Governor Rell: 2^nd Summer of Staycation

Kicks Off On Memorial Day

Discounts and Deals at Hundreds of State Attractions

Available for Connecticut Residents From Memorial Day Through Labor Day

                In advance of Memorial Day weekend, the traditional kick-off for vacation season, Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that the state is launching the second year of “Connecticut – Your Staycation Destination,” a tourism campaign that offers discounts and special deals for state residents at a variety of attractions, hotels and restaurants around the state.

            “With gas prices climbing again and the economy still ailing, families will find, as they did last year, that staying close to home can stretch their travel budget and while treating them to the world-class attractions we have in our own back yard,” Governor Rell said during the Staycation kick-off at the Lutz Children’s Museum in Manchester. “Staycation also is a great boost for our $9 billion tourism industry and the thousands of jobs it supports around the state.”

            The Lutz Museum, founded in 1953, is one of more than 140 attractions and businesses offering discounted prices and lodging, complimentary gifts and other deals to Connecticut residents available from Memorial Day, May 25 through Labor Day, September 7. State tourism officials say more Staycation Destination venues are being added every day. For a list of attractions and businesses participating in this year’s campaign go to: www.CTvisit.com

A recent survey conducted by the state Commission on Culture and Tourism indicated that 71 percent of Connecticut residents plan to vacation close to home this year and 86 percent said they would seek out discounts.

“Our state businesses and attractions hear them loud and clear and have put together wonderful Staycation deals and discounts for a summer of endless possibilities,” Governor Rell said. “Connecticut residents can enjoy affordable getaways while businesses build on their customer base. What’s good for business is certainly good for Connecticut,” Governor Rell said. “By keeping turnstiles turning, we keep people in the workforce.”

            Last summer, Connecticut residents took advantage of savings by visiting Staycation attractions that included amusement parks, museums, restaurants, hotels, vineyards, golf courses, sporting venues, galleries and more. The Lutz Children’s Museum, a Staycation participant for the second straight year, will provide free admission for one person per party.

            Founded by the local PTA in 1953, the Lutz Museum is named in honor of popular art teacher Hazel Lutz, who collected artifacts during her travels around world to use them as educational tools. She kept the collection in her classroom and, as it grew, the items were moved to larger public places.

            “From the shores of Long Island Sound to the Litchfield Hills and stunning countryside of the Quiet Corner, Connecticut has so much to offer,” Governor Rell said. “We know tourists from around the country and the world enjoy their vacations here. Connecticut families can experience that every day and are just a short car ride away.”

            For more information: www.CTvisit.com