There are so many great animal attractions in Connecticut. The world-famous Mystic Aquarium houses sharks, rays, penguins, and even whales. Bridgeport’s Beardsley Zoo has a number of unique animals you won’t find elsewhere, like maned wolves and red pandas. If you are searching for something more exotic than a Connecticut cat cafe but not quite so wild as the ocelots or wolves at Beardsley, Ray of Light Farm in East Haddam is a great option. This animal sanctuary provides a home for donkeys, horses, guinea pigs, chickens, and more that have nowhere else to go. This is such a great place for a visit, and they’ve got plenty of programs that are perfect for animal lovers of all ages.

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For more information about Ray of Light Farm, check out their website.

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Animal attractions in Connecticut

What are some other great animal attractions in Connecticut?

Do you love the furry, feathered, or scaly? There are plenty of great animal attractions in Connecticut. These spots provide family-friendly fun that’s great for animal lovers of all ages. Some feature wild animals in their natural habitats, others let you get up close and personal. If you’re looking for a fun day trip in Connecticut, here are some fun adventures for animal lovers in Connecticut. Best of all, many of these Connecticut attractions -- like Ray of Light Farm -- are free!

  • UConn Animal Barns - Storrs. Many of the University of Connecticut's animal barns are open to the public. A trip here provides a fascinating look into a working farm where you can see horses, sheep, and cows. There's a milking room where you can see the robotic milker in action. Finish up your tour with a stop at the UConn Dairy Bar for a tasty frozen treat.
  • Ansonia Nature Center - Ansonia. The Ansonia Nature Center is a preserve that features miles of trails through woods, fields, gardens, and marshes. With so many varied habitats, you're likely to see all kinds of critters out in the wild!
  • White Memorial Conservation Center - Litchfield. We adore this place! The marshlands there are home to many species, ranging from beavers to insects. The center also frequently hosts demonstrations like owl demonstrations and insect identification classes.
  • The Connecticut Audubon Society - Deer Pond Farm. The Connecticut Audubon Society has several bird sanctuaries throughout Connecticut. Their Deer Pond Farm center offers bird-watching hikes that are great opportunities to spot a feathered friend.
  • Mystic Aquarium - Mystic. Mystic Aquarium is a world-renowned facility with indoor and outdoor attractions. They've got sharks and rays, beluga whales, and even penguins.
  • Birdcraft Museum and Sanctuary - Fairfield. Nature lovers have long enjoyed the Connecticut Audubon Society properties scattered throughout the state. These lands are preserved bird habitats and provide the public peaceful places to take a walk and enjoy the local wildlife. What you might not realize is that Connecticut is actually home to the oldest private songbird sanctuary in the nation. Established over 100 years ago, the Birdcraft Museum and Sanctuary is National Historic Landmark and the perfect spot for a little escape into nature.

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