family shows which run this October - April. I realize that, traditionally, we don't think of taking our kiddos to performances on a college campus. I mean, maybe we've attended a raucous program at the Mullins Center. But 'certainly not at the Fine Arts Center,' you're thinking. That's reserved for cultured folks who don't carry juice boxes in their purses. My kids don't belong at anything with the name "Fine Arts" in the title. But really, they do. And, you do. And you won't want to miss this. 

We'd all like to expose our kids to more of the arts but there are sooo many reasons why we think it's just too difficult. Or expensive. Or inconvenient. 

I know you're already thinking of all the "BUTS...":

'But...my little one might get fussy.'  

These are family shows. Fussiness is expected. However, if you feel that your little one is getting too disruptive, there are large screens in the side lobby of the concert hall with a live feed of the performance so you can take your littles outside of the theater and still see the show. Strollers will fit here. There's also space here for antsy ones to run around and let off some steam. Nobody is going to mind. 

'But...I have to feed them.'

Light concessions will be available in the lobby during all family show programs. If you're thinking of lunch or dinner or something more substantial than puffs for mom and dad to eat, rest assured that babyBERK (the UMASS food truck) will be on site for some performances. (Anyone who's ever enjoyed their quesadillas will agree this alone makes a visit to campus worth the drive.) There are also other dining options on campus if you'd like to arrive early and mosey around. All of the campus dining halls are open to the public. 

'But...sippy cups. And bottles. We have to bring them in to the show.'

Again -- family show. It's OK to bring beverages into the theater (just no food, please). Also, there is a new refillable water bottle station in the concert hall's lobby. Everyone can stay hydrated throughout the performance!

'But...parking.'

There is plenty of FREE parking available on site for all shows. Check out the link for details.

'But...what are we going to do while we wait for the show to start? My kids will melt down.'

As part of the family performance series there will be hands-on activities in the lobby before showtime. You'll even get to add in a little sneaky learning along with a cultural performance. Win-win! 

'But...diapers. I'm going to be on a college campus and I'm not running out to the car to change a stinker!'

That's right, you're not. Because there are changing stations in all bathrooms at the concert hall. 

'But....I'm on a budget." 

Tickets to the family shows start at only $15 depending on the performance and some youth tickets are available for only $10/child so prices are definitely family friendly. 

So, there. You're fresh out of excuses! All you have to do is decide which shows are right for your fam. 

The Family Series includes: 

LIGHTWIRE THEATER: DINO-LIGHT 

Sunday, October 20, 2 p.m.

A famous scientist with magic powers brings a friendly dinosaur to life. When the dinosaur wanders away from home, he discovers a wonderful world of creatures that light up the darkness and help him find the true meaning of love. 

Photo courtesy UMASS Amherst

NATALIE MACMASTER & DONNELL LEAHY PRESENT: A CELTIC FAMILY CHRISTMAS 

Wednesday, December 4, 7 p.m.

Award-winning fiddle virtuosos Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy present an intimate and unique Christmas concert. A Celtic Family Christmas welcomes the audience into the wonderful world of their family's Christmas celebration.

WE SHALL OVERCOME: A CELEBRATION OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.  

Tuesday, January 28, 7:30 p.m.

From Nina Simone to The Wiz, Stevie Wonder to traditional spirituals, it will be an evening of music that shows the lineage of Civil Rights visionaries is still with us today.

Photo by Lynn Lane (Courtesy UMASS Amherst)

 

GUGU DRUM GROUP 

Tuesday, February 11, 7:30 p.m.

GuGu Drum Group from Shanghai incorporates traditional Chinese drumming techniques and movement with a contemporary twist. Their performance will include a series of "vignettes" accompanied by projections based on Chinese proverbs, fables, and fairy tales.
 
FINDING NEVERLAND 

Tuesday, February 25, 7 p.m. 

The winner of Broadway.com's Audience Choice Award for Best Musical, Finding Neverland follows the relationship between playwright J.M. Barrie and the family that inspired Peter Pan.

Photo by Sebastien Durocher (courtesy UMASS Amherst)

CIRQUE FLIP FABRIQUE: BLIZZARD 

Wednesday, March 18, 7:30 p.m.

With some of the most exciting circus performers on the circuit today, FLIP Fabrique invites audiences to get lost in a moment of winter wonder.

DIARY OF A WOMBAT 

Thursday, April 9, 7 p.m., 

In Diary of a Wombat, you'll meet Mothball - the naughtiest wombat in Australia. Watch as the multi award-winning picture book by Australian Children's Laureate Jackie French and Bruce Whatley is brought to live through the magic of puppetry and live music.

Tickets are on sale now for all performances. Some shows are eligible for the Family Value Pack purchase -- two adult and two child tickets for only $75. 

I can't think of a better holiday gift suggestion (hint, hint). We all have enough stuff. Think experiences, instead of toys. Subscription packages are available -- purchase tickets to three or more shows and save 15%. Share this post with all the grandparents who are already asking what you want for the holidays. We'll see you at the show! 

Photo by Jeremy Daniel (courtesy UMASS Amherst)

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