Just ask any kid and they'll tell you: Ships are cool.

Almost every kid dreams of sailing to explore distant lands, battling pirates or voyaging beneath the sea in a submarine. For my 10-year-old nephew, the sight of any huge vessel on the open sea makes his eyes grow wide. "Why don't they sink?" he asks. "What's all that stuff sticking out of them?" Now, thanks to a few visits to maritime parks, his questions have been answered.

At these seafaring museums, which often combine land exhibits with actual boats to tour, families get a firsthand look at the workings of ships and their roles in history. But perhaps the best part about climbing aboard is the sense of adventure your kids will feel as they smell the salt air and feel the sea rolling beneath them.

Your family is sure to enjoy a day trip to Mystic Seaport in Connecticut.

MYSTIC SEAPORT
MYSTIC, CONNECTICUT

This 19th-century New Englandvillage offers families a spectacular collection of historic tall ships, buildings, crafts and activities that bring the story of seafaring America to life.

At the Children's Museum, kids can cook in the galley, swab the deck and steer a ship. Don't be surprised if your child returns with a (fake) tattoo or spouting facts about the stars in the night sky. Ships and exhibits are open daily from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M. from April through October, and 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. from November through March. Admission is $17 for adults, $9 for kids ages six to 17, and free for children ages five and under. Call 860-572-5315 or click here for more information.



Roxanne Nelson is a freelance writer with a home port in Sausalito, California.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change.