This summer, families are encouraged to explore destinations throughout the state, with programs in place making them more accessible. This includes destinations such as the Connecticut Science Center. With more than 165 hands-on exhibits, tropical Butterfly Encounter, a digital 3D theater, plus daily programming and events, the Connecticut Science Center offers endless exploration for all ages.
The CT Summer at the Museum Program invites Connecticut children ages 18 and under plus one accompanying Connecticut resident adult to visit participating museums free of charge now through September 5, 2022. This program was extremely successful in the summer of 2021, with museums throughout the state hosting hundreds of thousands of children, many of whom would not otherwise be able to afford admission. This program is even more important in 2022 given that inflation and high gasoline prices are already adversely impacting attendance at Connecticut institutions, especially among lower income families.
“The Connecticut Summer at the Museum initiative is a fantastic way for families to enjoy meaningful, fun experiences close to home,” said Matt Fleury, Connecticut Science Center President and CEO. “The feedback from last summer’s program was overwhelmingly positive. We’re so glad to be part of the program again. We hope even more families will take advantage of this opportunity to create memories and leave energized and inspired.”
Free Summer at The Connecticut Science Center:
• FREE General Admission at the Connecticut Science Center is valid through September 4, 2022, for Connecticut children ages 18 and under, plus ONE accompanying adult (18+)
• Online tickets are required in advance of the visit
• Any additional adults and/or non-Connecticut visitors can purchase tickets online at the regular admission rates.
• Verification of Connecticut residency is required
• All visitors using CT Summer at the Museum tickets MUST HAVE A PHOTO ID.
• Schools, camps, day care centers and other large group programs are NOT eligible.
Given the impacts on our economy, The Connecticut Department of Transportation has extended free public bus fare until December 1, 2022 which means all families can access museums such as the Connecticut Science Center by free transit this summer. All transit buses in the state will be fare free, including the blue CTtransit buses in Hartford, New Haven, Stamford and Waterbury, as well as the green CTfastrak buses. CTtransit also operates the dash shuttle, 7AM-7PM Monday-Friday, which will always be free. This shuttle does a loop of downtown Hartford and connects the Connecticut Science Center to Union Station.
The Connecticut Science Center is an influential and exemplary leader in reaching families of all socioeconomic levels by creating equitable engagement and access to STEM learning opportunities and STEM careers. The Science Center offers exciting tools to help parents engage their kids in STEM education. By creating unforgettable experiences with science, kids are more motivated to enthusiastically embrace science at school, at home, and in their communities.
Funding for the CT Summer at the Museum Program is provided by the CT General Assembly, with the summer of Connecticut Humanities and the Department of Economic and Community Development, Office of the Arts, which also receives support from the federal ARPA.
Tickets include all day-access to the Connecticut Science Center’s exhibits, including its blockbuster traveling exhibit, Mummies of the World: The Exhibition. Parking is available at regular rates. Visitors are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance of their visit to guarantee entry for the day. Tickets are available online at CTScienceCenter.org.
