Vintage Radio & Communications Museum of CT - Windsor, Connecticut

Adam Gardner

If you're interested in technology, you CANNOT pass up the opportunity to visit.

It looks like a regular and non-descript warehouse from the outside, but inside is absolutely packed with all kinds of vintage electronics. Mostly (like the name implies) old radios, TVs, computers, stereo ranging from the late 1800s to the early 2000s.

The gentleman (I'm annoyed I forgot to get his name) who gave us the tour REALLY knows his stuff and was amazingly friendly. He showed us everything worked. It's amazing how far technology has advanced in the last 150 years.

Be warned..

You will probably spend at least 2 hours here. There is so much stuff to look at and learn about. Kids of any age who are inclined in science and technology will love it and get an appreciation for how modern things work.

And the admission? Absurdly cheap for what you're getting. Do not pass this up!

Timothy Miller

First of all, I didn’t realize the Vintage Radio & Communications Museum existed until my HS buddy who now lives in Arizona called me up and invited me to go with him. I hesitated about going because I didn’t think I would be interested and boy was I wrong. When you first go in you are immediately struck by the thousands of electronic artifacts crammed from ceiling to floor and in every corner. The bonus was our museum guide Art, who shared a lifetime of knowledge and insight about every facet of radio and communication technology with our tour group. Want to see the first color television, radio built inside a fridge or Tesla’s invention? How about the first computers or modern stereos and Walkmans? Then do yourself a favor and go with the kids and maybe you’ll learn a thing or two that will blow your mind. Plus, some of the electronics are hands on. Prices are between $5 to $10 depending on age and/or affiliations. Go check it out.

Philip Antinone

There's no better way to describe this experience than a treasure. Come ready to spend 2-3 hours here, because the volunteer tour guides tell such entertaining stories about the rich history of the collection. I had a wonderful time at the museum and I can't wait to come back. You don't have to be a tech nerd to find this place interesting! You'll learn about US history, CT history, and interact with historic artifacts that would usually be behind a glass or just shown on screen.

This is the real deal.

Note: there are chairs to sit if needed, and it is handicap accessible. Be ready to be on your feet. Clean bathroom with water fountain available.

Justin Lippert (Quenche)

This is one of those hidden nerdy gems in Connecticut that one may see signs for throughout Hartford. This was a really enjoyable and informative experience! The staff are friendly and very knowledgeable in their antiques. There were a couple of demonstrations that John was happy to share with us, such as a tesla coil, self playing piano, and various working vintage record players. There were even working vintage televisions and computers! There were several interactive items too, such as a telegraph, radios, and vintage phones. The fee is rather cheap, especially for veterans and students. They only take cash, checks, and paypal; however, the front desk clerk was nice enough to do an IOU (send a check in the mail) since I didn't have cash on me! They have a restroom inside; it's in the room next to the self playing pianos. The parking is extremely spacious, and it didn't feel crowded at all while we adventured.

Overall, I really enjoyed sating my nerdy side for antique radios and communication devices, and highly recommend it! Thanks for the great experience!👍

Paul Blackett

Wow! What a great place!
We saw the sign on the Interstate and called in as it opened. John was a great tour guide and we could have spent a lot longer than the 90 minutes we had.
Don’t pass this place by, it’s so interesting for everyone. And so much if the equipment has been restored to working order by the volunteers.
Thanks!

James Carroll

Can’t say anything even close to bad about this place. It is a gem. Amazing staff so knowledgeable and wants you to enjoy and experience all of the stuff they have to show and know. One of the best museums in the state. Really come out to check it out. You will not be disappointed.

Matt Pike

The tour was amazingly informative and entertaining. Our guide ( I can't remember his name unfortunately) knew what he was talking about, and perfectly balanced fun and education in my opinion. Highly recommend visiting, it's so much more fun than me or my wife expected.

ctvpa

An all volunteer run museum that takes you from smoke signals to digital communication. Huge value for your money. The guides are friendly and very informative. New is player pianos.