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Part of an early Dutch settlement first explored by Adriaen Block, the area was later controlled by English colonists throughout much of the 1700's - when Connecticut would play a crucial role in the American Revolution as the major supplier of arms and ammunition to the Continental Army.

Today, along with hundreds of miles of shoreline on Long Island Sound providing opportunities for fishing, swimming and driving tours, the central part of the state boasts acres of natural woodlands and inland lakes.

Cultural and historical attractions include the Yale University Art Gallery, and a restored 19th century whaling community at Mystic Seaport.

Kid-friendly Connecticut

Also one of the top family-friendly attractions in the state, Mystic Seaport (see above) offers exhibits, hands-on history and entertainment one sweet package. While here, also don't miss a visit to the nearby Mystic Aquarium for more modern maritime adventures.

For other fun trips back in time, circus fans will also enjoy a stop at the Barnum Museum in Bridgeport (celebrating showman P.T. Barnum's 200th birthday in 2010.)

With toddlers in tow, head south to Norwalk's Stepping Stones Museum for dozens of fun hands-on exhibits so creative that the kids won't even know they're actually learning.

Train enthusiasts might want to travel farther north visit the Danbury Railway Museum to learn about the history of trains and a thrilling ride aboard one of the museum's working locomotives.

Elsewhere around the state, the Stamford Museum and Nature Center features a real working farm, related nature exhibits and planetarium shows, while the kid-friendly New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks offers an entertaining timeline of aircraft history and Open Cockpit days that puts kids in the flyer's seat (with some choice photo ops!)

More about Connecticut travel around the Web:

Connecticut Bound - Browse by region, or check out the suggestions for travel itineraries & weekend getaways, Connecticut for Kids, how to get around, hotels,, maps, pictures.

Mystic Seaport - Perhaps the state's No. 1 tourist spot with facts and information on the restored 19th century whaling community exhibit with group tour info, related courses, ticket info, pictures, map & directions, and a guide to hotels, dining and nearby attractions.

Historical Museums of Connecticut - A History Guide - A virtual field day for history buffs intent on exploring the state's colonial past with an extensive link list to museums by county and related info on Connecticut lighthouses, black history, and tracing your family tree.

Connecticut Attractions, Roadside America - The weird and offbeat around the state including the Museum of Natural and Other Curiosities in Hartford, and the Lock Museum in Terryville.

Connecticut Summer Travel Calendar:

also see feature story -> Visiting Mashantucket Pequot Museum

also see -> Connecticut Beaches | Connecticut Wineries

Connecticut Fall Foliage | Christmas in Connecticut

Moving to Connecticut | Connecticut Ski Resorts