A few months ago, Mandy and I took the whole crew out for a little adventure in Holyoke, MA. I say “adventure”, but really, it’s so quick and convenient to get to this town just north of Springfield, that it was actually an easier destination than many of our regular Connecticut haunts.
Our travels took us to Holyoke Heritage State Park, which is a lovely swath of green in an otherwise urban area. But this is no ordinary park! It boasts a playscape, a carousel, and, wait for it, a fantastic children’s museum! Yup. A children’s museum at the park. Doesn’t get much better than that, does it? 🙂
Well, you are going to have to wait until my post tomorrow to find out all about the amazing Children’s Museum at Holyoke (sorry), but today I just wanted to show you a few pictures of the park’s other attractions.
There’s this adorable, toddler-perfect playscape (complete with many benches for tired parents to rest on–always a plus).
And this lovely historic carousel.
And of course there is lots of space for picnicking or restful reflection (yeah, right!) 🙂
But the pièce de résistance, as I mentioned, is the fun, fabulous (and pretty frugal) Children’s Museum. Would you like a sneak peek??? 🙂
Now that I’ve got your attention, don’t forget to check back tomorrow for the whole scoop!
Note: Holyoke Merry-Go-Round hours are September-June: Saturday & Sunday from noon to 4pm and July & August: Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30-4pm; Sunday Noon-4pm. Closed Mondays. Please call 413-538-9838 to confirm operating hours. Cost is $2/ride (small discount with the purchase of multiple tickets; credit cards accepted for amounts $10 and over).
Meet Our Sponsors!
- The Annie Fisher Montessori Magnet School – AFM offers children ages three to twelve years old a free, public Montessori education implemented to the highest standards set by Association Montessori Internationale.
- The Independent Day School – Located on a rural campus in Middlefield, CT is a private pre-school, elementary and middle school, serving families from over 20 communities.
- Kathryn Deane Photography – Kathryn is a natural light photographer specializing in maternity, newborn, child, family, and senior portrait photography.
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Hello Mandy and Shawna, I just came across your website and was delighted to read of your very positive experience in our park and in particular, your visit to our Holyoke “Happiness Machine”. I and we are grateful that you have shared your experience complimented by such great pictures with your followers as we are anxious to welcome families from Connecticut. Again, thank you. I will share your website and experience with our park partners as well. I know they’ll be very pleased as well. Best wishes! Maureen Costello