🌿 5 Nature-Inspired Day Trips to Explore This Spring with Kids

Stephanie Watson Yaeger
Apr 22
2 min read

Looking for ways to get outside and make the most of spring with your little explorers? Whether you’re local to New England or just visiting, these five family-friendly day trips are packed with wonder, learning, and play. From walking with dinosaurs to treetop adventures, there’s something for everyone!

Our family typically soaks in the slow at home when we're on break (like this week) but we love to plan at least one adventure day to try something new! If you have a museum pass, check or discounts. Same with your library card; many libraries offer passes to museums at no cost.

🦖 EcoTarium – Worcester, MA

Part indoor science museum, part outdoor nature park—this spot is a favorite for curious kids. Explore hands-on exhibits, meet live animals, wander nature trails, and ride the open-air train. It’s the perfect mix of education and adventure. 🌐 Visit the EcoTarium

🦉 Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) – Quechee, VT

Tucked into the Vermont forest, VINS offers incredible views, live raptor enclosures, and the Forest Canopy Walk. Kids will love the Adventure Playscape, and grown-ups will appreciate the peaceful setting and nature trails. 🌐 Explore VINS

🧪 Montshire Museum of Science – Norwich, VT

This hands-on museum is all about interactive science and outdoor exploration. With 150+ exhibits, water features, and nature trails, it's a must-visit for playful learning and open-ended discovery. Don't forget to pop into King Arthur Flour! 🌐 Learn More at Montshire

🦴 Dinosaur State Park – Rocky Hill, CT

See real dinosaur tracks, dig for fossils, and explore wooded trails. Kids can walk where dinosaurs once roamed—how cool is that? The perfect mix of prehistoric play and nature immersion. Our family has yet to visit this space, but we have heard it's well worth the visit!

🌐 Plan a Visit

🐘 Roger Williams Park Zoo – Providence, RI

More than just a zoo, this thoughtfully designed space has animal habitats, hands-on play zones, and seasonal exhibits. I honestly have not been here with kids! My husband and I used to go while in college up the road. The park itself is beautiful, and I remember it being more engaging than other zoo's we've visited in New England! 🌐 Visit the Zoo