News
Governor Rell visits ‘Staycation’ destination in Cheshire
By Governor Rell's office
Jul 7, 2008 - 3:13:31 PM

Takes Tour of Barker Animation Art Gallery and Museum

Governor M. Jodi Rell today visited one of the more than 300 Connecticut “Staycation” Destinations with a tour of the Barker Character, Comic and Cartoon Museum and the Animation Art Gallery in Cheshire.

The Governor officially launched the state’s new culture and tourism initiative, “Connecticut – Your Staycation Destination,” on July 3. The program offers discounts to Connecticut residents at hundreds of attractions throughout the state. The attractions – or “destinations” – and discounts are featured on the state’s CTvisit.com Web site.

“Summer is here and there is so much to do and see throughout Connecticut,” Governor Rell said. “The Staycation program will allow families to afford exciting recreational opportunities during these challenging economic times. Now more than ever, there is no reason to go anywhere else during the summer – especially with the discounts being offered by hundreds of Staycation destinations.”

The Barker Character, Comic and Cartoon Museum on Route 10 in Cheshire is home to thousands of unique items from the early days of television and animation, including a Lone Ranger Gun, Flintstones Band toy and comic strip and cartoon memorabilia. The adjacent Barker Animation Art Gallery is one of the largest galleries in the world. In addition to exhibits focused on animation, the Gallery features paintings, sculptures and studio glass.

As part of the Staycation program, the Barker Animation Art Gallery is offering a 10 percent discount on all purchases and the Barker Character, Comic and Cartoon Museum is offering a free penny toy for each child and a Connecticut souvenir for each family.

“This is a wonderful place for a family to spend the day. These collections appeal to young and old, bringing some of us back to our youth while introducing a new generation to the forerunners of today’s cartoon stars,” Governor Rell said. “It epitomizes the Staycation experience because this is one of hundreds of places throughout the state that offers visitors a unique and memorable experience waiting to be discovered by Connecticut residents.”

In addition to the Museum and Art Gallery, other Staycation destinations in the Cheshire area include:

Cheshire Historical Society, Cheshire – Free admission; video and guided tour of 1785 Hitchcock-Phillips House; free postcard

Almira F. Stephan Memorial Playhouse, Meriden – Save $3 per ticket on summer production of “Into the Woods.” July 25-27, August 1-3

Hotchkiss House Museum, Prospect – Reduced admission

Barnes Museum, Southington – ½ off all admissions

Body and Soul Day Spa, Wallingford – Free toe polish change with facial

Mountains Unlimited Whitewater Adventures, Waterbury – Whitewater rafting at a 10 percent discount

Palace Theater, Waterbury – 10 percent off 2008-09 season, $5.00 off select summer shows

Timex Museum, TimeExpo, Waterbury – All admissions are $4 on Thursdays; $1 off general admission on weekdays

For more information on Staycation destinations and discounts go to CTvisit.com.

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