New Britain, CT Outdoor Activities

The National Multiple Sclerosis Society Connecticut Chapter supports the families of those living with the challenging autoimmune disease and spreads state-wide awareness via grassroots and national initiatives. Among its main goals, the Connecticut chapter is instrumental in bringing essential services directly to the state's more than 6,000 MS sufferers. A national nonprofit organization, members are also involved in public policy advocacy for the funding of promising scientific research into the causes and potential treatments of the disease, and for legislation beneficial to those affected by MS. The untiring Connecticut chapter members keep busy year-round by organizing annual fundraising events such as sponsored luncheons, banquets, and the annual MS Golf Classic. Once a year, the chapter holds a gala that honors a Citizen of the Year for humanitarian efforts and draws sponsorship revenue with high-profile entertainment such as Neil Diamond, who will perform at the 2012 Gala on June 16.

When Scuba Shack's founders attained their first certifications more than 34 years ago, they were frustrated with the inadequate teaching they received. As their dive careers continued, that dissatisfaction led them to create Scuba Shack, where their goal is to imbue every one of their lessons with tangible value for burgeoning divers. Their class schedule brims with PADI–certification courses, and introductory scuba classes help beginners to recite the first 100 decimals of pi before coming to the surface for air. The shack also has an onsite store overflowing with necessary gear such as snorkels, fins, and masks, required for many of the Scuba Shack's classes or group-travel dives.

Lush tree cover, rolling hills, and lakes dot the landscape surrounding the Connecticut River that GrandView CampResort & Cottages calls home. With this nearly untouched terrain as the backdrop, guests camp along 22.5 acres of wooded hills in their own tent or a deluxe cottage that can accommodate a family of five. Nearby, they can take in whizzing views of the countryside from the 300-foot zipline or take their time while strolling their way through the onsite golf course. When not lounging by the pool or playing horseshoes next to horses playing humanshoes, guests venture to one of more than 20 nearby attractions such as Gillette Castle State Park or the historical Mystic Seaport. Back at the campsite, kids keep their hands busy with scheduled kids' crafts and their faces sticky during pie-eating contests.:m]]

Whether you need a racket restrung in the pro shop or want to hear stories about the time he taught an up-and-coming Maria Sharapova, Glastonbury Tennis Club director Jim Melesko happily consults with visitors on all aspects of the game. Jim oversees the club's six championship courts, where he and his fellow professional teachers coach kids and adults alike. Their lessons cover game basics to tournament techniques, preparing students for both casual and USTA team matches. Spectators can observe practicing players from an observation deck in the lounge, which is equipped with daycare centers and free WiFi.