Fun For Little Ones
(Also, see "Help for New Parents" & "Cool Activities for Kids")
All That Matters ........................................... 782-2126
Wakefield. www.allthatmatters.com. Child/Parent Explorations.
Baby & Me ...................................................846-9622
Newport Armed Services YMCA. 1297 Bushnell St., Newport.
Build-A-Bear Workshop........................ ......508-643-3443
Emerald Square, North Attleboro, MA. (level 2 Sears end)
www.buildabear.com
Make your own stuffed animal. Birthday parties too.
GymBear/GymStar Gymnastics..................... 724-9800
Creative gymnastics programs for children from the time they can
walk!
Gymboree
Cranston ..................... .................................946-5630
Seekonk, MA ............ ................................... 508-336-8113
www.gymboree.com
Play programs for parents and their children to four years of
age.
Hasbro Funlab ........................................... 727-5918
1027 Newport Ave., Pawtucket. The toy team watches your kids (34
mos to 6 yrs) play with their new inventions.
Jewish Community Center of RI ................... 861-8800
401 Elmgrove Ave., on the eastside of Providence. The arts, including
music and dance, sports, gymnastics, swimming and more are waiting
for you rlittle ones at the JCC of RI. Full gymnasium and heated
indoor pool available.
Kartwheels ................................................. 742-0444, 943-3666
1472 Park Ave., Cranston. Gymnastics program for children from
walking to 8 yrs. Wonderful equipment designed just for little
people body sizes! Special needs programs available too.
Mom"s Clubs(see In the Beginning section for details)
Mothers Group .......................................... 276-7800
Women & Infants Hospital. Weekly gathering which offers a time
for new parents to share with each other and ask questions of
a nurse. Babies welcome, of course!
Pawtucket Family YMCA............... .......... 727-7900
The YMCA offers swim lessons for preschoolers starting at 6 months
of age. Call for brochure.
PreSchool Adventures At Roger Williams Park Zoo......785-3510 ext. 358
These programs are designed for children 3-5 years of age accompanied
by an adult. Each adventure focuses on a special animal or area
of the zoo and presents opportunities for adult/child pairs to
make discoveries together. Also - Family Adventures - maximum family size is 5.
Stroller Strides Providence...........................331-2670
100 Third Street, Providence. Exercise with your baby in their
stroller!
www.strollerstrides.net/providence
www.strollerstrides.com
.
Training Wheels .......................................... 463-3636
R.I. Hadassah, 1150 New London Ave., Cranston. Parents (or grandparents)
and pre-school age children learn about being Jewish in a hands-on,
pressure-off, small, friendly playgroup.
Tumblin' Tots ..............................................246-1300
32 Bay Spring Ave., Barrington.
Cool Activities & Classes for Kids
(Also, check out Bookstores, Entertainment, Farms, Outdoor Fun & Sports for more cool things to do.)
4-H Club ................................................... 874-2959
www.4-h.org. Exciting programs ranging from sewing to woodworking to conservation
and environment. Plus fund raisers, fairs, trips, workshops and
camps. Something for everyone in your family.
Boy Scouting or Girl Scouting (See scouting in outdoor fun section)
Computer Whiz Kids Program....................... 455-8087
www.provlib.org
Verizon and the Providence Public Library have joined together
to offer free, high-quality computer classes for children. Classes
are held at every Providence branch library. There are three programs
during the school year, as well as Computer Summer Camps.
French American School of Rhode Island ....... 274-3325
John St., Prov. After school French program for ages 5-12, 3-5:30pm,
French speakers only.
Jewish Community Center of Rhode Island ..... 861-8800
401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence.
Sports, dance, gymnastics, music, games, arts & crafts, enrichment
& specialty classes for every age group. Red Cross swim instruction
including Parent-Tot swim. Soccer & basketball leagues. Family
Pool Days monthly on Sunday afternoons. Children's birthday parties
in gym, pool, or crafts studio. Theater presentations. Holiday
celebrations include family dinners/craft activities, and hand-on
holiday workshops.
Kids Workshops at Home Depot.................... 826-0600
800 Universal Blvd., Warwick.
Woodworking classes the first Saturday of every month from 10am-12:30pm
for children ages 12 & under. Projects include birdhouses, letter
boxes & step stools. Child must be accompanied by a parent.
A Night at the Zoo ....................................... 785-3510
Roger Williams Park Zoo.
Special overnights for child (minimum age is 7) and adult pair
to experience night time magic at the zoo.
Save the Bay"s Explore The Bay Programs...... 272-3540, ext 133
www.savebay.org/explorethebay
See seals sunning themselves. Kayak quiet coves. Trawl for marine
life. Learn where ice cream really comes from. Meet Eelgrass Man.
Visit the Narragansett BayStation, and more.
YMCA's
Newport Armed Services YMCA...........................846-9622
Newport County YMCA.......................................847-9200
Pawtucket YMCA............................................... 727-7900
* Heritage Park YMCA.............................................
727-7050
* MacColl Field YMCA.............................................725-0773
* Westwood YMCA.................................................397-7779
Providence YMCA............................................. 456-0104
* Bayside Branch...................................................
245-2444
* Community Services/ In Town..................................456-0100
* Cranston Branch...................................................943-0444
* East Side/ Mt Hope...............................................
521-0155
* YMCA Camp Fuller..............................................
521-1470
* Kent County........................................................828-0130
* Newman Branch...................................................508-336-7103
* South County Branch...........................................
783-3900
* West Bay..........................................................295-6501
Smithfield YMCA...............................................949-2480
Westerly-Pawtucker YMCA.................................596-2894
Woonsocket YMCA.............................................769-0791
Contact your local YMCA for a listing of all of the activities
for children (tots to teens) including swimming lessons and summer
camps.
YWCA of Greater Providence.......................... 831-9922
99 Corliss St. Prov.
Programs and activities to enrich the lives of women and girls:
health, wellness, leadership, economic opportunities, technology
education.
More Activities
Art
The Accidental Artist...............................................848-2501
516 Thames St., Newport
Using bisque "blanks," children and adults can decorate mugs,
plates and picture frames with colorful glazes that are then fired
to create usable decorative arts. Group rates and afternoon specials
are available.
Art & Soul ........................................................... 789-4993
147A Orchard Ave., Wakefield.
Paint Your Own Pottery studio for all!
Beadworks .......................................................... 861-4540
290 Thayer St., Providence.
Everything you need to make very cool bead jewelry. Lots of fun
for everyone (especially on rainy days)!
Bristol Community College...........................508-678-2811 ext.2272,2269
www.bristol.mass.edu
777 Elsbree St., Fall River, MA.
Kids College holds art and music programs for children in all
grades. Recent offerings include "Fun with Musical Instruments"
and "Kids College Chorus", "Cartooning and Creative Capers." Also
Math & Science, Computers, Acting, etc.
!CityArts! .......................................................... 941-0795
891 Broad St., Providence.
Free after school program for Providence area children 8 to 14
years of age which " ... encourages the exploration &development
of the artistic talents of city youth." Classes include music,
theatre, drawing and painting, poetry and creative writing, ceramics,
dance and more. Summer Arts Camp is also available.
Clayground ...................................................... 884-4888
5600 Post Rd., East Greenwich.
Create one of a kind, personally painted pottery. Birthday parties
& classes.
Court House Center for the Arts ........................ 782-1018
www.courthousearts.org
3501 Kingstown Road, West Kingston.
Arts-After-School classes & Saturday Art-Not-TV workshops for
children in grades 1-6, as well as afternoon Teen Classes for
Jr. & Sr. high students. Monthly concerts, summer theatre, film
and artisan shop.
Museum of Primitive Art and Culture .................... 783-5711
1058 Kingstown Road, Peace Dale.
Features craft projects for children, from tribal chokers to sundials.
Programs are FREE with a nominal materials fee.
Newport Art Museum.......................................... 848-8200
76 Bellevue Ave., Newport.
www.newportartmuseum.com
Offers classes in media as varied as clay and collage, for school-age
children through high school as well as for preschoolers and their
parents. Also, summer and school vacation camps.
Noa's Art ......................................................... 433-0095
E. Prov. Art instruction & private lessons for kids 9 and older.
Oop! Contemporary Gift Gallery ......................... 455-0844
297 Thayer Street & Providence Place.
Good Clean Fun Days for children to win free stuff, 3 times a
month.
Plaster Palace ..................................................... 826-2200
289 Cowesett Ave., Warwick.
Painting fun for the whole family. No appts needed. Also, cool
classes like ...
funky furniture painting, wire sculpturing, paper mache clocks,
drawing, etc.
The RISD Museum .............................................. 454-6545
224 Benefit St., Providence.
Family workshops for children ages 5-12 and their parents on alternating
Sunday afternoons. Workshops relate art that is on exhibit in
the museum to hands-on art techniques. FREE with museum admission.
Also, Artfull Thursdays, after-school classes that combine art
appreciation with art creation for ages 4-12. Children ages 4-6
must be accompanied by a caregiver.
R.I.S.D. Young Artist Programs......................... 454-6500
2 College St., Prov. www.risd.edu
Offers a variety of programs, from Artstart (ages 5-6), to Young
Adult Workshops (ages 12-17). In the summer, the school also offers
an intensive 3-week youth program & a pre-college residential
program (offered to high school juniors and seniors for 6 weeks
in the summer). These programs expose students to artists & their
works, & help foster each student's creative, social & intellectual
development. Includes drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramic, printmaking,
etc. Satellite location at Tillinghast Farm, Barrington.
Sweet Inspiration Sewing School ......................... 841-8628
Middletown. Learn to use a sewing machine, make clothes for yourself,
and gifts for friends.
Tiverton Four Corners Center for Arts & Education..624-2600
3852 Main Road, Tiverton.
Weird Girl Creations ............................................247-1397
185 Washington Rd, Barrington.
Paint your own pottery, handbuilding clay classes for kids, workshops,
Ladies Night, birthday parties, and more.
Dance & Drama
(also see Music)
2nd Story Theatre ................................................ 247-4200
28 Market St., Warren.
Acting classes for students of all levels, grade 10 and up. Performances
offered year round. Call for a schedule or visit the website at
www.2ndStoryTheatre.com
All Childrens Theater Ensemble ............................ 728-1222
255 Main St., Suite 201, Pawtucket, RI
ACTinRI.org
The Carriage House ............................................. 831-9479
7 Duncan Ave., Providence. This community-based performance arts center
holds skill-building dance and theatre classes for ages 12-18. Classes
include improv comedy, ballet, hip-hop dance, Polynesian dance, video
production and more.
Festival Ballet Providence Center for Dance Education.. 353-1129
825 Hope Street, Prov.
www.festivalballet.com
The Festival Ballet Providence Center for Dance Education offers
a comprehensive dance curriculum for ages 3 to adults in its three
state-of-the-art studios. An international faculty chaired by
Artistic Director Mihailo Djuric provides excellent training for
both the recreational and professional-track student. Over 70
classes a week are offered in the morning, afternoon and evening
including Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Creative Movement, Pre-Ballet,
Jazz, Pilates mat classes and the Festival Ballet Workout. The
Center for Dance Education is also home to Festival Ballet Providence,
the state's professional dance company.
The Jewish Theatre Ensemble............................ 861-8800, ext. 189
401 Elmgrove Ave., East Side of Prov.
This community-based theatre company at the JCC features full-scale
productions for adults and children. (The JCC also offers a specialty
day camp in drama as well as enrichment classes in the performing
arts during the school year.)
Kaleidoscope Theater............................................ 942-3637
65 Freedom Drive, Cranston.
www.KaleidoscopeTheatre.com
Looking Glass Theater Inc. ............................. 331-9080
321 Wickenden St., Prov.
www.LookglassTouringtheater.com
An educational professional touring Co. Will go to schools throughout
the area, promoting reading & addressing issues through humor,
participation plays.
Newport Children's Theater ........................... 848-0266
14 North Dr., Middletown.
Call for schedule of productions & events.
"On the Set" ...................................................... 295-1179
Taught by professionals, these acting classes for children include
starring in a movie and learning to be in TV commercials. For
boys and girls ages 5-17, no experience required. Birthday parties
too.
Perishable Theatre.............................................. 877-331-7392, ext. 105
Providence. www.perishable.org
Now entering its 19th year, Perishable's Shows for Young Audiences
is dedicated to presenting curriculum based original plays to
children. Bring the magic of live theatre to your local school,
library or community center!
SMARTS Collaborative ......................................508-222-8484
P.O. Box 356, Attleboro, MA..
Theatre for students grades 4+, no experience necessary, no auditions.
South County Player's Children's Theater ......... 783-6110
S. Kingstown. Educational touring Co. & performances on grounds.
Summer Camp for kids 5-13 yrs. Creative Drama, Mime, Makeup, Dance
& Voice.
Music
(also see Dance & Drama)
JazzKids Adventures........................................ 822-3029
96 Medway St., Providence.
www.jazzkids.com.
Jazzkids develops the creativity in children using their level-appropriate
curriculum and fun, catchy songs! Private lessons for all ages.
Kindermusik
(Aquidneck Island) .............................................
1-800-994-4483
(East Bay) ........................................................245-3652
(N. Smithfield) .................................................765-7882
While children sing, play instruments and practice finger-plays,
they learn the basic concepts of rhythm and melody - as well as
the joy of musical expression. Classes for infants, preschoolers
and young school children.
List Academy of Music & Arts ........................846-0572
31-B Bridge St., Newport.
www.listacademy.com
Classes, private lessons, summer camps and workshops for everyone
in the family in music, drama, video, crafts, cooking, sewing
and more. Kindermusik for young children and music therapy is
offered for children with special needs. Even a Parent's Night
Out program - Pajama Drama.
The Rhode Island Philharmonic MusicSchool......248-7070
* Nathanael Greene Middle School
721 Chalkstone Avenue, Providence
* St. Johns Episcopal Church
191 County Road (Route 114), Barrington
* Parish School at St. Luke's Church
Pierce & Church St., E. Greenwich.
Largest & only non-profit community music school in RI, the Philharmonic Music School offers a variety of classes including private instruction on over 30 instruments & voice, Suzuki instruction, Early Childhood classes for ages 6 mos-5 yrs, Children's Choir, Instrument Sampler Class for ages 6-9yrs, classical, jazz & rock ensembles for all.
Music Together
* Newport County ............................................ 846-9014
www.musictogethernewport.com
Email: bpresent@earthlink.net
Classes offered in Newport & Portsmouth. Christopher "Kavi" Carbone,
Director. Call for free demo class.
* South County ................................................. 364-SONG
Classes offered in North Kingstown.
Barbi Beyer, Director.
www.2singingsisters.com
Music Together combines music with movement to inspire infants
to children four years of age and parent/caregiver. Ask about
birthday parties!
*Northern RI ..................................................... 739-4171
With Anne Marie Forer, Tunes N’ Tales, Music at The Mill,
Greenville and Slatersville Preschool, Woonsocket
www.tunes-n-tales.com
Email: tunesntales@hotmail.com
Ocean State Children's Choir................................556-3883
www.oceanstatechildrenschoir.com
Under the direction of Paul Mancini, the Ocean State Children's
Choir strives to provide young singers (in grades 3 and higher)
quality music instruction with the goal of attaining the highest
level of artistic excellence in choral music performance. Through
its activities, the choir will help foster the personal and social
growth of its members and promote their sense of self-esteem,
accomplishment and pride.
Ocean State Youth Orchestra ............................. 421-8408, x4
East Greenwich High School.
The Ocean State Youth Orchestra Program offers young instrumentalists
the opportunity to study and perform string and full-orchestral
works with other children throughout Rhode Island and Southeastern
MA, in an environment that is nurturing yet challenging. Four
levels of ensembles are offered: String Class, Preparatory Strings,
Repertory Orchestra and Symphony Orchestra. All students audition
for placement. OSYO is the youth education branch of the Ocean
State Chamber Orchestra.
Prov. Performing Arts Center.......................... 421-2997
220 Weybosset St., Prov. www.ppacri.org
* Kids Night on Broadway - For special performances, children 18 and under are eligible
to receive one free ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket.
* Fleet Arts Showcase - A program that invites about 10,000 middle school students
to attend live performances of theater, music or dance during
school hours in the academic year. Reservations can only be made
through middle school administrators.
Rhode Island Philharmonic Youth Orchestra ..... 831-2123, ext. 24
222 Richmond Street, Prov.
www.ri-philharmonic.org
Provides a quality orchestral experience for over 200 students
from RI and MA. We offer five performing ensembles including String
Class, Preparatory String Ensemble, Repertory Orchestra, Advanced
Wind Ensemble, and Symphony Orchestra. RI Philharmonic musicians
serve as mentors and coaches for the student musicians.
VSA Arts Rhode Island................................... 725-0247
500 Prospect St., Pawtucket.
Comprehensive programs for children and adults in drama, dance,
creative writing, music and the visual arts.
Science and Astronomy
Frosty Drew Observatory ............................... 596-7688
www.FrostyDrew.net
Ninigret Park, Charlestown.
The observatory is open, all year long, on clear Friday evenings
for all ages of beginning "astronomers" to observe and learn more
about the amazing skies above.
Mad Science.................................................877-462-3724
We spark the imaginations and curiosity of children in grades
pre-K to 5 by providing them with fun, safe, entertaining, and
educational activities. And, we bring this to you in school, after
school, at birthday parties, summer camps, and more! "Turn on"
to science!
The Museum of Natural History's Cormack Planetarium .. 785-9457
www.OSFN.org/museum
Roger Williams Park, Providence.
Regular shows every Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 and 3 p.m. A wonderful
adventure...see more stars than possible from anywhere on Earth!
Children 4 and under are not permitted into the Planetarium. Admission:
General $3, Children under 8 $2.
The Museum of Science Gilliland Observatory .......... 617-589-0267
Science Pk., Boston, MA. www.mos.org
Free "Friday Night Stargazing" in the Gilliland Observatory, located
atop the Museum's garage roof. Friday evenings, approx. 8:30-10pm,
weather permitting.
Getting Involved Through Volunteering
It's about helping others ... simply because you can.
Audubon Society of RI / Environmental Education Center........ 245-7500
1401 Hope Street (Rt. 114), Bristol
www.asri.org
We're not just for the birds! Share your knowledge of nature and
help children and adults explore the various indoor exhibits and
outdoor habitats on our 28-acre wildlife refuge. Learn to be an
Exhibit Hall or Trails Guide. Help raise money by working in the
Gift Shop. Set a healthy example by assisting the Center with
grounds maintenance. Many volunteer opportunities available with
training provided. Come join the fun and adventure!
Child & Family Services.......................... 849-2300
19 Valley Rd., Middletown
www.cfsnewport.org
Newport County's oldest and most comprehensive social service
agency offers a variety of volunteer, community service, and student
intern opportunities to encourage community members to become
more involved in enriching the lives of others.
Compeer Program ................................. 738-4300
Kent County Mental Health Center, Warwick. It's as simple as being
a friend! As a Compeer volunteer, you would become a supportive
friend to a adolescent or adult receiving mental health \treatment.
You'd be asked to share your interests and hobbies with another
person for only 4 hours per month.
Feinstein Foundation............................ 467-5155 or 941-5913
www.feinsteinfoundation.com
The Foundation's "I Can Make a Difference" program encourages
local students, K-6, to do good deeds.
Fresh Air Fund................................... 294-6556......... 212-897-8900
www.freshair.org
For over 125(!) years, the Fresh Air Fund has provided free summer
vacations to New York City youngsters. Through the Fund's volunteer
host program, Friendly Town, thousands of inner-city children
visit host families in the suburbs and small town communities
across 13 Northeastern states. Contact: Lynn.
Howard R. Swearer Center for Public Service ... 863-2338
Box 1974, Brown University, Providence.
www.brown.edu/Departments/Swearer_Center
Provides students with opportunities to increase their community
involvement and strengthen their leadership skills through direct
service, to connect community-based work with academic study,
and to build meaningful relationships with community members and
agencies.
The Rhode Island Service Alliance .............. 331-2298
PO Box 72822, Providence.
An independent nonprofit organization which administers and promotes
national and community service programs throughout the state including
Americorps, Learn and Serve America, and Youth Encouraging Solutions
(YES!) Foundation.
Save The Bay........................................... 272-3540, ext. 130
100 Save The Bay Dr., Providence, RI 02905 www.savebay.org/involved
Help Save The Bay work to protect and restore Narragansett Bay.
Volunteers are involved in every area of Save The Bay's work.
Whether you want to get wet and muddy in the field, help pass
state legislation, be part of a fundraising effort or educate
children, Save The Bay has a volunteer position for you.
Volunteer Center of Rhode Island .............. 421-6547
55 Bradford Street, #302, Providence. www.vcri.org
The Volunteer Center of Rhode Island connects people and opportunities
for effective volunteer community service. We do this by promoting
volunteerism statewide, connecting people to community needs and
by training volunteers and their managers to be more effective.
We have special programs for youth, seniors, working professionals,
businesses and families. Check out our website or call us to find
a volunteer opportunity that serves your interests, skills, time
availability and special circumstances!
Women & Infants Hospital / Volunteer Services Department
............................................................ 274-1122, ext. 1469
Women & Infants has a team of hundreds of volunteers who perform
a variety of important services, contributing in many meaningful
ways. Call for information.
Libraries
Most libraries have computers, books on tape, music, & videos
(old and new). They also have a wonderful selection of fun, educational
activities for kids like story hours, reading clubs, arts & crafts,
and more. Many have passes and discounts for local attractions,
museums, etc. And, library cards are free. Check out the library
nearest you for details. Here are some:
Barrington Public Library ........................ 247-1920
281 County Road, Barrington.
www.barringtonlibrary.org
Special programs for children like Story hour (3-5 yr. olds),
Mother Goose (1 yr. olds); Book Look (2 yr. olds); Animals in
children's dept. include a rabbit & 2 guinea pigs; summer reading
program; state-wide on-line public access catalog.
Coventry Public Library .......................... 822-9100
1672 Flat River Road, Coventry.
www.Coventrylibrary.org
Children's story hours (call 822-9102), museum passes, and more.
Coventry Library is also the site of Literacy Volunteers of America
- Kent County, a volunteer operated program dedicated to teaching
adults to read and/or speak English (call 822-9103).
Cranston Public Library ........................ 943-9080
140 Sockanosset Cross Road, Cranston.
Art Exhibits; Children's Programs; Story Hours beginning at birth,
public computers and internet access.
East Greenwich Free Library .................. 884-9511
82 Pierce St., E. Greenwich.
Children's Programs; Crafts for school age children, story hours
for 2-5 yr. olds; Summer Reading Program.
Foster Public Library..............................397-4801
184 Howard Hill Rd., Foster.
Arts/Crafts Classes; Art Exhibits; Children's Programs; Story
Hours; Reading Program.
North Kingston Free Library .................. 294-3306
100 Boone St., North Kingston.
Arts/Crafts Classes; Art Exhibits; Children's Programs; Story
Hours for children from 12 mos. to five years; Summer Reading
Club; Babysitting classes for preteens.
Providence Public Library ...................... 455-8025
225 Washington St., Prov. (Central)
Call for address/phone of other Prov. Branches, or website: www.provlib.org
Story hours, free computer instructional classes, mother/daughter
book discussion group (girls 10+), family book & movie club, family
math & science night, "Family Place" - special area loaded with
activities for parents and young'uns, "Creating Readers" reading
program for kids 6-9, after school, bilingual & literacy programs.
Warwick Public Library ......................... 739-5440
600 Sandy Lane, Warwick.
Arts/Crafts Classes; Art Exhibits; Children's Programs; Story
Hours for children from birth to 8 years; Summer Reading Club,
book discussions for elementary school children.
Weaver Memorial Library ...................... 434-2453
41 Grove Ave., E. Providence.
www.Eastprovidencelibrary.org
Arts/Crafts; Art Exhibits; Children's Programs; Story Hours. Please
call for specific dates and times of events & story hours for
children from birth to 6th grade.
More Story Hours
(Also, see Bookstores, Libraries, & Ecology/Conservation)
Providence & North
Audubon Society of RI / Powder Mill Ledges Wildlife Refuge ........ 949-5454
12 Sanderson Rd., Smithfield
www.asri.org
Preschool Story Time is an hour-long nature program offered once
a month for children ages 3 to 5. Each program includes the reading
of a nature story with hands on activities followed by a nature
craft.
Books on the Square................................331-9097
471 Angell Street, Prov. Story hours Mon. at 10:30am for 18 mos
& younger, Tues. for pre-schoolers at 10:30am, Wed. for toddlers
at 10:30am, & Sat. for all age children at 11am. During the school
year enjoy Lazy Sundays with planned activities & during the Summer
they have pajama parties on Wed. evenings.
Lizzy and The Enchanted Creamery............334-3375
1700 Mendon Rd., Cumberland.
Friday evening "Bedtime Stoytime". Books, specialty toys, homemade
icecream and parties too.
East Bay
Audubon Society of RI / Environmental Education Center ............... 245-7500
1401 Hope Street (Rt. 114), Bristol
www.asri.org (See Audubon Listing above.)
Barrington Books ........................................ 245-7925
(formerly Little Professor Book Center)
Barrington Shopping Center.
Tunes & Tales story time 2 times a month on Sundays from 2-3pm
for 4-8 year olds. Story time on Wed. mornings in summer.
FairyTale Princess Storyteller....................... 647-3112
West Bay & South County
Barnes & Noble Booksellers ......................... 828-7900
1441 Bald Hill Rd., Warwick.
Call for monthly schedule of events including story hours, art
exhibits, book readings and signings, chess club, etc.
Book Nook ................................................ 466-2993
4 Water St., Block Island.
e-mail: booknook@riconnect.com
Border's Book Shop.....................................944-9160
Garden City Center, Cranston.
Story time every Friday morning 10:00-10:30am for children 4 and
up. Call for other kid's programs & special events.
Walden Books / Walden Kids
Warwick Mall ................................................
737-9222
Lincoln Mall ..................................................
333-2120
Story Time in Warwick at 11 on Thurs for preschoolers to children
age 8 & in Lincoln at 10:30 on Wed for all pre-school age children.
Museums / Centers
Providence & North
Heritage Harbor Museum.......................... 751-7979
www.heritageharbor.org
Coming soon! ... Heritage Harbor Museum consists of 19 historical & cultural
organizations who are renovating a former power plant on the Providence
River to become Rhode Island's statewide history and cultural
center. Heritage Harbor is the 1st New England affiliate of the
Smithsonian Institution, and will feature over 250,000 sq. feet
of exhibit, collections, office, library & community space.
Providence Children's Museum.................. 273-5437
100 South St., Providence.
www.childrenmuseum.org
RI's only hands-on museum for children, ages 1-11 and their families.
Kids and grown-ups play and learn together in 9 exhibit areas,
including: LandFULL!, a recycling adventure that features the
area's first and only life-size virtual reality game; Water Ways
- a wet and wild playscape of fountains and pumps; and TEETH!
- an up-close peek at the science behind a smile and much more!
Admission is $4.75. Members free. Open Tues - Sun 9:30 - 5:00
year round, Mon. during Summer and School Vacations, Fri - open
'til 8:00 June - Sept. Daily programs offered, call for details.
Free parking, wheelchair accessible.
Governor Henry Lippitt House Museum ....... 453-0688
199 Hope St., Providence.
The Lippitt House is an 1865 Renaissance Revival Mansion. The
house is a blend of traditional architectural forms and a high-style
Victorian decorative scheme. View by appt. Adults $5, seniors
& students $4.
Holocaust Memorial Museum & Garden ....... 453-7860
Jewish Community Center of RI, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Prov.
The Holocaust Museum is an educational resource center which focuses
on community outreach. There is a library of books & tapes available
to the public, as well as the Memorial Garden. Please call for
an appointment or to find out about guest speakers, special films,
programs, or membership.
The Johnson and Wales Culinary Archives and Museum..... 598-2805
315 Harborside Blvd., Prov.
This unique museum has something for every appetite to savor,
from a dinner invitation from Thomas Jefferson to a bread ring
from Pompeii. Closed Sun. Open Mon-Fri 9-5, Sat. 10-4. Admission:
Adults $5, seniors $4, students $2. Group rates.
The Museum of Natural History & Planetarium ........ 785-9457
Roger Williams Pk, Elmwood Ave., Prov.
Special school group programs. Open year-round, 7 days a week,
10-5pm. Admission: General $2, Children (8 and under) $1, Planetarium
shows: General $3, Children (8 and under) $2.
Museum of Work and Culture.................. 769-WORK
42 South Main St., Woonsocket.
Traces the story of mill workers who came from the farms of Quebec
in the last third of the 19th century to work in the shoe and
textile factories of New England. Open daily. Admission: Adults
$5, seniors/students $3, free for kids under 10.
RISD Museum of Art................................ 454-6500
224 Benefit Street, Providence.
Ongoing, larger-than-life exhibits appeal to kids of all ages.
Free-for-all Saturdays (the last Saturday of the month during
the school year) offer special activities for kids.
Russian Sub Museum................................ 640-3333
www.saratogamuseum.org
Collier Point Park, Providence.
Dive into history aboard Juliett 484, the former Soviet nuclear
cruise missile sub that roamed the seas for 30 years as one of
America's deadliest enemies. Children 6-17 $5, Adults 18-64 $8,
Seniors & Active Military $6. Infants, toddlers and children under
6 are not allowed.
Slater Mill Historic Site ............................ 725-8638
67 Roosevelt Ave., Pawtucket.
e-mail: samslater@aol.com
"The Birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution", a historic
landmark housing textile machinery, a theater, and classrooms.
The site includes the Sylvanus Brown House (c.1758) and the Wilkinson
Mill (c.1818) that houses a 8-ton water wheel and a 19th century
machine shop. Admission: Adults $8, Children (6 - 12) $6, Seniors
(65 and older) $7. Under 6 free. Handicapped accessible.
East Bay
Audubon Environmental Education Center ......... 245-7500
1401 Hope Street, Bristol
(Rt. 114 at the Warren/Bristol town line)
The center's interactive exhibits feature a fabricated, life-sized
35-foot Right whale, tide pool touch tanks, a cornfield at night,
and several 3-D dioramas. The exhibits prepare students and visitors
for walking among the center's 28 acres of natural habitats extending
from Rt. 114 across the East Bay Bike Path to the shores of Narragansett
Bay. Open year round, 9-5 (Sundays 12-5 Oct - Apr). Admission:
adults $5, children 4-12 $3, under 4 free. Call for info. on school
and outreach programs, group tours, and camps.
The Doll Museum ............................................ 849-0405
520 Thames St., Newport.
The museum features a fine collection of dolls from the 18th century
through modern times. Repair, restoration, and appraisal services
are available. The Museum Toy Shop carries antique and collectable
dolls, reference books, and miniatures. Open weekdays 11:00-5:00,
Saturdays 10:00-5:00, closed Tues. and Sun. Admission: Adults
$2.00, Children 5-11 years $1.00, Srs. $1.50
Haffenreffer Museum of Anthropology ............. 253-8388
Tower St., Bristol (off Rt. 136)
The museum displays artifacts from the native peoples of the Americas,
Africa, Asia, and the Pacific. Owned by Brown University and located
on traditional Wampanoag land, the museum offers lectures, performances,
guided or self guided tours, and summer camps. Open Sept.-May
weekends 11-5; June-Aug. Tues.- Sun. 11-5. Admission: Adults $3,
Children $1 & Seniors $2.
Herreshoff Marine Museum and America's Cup Hall of Fame ........ 253-5000
www.Herreshoff.org
Burnside Street & Rt. 114, Bristol.
See and feel the "Golden Age of Yachting" and trace the history
of the world famous Herreshoff Manufacturing Company. Displays
include more than 60 historic yachts, steam engines, fittings,
and the Model Room with a rare collection of the half-hulls from
which the historic yachts were built. Step into the America's
Cup Hall of Fame to learn about the various talented inductees
and see many artifacts from the Cup boats. Admission: Adults $5,
Seniors $4, students $2, members free. Open daily 10-5 May 1-Oct.
31.
The Museum of Yachting ................................ 847-1018
Fort Adams State Park, Newport.
www.museumofyachting.org
Enjoy a view into the rich and colorful history of yachting. See
the Museum's Flagship, Courageous, two-time winner of the America's
Cup. Exhibits are housed in a restored Fort Adams livestock barn
and include the Small Craft Gallery, Mansions & Yachts Gallery,
Single-Handed Sailors hall of Fame, American Sailboat Hall of
Fame, America's Cup Gallery, Catboat Exhibit, In-the-Water Yacht
Collection, Nautical Library, Theater and Gift Shop. Open daily
from mid-May - Oct. 31, 10am-5pm, $5/adults, $4 seniors & chidren
under 12. AAA Discount, handicapped accessible 1st floor only,
free parking.
Naval War College Museum.............................. 841-4052
686 Cushing Rd., Newport
Exhibits on the history of Naval Warfare and the Navy in Narragansett
Bay. Free. Open M-F, 10-4, Weekends June-Sept 12-4. Closed holidays.
The Newport Art Museum ............................... 848-8200
76 Bellevue Ave, Newport.
Museum has six galleries with changing exhibits that reflect the
lively art scene of the present and the rich heritage of the past.
Lectures, concerts, field trips, workshops and special events
throughout the year. Admission: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors,
$4 for students and children five and under are free. Sat. morning
by donation. Call for hours.
Newport Historical Society............................ 846-0813
82 Touro St., Newport.
www.newporthistorical.org
Newport's oldest historical institution is the resource center
for the study of Newport County's past including a "treasure hunt"
book ($1) for families to follow for a self-guided tour of Newport's
oldest neighborhood, the Historic Hill.
West Bay & South County
Gilbert Stuart Birthplace and Museum ............ 294-3001
815 Gilbert Stuart Rd., Saunderstown.
The Gilbert Stuart Museum is an authentically restored and furnished
eighteenth century working man's home, and site of the first snuff
mill in America. Gilbert Stuart himself is best known for his
portrait of George Washington, and reproductions of his work are
displayed. Open mid-April - Oct.31, 11 am - 4pm. Closed Tues.
and Wed. Adults $5, Children 6-12 $2.
Museum of Primitive Art & Culture ................ 783-5711
1058 Kingstown Rd., Peace Dale.
Explore the "treasures" of the American Indians, Eskimos, early
people of Europe and contemporary Africa. Programs include lectures,
films, and workshops. Children ages 6 - 10 can discover museum
artifacts using a "treasure hunt". Call for info. about new summer
programs. Open Tues. - Thurs. 10 - 2 or by appointment. $1.00
donation is requested.
Quonset Air Museum ................................... 294-9540
488 Eccleston Ave., N. Kingstown.
The Quonset Air Museum is dedicated to the preservation of RI's
great military and civil aviation history. Many aircraft are on
display and educational programs are available to the public.
Fly in visitors are welcome. Open Fri., Sat., & Sun. 10 - 3. Admission:
Adults $5, children 6-12 $2.
South County Museum ................................. 783-5400
Strathmore Street, Narragansett.
Come experience the unique heritage of Rhode Island through seven
exhibit buildings which include hands-on demonstrations, lectures,
tours and programs with interpreters and Junior Historians on
printing, carpentry, blacksmithing, early transportation, a one-room
school, and a living history farm exhibit. The museum is housed
on the shores of Narragansett Bay at the former Canonchet Estate
of Gov. William Sprague, and is handicapped accessible. The picnic
tables, exercise course, and small farm animals nearby make the
museum a lovely place to spend the day. Open May-Oct.; Fri.-Sun.
10-4, July & August open Wed-Sun., 10-4pm. Admission: Adults $4,
Children 6-12 years $2. Call for a calendar of special events.
Warwick Museum of Art ............................. 737-0010
3259 Post Rd., Warwick.
The museum offers lots of programs including studio art & art
culture classes for children & adults. Open Tu- Fri. 11-4, call
for weekend hours.
Nearby Massachusetts and Connecticut
Battleship Massachusetts.............................508-678-1100 / 800-533-3194
Battleship Cove, Fall River, MA
www.battleshipcove.com
Conveniently located in Fall River off I-195 exit 5, Battleship
Cove harbors the world's largest collection of historic naval
vessels. Explore five national historic landmarks: Battleship
Massachusetts, Destroyer Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr., Sub-marine Lionfish,
and the only restored PT Boats on display in the world, and then
climb on board the world's only publicly exhibited Soviet-built
missile corvette, the Hiddensee. Also birthday parties and other
functions. Complemented by neighboring attractions like the Fall
River Carousel, the Old Colony Railroad Museum, the Marine Museum
of Fall River, and Heritage State Park, Battleship Cove also offers
youth overnight camping, youth boating, and moorings. Open daily,
year round, from 9-5. Closed hanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's
Day. Admission: $10 Adults, $8 Seniors, Children (6-14) $5. Under
6 free. Massachusetts school groups free (group reservations required.)
Summer camps for kids.
Boston Children's Museum
(See Special Boston Section)
Children's Museum of Southern Connecticut........ 860-691-1111
http://childrensmuseumsect.org
409 Main St., Niantic, CT. (about 45 min. drive from Providence.)
Exit 72 North and 74 South off I95. Interactive exhibits for the
whole family. Don't miss the new Global Village exhibit. See the
Long Island Sound Marinelife Tank and Parent Pockets, a self guided
tour of the Museum. Themes include arts & science, health & history.
Explore the Discovery Room, see live animals and say hello to
Richter the Red Tailed Boa Constrictor. Open year round: Tues-Sat,
9:30am to 4:30pm, Fri, 9:30am-8pm, Sunday, 12-4pm. Closed Mondays
except school vacations and holidays. $5 admission, members and
children under 1 free.
EcoTarium ............................................ 508-929-2700
222 Harrington Way, Worcester, MA.
www.EcoTarium.org
Bring nature into focus at EcoTarium, a center for environmental
exploration featuring a three-level museum, fun family programs,
wildlife exhibits, trails and more. Less than an hour from Providence.
Admission: adults $7, children 3-16 & Srs. $5, under 3 are free.
Tues - Sat. 10-5, Sun 12-5.
Lizzie Borden Museum.......................... 508-675-7333
92 Second St., Fall River, MA.
www.lizzieborden.com
Guided tours of this home that was the site of one of the most
famous unsolved murders - includes the history of Fall River in
1890. View the murder scene, and spend a night (if you dare!)
in the actual house where the murders took place. Guests are treated
to a breakfast similar to the one the Bordens ate on the morning
of the murders. In summer, tours are daily 11-2:30, every half
hour. Call for schedule for rest of year. Price for tour is $7.50
for adults, $3.50 for kids ages 7-12, children 6 & under are FREE
with adult.
The Marine Museum............................ 508-674-3533
70 Water St., Fall River, MA (just 1/2 mi off Rt. 195 in Battleship
Cove)
See exhibits on the R.M.S. Titanic, Andrea Doria, Fall River Line,
and H.M.S. Bounty. Lectures, school & group programs available.
Gift shop. Hours: M-F 9-5, Sat 12-5, Sun/ Holidays 12-4. Adults
$5, Seniors (62+) $4, Children (5-12) $4. Call for group rates.
The Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center ........ 1-800-411-9671
110 Pequot Trail, Mashantucket, CT.
www.pequotmuseum.org
Take an interactive journey back to the time when glaciers covered
the Eastern U.S. Learn how the first Native Americans migrated
to Southeastern Connecticut and established a culture and history
that still flourishes today. Stand face to face with a giant mastodon,
witness a caribou hunt from 11,000 years ago and see everyday
life in a 500 year old Indian village. Discover thousands of artifacts,
exhibits, 3-D computer interactives and dramatic films. Enjoy
seasonal celebrations, exhibits, educational and scientific programs,
and live entertainment year 'round. It's all here at the largest,
most innovative Native American museum in the country.
Museum of Science
(See Special Boston Section)
New Bedford Whaling Museum .......... 508-997-0046
18 Johnny Cake Hill, New Bedford, MA.
www.whalingmuseum.org
This internationally renowned museum brings to life the rich history
of American whaling in the age of sail. Climb aboard the world's
largest ship model. New exhibits emphasize whale preservation
& feature the 66-foot skeleton of a blue whale.
Science EpiCenter & DNA Learning (formerly Science Center of Eastern
CT)
........................................................ 860-442-0391
33 Gallows Lane, New London, CT.
www.science-epicenter.org
Explore the mystery of science and technology while you challenge
your mind with the Center's interactive exhibits. Prove that light
can be bent and sound can be seen. Experiment with circuit boards
and computers and meet animals from Long Island Sound. Open year
round. Outreach and in-house programs available for all age groups.
Admission FREE to members. Non-member adults $7, children under
12 and seniors $4.50. Handicap accessible. Member ASTC Travel
Passport reciprocal agreement program.
Historical Houses & Interesting Places
(Many of the places listed in this section have special family
events. Call for calendar.)
Providence & North
John Brown House .............................. 331-8575
52 Power St., Providence.
The RI Historical Society has meticulously restored this house,
built in 1786. John Brown House is furnished with the finest examples
of RI furniture & decorative arts. Attention to historical accuracy
has made this one of the ten finest house museums in America.
Open Tues.-Sat. 10-5; Sun. noon-4. Jan. & Feb. weekdays by appt
only. Adults $6.00, Students / Seniors $4.50, Children 7-17 yrs
$3, Family $15.
Hannaway Blacksmith Shop ............... 333-1100 x 289
671 Great Rd., Lincoln.
The one story barn-like structure was built in the late nineteenth
century and was recently restored as a demonstration workshop.
Tours by appt. Call for special tours or events.
East Bay
The Astor's Beechwood ...................... 846-3772
580 Bellevue Ave., Newport.
www.astors-beechwood.com
When you visit the Astor's Beechwood, you'll find a lovely recreation
of the splendid life style that the Astor family brought to Newport
during the Victorian era. This is all reenacted through a spirited
guided tour created by the Beechwood Theater Co. Call for special
events. Open May 20-Nov 3 daily 10-5. Call for hours during other
times. Admission: Adults $15, Children & Seniors $10, Students
$10, Children 5 & under are free, Family (2 adults & 2 or more
kids) $45.
Blithewold Mansion and Gardens ......... 253-2707
101 Ferry Rd., Bristol.
Blithewold is a 1908 English style mansion decorated much as it
was in the early 1900's. The grounds boast unique flower gardens,
a 90 foot Giant Sequoia, and a bamboo grove. Call for hours and
a schedule of concerts and seasonal events. Grounds open year
round 10-5. Mansion open to public April - Oct. 11-3:30. Call
for prices & special events.
Chase-Cory House
Four Corners, Main Rd., Tiverton.
The Chase-Cory House, a 1730's Gambrel roof cape complete with
corn crib, wash house and out house. A fine example of pre-revolutionary
coastal village farm architecture. Special events and exhibits
are held throughout the entire year. Open June, July, and Aug.
Sundays 2-4:30.
Fire Department Memorial Building ........ 423-0062
Narragansett Ave., Jamestown.
Antique fire fighting equipment and a horse drawn steam engine
are on display. Open weekdays from 7-3.
Fort Barton Revolutionary War Monument
Highland Rd., Tiverton (across from Town Hall). Climb the re-creation
of the fort for a beautiful view of the Bay. There are three miles
of wooded trails for hiking. Open sunrise to sunset.
Green Animals ...................................... 683-1267
Cory's Lane, off Rt.
114, Portsmouth.
There are more than 80 sculptured trees and shrubs in the shape
of animals and geometric forms, formal flowerbeds, fruit and vegetable
gardens on this 7 acre historic country estate overlooking Narragansett
Bay. The oldest topiaries were begun in 1912. The Victorian estate
house, dating to 1860, includes original furnishings and a collection
of antique toys. Open 10-5 daily, late May-mid-Oct. Adults $10,
Children (6-17) $4.
The International Tennis Hall of Fame ..... 849-3990
www.TennisFame.com
194 Bellevue Ave., Newport.
The International Tennis Hall of Fame is a not for profit educational
institution dedicated to preserving the history of tennis, inspiring
& encouraging junior tennis development, enshrining tennis heroes
& heroines, & providing a landmark for tennis enthusiasts worldwide.
Call for hours, rates, & special events.
Jamestown Windmill..............................423-1798
North Main Rd., Jamestown.
Open mid June - mid Sept, weekends from 1 - 4 . Closed during
bad weather.
Linden Place ........................................ 253-0390
www.LindenPlace.org
500 Hope St., Bristol. This 1810 Federal Mansion and grounds features
colorful stories of famous people, including four US Presidents
and actress Ethel Barrymore. The ballroom is a frequent site of
balls, concerts, receptions, seasonal celebrations and weddings.
It was the home of Colonel S.P. Colt, a millionaire industrialist.
The interior boasts a four-story, self-supporting mahagony staircase
and furnishings from its 200-year history. Open to the public
from May to Columbus Day. Check for times. Admission General $5.00,
Children 12 and under $2, Seniors & Students $4. Call for hours
or a calendar of events.
Newport Mansions ............................... 847-1000
www.newportmansions.org
The Preservation Society of Newport County, a non-profit educational
organization, annually welcomes more than 900,000 visitors to
its collection of 11 historic house museums, including The Breakers,
Marble House and Rosecliff. Rediscover the spirit of America in
historic Colonial, Victorian and Gilded Age houses built as a
testimony to the uplifting qualities of great art, architecture,
decor and open space. Learn about the fascinating lives of the
men & women who lived and worked there. Call for ticket packages
and operating schedules.
Old Stone Mill
Touro Park (off Bellevue), Newport.
Who built the Old Stone Mill? This controversial question remains
unanswered. Some believe it to be an ancient structure built by
Vikings. Others argue that it was constructed by Benedict Arnold,
one of RI first governors and ancestor of the famous Revolutionary
War traitor.
Redwood Library & Atheneum ............. 847-0292
www.RedwoodLibrary.org
50 Bellevue Ave., Newport.
Built from 1748-50, the Redwood Library is the oldest library
building in the US. Daily tours Mon-Fri 10:30.
Southermost School
Corner of East Main Rd. & Union St., Portsmouth. The oldest standing
schoolhouse in R.I. contains antique furnishings & books. Open
weekends from Memorial Day through Columbus Day.
Touro Synagogue ................................ 847-4794
85 Touro St., Newport.
www.tourosynagogue.org
Touro is the oldest synagogue in the US. A copy of President Washington's
famous letter to the congregation, on display, pledges that the
new American nation would give "to bigotry no sanction, to persecution
no assistance." Daily tours every half hour (except on Sat. &
Jewish holidays). Call for hours.
West Bay & South County
.
Smith's Castle .................................. 294-3521
www.smithscastle.org
55 Richard Smith Dr., N. Kingstown.
Roger Williams lived and preached at Smith's Castle, one of America's
oldest Plantation Houses. Lafayette, General Nathanael Green,
and Benjamin Franklin also frequented. May, Sept. and Oct, open
Fri, Sat, and Sun 12-4pm; June, July and Aug. open Thurs - Mon
12-4pm. Admission: General $4, Children $1. Grounds are always
open - free.
Nearby Massachusetts & Connecticut
(Read on for information on fun family day trips to Massachusetts,
including a special secton on Boston, plus Connecticut and New
Hampshire.)
Mystic Seaport ................................. 860-572-5315
75 Greenmanville Ave., Mystic, CT.
www.mysticseaport.org
Stroll a 19th century village of historic buildings & tall ships,
a preservation shipyard, plus numerous exhibit galleries brimming
with the material culture of the sea. Exhibits open 9-5pm. Call
for schedule of events.
Old Sturbridge Village ...................... 800-SEE-1830
Old Sturbridge Rd., Sturbridge, MA.
www.osv.org
From farm to craft shop, from mill to Meetinghouse, from District
School to bustling household, it's a unique glimpse into a 19th
century New England village. Special programs, Family Fun Days,
games and even a Kids Club, are here to entertain and delight
youngsters; Old Sturbridge Village is a place where history is
happening every day. Approx. half of the buildings are handicapped
accessible. Open year round. Admission: adults $20, seniors $18,
children (6-15) $10, under 6 free. Admission good for 2 consecutive
days.
Plimoth Plantation.......................... 508-746-1622
Plymouth, MA.
www.plimoth.org
Stroll through a 1627 Pilgrim village or a Wampanoag Indian homesite.
Programs
for schools and groups. Open 7 days. Don't forget to tour the
Mayflower!
Boston
The Children's Museum of Boston .........617-426-8855
300 Congress St., Boston
www.BostonKids.org
Blow bubbles, roll golf balls, climb the two-story maze, explore
Arthur'sTM World, visit a real Japanese House, float your own
boat, truck into the construction zone, dress up, "shop" in the
grocery store and more. Hands-on fun for kids ages 0-10, and parents,
too! There's even a special area just for toddlers. An easy day-trip
to Boston's downtown waterfront, near South Station's T, Amtrack
and bus stops, as well as I-90/93. Open daily 10am-5pm, fridays
'til 9pm. Admission: $7 for kids 2-15 and seniors; $8 for adults;
$2 for one-year-olds; free for infants and Museum Members. Friday
nights 5-9, all visitors are only $1!
Franklin Park Zoo ................................... (617) 541-LION
One Franklin Park Road, Boston.
www.zoonewengland.com
Enter the Kalahari Kingdom, where lions rule. Watch zebra & ostrich
roam the grasslands of Bongo Congo. See snow leopards pounce.
Peek at prairie dogs in the Children's Zoo. Travel the Australian
Outback Trail. And more! Check out Zoo Encounter, offered hourly
from 10am-4pm on weekends & holidays during the spring and summer.
With Zoo Encounters, zookeepers will lead educational programs
for kids of all ages at various sections of the zoo. Admission:
Adults: $9.50, Srs: $8, Children (2-15): $5, Under 2: Free. Group
rates with advance reservation. The museum is open weekdays from
10am to 5pm and weekends/holidays from 10am to 6pm from April
1 through September 30. At all other times, the Museum is opened
daily from 10am to 4pm. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.
The Freedom Trail ...
Due to its size, Boston is a very accessible city, but it may
be that its reputation as a walking city relies on the creation
of one of America's first historic walking tours, The Freedom
Trail. This is the perfect introduction to Colonial Revolutionary
Boston. This walking tour takes you to 16 historical sites in
the course of 2-3 hours & covers 2 1/2 centuries of America's
most significant past. A red brick or painted line connects the
sites on the Trail and serves as a guide. Since the past and the
present live alongside the Trail, you have the opportunity to
see the City as it truly is. Many visitors prefer to linger &
study the many exhibits, thus a full day or more can be devoted
to browsing along the Trail. Take a self-guided tour or one of
the many tours available through the National Park Service, which
begin every half hour from the park visitor center at 15 State
Street opposite the Old State House. Or if you prefer to ride,
you can pay for one of the trolley tours, which are unofficial
guided tours, but do go to many of the sites along the Trail and
allow you to disembark at selected stops. To find out more about
guided tours contact the Greater Boston Visitors and Convention
Bureaus.
The Museum of Science............................. 617-723-2500
Science Park, Boston, MA. www.mos.org
Marvel at over 600 permanent, hands-on exhibits & a dynamic roster
of traveling exhibits, Planetarium shows, Omni films, live presentations,
lectures, & more. Reserve your Planetarium & Omni tickets in advance
(especially in the summer) by calling 617-723-2500. Special events
throughout the year. Annual memberships available. Regular hours
are 9-5, Summer hours are 9-7, Fridays 9-9.
The New England Aquarium....................... 617-973-5200
www.neaq.org
The New England Aquarium is much more than a place to see aquatic
life. Our focus is on raising people's awareness of the environment
through exhibits, education programs, public forums, and outreach
programs. Our work extends beyond Central Wharf, Boston to conservation
and research projects worldwide-from helping understand environmental
changes in Lake Victoria, Africa to saving the endangered Hector's
dolphin in New Zealand. It's an exciting time for us. We've just
opened a brand new west wing, and plans are well underway for
an IMAX theater and east wing that will more than triple our size
with exciting new exhibits and technology. Call for times and
rates. Group rates are available. Members are admitted free.
Connecticut
Nature's Art .......................................... 860-443-GEMS
1650 Route 85, Oakdale, CT.
(About an hour from Providence.)
An interactive science and nature experience. See the most amazing
crystals and gems. Pan for gold! Something different that everyone
in the family will enjoy.
Project Oceanography.............................1-800-364-8471
Groton, CT.
www.oceanology.org
Participate in oceanographic expeditions aboard Enviro-Lab. Reservations.
Submarine Force Museum........................1-800-343-0079
Groton, CT.
www.submarinemuseum.com.
Dedicated to U.S. Submarine Force, hosts the USS Nautilus, the
first nuclear powered submarine.
Massachusetts
Davis' Farmland.................................... 978-422-6666
Redstone Hill, Sterling, MA
www.davisfarmland.com
Davis' Megamaze................................... 978-422-8888
www.davismegamaze.com
(Just one hour from Providence - take 146N to I-290E to I-190N.
Take exit 6 and follow the signs.) Awesome family fun! In farmland,
enjoy animial shows, rides, exhibits, special themed events and
lots and lots of interactive fun. In the Megamaze ... "Getting
lost is half the fun!" Grown-up love it as much as the kids do!
Edaville Railroad................................. 508-866-8190
South Carver, MA.
www.edaville.com
Ride our 5 1/2 mile narrow-gauge train, antique fire engine, carousel
and children's rides. Fly on Jumbo the elephant ride, explore
the museum, and more. Call for hours and admission.
New Hampshire
Canobie Lake Park.............................603-893-3506
Rt. 93, Exit 2, Salem, NH
www.canobie.com
Amusement park with over 45 rides including 4 coasters, log flume,
steam train, rock climbing and more.
Story Land ....................................... 603-383-4186
Route 16, Glen, New Hampshire
www.storylandnh.com
Children's theme park with rides, shows, and much more. In the
White Mountains, 190 miles from Providence.
Cool Activities For Kids
