What to do and see in Darien, United States: The Best Places and Tips

The Norwalk Seaport Association has owned, restored and maintained Sheffield Island Lighthouse since 1986 and is the official U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Friends group for the Norwalk Islands.Sheffield Island with its historic 145-year-old lighthouse, beaches and wildlife refuge offers abundant summer fun for visitors. From May through September, visitors can board the Seaport Association's 45-foot C.J. Toth catamaran for a cruise to the island then tour the lighthouse, observe wildlife in their natural habitat in the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, hunt for shells along the beach, dine on a picnic lunch, play on the lawns around the lighthouse and just have a good time. The lighthouse tower provides magnificent views of Long Island Sound and, on a clear day, of the New York City skyline. Join us for one of the most exciting tours that the Norwalk Harbor Islands area has to offer! During this unforgettable adventure tour of Sheffield Island and Lighthouse, you'll step directly from the boat into the past.

Seasonal fun awaits you at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center. The 118-acre property is home to Heckscher Farm, an 18-acre working farm; Overbrook Nature Center; the Bendel Mansion, with changing exhibitions and pieces from the Museum’s permanent collection; an otter pond; Nature’s Playground; the Stamford Observatory; Animal Embassy; and more than 80 acres of hiking trails. The Wheels in the Woods Trail provides a universally accessible nature trail. Come discover, learn, and enjoy!

Darien Library is a Library Journal Five Star Library. We are among the busiest public libraries in the state, with over 1,300 people visiting on an average day. Aside from books and movies, we offer free WiFi, computers, programs for all ages, meeting rooms, a Business Center, a Digital Media Lab, and helpful staff to answer your questions. The building is award winning, so stop by today!

Awarded the 2013 Certificate of Excellence by Trip Advisor. The Maritime Aquarium inspires people of all ages to appreciate Long Island Sound and protect it for future generations.

Darien Pilates follows the traditional teachings of the Pilates system, so you can feel stronger, more connected and centered, for a better quality of life. Our mission is to provide the highest quality Authentic Pilates instruction for each and every client. Here at the studio we are dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming place for Pilates devotees to make profound connections with themselves through their individual workouts – connections that are carried out into their daily lives. In our studio, we provide a highly individualized approach to Authentic Pilates. Each client’s desired goals are measured against their abilities: great care is taken in making sure that any medical conditions, disabilities, etc. are noted and that the sessions will safely provide maximum work. At Darien Pilates, the instructors are top-tier and very experienced, all with extensive Pilates histories and training in the Authentic Pilates method. If you have any special requests, complaints, compliments, concerns or suggestions to help us provide the best service possible. Please don’t hesitate to write an email we will take care of your requests within two business days.

Stepping Stones Museum for Children ignites a child's love of learning through play. Open your world to our hands-on exhibits and exciting programs. With our five main galleries and over 100 hands-on activities, children become wide-eyed with wonder. As they see, hear, touch, feel and do, their ever-growing minds venture to amazing new places. Our Traveling Exhibit Gallery changes every few months so you can always expect new and fascinating adventures. Stepping Stones mission is to broaden and enrich the educational opportunities for children ages ten and under and to enhance their understanding of the world. The museum seeks to create an environment that inspires lifelong learning and supports parents, caregivers and educators as facilitators of children's explorations. Stepping Stones is open daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and CLOSED Mondays between Labor Day and Memorial Day (School Year Hours) Hours are 10:00 am - 5:00 pm.

Cherry Lawn is a fun park/playground in Darien, CT. We offer two playgrounds, nature trails, basketball and tennis courts, and a duck pond. Great for families with children.