Let's go to Fairfield County, CT for the top things to do in Greenwich! Greenwich is special because it's located at the wayyy end of Connecticut (and at the beginning of New York), is reachable by train or car and close to the ocean and tons of forested trails for hiking. Spend a day in nature then grab a cone and stroll the cute shops.
Mommy Poppins has rounded up some fun spots to eat in and around Greenwich with New York City Restaurants and Cafes Now Open in Fairfield County. To get more free fun at home and in your town delivered to your inbox, sign up for our newsletters.
Things To Do in Greenwich, CT - Museums and Indoor Fun
Recently renovated, the Bruce Museum's focus is art and science and there's a lot to see. The Bruce has permanent exhibits and rotating exhibits. See their extensive rock and mineral collection, impressionist interpretations of nature, and the always popular nature dioramas (kids love these!). The Bruce also offers tons of programming for kids as young as 2 and some offsite science programs too.
Once upon a time, Cos Cob was the first art colony in Connecticut, and "a cradle of American impressionism." A tour of the eight-room house links visitors to the past, offering glimpses into history, landscape, and gardens. Of special interest to families is the super-interactive summer Art and History Camp; children grades 2-8 weave and build Colonial toys during Early American Life week, and learn about the Cos Cob art colony while creating Impressionist art during Art Colony week. The house/museum is open Wednesday through Sunday.
Gone are the days when libraries were mostly musty storage houses for books. Today, many boast beautiful architecture, creative play areas, engaging programs, and plenty of resources beyond the printed page.Between the Library's gourmet cafe on the lower level, a full-blown art gallery that exhibits art in all mediums, and a vibrant children's area, you'll easily spend a day here.
Children as young as 5 can take art classes here, acquiring skills in painting, drawing, collage, and sculpture. Stop by to peruse current exhibitions, or host a personalized art party held in a real art studio and taught by award-winning artists.
This chic 40-seat cinema is for guests of the Hyatt and local residents, and it's Greenwich's ONLY movie theater. Movie showings are 7 days a week. Enjoy recliner style seats, an intimate setting (perfect for events!), and food from Glenna's Cafe (located in the hotel). And, there are cocktails for mom and dad!
Recreational skaters, figure skaters, and hockey players call this indoor ice rink home. Take lessons, join a team, or just have fun with friends. Skating School is available for ages 3-15, and includes a Mommy, Daddy & Me program for ages 3-4. More experienced skaters can enroll in the Bridge Program, which includes introduction to ice dancing, edge and power skating, and more.
Things To Do in Greenwich, CT - Places To Eat and Shop
While you're making your way through town, would it be nice to have a great cup of coffee? Forget Dunks and Starbucks, head over to Coffee for Good and support a good cause. Coffee for Good provides paid training for young adults with developmental disabilities. See their full menu!
Méli-Mélo Crêperie & Catering was serving up crepé?s before it became a fad. Photo courtesy of the restaurant
How does a croque monsieur sound, or a banane et Nutella ave unce? A local favorite since 1993, this French restaurant offers a vast and delicious array of crépes, soups, sorbets, ice cream, sandwiches, salads, and juices. A wide selection of soups include French onion, chicken coconut, broccoli cheddar, and coconut pumpkin, while the rest of the mouth-watering menu includes chocolate croissants, fresh berries, and many omelets. Gluten-free crépes are available per request, along with vegetarian options.
Sure, online toy retailers abound, but there is something delightfully memorable about stepping inside a cozy, independently-owned toy story. A community fixture for more than 30 years, Smart Kids Toys offers unique and educational items for all ages. Dolls, musical toys, puppets, plushes, construction sets, and science and nature kits are sure to keep children entertained for hours.
Explore the playground, shop, get lost in conversation on the Greenwich Common, stop by the Veterans’ Memorial dedicated to those who fought in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam, peek inside an art gallery, or indulge in a treat from Coffee Luca.
Celebrating nearly 30 years in business, the store's success is credited to its old-fashioned hometown feel, engaging staff, and a wide selection of books for all ages. Stop in to browse Diane's latest picks and search the names of authors who have signed the wall following speaking engagements.
Located on Sound Beach Ave. stop by for a cone of one of their several hard ice cream flavors or one of their soft serve flavors (mmm...Cookies n Cream). They also have frozen yogurt and most of their flavors are listed as gluten free!
Located on King Street, this family-owned farm offers goodness year-round, from fruits and vegetables, to farm fresh eggs, honey, fresh flowers, and seasonal items like pumpkins, corn stalks, and wreaths.
What a fun place to shop for the perfect toy! They have all the latest characters kids love plus the classic toys kids still dig. Something special here is their curated toy bundles for birthday and holiday gifts.
Things To Do in Greenwich, CT - Outdoor Activities
Enjoy natural abundance at the Audubon. Hundreds of acres are home to wildlife including seven sanctuaries with lots of native birds. Come to the Nature Center or hike the many different forested trails where you can find Hawks, Bluebirds, Wild Turkeys and many more. The Audubon has a packed calendar full of workshops that are open to the public and educating the next generation of nature lovers.
Drift away from the mainland and enjoy a different view of the Connecticut shoreline. Take a two-hour Cruise to Nowhere, or head to the island where a beautiful lighthouse awaits, along with plenty of bird watching opportunities (including egrets, osprey, and herons), picnic areas (featuring grills), trails, swimming (in posted areas), and restrooms. Between June and September, a public ferry service operates from the landing at Roger Sherman Park (off Arch Street).
Rock bridges, waterfalls, miles of trails, and of course, the Mianus River, decorate this urban forest nestled between Stamford and Greenwich. Children will enjoy exploring vernal pools and rock formations, trying to spot wildlife, fishing, biking, venturing inside a cave, or learning about what's growing in the wildflower garden.
33 acres of nature and recreation await you at Binney Park, one of the oldest parks in the area. Situated in a neighborhood, two areas comprise the park, one for outdoor sports like baseball games, tennis and field recreation and the other a walking track around water, a bridge and plenty of places to sit. A great place for picnicking.
The town's oldest park. Play catch, have a picnic, hike, explore playgrounds suitable for ages 2 to 12, enjoy scenic views of Long Island Sound, and, of course, do not forget to check out the exhibits at the Bruce Museum, which adjoins the property. The park is especially beautiful in the spring, when daffodils, azaleas, and dogwoods are in full bloom. Kids will enjoy the playground.
This pristine portion of wilderness is perfect for quiet family outings, recharging, and reconnecting to nature and each other. The 4-mile loop is low in elevation (under 300 feet) and suitable for all ages and abilities. Horseback riding is allowed, so do not be surprised by the sight and sound of hooves.
Gather seashells, relax by the waterfront, take a dip, admire the seaside garden, indulge in a picnic (clambake, anyone?), go for a bike ride along Long Island Sound, or await a spectacular sunset. Non-residents must purchase entry passes.
A destination spot for plant lovers and nature appreciators with many opportunities for kids to learn about all aspects of nature. Tell the kids to dress for the experience, because their are streams.
Located along the Cos Cob Harbor, this lovely park is ideal for play, relaxation, and reflection. Twin translucent towers overlooking Long Island Sound stand in memory of September 11, 2001, and serve as an educational resource especially for children who are increasingly farther removed from that fateful day. You will also find an interactive playscape, benches along the walking path, ADA accessible sidewalks, and restrooms.
Children have been learning to ride here since 1949. Whether your little equestrian is interested in competing, showing, or just bonding with a horse, this facility offers summer programs, year-round lessons, and features both indoor and outdoor arenas, a heated tack room with a viewing area, and direct access to Greenwich riding trails.
Things To Do in Greenwich, CT - Seasonal Events
For the past decade, the party has celebrated community and instilled a sense of town pride by gathering the people of Greenwich for a day of music, food, fun, family, and friendship. The next event is scheduled for May 23, 2026.
The annual celebration takes place from the end of November through early December. Photos with Santa, visiting reindeer, face painting, balloon artists, refreshments provided by local restaurants, train and carousel rides, and dance demonstrations by Greenwich Conservatory of Classical Ballet are all part of the festivities.
Best Hotels for Families in Greenwich
Need a place to stay while you are in the Greenwich area? The Hyatt has family style suites that offer one and two room spaces with living rooms, kitchenettes and king and queen size beds. The Hyatt also welcomes dogs for an additional cost, and has a grab and go cafe on-site for that much needed cup of coffee or a quick bite (open all day!).
Originally Published 2019; updated 2025