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

Experience a timeless New England tradition in a day filled with local flavors and scenic charm. Our day begins with a buffet breakfast at the historic Deerfield Inn - Indulge in French toast with local maple syrup! Visit the Robb Family Farm & Sugar House in Brattleboro, VT. Tour the Sugar House to see how maple syrup is made. Shop their store for everything maple - syrup, candy, cream & sugar. To complete the day we will make a shopping stop along the way home at the Yankee Candle Flagship Store in South Deerfield, MA.

A lifetime experience not to be missed! Come see the opera at the magnificent Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center and be a part of the Met’s extraordinary Spring 2025 season! Bribery, deception and disguise: The Barber of Seville tells the story of two young lovers and their quest to be together. Main character Figaro needs all his wiles to help the Count outwit Dr. Bartolo and ensure true love wins the day. With memorable arias, captivating music and a delightful blend of humor and romance, The Barber of Seville is easily one of composer Rossini’s most popular works.Balcony Prime Seating ~ 1:00pm Performance. Show runs about 3 hours. Time in Lincoln Centerprior to the Opera to grab a bite to eat.

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.

Looking for a relaxing day surrounded by nature? Join us for a beginner-friendly trip to West Hill Lake, located in Barkhamsted, an ideal destination for first-timers, families, and anyone seeking a casual outdoor escape. Whether you’re fishing, swimming, or boating, West Hill Lake offers a peaceful environment where you can unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. With its pristine waters, diverse wildlife habitat, and scenic shoreline, this hidden gem is the perfect place to explore at your own pace. Spend your day surrounded by natural beauty, make lasting memories, and enjoy a day of pure relaxation! Exact meeting location at West Hill Lake will be provided within a week of the start of the program. 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 May 17 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