City: Bridgeport, CT

Category: Tours & Attractions

Telephone: (203) 331-1104

Address: 820 Main St.

Description: When world-famous entertainer and Bridgeport resident P. T. Barnum died, he granted this unique building to the city he loved as a museum of science and industry. Today it houses a history of Barnum’s exploits, as well as those of his protégés, singer Jenny Lind and Bridgeport’s own Charles Stratton, better known as Tom Thumb. There are also rooms dedicated to the Industrial Revolution, focusing on Bridgeport’s large role, as well as 19th-century fashion. Many people come specifically for the circus exhibits, and the Egyptian mummy always delights children and adults alike. There is an art gallery with changing exhibits, and a fun gift shop as well. When P. T. Barnum died in the 1890s, he was by a wide margin the most famous man in the entire world. Come here and find out why. In 2011 the Barnum Museum was being renovated after tornado damage, so call ahead to make sure it is open.