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- Summer Lovin' Had Me A Blast
OH! We are here, seems as if we have made it through the daily rain to what will soon be august weather in June. The weather is so highly unpredictable these days, but our community is not. We are stable, we are a rock, and together our community is unity. And in this edition, we bring some summer time thoughts, an artist highlight, some pizza, some pickles, and more!!! As always, we aim to highlight what we already have in the valley, you’ll always find some new news, but we also try to remember the community we already have and remind everyone to support the local business, new and old. Thanks for coming by and don’t forget to subscribe!
The Farmington Valley Team
Table of Contents
☀️ Summer Fun in the Farmington Valley: Your Family Guide to Adventure, Laughter & Ice Cream 🍦
The Farmington Valley isn’t just a beautiful place to live—it’s a true year-round playground for families. Whether you're chasing autumn leaves, sledding local hills, or strolling Main Streets lit up for the holidays, this area delivers magic in every season. But come summer? This valley really shines.
With tree-lined parks, shaded trails, splash pads, and scoop shops that turn any afternoon into a sweet memory, the Farmington Valley is tailor-made for families with kids. Whether you're looking to cool off in the water, burn off energy on the playground, or just find something fun to do when the weather turns unpredictable, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive in! (Sometimes, literally.)
🛝 Top Playgrounds & Outdoor Family Spots
Stratton Brook State Park (Simsbury) – One of the most picturesque places in the valley. Great for biking, fishing, and family picnics under shady trees.
Belden Forest (Simsbury) – A stroller-friendly trail system through old-growth forest. Gentle and peaceful—perfect for young adventurers. https://www.oldgrowthforest.net/ct-belden-forest
Mills Pond Park (Canton) – Playground, splash pad, basketball, skate park and baseball fields. A full day of fun in one place.
https://cantonct.myrec.com/info/facilities/details.aspx?FacilityID=11696
Fisher Meadows (Avon) – Walking paths, open fields for frisbee or kite-flying, and access to kayaking and canoeing.
https://avonct.myrec.com/info/facilities/details.aspx?FacilityID=12170
Westmoor Park (West Hartford) – A hidden gem with a working farm, nature trails, and kid-friendly programming all summer long.
💧 Pools & Splash Pads – Where to Cool Off
Town | Pool/Splash Option | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
Simsbury | Simsbury Farms Pool | Lap lanes, dive team, wading pool, foam parties. Open June 7–Aug 26. |
Canton | Mills Pond Pool & Splash Pad | Splash pad open now. Public swim from June 21. Aqua fitness, swim lessons. |
Avon | Sycamore Hills Rec Area (check Rec Dept) | Quiet neighborhood pool & family activities. |
Farmington | Farmington Town Pool (via Rec Dept) | Often hosts lessons and open swim times. |
West Hartford | Four Free Splash Pads | Open Memorial Day–Labor Day (10AM–7PM): Beachland, Fernridge, Kenney, Wolcott Parks. |
Most pools offer day passes, season memberships, and swim lessons. Be sure to check your town’s Rec Department page for updates and registration details.
🌧️ Hot or Rainy? No Problem! Here’s Where to Head Indoors
Libraries (All Towns): Summer reading programs, craft hours, storytimes, LEGO builds, and more. Check your local calendar!
Indoor Play Gyms & Rec Centers: From Canton to Farmington, many centers offer open gym, toddler time, or kids’ clinics.
The New Children’s Museum (West Hartford): Great hands-on fun for ages 2–10. https://www.thechildrensmuseumct.org
Bowling Alleys: Bowl your way through a rainy afternoon with glow lanes and arcade games.
Museums & Art Centers: For a quiet (and cool) adventure, check out the American Mural Project in Winsted or local art spaces with drop-in kids’ classes.
🍦 Top 5 Ice Cream Spots That Turn Every Day Into Sundae
No summer is complete without chasing the ice cream truck—or better yet, hitting up one of the valley’s legendary scoop spots:
Tulmeadow Farm (Simsbury) – Homemade ice cream from a fifth-generation farm. Classic New England charm meets unbeatable creamy scoops.
J. Foster Ice Cream (Avon) – Famous for inventive flavors like Nutella Chip and Lavender Honey. Also offers dairy-free options.
Ben & Jerry’s (West Hartford) – It’s a classic for a reason. Sit on the patio and dig into Cherry Garcia or a Chunky Monkey sundae.
Grassroots Ice Cream (Granby) – A small-batch gem known for crazy-good combos like Maple Bacon or Thai Iced Tea.
Scoop It (Canton) – A fun twist with nostalgic décor, creative cones, and a walk-up window that makes it feel like a summer movie set.
We are adding one more in, because soft serve is rare these days, so when you want the soft service ice cream instead, you can find it at Sunny Side Deli in Simsbury or Farmington Miniature Golf and Ice Cream http://www.farmingtonminiaturegolf.com/icecreamparlor.rhtml
Pro tip: Make a mini summer challenge and try them all—your kids will thank you.
🧺 Bonus Summer Tips
Pack a “go bag” with towels, sunscreen, bug spray, a change of clothes, and water bottles. You’ll use it more than you think.
Follow local Rec Facebook pages for pop-up events like foam parties, food truck nights, and outdoor movies.
Get your ice cream before the meltdown (we’re looking at you, toddlers).
🏡 Summer Memories Start Here
Whether you're splashing in West Hartford, playing tag in Simsbury, or relaxing with a cone in Avon, summer in the Farmington Valley is full of opportunities to create unforgettable moments.
Here’s to a season filled with laughter, sunscreen, and maybe a little bit of chocolate on your shirt. (Okay, a lot.)
The Best Pizza In The Valley You Didn’t Even Know About
If you’ve been sleeping on Fresh Mozzarella Pizza at 1362 Hopmeadow Street in Simsbury, it’s time to wake up—your taste buds are begging for it. Underrated? Absolutely. Delicious? Every. Single. Slice.
🍕 Why You’ve Gotta Try It
Fresh mozz, every time
Order a classic cheese pie or one of their bold specialty pizzas—every bite drips with fresh mozzarella. No surprises here, just creamy, melty bliss. It's the star of the show and the foundation for every combination on their menuFlavor that sings
Slice app reviews rave about the sauce-to-cheese balance and crispy-yet-chewy crust. One foodie described it as “a very satisfying slice,” and noted, “perfect amount of cheese to sauce ratio.” Another said the crust was "crispy strong under carriage… worth the drive.”Warm, welcoming staff
Locals love that behind the counter, “Owners are great too”, and Facebook buzz praises “George and his crew”—“top notch and always do an incredible job.”
🏠 Easy to Reach—and Even Easier to Devour
Conveniently located on busy Hopmeadow in Simsbury, Fresh Mozzarella Pizza is right in your backyard and ready for a pizza pick‑up night. Swing by, order ahead online or by phone, and you can be home with a hot, cheesy pie in hand in minutes.
🔁 Underrated to the Max
Despite consistently stellar reviews—4.6 stars on Uber Eats, glowing community posts, long-time Slice app fans—this spot remains a local secret. Underrated? Definitely. Yet each customer review boasts adjectives like amazing, great, top quality, and perfect.
✅ Make “Pizza Night” a Thing
You must treat yourself to a pickup night soon. Try a classic cheese or branch out: avocado, cheeseburger, taco, even clam or Irish potato-skin pizzas—it’s all made with that same fresh mozzarella magic. Scores high for flavor, portion, and local love.
TL;DR:
What | Why |
|---|---|
Fresh Mozzarella | Always fresh, always front-and-center freshmozzarellapizzasimsbury.com |
Crust & Sauce | Ideal texture and flavor balance |
Staff Vibes | Friendly, welcoming, community-oriented |
Convenience | Prime Simsbury location = easy pick‑up night |
Local Favorite? | Absolutely—yet still wildly underrated |
🎉 Final Call:
Simsbury, rally your crew, place your order, and spark the ultimate pizza pickup night. Fresh Mozzarella Pizza is serving up incredible cheese, crust, service—and a local vibe that's hard to beat. Don’t just eat pizza—celebrate it.
Susan Prentice - Artist
🎨 Artist Highlight: Susan Prentice — A Life in Vibrant Color
Nestled in the heart of the Farmington Valley is a studio where imagination meets masterful technique — a space filled with vibrant oil paintings, decades of creative exploration, and the soul of an artist who never stops learning. Meet Susan Prentice, the force behind Susan Prentice Studio & Gallery, located at the Farmington Valley Arts Center in Avon, CT.
From the time she was sketching in kindergarten, it was clear Susan was born to create. She credits a supportive hometown with excellent art instruction and an early dive into graphic design — “We were designing logos in ninth grade,” she recalls. That early start led her to Syracuse University’s School of Visual & Performing Arts, where she majored in Illustration and graduated with top honors.
Susan’s artistic journey has spanned decades, including a successful career as an Art Director at Keiler Advertising, working on accounts like Sikorsky Helicopter — even art directing photo shoots in the Grand Canyon and on oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. After 30 years as a freelance designer and illustrator, she transitioned fully to oil painting — a medium she once thought she'd never master.
“When I started painting seriously 23 years ago, I wanted to go to the top of the mediums — which is oil,” she says. “There’s a depth to oil paint that is unmatched.”
Her style? Ever-evolving. Inspired by design, photography, and imagination, her work is defined by vibrant color, attention to detail, and a deep commitment to composition. While her photographs once served as her primary references, she now leans into her creative intuition — often blending reference with invention to create something truly unique.
Susan describes each new painting as a “surprise” — the joy of discovery being central to her process. Whether she’s restoring her 189-year-old farmhouse, tending her garden, or painting in her studio every day, Susan is fueled by curiosity and love for the creative process.
“It’s not about knowing. It’s about responding,” she says. “I want people to love the work as much as I do. I compare it to selling puppies — I love them, but I can let them go when I know they’re going to someone who loves them just as much.”
And when asked what her dream project would be if she had unlimited resources? She doesn’t hesitate:
“I’m doing that every day.”
Her advice to the world is equally simple and powerful: “Do what you love.”
Her life’s soundtrack? “The Secret of Life is Enjoying the Passage of Time.”
You can view Susan’s work in person at Studio 6B, 27 Arts Center Lane, Avon, CT, or explore her latest pieces online at www.susanprentice.com, on Instagram @sprentice, and on her Facebook Studio Page.
Whether you’re a collector, a fellow artist, or simply someone who appreciates beauty and story, a visit to Susan’s world is well worth the journey. Just don’t be surprised if her work — much like The Wizard of Oz, her favorite film — transports you somewhere entirely new.
New Pickleball Courts
Tariffville Park in Simsbury just got even better with the addition of six brand-new outdoor pickleball courts, tucked away alongside the scenic Farmington River. Nestled in a wooded riverside enclave, these courts offer players a serene retreat—a perfect spot for friends, family, and neighbors to gather, play, and enjoy the beauty of nature.
What makes this addition especially exciting? Tariffville Park now boasts the only public outdoor pickleball courts in the entire Farmington Valley, making it a go-to destination for residents and visitors.
🎾 Court Details & Amenities
Six dedicated pickleball courts located behind the softball field and picnic shelter.
Shared amenities include nearby restrooms and water access, enhancing the convenience and enjoyment of your visit.
Entrance to the courts is via Main Street Extension to Tariffville Park.
🏞️ A Secluded Riverside Haven
Positioned gracefully beside the river and enveloped by trees, the courts offer more than just a playing surface:
Shade and natural beauty—play in comfort even on sunny days.
River views—spot trout or eagles as you rally across the net.
Quiet setting—ideal for conversation, laughter, and community camaraderie.
📅 First-Come, First-Serve Play
These courts operate on an informal first-come, first-served basis—no in person reservation system (though you can reserve courts online), no permits—just show up, grab a paddle, and jump into a game . Whether you're a seasoned player or brand-new to pickleball, the open-access setup fosters spontaneous play and social connection.
🌟 Why It Matters to the Valley
Region-wide access: Until now, those seeking outdoor pickleball had to drive to private clubs, towns outside the valley, or shared tennis courts. Tariffville changes the game—with six dedicated courts, it’s now the most accessible public spot in the Valley.
Community building: Parks and Rec officials proudly announced the courts are now open and ready for players of all ages .
Health & fun outdoors: Pickleball is welcoming, low-impact, social—and when played beside the river? Even better.
✅ What You Should Know Before You Go
Parking: Use the designated lot near the shelter and softball fields.
No equipment on site: Bring your own paddles, balls, and water.
Respect the setting: The informal “grab-a-court” system thrives on courtesy—wrap up sets after winning, share space, and enjoy the community spirit.
🛍️ Headed There? Try This
Swing by the nearby picnic shelter for a post-game snack.
Explore the adjacent Tariffville Gorge trails—a breathtaking way to round out your outing.
Watch for Riverside wildlife—kids love seeing ducks, turtles, and maybe even otters.
These new courts are a real game-changer for Simsbury—and the entire Farmington Valley. Pop over, pick a court, and enjoy one of summer’s most social sports—plus a slice of mountain-river serenity. Let the rallies begin!
THE FARMINGTON VALLEY WEBSITE
Welcome to The Farmington Valley: Your One-Stop Community Platform
We are thrilled to introduce you to The Farmington Valley, a dynamic platform designed to connect homeowners and business owners within our vibrant region. Our mission is to foster a thriving community by providing a centralized hub where you can easily discover local businesses, access essential resources, and share your stories.
Dear Community Members,
We are thrilled to introduce you to The Farmington Valley, a dynamic platform designed to connect homeowners and business owners within our vibrant region. Our mission is to foster a thriving community by providing a centralized hub where you can easily discover local businesses, access essential resources, and share your stories.
Discover Local Businesses
Finding trustworthy local services and products has never been easier. Our comprehensive directory allows you to search for businesses across various categories, ensuring you find exactly what you need right here in the Farmington Valley. Whether you're seeking home improvement professionals, health and wellness services, or unique local shops, our platform connects you with businesses that make our community special.
Access Essential Resources
Beyond business listings, we offer a wealth of resources to support both residents and entrepreneurs. From community events and educational workshops to health services and artistic endeavors, The Farmington Valley is your go-to source for information and opportunities that enrich our collective well-being.
Build Connections
At the heart of our platform is the desire to build meaningful connections. We encourage you to share your experiences, participate in discussions, and engage with fellow community members. By working together, we can create a supportive environment where everyone thrives.
Join Us Today
Explore The Farmington Valley and become an active participant in our growing community. Together, we can share local stories, connect with trustworthy businesses, and build the community where it's needed most.
Warm regards,
The Farmington Valley Team
Discover Local Businesses
Finding trustworthy local services and products has never been easier. Our comprehensive directory allows you to search for businesses across various categories, ensuring you find exactly what you need right here in the Farmington Valley. Whether you're seeking home improvement professionals, health and wellness services, or unique local shops, our platform connects you with businesses that make our community special.
Access Essential Resources
Beyond business listings, we offer a wealth of resources to support both residents and entrepreneurs. From community events and educational workshops to health services and artistic endeavors, The Farmington Valley is your go-to source for information and opportunities that enrich our collective well-being.
Build Connections
At the heart of our platform is the desire to build meaningful connections. We encourage you to share your experiences, participate in discussions, and engage with fellow community members. By working together, we can create a supportive environment where everyone thrives.
Join Us Today
Explore The Farmington Valley and become an active participant in our growing community. Together, we can share local stories, connect with trustworthy businesses, and build the community where it's needed most.
Warm regards,
The Farmington Valley Team