Farmington Continuing Education

Join Main Stream Canoe and Kayak for a wonderful local experience that gave the Farmington River Valley its namesake. In either a kayak or canoe, and guided by one of Main Stream's river guides, Embark on a serene and scenic journey along the Farmington River, perfect for paddlers of any skill level. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or a first-time canoe enthusiast, this slow-paced adventure offers the perfect opportunity to connect with nature. Starting at Fisher Meadows in Avon and meandering through Simsbury, you’ll be guided along a smooth current, surrounded by a breathtaking canopy of trees. Enjoy tranquil stops to take in the views and spot local wildlife. This leisurely outing is ideal for families, friends, or anyone seeking a peaceful escape in nature. Meeting time is 1:00 PM in a TBD location along the river in Avon. The trip will take approximately 2 hours. Each person over 18 years old will need a waiver signed. Any person under 18 will need a waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian. You can print and sign the waiver using the link below, or you can sign a waiver at time of arrival. This program has a rain date of June 28. MAIN STREAM CANOE AND KAYAK WAIVER - CLICK HERE To best prepare for this experience, have the following. Water shoes – to walk on rocks, sticks, fish hooks and whatever else is in the river. Flip flops and long laces are not ideal. Sunglasses and Sunscreen – because the glare off the water can be strong Water – plastic bottle, because it might get hot when you are paddling Change of Clothing – leave in your car for when you return Swimsuit or Trunks – if it’s hot, you’ll want to get wet along the way Waterproof Case for Phone – don’t want to drop it in the water Picnic or Snack Items – there are plenty of wonderful places to stop Waterproof Pants/Shorts – for colder days, or because jeans act like sponges Protective Clothing – if it’s rainy or cold depending on the time of year Insect Repellent – on the shore, mosquitoes can get bad sometimes Also, please remember - pack in, pack out - leave no trash behind

Set out for New York City to visit the New York Botanical Garden. The 250-acre Garden—the largest in any city in the United States—is a National Historic Landmark. In addition to the natural attributes that attracted the Brittons, NYBG encompasses 50 specialty gardens and collections comprising more than one million plants, the Nolen Greenhouses for Living Collections, and the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, the nation’s preeminent Victorian-style glasshouse. Highlights include the award-winning Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden, considered among the world’s most sustainable rose gardens; the Native Plant Garden, celebrating the diversity of northeastern North American plants; and 30,000 distinguished trees, many more than 200 years old. More than one million visitors annually enjoy the grounds, view innovative exhibitions, and participate in educational programs that are larger and more diverse than those of any other garden in the world. Enjoy lunch on your own and free time on Arthur Avenue. Trip includes: admission to NYBG, motorcoach, tour director.

Today, we will head to Newport, Rhode Island for a self guided tour of two of the most famous Newport Mansions! The Elms was the summer residence of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Julius Berwind of Philadelphia and New York. Mr. Berwind made his fortune in the coal industry. In 1898, architect Horace Trumbauer designed a house, modeled after the mid-18th century French chateau d'Asnieres outside Paris. Construction of The Elms was completed in 1901 at a cost reported at approximately $1.4 million. The interiors and furnishings were designed by Allard and Sons of Paris and were the setting for the Berwinds' collection of Renaissance ceramics, 18th century French and Venetian paintings, and Oriental jades. The Breakers mansion is the grandest of the Newport summer ‘cottages’ and is also a symbol of the Vanderbilt family’s social and financial preeminence in the turn of the century here in America. Your visit will offer an self-guided interpretation of its place in American architectural, social, and cultural history. Enjoy lunch on your own at one of the many restaurants in central Newport. Trip includes: motorcoach, group leader, and meal recommendations.

Begin your day with a self-guided tour of the Salem Witch Museum (admission included) where you can experience first-hand the reign of terror and hysteria that was rampant in Salem in the 1690’s through the powerful multi-sensory presentation. Visitors are given a dramatic history lesson using stage sets with life-size figures, lighting and narration (an overview of the Witch Trials of 1692). The afternoon will permit free time to enjoy “Haunted Happenings” around town. Visit the Witch Dungeon Museum or the Salem Pirate Museum (admission not included). You can take a walking tour or ride the trolley. Enjoy the unique shops and quaint stores Salem offers. Lunch is on your own at one of the many restaurants in the area. The possibilities are endless! Trip includes: motorcoach, group leader, and meal recommendations.

Travel to the beautiful grounds of TANGLEWOOD in Lenox, Massachusetts to enjoy reserved Shed Seats. We’re in for a delightful Sunday Matinee at Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Samy Rachid, conductor will present Saint Säens Cello Concerto No. 1 with Guest YoYo Ma, cello. Time prior to the performance to grab a bite to eat at one of the cafes on the Tanglewood campus and wander the beautiful grounds.

Enjoy a nostalgic train ride along the shores of Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire. It's a great fall day trip! Relax on board the train as we watch the boats on the lake & enjoy the scenery as we travel roundtrip from Meredith, NH. We will make a NH Liquor Store stop prior to boarding the train. Hart’s Turkey Farm Dinner on board the Train. This is a Hart’s famous home style turkey dinner, just like grandma made at Thanksgiving. Menu: Turkey, Potato, Gravy, Stuffing, Cranberry Sauce, Rolls, Vegetable, Dessert & Beverage. YUM! Following our train ride visit Mill Falls, a collection of shops along with Ben & Jerry’s ice cream. Trip includes motorcoach, 2-hour train ride on the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad from Meredith, NH, a turkey dinner served on board and catered by Hart's Turkey Farm, shopping at the Mill Falls, and Tour Director.