Stamford Museum and Science Center

The Stamford Museum and Nature Center is the most diverse of all of Connecticut’s Museums. No other museum offers the  wide variety that SM &NC does. On the 118 acre grounds, you will find the Heckscher Farm, The Overbrook Nature Center, The Stamford Observatory, The Main Building ( formerly the Bendel Mansion) which has Four thousand square feet of exhibition space, and a 50 seat planetarium. Throughout the year, the SM & NC hosts a variety of exhibitions and educational programs.

The Heckscher Farm started as a farmyard that had a lamb, a goat, some chickens and rabbits. It was run by the “junior curators who were students in the nature and conservancy programs over 60 years ago. As the campus grew and moved to it’s present location, plans were drawn up to build a period farm. It’s purpose was to show the heritage of farms from the 19th century. To this end, a barn originally built in Cheshire in 1750 was moved and reassembled here. The Farm now houses many farmyard animals common to Ct, and also has many wildlife exhibits. The Heckscher Farm is also the site of the Stamford Farmers Market.

The Overbrook Nature Center is not only the centerpiece for the nature and conservancy programs at SM & NC, but takes advantage of the 118 acres of the campus. In addition to the multitude of classes and programs offered, their are many trails to hike, many blazed by local Scout troops. The trails meander through a northern Hardwood forest, and has many ponds and rock outcroppings.

The Observatory has a 22″ telescope, that has been recently renovated with modern controls and allows for the Observatory to zero in on any point in the sky. The Observatory offers Astronomy Nights on Friday, with discussions on a variety of topics. The Planetarium also offers multiple programs and is available to schools and groups.

The museums arts and artifact exhibits are located in the main building, which was originally the mansion of Henri Bendel. Within these walls you will collections focusing on The Natural History of New England, American Art, Native American Art, American History and Culture, and Farming Implements.

If this were not enough for you, the SM & NC has ongoing events, classes and activities throughout the year. For a complete listings, here’s the link to the Stamford Museum & Nature Centers Exhibitions and Events Calendar

Oh, and did I mention they have an Otter Pond?

For more things to do with the family in Connecticut, check out the Connecticut Events Calendar

Stamford Museum & Nature Center

39 Scoffield Town Road

Stamford,Ct, 06903

203-322-1646