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Has been a unique way to raise money for various charities in West Hartford has added character throughout the town. It’s hard not to notice the five-foot cows that are placed randomly in front of homes and businesses in West Hartford. Over fifty cows were created by artists statewide benefiting Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters, Make- A-Wish of Connecticut and the West Hartford Library Foundation, along with dozens of other local non-profit organizations.
The former science center of Connecticut in West Hartford has hands-on exhibits, a planetarium and mini zoo designed for grades k-6. Founded in 1927, the museum has a mission to inspire and educate children aged twelve and under. Their saying is: “Igniting Curiosity Through Science and Nature.” The Children’s Museum is the largest in the state and one of the nation's oldest. The Children’s Museum also houses Connecticut’s largest space theater, the Gengras Planetarium. One of the most popular exhibits includes a wildlife sanctuary that supports a habitat of over seventy exotic animals from around the world. In 2007, the Children’s Museum served more than 200,000 students, families, and groups through its exhibits, programs and activities.
Noah Webster is best remembered for being the author of the Webster American Dictionary. He is also the author of another famous book, the Blue Back Speller for which the West Hartford town center is now named after. Together with the West Hartford Historical Society and the Noah Webster house, visitors can explore and discover a man’s vision and his impact on American culture. The museum also has exhibits on the town's later history, including textiles and 19th century pottery.
A nature lover’s dream with thousands of acres of beautiful forestland with more than 30 miles of paved roads for joggers and bicyclists. There are also different levels of hiking trails. Seasonal activities include accessible picnic groves, cross-country skiing and snow shoeing.
Beautiful and large park in the west end equipped with gardens, gazebos, a restaurant and trails. The rose garden is also not to be missed.
Demonstration farm, discovery room with snakes and lizards, gardens, nature trails, and two ponds. No dogs.