We dreamed a dream we’d live in this sprawling Connecticut estate too. Anne Hathaway’s new Connecticut estate is more The Devil Wears Prada than Les Misérables. The Oscar-winning actress just dropped $2.79 million on a stunning five-bed, six-bath oceanside estate in the ritzy suburban enclave of Westport, CT, and it’s safe to say the sprawling home would be Miranda Priestly-approved. Measuring…
By Becca Feher, Lic. R.E. Salesperson in our Westport Office
Growing up in Fairfield County, CT, one of my favorite summertime activities was gallivanting up and down Main Street in Westport scouring some of its posh stores for the best merchandise. Fast forward a few decades and two young children later, getting in my retail therapy in Westport is still among my favorite pastimes. However, after moving out of state for many years and returning with children, I have garnered a new appreciation for many other wonderful aspects of Westport—especially summertime activities for my kids.
Here are my top summer fun picks:
COMPO BEACH—One of Westport's three beaches, Compo is Beach boasts gorgeous views of the Long Island Sound and stunning homes along its coast. Families from all over the Tri-State area flock to Compo in the summer. In addition to the sand, sun and water, Compo offers a large playground, softball field, skate park, small restaurant and countless picnic areas.
EARTHPLACE —Here you will find a natural history museum, nature walks, story and animal time and the opportunity to see both wildlife and domesticated animals. This is a great place on a hot summer day to enjoy the outdoors and cool off indoors.
DOWNUNDER —Located along the Saugatuck River, kids (and adults) can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUPS) at this retail store. They can spend an afternoon getting in some low-impact exercise while site-seeing on the water.
LEVITT PAVILION FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS —Each Wednesday evening from late-June through late-August, Melissa and Doug (the toy manufacturer), sponsors free children's performances at this iconic outdoor venue. Bring a blanket, pack some food and enjoy the variety of shows and complementary face painting offered on the hot summer nights. Further, concerts are offered throughout the summer, including national acts.
WAKEMAN TOWN FARM —This family-owned farm offers several different camps for preschool to high school students. Younger children learn about life on the farm and help with animal care while older kids study environmental science and learn about organic farming. In addition, the farm has a family fun day with a potato sack race, water balloon toss, pie eating contest and more.
LONGSHORE —Once a private estate and country club, Longshore has an 18-hole public golf course (ranked the 9th best course in Connecticut by GolfWeek Magazine), pools, tennis court and sailing school. Pearl , a new, highly acclaimed restaurant at Longshore, quickly has become a favorite summertime spot to dine al fresco . Also, the historic Inn at Longshore is a popular special event venue right on the water.
SUMMER CAMPS—Aside from private summer camps, the Westport Parks and Recreation department offers several day camp options for toddlers, elementary and middle school children at reasonable prices. Children enjoy spending days at the beach, playing sports and taking weekly field trips with their friends.
In Westport there is never a shortage of summertime activities—especially for children and young adults. With plenty of options, children can fill their summers with new and exciting activities each week. And the good news for parents like me; with my kids occupied, I have plenty of time to pursue my own summertime activities. These activities especially include my shopping excursions to the wide variety of retailers along Main Street.
To connect with Becca, visit her agent website.
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Thoughts and opinions presented in this post are those of Becca Feher and do not necessarily reflect the official opinions or endorsements from Halstead Property, LLC.