It’s been another busy month! Swimming, picking, picnicking, and just generally enjoying the outdoors–all the highlights of summer. If you’re new to our site, this is a great time to get caught up on a whole month’s worth of OAAM adventures. And best of all, there is still plenty of summer left for you to enjoy these outings too. So read on to find out how you can:
Shape Up:
#1. We started off the month with our very first guest post from Monika at Stroller Strides in West Hartford. This unique exercise program is truly “fitness for mom, fun for baby.” And as summer turns into fall, I can’t think of a better way to spend those beautiful autumn mornings. Happy baby, healthy mama. Check! Check! (Plus, don’t forget about the exclusive deal for OAAM readers!)
Cool Down:
#2. Beat the heat before naptime at Eastbury Pond. This beach-like oasis in East Glastonbury opens at 10:30 a.m. while most other area pools are closed until noon or later for swim lessons. A long stretch of shallow entry, plus plenty of shade makes it the perfect chill-out spot for tots. There’s even a separate “toddler” wading area for your littlest ones, and a dock in deeper water where older kids can show off their skills.
#3. This month we got a special VIP tour of the popular Mandell JCC Swim & Tennis Club. You must be a member (or a guest thereof) to enjoy this swimming spot, but once you scope out the beautiful pool, fenced-in wading pool, poolside playground, tasty snack bar, crafts for kids, tennis courts, and more, you’ll be saying, ‘Where do I sign?’
#4. Searching for a pint-sized pool? The Beachland Park Wading Pool is just what you’ve been looking for. Fenced-in security and benches for you, shallow water and a fun spray mushroom feature for the little ones. Plus, it opens every weekday at 10:00 a.m., hours before the big-kid pools. Oh, and did we mention it’s FREE? There’s also an adorable toddler playground nearby.
Dig In:
#5. We all need to indulge now and then. So when you’re craving a mega meal, take the family to Dakota’s Sunday Brunch Buffet. It’s not just all you can eat; it’s anything you could possibly want! From waffles to omelets, charcuterie to cheesecake, there’s surely something for everyone. Plus, kids under 3 eat FREE. A great place to gather with a big group, too. Don’t forget a reservation!
Hang Out:
#6. The popular Elizabeth Park Concert Series every Wednesday evening at Elizabeth Park in Hartford is fun, family-friendly, and best of all, FREE. Not to mention it’s the perfect place for a summer evening picnic. Bring your own or check out the on-site offerings from The Pond House Cafe or their take-out window, The Dog House. The concerts run through August.
#7. There’s still time to enjoy the FREE Riverfront Music Festival at Riverfront Park in Glastonbury. Sample fair favorites like hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream, and kettle corn. Or load up your own cooler. Don’t worry, there’s no walking required. Convenient and free shuttle service from a nearby parking lot (also free) makes it quick and easy to get from car door to outdoors in no time.
Savor the Season
#8. Summer mornings were made for Breakfast and Berry Picking at Rose’s Berry Farm in Glastonbury. Enjoy fresh fruit-topped pancakes at their Breakfast with a View, then pick a peck of fruity loot to use for your own culinary creations. There’s also a playground for the little ones to explore, plus a store filled with goodies for the grown-ups.
#9. We were so lucky to have another guest post this month from Jodie at Love Them Madly who told us all about the amazing Sunflowers for Wishes Event at Buttonwood Farm. The sunflowers may have set, but there’s still plenty to see at this family-friendly farm including their Ice Cream Stand with oodles of scrumptious flavors and tons of Fall fun just around the corner.
#10. Nowhere is summer more beautiful than in the orchards and berry fields bursting with ripe, colorful fruit. Head to Belltown Hill Orchards in South Glastonbury for vibrant pickings and lovely vistas. No visit is complete without a stop in the Farm Store for a peek inside “Grandma’s Pantry.” Then, enjoy some homemade baked goods on the outdoor patio overlooking the rolling green fields. It’s truly “pick”-ture perfect 🙂
With July behind us, we’re heading into the dog days of summer. But don’t sweat it. We’ve got you covered with lots more fun, family-friendly activities to get you through to back-to-school and back-to-cool (weather, that is.) And as always, if you have a place that you think we should visit, please let us know by leaving a comment below or sending us an email at outandaboutmom@gmail.com.
COMING UP:
Tomorrow’s the big reveal! We’re sharing our pics from our very first OAAM photo shoot.
Then on Thursday, get ready for back-to-school a little early with a great cause and a great GIVEAWAY.
Plus, the countdown is on to welcome our newest OAAM team member–we can’t wait to introduce you to Mandy’s new baby girl. Any day now!
Want to keep up with all our Out and About Mom adventures?
Check back every Tuesday and Thursday as we dish up more Momsense for getting out and about with your little ones. Don’t have time to check back in? Let us send you an automatic notification of new posts straight to your email inbox by signing up here. Also, you can like us on Facebook and Twitter to keep up with the latest posts and get some extra tidbits we share only through those sites.
