7 Little Known Museums In Connecticut Where Admission Is Free

When you are on a budget, sometimes it is hard to find something interesting to do that you can afford. But what if that something didn’t cost you a dime? In Connecticut, we have some fantastic museums where there is free admission. From art to history or books to submarines, there is something for just about every interest and every age group. So get yourself up off that couch and check out one of these fun places to visit where you can get in for free.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

1. Museum of Connecticut History Facebook/Museum of Connecticut History If you are a history buff, the Museum of Connecticut History is a great place to learn something new. The museum focuses on Connecticut history including the industrial, military and government aspects. It has exhibits that do change throughout the year, so you are apt to find something different every time you visit. It is open Monday - Saturday and admission is always free.



231 Capitol Ave., Hartford, CT 06106 2. Submarine Force Museum Association and USS Nautilus Yelp/Richard G. Learn more about the history of submarines in the United States at the Submarine Force Museum. You can explore the inside of an actual submarine that was used and see what it was like to live underwater for months at a time. This museum houses some of the finest artifacts of submarine history in the United States and it is right here in Connecticut. You can visit during the winter from 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Wednesdays - Mondays and they always offer free admission.



1 Crystal Lake Rd., Groton, CT 06340 3. Weir Farm National Historic Site Facebook/Weir Farm National Historic Site The Weir Farm National Historic Site is so much more than just a museum. While it does have a a building with art exhibits to explore, you can also visit two different artist's studios to learn even more. There are also plenty of outdoor activities including visiting the beautiful gardens on this national historic sight, participating in junior ranger activities, and art in the park. For hours and more information on classes and events, you'll find more information on their official website 4. William Benton Museum of Art Facebook/William Benton Museum of Art Located on the University of Connecticut campus at Storrs, the William Benton Museum of Art offers free admission to visit their collections. The collection includes art from the 15th century through the 21st century and exhibits change frequently for a large variety of experiences. This is an art museum that is perfect for all ages. It is open Tuesday-Friday 10:00-4:30 and Saturday and Sunday 1:00-4:30.



245 Glenbrook Rd., Storrs, CT 06269. 5. Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust Facebook/Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust The Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust is a museum plus so much more. There are several buildings on the grounds that showcase different interests. The North Barn houses some pretty special farm animals and is also used for classes and events. It also is home to the Buz Russell Museum which showcases a collection of antique farm implements and details the history of agriculture in the area. The Sugar House showcases the production of maple syrup but also houses many wildlife habitat exhibits as well. There is much to do and see for all ages at the Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust.



5 Church Hill Rd., Woodbury, CT 06798 6. Gertrude Chandler Warner Museum Facebook/The Boxcar Children The Boxcar Children is a famous children's books series that was written by Gertrude Chandler Warner. The museum dedicated to her work is housed in an authentic railroad boxcar. It is full of treasures from her life, writing and even includes a recreation of the space that the Aldens - the boxcar children lived in. This little museum in Putnam is a must see for anyone who every enjoyed The Boxcar Children series. It is open on weekends from May to October and they offer free admission.



1 S Main St., Putnam, CT 06260 7. Yale Center for British Art Facebook/Yale Center for British Art This museum has an extensive collection of paintings, watercolors, drawings, sculptures and more. The Yale Center for British Art is located in downtown New Haven and convenient to local restaurants, shopping and other museums. A visit here is like entering another world, it is eye opening to the world of art. The museum is open 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday and from noon to 5:00 p.m. on Sundays.



1080 Chapel St., New Haven, CT 06510

There are also some fantastic free activities to outdoors in Connecticut.