Connecticut is widely known for its creative inspiration. No matter which town you visit you will definitely find something that is unusual or highly imaginative. This is especially true when it comes to Connecticut roadside attractions. One of our favorites that’s both strange and beloved is a walk-through statue of Conny the Whale in West Hartford.
Pay a visit to The Children’s Museum in West Hartford and the first thing you will be greeted by is a 60- foot long life-sized replica of a sperm whale. Conny was built in 1976 by The Cetacean Society and has been a favorite gatekeeper for the museum all of these years.
The Children’s Museum/Facebook
As a representation of Connecticut’s state animal, Conny is nearly identical to his real-life relatives right down to only having teeth on his lower jaw. The only way this iron and cement replica is inaccurate is in Conny’s ability to spout water out of his blowhole.
The Children’s Museum/Facebook
Since 1996, Conny regularly spouts cool water on a regular timer from April through September. Children look forward to this event every summer.
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Visitors have a great time climbing into and walking inside of Conny. Not only do families enjoy marveling at and playing with this gigantic icon, but it has also educated and piqued the curiosity of young minds for nearly half a century.
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What started as a way for local volunteers to bring awareness about whales has since become not only a mascot for The Children’s Museum but has become a legend in his own right.
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Currently, The Children’s Museum is in the process of considering options as the property the museum is on is up for sale. The one thing that has been made clear is that no matter where The Children’s Museum is eventually relocated to, you can be sure that Conny will be greeting visitors for years to come.
The Children’s Museum/Facebook
Visit Conny and The Children’s Museum with the little ones in your life. Visit The Children’s Museum to purchase your timed ticket and check out the spring and summer hours. Call (860) 231-2824 for more information.
The Children’s Museum/Facebook
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Address: 950 Trout Brook Dr, West Hartford, CT 06119, USA
