connecticut day trip ideas

Adventures in New England

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15 Fabulous Day Trips in Connecticut

Connecticut is in southwestern New England. It has a big city, fancy suburbs of New York City, a pretty coastline, and rural farmland. I did my residency in Hartford and lived just north of that area for about 5 years. Since Connecticut borders Rhode Island, I still visit often for day trips. Below are a few of my favorite Connecticut day trips.

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The historic boating town of Mystic has an aquarium, cool balancing bridge, colonial seaport, and quaint downtown.

Read on for more things to do in Mystic, Ct.

Hike to Hublein Tower, Simsbury

A 1.25-mile hike through Talcott Mountain’s woods brings you to this tower with sweeping views of Connecticut, including Hartford.

Talcott Mountain is one of my top ten New England family hikes.

West Hartford Center

If you are in the mood to spend a day shopping and eating, West Hartford is the place to be. Here you can find almost any store you can think of. My favorite Connecticut restaurant, Restaurant Bricco , is on LaSalle Road.

New Haven is the Ivy League school’s home, Yale, and the home of some delicious wood-fired pizza. There is some controversy about who has the best, but the original is at Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana. There are often long lines, so it is good to show up right when they open. One of their most popular pizza is the white clam. While in town, visit the museums of Yale, such as the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History.

Southwestern Connecticut

If you want to explore Connecticut’s rural side, try a road trip around the southwest corner of the state where you can drive past farms, go antiquing, visit wineries, and hike to waterfalls.

Read more about spending a day in rural southwestern Connecticut.

Connecticut Wine Trail

You can see the whole state, as well as have an amazing day visiting Connecticut’s 40 wineries, but of course, you would need a designated driver and drink safely.

You can read about my day with the girls at Jonathan Edwards Vineyards.

A Day at Lavender Pond Farm, Killingworth

If you are in Connecticut in June or July, spend a peaceful day among the blooming, fragrant stems. The farm has chairs and games to play as well. This farm is on my list of the best flower fields around New England.

Clyde’s Cider Mill, Old Mystic

If you are visiting in the fall, be sure to join the party at Clyde’s Cider Mill, where you can see cider being pressed by a room-sized antique press and eat apple cider donuts. Right up the road, visit Whitehall Cemetery with graves dating back to the 1600s.

Sharpe Hill Winery, Pomfret

Start your day at the Lavender Hill Alpaca Farm in Voluntown. After getting your fill of these frilly-headed animals. Then take a hike around the Connecticut Audobon Society Bafflin Sanctuary. End your day with a wine tasting and dinner in Sharpe Hill’s beautiful old barn.

Lake Compounce

Read more about spending a day at Lake Compounce, the oldest continually running amusement park in the United States.

Devil’s Hopyard

Devil’s Hopyard is one of my favorite picnic spots in New England. On the two-mile hike, you can see a waterfall, covered bridge, and sweeping green views.

Explore the Connecticut River Valley

Take a boat ride on the river, explore Gillette Castle, take a train ride, or shop and eat in the charming town of Essex.

Read on for how to spend a day in this area.

Visit Old Saybrook

Get a spa treatment at the Saybrook Point Resort and Spa. Walk through the Monument Park. Enjoy lunch on Main Street. A few of my favorite restaurants are the Penny Lane Pub or Liv’s Oyster Bar. Finish your day with a walk by the ocean or a peek at the Lynde Point Lighthouse.

Spend a Day at the Florence Griswold Museum, Old Lyme

Around the turn of the twentieth century, Florence Griswold was running a boarding house on the Lieutenant River banks drawing painters to the area. This was the Lyme Artist Colony, the beginning and hub of American Impressionism. The house is open for touring, as well as a garden and a museum housing a large collection of impressionist paintings. Be sure to leave time for lunch on the veranda overlooking the river.

Mark Twain House

This gothic-style house in Hartford is where Samuel Clements raised his family. There are three buildings to tour, including the house.

I hope you enjoyed this list of day trips in Connecticut. I will continue to add to it as I think of more.

Did I miss any of your favorites? Please let me know in the comments.

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7 thoughts on “15 Fabulous Day Trips in Connecticut”

I live in Boston, these are some really great things to see in CT. I love Mystic, it’s one of my favorite towns in New England. I actually wasn’t aware if the Lavender Fields, I’m going to need to check those out some year.

Those are some great ideas for day trips. I think I should like to do them all – from the lavender to antique hunting to the wine trail. Mystic has always been intriguing to me, and those waterfalls in Devil’s Hopyard looks so scenic.

I have only done Mystic and its outdoor seaport museum in my only day in CT and I really do need to go back to the state to check out the natural beauty (or maybe the changing of the colours in the leaves in the fall). I am loving the waterfalls in Devil’s Hopyard and would defo want to check these out. One place I would like to go is Hartford for a bit of history, as the founder of the town is from a town very near to my home in Hertford, in the UK. 🙂 So there is a little bit of a connection for me, not much, but its enough for me to get myself into gear and visit CT again 🙂

That is cool that you live near our founder. I didn’t know the origin of the name Hartford.

I have never been to Connecticut and this post makes me want to spend a week just exploring the day trips. I would first explore Devil’s Hopyard. A two-mile hike isn’t too bad especially if you get views of a waterfall and bridge. I’ll have to see if it’s pet-friendly too. I’m sure my pup would enjoy this hike as well.

This is a part of the US I’d really like to explore more! I didn’t know that Connecticut had a winery scene but checking out some of them sounds like a lot of fun! Mystic also looks like an interesting little town. I checked out your other post and the drawbridge does look unique with those concrete slabs!

There is also. Harkness park in Waterford Connecticut. it’s a mansion that used to Belong to a rich family. there is Alot to see. it’s surrounded by the ocean. flower gardens . it’s beautiful. Look it up!

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62 Top Things to Do in Connecticut: The Perfect CT Bucket List (2023)

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One of New England’s most popular states, there are so many fantastic things to do in Connecticut! It’s southerly location and proximity to New York City make it an easy choice for a day trip or weekend trip to New England. And like the rest of the region, Connecticut is chock full of charm, history, and things to do and see. 

Planning a visit to the Nutmeg State? We’ve put together an essential list of top things to do in Connecticut. The CT activities on this list range from historic sites, family attractions, and quirky highlights to classic Connecticut things to eat and drink and beautiful spots not to be missed . Get ready to check off your Connecticut bucket list!

Also, if you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Connecticut, you can see our thoughts on that right here!

62 Best Things to Do in Connecticut

Table of Contents

See the world’s last remaining wooden whaling ship

At one time, the fleet of whaling ships regularly sailing in the Atlantic was 2,700. The very last of these, The Charles W. Morgan , can be seen at the Mystic Seaport Museum. It’s actually the largest maritime museum in the United States!

The ship, built in 1841, has the distinction of being the only wooden whale ship still afloat. There are a lot of great things to do in Mystic in general, so don’t miss it when looking for things to do in CT.

You can get your tickets to this Connecticut attraction here !

Be impressed at Gillette Castle 

Want to visit the epic stone castle of “Sherlock Holmes” high on a cliff? Yep, me too! Gillette Castle is well known among Connecticut attractions and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The actor William Gillette commissioned this home, and it was built in 1914. Gillette was most famous for portraying Sherlock Holmes, thus, the character has become quite attached to the castle.

Even without that interesting tidbit, this place is impressive, sitting high atop one of the hills of the “Seven Sisters”, in what is now known as Gillette Castle State Park; definitely one of the more unique things to do in CT!

Read Next: 30+ Famous People From Connecticut

Hit up the Durham Fair

This is one of the biggest agricultural fairs in all of New England. Today, it is a huge event, with a midway, rides, animal events, a monster truck rally, amazing fair food, and so much more.

Durham Fair is an iconic CT fair and a visit here is one of those super cute autumn things to do in Connecticut in the fall !

Try your luck at CT’s famous casinos

When New Englanders want to win big, they play in Connecticut. The always popular Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods are the two spots everyone knows, and they’re two of the best places to gamble in New England .

They are both top notch resorts, with much more than just gambling going on. Entertainment and activities are endless here, so be sure to take a closer look, especially if you’re looking for indoor activities for adults in CT!

Stroll Connecticut’s longest stretch of beach

Heading to the coast is one of those must do things in Connecticut. If you’re in search of a long, welcoming beach, the 2-miles of sand at Hammonasset Beach Park in Madison are calling your name.

Summer in Connecticut means lots of beach time, and I think Madison is beyond beautiful on a summer’s day!

Stop by The Mark Twain House

Are you a literary fan? You might want to pay a visit to The Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford. Author Mark Twain, born Samuel Clemens, lived in this 11,500 square foot home from 1874 to 1891.

While in residence, he wrote some of his most famous works, including The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, and A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court .

Take a peek at the Glass House

Speaking of cool houses, albeit ones of a very different nature, architecture lovers should not miss The Glass House. This is—you guessed it—a house made largely of glass.

But truly, it’s more than that!

The site comprises 14 structures across 49 pastoral acres, the focal point of which is The Philip Johnson Glass House , built by architect Philip Johnson between 1949 and 1995; if you’re looking for interesting things to do in CT, consider the Glass House! It’s open for tours April through December.

Sip at CT’s craft breweries

New England is keen on craft beer, and when in Connecticut, you simply have to stop at some of the local breweries. You can follow the CT Beer Trail to see and sip them all; if you’re looking for fun things to do in Connecticut for adults, here ya go!

Dine at Arethusa al Tavolo

Regularly listed among the best restaurants in Connecticut, this Litchfield Hills spot has a robust menu that changes daily. Arethusa al Tavolo offers fine American dining crafted by Chef Dan Magill.

Truly a farm-to-table establishment, the restaurant sources its butter, cheese, and all of its dairy from the 350 cows at its own connected Arethusa Dairy Farm and makes for a tasty addition to any CT visit.

PS, Arethusa Farm Dairy & Cafe is one of the best ice cream shops in CT !

Relax on a riverboat

To best enjoy the beauty and atmosphere of the Connecticut River, why not take a river tour? You can sail aboard a classic riverboat AND take a ride on a steam train with this company.

If you just want to get on the water, various other cruise options are available to help you experience CT’s wildlife and scenic charm, and could make for a fun date night in Connecticut!

Ride an antique carousel

In downtown Hartford , you’ll find a classic carousel that’s over 100 years old! The 1914 Bushnell Park Carousel has been lovingly restored and guests can now take a ride on the historic painted steeds. This is a fun thing to do in CT with kids and almost anyone, honestly!

Go chasing waterfalls

Connecticut may not be the first New England state that comes to mind when you think waterfalls, but it has some lovely ones! Waterfall hikes are always a great option for things to do in CT in the summer, so check out this list of the prettiest waterfalls in Connecticut .

Explore the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art

Get your culture on while traveling in Connecticut! The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art , located in Hartford, boasts of a collection of nearly 50,000 works of art.

The oldest continuously-running public art museum in the United States, the Wadsworth Atheneum is a definite must visit while in CT. There are a variety of exhibits in their galleries with famous works in both permanent and traveling collections, and all art lovers should have this one on their Connecticut bucket list!

Dont Miss: 12 Fun Free Things to do in Hartford CT | 13 Best Restaurants in Hartford CT

Visit the belugas at Mystic Aquarium

Mystic Aquarium is one of the top things to do in Connecticut with kids! No kids? No problem? Adults love aquariums, too!

While there are many species living at the aquarium, the highlight might be the bright white beluga whales. They are lucky to have the largest outdoor beluga whale habitat in the entire United States. Plus, it’s in Mystic, one of the must visit places in Connecticut !

Grab a slice at Mystic Pizza

After admiring those adorable belugas, head to Downtown Mystic, CT for a slice of pizza. Specifically: Mystic Pizza ! Fans of the 1980’s film starring Julia Roberts might find it hard not to stop here at the original location. And delicious pizza is available, of course! Definitely add this to the list of Connecticut things to do.

Have some fall fun in a pumpkin patch

If you’re looking for cute places to visit in Connecticut in fall, definitely check out some of CT’s best pumpkin patches ! Not only can you go traipsing through the patch to find your perfect pumpkin, but many also offer cool autumn activities like sunflower fields, corn mazes, and warm apple cider. Pumpkin patches are always great activities for kids in CT, too!

Glamp it up with a glamping trip

There are actually some pretty cool glamping options in the Nutmeg State , so if you’re looking fun experiences in CT, consider a cool glamping trip; how about a stay in a gorgeous yurt at Finnegan’s Farm ?

Go to Devil’s Hopyard State Park

This is a great place for outdoor adventure in CT. Devil’s Hopyard State Park has beautiful hiking trails criss-crossing its 1000 acres, but it also has a lovely cascading waterfall, Chapman Falls. This is definitely a place you’ll want to explore for a bit, so considering camping here in the park, too. 

Discover the inspirations for Gilmore Girls

The early 2000’s saw many viewers obsessed with the quaint setting of the WB series Gilmore Girls. Set in a fictional town called Stars Hollow, CT, this show brought small-town Connecticut to life for many. While you won’t find the real Stars Hollow here, sadly, you can find spots that are reputed to have inspired creator Amy Sherman-Palladino. 

Towns in the Litchfield Hills like Washington and Bantam will certainly give you a Stars Hollow vibe, but be sure to stop by The Mayflower Inn & Spa , said to be the inspiration for Stars Hollow’s Independence Inn, if not the whole show itself; a stay at this adorable inn is perfect if you’re looking for relaxing things to do in CT!

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

Have idyllic fall fun in a corn maze

What could be more representative of Connecticut fall fun than a corn maze! There several great corn mazes around the state that have all kinds of fun autumn activities, and getting lost in a corn maze is always one of the best things to do in Connecticut in the fall!

Eat a lobster roll (in the place where it was invented)

If you’re visiting New England, you pretty much have to sample a lobster roll… if you’re a seafood lover, at least!

Did you know that Milford, Connecticut claims to be the first place that this iconic sandwich was created? Whether that’s true or not, you’ll certainly find some fantastic lobster roll options in the Constitution State, and you’ll find them typically served warm (which is how I like them!) as opposed to cold, like their more northern neighbors.

Visit the oldest operating amusement park in the US

You will find nostalgic charm at Lake Compounce , currently the USA’s oldest amusement park still in operation. It’s not just classic rides either, they’ve also got as well as Connecticut’s largest water park onsite.

PS: Don’t miss riding “Boulder Dash”,  voted the world’s #1 wooden roller coaster. Add this to the list of fun date ideas in CT!

Peruse the The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

Like contemporary art? Come to The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in Ridgefield. If you’re looking for Connecticut indoor activities, this museum exhibits exclusively contemporary art and prides itself on its “visionary exhibitions.”

Delight in nature at the Elizabeth Park Conservancy

You will find exquisite natural beauty at the Elizabeth Park Conservancy in Hartford. Perhaps most stunning is its rose garden , which typically blooms from Father’s Day to early fall. The Conservancy is open to visitors 365 days a year and is one of the most beautiful places in CT.

Follow the Connecticut Wine Trail

Did you know Connecticut has one of the fastest growing wine regions in the US? Yep! And you can tour the hottest spots when you follow the Connecticut Wine Trail. Stop and sip at amazing wineries and vineyards all over the state.

If you’re looking for a guided tour of CT wineries, those are available also, from providers such as this one ; wineries are always a fun bet for things to do in Connecticut on a lovely summer day!

Drop by the campus at Yale University

Ah, Yale. That beacon of higher learning and academia. And a beautiful campus, too if you’re looking for things to do in New Haven, Connecticut!

Yale is definitely worth a visit. The 318-year-old university  offers guided tours to the public , which will take you all over the scenic campus.

Don’t forget to check out the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History while there!

Fly into the New England Air Museum

The New England Air Museum is located in Windsor Locks, CT, and is a great place to visit for those with an interest in aircraft. There are not only exhibits of historic aircraft, but regular demonstrations and opportunities for learning.

More than 55 aircraft of all kinds are on display in large sweeping hangars, definitely one of the coolest places to go in CT with family!

Visit one of the most unique state parks in the country

Dinosaur State Park is an incredible opportunity to see dinosaur tracks with your very own eyes! That’s right, a 200-million-year-old fossil trackway is just waiting for your to explore in Rocky Hill CT.

You’ll also find an arboretum, interactive exhibits, and nature trails to hike on. You’ll find a wide variety of habitats, including swamps, forested areas, and a traprock ridge where you can even see broken bits of basaltic rock that was once hot lava. Truly, this is a fascinating state park!

Explore CT beach towns

This might not be the most unique item on this Connecticut bucket list, but it’s one worth including. There are many awesome beaches in Connecticut  and adorable beach towns where you can have a fun day on the sand, and if you’re visiting in summer? It’s high on the list of Connecticut things to do!

Stop at B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill

Did you know there is only one remaining steam-powered cider mill in the United States? That is B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill in Old Mystic. They make hard cider and many other delicious apple treats. Visit in the autumn (they open in September), and get ready to wait in line for their delicious cider doughnuts; this is a good one if you’re looking for cute fall date ideas in CT!

Tour the Connecticut State Capitol

Even if you don’t have time to tour this state building, it’s worth a look at the grand exterior! There are self-guided tours, doable with a brochure available inside the building, but if you can, take a guided tour to explore Connecticut history.

Browse this massive used book store

Avid readers and bookworms (like me) will find heaven on earth at the Book Barn in Niantic, CT. Not only is this used bookstore MASSIVE, with approximately 500,000 books on their shelves, they also have adorable CATS walking around. I mean, this is probably the #1 thing to do in Connecticut as far as I’m concerned. 

Climb aboard the USS Nautilus

Have you ever wanted to tour a submarine? The Submarine Force Library & Museum is home to the USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear powered submarine. The self-guided tour of the Nautilus is free, so if you’re looking for places to go in CT with family, this would def be a budget friendly CT activity that would be remembered for years to come!

Go apple picking

Does it get more quintessential Connecticut fall activity than apple picking? If you’re looking for places to visit in Connecticut in the fall, you’ve got a great selection of apple orchards to choose from !

Not only can you find apples to pick, but many also offer other fall attractions like flower fields, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and yummy fall flavored baked goods. This is one of the top things to do in Connecticut during the fall for good, wholesome fun.

Get your hike on

Hiking is an essential New England activity. While you might not think of Connecticut as being a hiking mecca—it’s certainly not as hilly and mountainous as states like New Hampshire and Vermont, there are still hundreds of fantastic trails for hiking, walking, and pretty places in CT for exploring. 

Find some historic, classic covered bridges

Covered bridges are a New England staple, and Connecticut has a few. The longest of these is the West Cornwall Covered Bridge, pictured below. Drive across slowly and revel in a moment that will take you back in time. 

Experience the world’s largest indoor ropes course

The largest indoor ropes course in the entire world is located in New Haven, CT. Perhaps surprisingly (and a bit oddly) it’s located at a furniture store!

There are more than 100 things to do at the IT Adventure Indoor Ropes Course , including a “liquid firework show (water show), double catwalk, crisscross angled rope ladders, zig-zag swinging beams, cargo nets, bridges, and so much more.”

This place looks Fun with a capital F, especially when you’re looking for things to do in CT indoors.

Visit the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center

The Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center is a nonprofit educational center dedicated to the knowledge and celebration of indigienous cultures. It has been open since 1998 and is owned-and-operated by the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe.

There’s a lot going on at this museum, which houses an auditorium, gallery, restaurant, classrooms, and plenty of exhibit space. This is the place to go to discover the history of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and dive deeper into the area’s natural history as well.

Admire Roseland Cottage

Historic homes are a wonderful place to visit, allowing guests to step into the past. The pink-painted Roseland Cottage , located in Woodstock, is a Gothic Revivial home built in 1846. 

You can tour the house and gardens and see what summers were like for Henry and Lucy Bowen and their family; if you’re a fan of gorgeous gardens, add this to your list of things to do in CT in the summer !

The house is simply beautiful, and also boasts the oldest indoor bowling alley in the world. 

Ride a snowbike at Powder Ridge Park

Powder Ridge Park is a perfect place to go when you’re looking for fun things to do in Connecticut in winter . They also have plenty of summer activities, too!

In the winter, the unique thing not to be missed is snowbike riding. This unusual activity is a great way to enjoy the magic of the slopes if you’re not a skiier or snowboarder. It’s just like…riding a bike!

Learn stuff at the Connecticut Science Center

Science museums are a great idea for when you’re looking for what to do on a rainy day in CT: there’s so much to see and do. The Connecticut Science Center is no exception. In addition to exciting traveling exhibits there are over a dozen permanent exhibits, including Exploring Space, Butterfly Encounter, River of Life, Engineering Lab, and Rooftop Garden. Kids will be thrilled about all the interactive stuff that invites them to touch, jump, and even be LOUD (check out the Sight and Sound Exhibit). Definitely should be added to the list of things to do in CT for kids!

Eat some apizza

No, that’s not a typo. “Apizza” is New Haven-style pizza, and it has some pretty interesting distinctions. Check out this definitive guide to find the best place to sample apizza. This is a yummy Connecticut bucket list activity!

Revel in fall colors in Litchfield County

It’s no secret that fall in New England is spectacular. And Connecticut boasts its own fair share of gorgeous autumn foliage. Litchfield County is one of the best places to take in the fall color, with its rolling hills and pastoral scenes everywhere you look. 

Go ice skating at Bushnell Park

When winter arrives, Winterfest hits Hartford. In downtown Bushnell Park, an ice skating rink appears each year, where families can glide on the ice and enjoy one of the best winter activities there is. Best of all, the ice skating and skate rentals are totally free.

This is a unique offering that you don’t see often and it makes it possible for thousands of visitors to enjoy the rink each holiday season; would make a great addition to a list of ideas for fun dates in Connecticut!

Hop aboard Essex Steam Train

All aboard!!!! If you’re a train lover, you’ll want to check out the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat . This railroad dates back to the 20th century, while the actual tracks date back even further than that, and they offer a variety of different rides and events throughout the year.

Catch some live theatre

There is a great deal of excellent professional (and amateur) theatre in the state of Connecticut. Check out Goodspeed Opera House for Broadway-quality productions, Yale Repertory Theatre for some serious drama, and the Ivoryton Playhouse for fun summer stock shows.

Visit a Christmas tree farm

If you’re looking for a great way to experience Connecticut Christmas charm, consider a visit to a Christmas tree farm ! Not only can you pick out your next Christmas tree, but there are often all kinds of fun holiday activities like sleigh rides, hot chocolate sipping, wreath making and more.

Spend time at Bluff Point State Park

Bluff Point State Park is an 800-acre park on a largely undeveloped peninsula between the Poquonnock River and Mumford Cove. Here you’ll discover pleasant trails for biking and hiking, with views over Long Island Sound.

Keep your eyes peeled for plenty of avian wildlife, and if you’re into fishing, bring your poles. Potential species to be caught include bluefish, striped bass, summer and winter flounder, blackfish, and more. With a permit, you can also fish for shellfish here. 

Check out the historic homes in Wethersfield

One of the things that attracts many visitors to New England is its historic buildings. If you enjoy historic homes, make your way to Old Wethersfield. There you’ll come upon CT’s largest historic district, with over 100 pre-Civil War-era homes. 

Escape to one of CT’s charming small towns

Small towns in New England are such special places. In Connecticut you can find many such villages and towns, perhaps even when you’re not looking for them. But to give you a few hints, here are a couple of the cutest small towns in Connecticut : Old Saybrook , Guilford, Kent, Storrs, and Simsbury.

Personally, I think Guilford is one of the cutest small towns in Connecticut and beyond!

For an excellent place to stay in/near these towns, consider one of these charming Connecticut cabins.

Visit Hammonasset Beach State Park

This is actually the largest shoreline park in the state, and Hammonasset Beach State Park is an excellent CT destination if you’re interested in spectacular Long Island Sound views.

There’s more than just sandy beach at Hammonasset, too, with camping sites, bicycle rentals, and Meigs Point Nature Center , where you’ll find educational programs like nature walks, touch-tank programs, and craft workshops, designed to teach visitors about the natural history and wildlife of coastal Connecticut.

Eat at the cafe that invented the hamburger

Louis’ Lunch in New Haven has the true record: they are the birthplace of the hamburger sandwich and the Library of Congress says so. Grab a classic burger in this small, cute restaurant, but know that they only offer tomato, onion, and cheese so you get the burger’s true flavor; add this to your list of unique and fun experiences in CT!

Go lighthouse hopping

It should come as no surprise that Connecticut has lighthouses in abundance! You can tour some of them or view them from land or by water only in some cases. You may find that one particular lighthouse quickly becomes your favorite. 

Interestingly, there are many tales of haunted lighthouses in Connecticut. 

Read Next: 13 Most Haunted Places in Connecticut: Ghosts & Ghastly Tales 👻

Stay in a charming Connecticut Bed and Breakfast

If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Connecticut, you’ve got to check out the dreamiest B&Bs Connecticut has to offer. Connecticut romantic getaways are all about embracing that New England charm!

Bike along the Farmington River Trail

Connecticut is a great destination for cycling with many trails zig-zagging across the state. One not to miss is the Farmington River Trail, a 26-mile stretch of mostly paved trail. With pretty views of the river, woods, and scenic mills, this is one of the best .

Explore Ghost Towns

It might be surprising to you to learn that there are actually quite a few ghost towns in the Nutmeg State!

One of the most intriguing ghost towns in CT to explore is Gay City, and its conveniently now a protected state park so people are able to completely access this lost city!

Take a walk on the Niantic boardwalk

This walk isn’t very long, comprising just over 1 mile, but it’s a pleasant and relaxing place to take in views over Long Island Sound, and certainly one of the prettiest sights in Connecticut. Seriously, I think Niantic is such a darling little town on Long Island Sound!

Stroll downtown Milford

Okay, I absolutely adore Milford! This is such a cute Connecticut town, it definitely needs to be on your CT bucket list.

The Milford Green is one of the most historic greens in the region (and that’s actually saying quite a lot!) and the downtown area has lovely Milford Duck Pond with its very own little waterfall. This is just such a sweet place to explore and feels very quintessential New England.

Sample the delights at Jonathan Edwards Winery

Wine is, to me, one of my favorite parts of travel, if not life itself. The Jonathan Edwards Winery is a fabulous CT winery of a bicoastal nature: much of the harvest still comes from Wine Country itself, California’s Napa Valley.

Enjoy tastings and tours at this beautiful site and take home a bottle of your favorite to remember your Connecticut trip with, if you so choose.

Go camping in Pachaug State Forest

Get out in the wilderness in Connecticut’s largest state forest. Covering 24,000 acres, Pachaug State Forest presents countless opportunities to revel in the great outdoors.

There are several different campgrounds for pitching your tent (or parking your RV) and there is even a horse camp, so equestrians can enjoy the trails over several days. 

Visit the Connecticut Trolley Museum

One of the coolest things to do in Connecticut is to visit the Connecticut Trolley Museum, where you can ride a historic trolley before visiting the museum that showcases the history of what was once the best ride in town.

Explore Kent Falls State Park

Kent Falls State Park is a definite must visit in Connecticut, with a historic covered bridge, 250-feet of cascading waterfalls, and waterfall trails that let you get so close to the falls that you’ll feel the cool mist on your face.

This is hands down, one of the most popular parks in CT.

Visit Lover’s Leap State Park

Situated along the Housatonic River, Lovers Leap State Park was named after a centuries-old legend of a pair of star-crossed lovers who perished together in the river trying to reach one another.

That story has since been thoroughly debunked, but it’s still an interesting story to ponder as you explore this 160-acre state park with its hiking trails, historic ruins, and incredible views of the Housatonic, especially over the historic truss iron bridge that was originally erected in 1895. 

Connecticut is a gorgeous state that offers a wide variety of activities for just about every kind of visit, whether you’re looking for coastal CT fun, historic points of interest, and beyond, there are things to do in Connecticut for everyone.

Check out our guides for more of Connecticut’s towns:

• 14 Fun and Fabulous Things to Do in Bridgeport CT
• 10 Fun Things to do in Chester CT
• 9 Great Things to do in Essex CT for All Ages
• 12 Exciting Things to do in Glastonbury CT
• 13 Grand Things to Do in Greenwich CT
• 11 Fun Things to Do in Stamford, CT
• 13 Terrific Things to Do in New London, Connecticut
• 12 Fun Things to do in Waterbury, Connecticut

Need more guidance planning your Connecticut adventure? Look here:

• 10 Unique Airbnbs in Connecticut: Boats, Treehouses, & More
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• 12 Abandoned Places in Connecticut

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Fun Things to Do in Connecticut: Ultimate Bucket List

A week into our northeast road trip, we cross over to the nutmeg state in search of inspiration for the perfect Connecticut bucket list. It’s the first New England state we enter since leaving Chicago. From the slow-rolling countryside and charming seaport villages to the historic city capitol and coastal drives, we discovered there are many amazing things to do in Connecticut! 

READ NEXT: OUR FULL NEW ENGLAND ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

Here are the must-see places and must-do attractions we think you should add to your CT bucket list trip.

1. The State Capitol

Although the city of Hartford is lackluster as a whole, there are a few things that make it worth a visit and the State Capitol is one of them.

Topped with a shiny gold dome, the marble Gothic building is easily one of our all-time favorites. The exterior is gorgeous; it is adorned with stained glass, sculptures, ornamental reliefs, and medallions.

Typically, we find if a building is over-the-top on the outside the inside leaves something to be desired. Not at Connecticut’s capitol!

As we walk around, we discover an 18-foot impressive statue that once topped the dome, a model of the Civil War flagship Hartford and the wooden figurehead from the original ship, the statue of Nathan Hale, the Revolutionary War hero, the battle flags of Connecticut regiments from the Civil War, and a replica of the Liberty Bell.

Where: 210 Capitol Ave, Hartford, CT

One of the unique things to do in CT is a tour of the Connecticut State Capitol Building. Pictured is the large statue that once stood on top of the golden dome that can now be found inside.

2. Mark Twain’s House and Museum

If you’ve been following along on our adventures, you might remember when we took our nephews to Hannibal, Missouri to explore Samuel Clemens, aka Mark Twain’s, boyhood home or more recently his study and burial site in New York .

The man is a literary legend and I’m not only interested in his artistic genius but the man himself is quite intriguing.

Not only did he love to travel and considered himself a vagabond, but he was a literary celebrity.

He also dressed the part. Always wearing white from head to toe, even his untamed wild hair and eyebrows matched!

At the Mark Twain House and Museum , you get a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle that led him to financial ruin.

Built in 1847 for $45,000, the home has a medieval gothic feel with dark wood and rich colors. 

READ NEXT: 32 Best Things to Do in Hartford CT

No pictures are allowed inside, but on the tour, we learned Clemens and his family lived in the Hartford home for seventeen years and it is where he wrote many of his famous novels.

The house is filled with original furniture and even has silverware laid out on the dining room table etched with Olivia Langdon’s name, Twain’s wife.

If you are interested in American literature, Victorian architecture or history, the Mark Twain House and Museum is one of the best things to do in Hartford, Connecticut. 

Where: 351 Farmington Road, Hartford, CT

3. Picturesque Saville Dam

If you look for cool and unusual places on your travels, be sure to stop by Saville Dam and Reservoir.

Situated on the eastern section of the Farmington River surrounded by trees and blue water, the gatehouse is as Instagram-worthy as it gets.

It looks like a miniature castle with a stone turret and archways. 

Tip: The walk from the parking lot is on a 50 MPH road so stay within the walking area.

Where: 27 Saville Dam Road, Barkhamsted, CT

READ NEXT: A MAGICAL GETAWAY IN RHODE ISLAND RIGHT ACROSS THE CONNECTICUT BORDER

4. Climb Mount Tom Tower

Take the short 1.30-mile loop trail to the summit of Mount Tom.

Climb to the top of the 34-foot stone tower for expansive views that extend to the Catskills in New York and Mount Everett in Massachusetts. 

Where: Mount Tom State Park, Washington Depot, CT

5. Hike to Kent Falls

Don’t miss this lovely little park situated in the quaint rolling countryside of the Litchfield Hills region. 

The stroll to the cascading waterfalls begins across a red-covered bridge and is only 1/4 of a mile long with three observation decks. 

Where: 462 Kent Cornwall Road, Kent

6. Experience Gilmore Girls Small Town Charm

If there ever was a television show that exemplified the nuances of small-town living, it is Gilmore Girls.

The rural communities of northwest Connecticut provided the inspiration for the show.

And although I didn’t necessarily get the GG vibe in one town as a whole as I did later on in the trip (keep reading below) we did find a few Rory and Lorelei-worthy stops.

Washington: browse the aisles at the Washington Food Market (Doose’s Market), walk the grounds at Mayflower Grace like the show’s creator, Amy Sherman-Palladino (Independence Inn), try the coffee at Martys (Luke’s Diner), and pick up a book at Hickory Stick Bookshop (Stars Hollow Books).

Woodbury: Go shopping at Farmhouse Antiques (Mrs. Kims).

New Milford: Stop to see the green and white gazebo similar to the one in the Stars Hollow Town Square.

7. Walk Around Yale University Campus

Yale University is the third-oldest institution of higher education in the United States. Built in 1701, it is also one of nine Colonial Colleges built before the Revolutionary War.

The campus is enormous so put on your walking shoes and see what Ivy League is all about.

Do not miss the Old Campus surrounding Phelps Hall; it is the oldest part of the university and is where freshman students call home.

Make sure to see the Phelps Gate, College House, Congregational Church, and rub the toe of former Yale president Theodore Dwight Woolsey for good luck.

Another must-see is the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library . It is a new addition to the university with a contemporary design, but you will not want to skip it.

It is home to Yale’s oldest books, including a copy of the Gutenberg Bible, and the interior is remarkable. You will certainly want to add this one to your Connecticut road trip.

Where: Yale Visitor Center, 149 Elm Street, New Haven, CT

8. Try New Haven-Style Pizza

All that walking will make you hungry so head over to Little Italy on Wooster Street.

Stop in Frank Pepe Pizzeria Neapolitan for a coal-charred thin-crust pizza that has made this street famous.

Where: Frank Pepe, 157 Wooster St., New Haven, CT

9. Lighthouse Point Park

Just twenty minutes southeast of downtown New Haven is a pretty little park featuring an 80-foot lighthouse known as the Five Mile Point Light and an early 20th-century carousel. 

The current tower was constructed in 1847 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places along with the light keeper’s house and the 1905 carousel. 

10. Visit the Real Stars Hollow Town of Guilford

Even though I enjoyed wandering around the small towns of northwest Connecticut, no one area seem to capture the all-encompassing Stars Hollow ambiance.

That was until we stopped in Guilford.

The expansive town green is surrounded by buildings such as the Town Hall, a hardware store, a colorful chocolate shop, a small market, and a book store.

We were immediately drawn into the quirky close-knit community.

A man asked us if we’d like a free barbecue grill he purchased at a garage sale that was barely used when he saw us browsing the selection at the hardware store, another stranger thought he photo-bombed a picture I was taking so he parked his car and got out to apologize, then we saw a cute older couple dressed to the nines on their daily walk around the square.

Can it get any more Stars Hollow than that?

11. Walk Along Connecticut’s Longest Stretch of Beach

With over 2 miles of shoreline, Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison is one of the most popular attractions in the state. 

Take a stroll on the boardwalk, visit the nature center, swim, or relax in the sand on Connecticut’s longest stretch of beach. 

12. Drive a Loop around the Connecticut River

Flowing through four of the six New England states, the Connecticut River is the longest river in the region. From Old Saybrook head north on Route 154 to the historic town of Essex .

Stroll through the quintessential New England town with early Colonial homes, a waterfront harbor, and small boutique shops.

If you’re looking for things to do in Connecticut for couples, book a room at The Griswold Inn , the romantic Revolutionary War-era inn, and stay in the picture-perfect town overnight.

Disclosure: Some of the links on our site are through affiliate partnerships. We may receive a small commission (at no additional cost to you) if you purchase through our links. 

At Haddam, detour to Eagle Landing State Park , for a view of the East Haddam Swing Bridge and Goodspeed Opera House, a unique theater where the musical, Annie, first premiered.

RELATED: THINGS TO DO IN CONNECTICUT IN THE FALL

13. Visit Sherlock Holmes’ Whimsical Castle

Gillette Castle State Park is on the Connecticut River like the above stops but deserves its own special place on our list.

Even if you do not drive the loop around the river, the castle should make your itinerary as one of the most unique things to do in CT.

Perched high above the river with beautiful views, the castle was built between 1914 and 1919 by William Gillette, the first Sherlock Holmes. The building looks more like a stone fortress from the Medieval era than an actual home.

Unfortunately, tours are only available from Memorial Day to Labor Day so we weren’t able to adventure inside. But the grounds are open year-round and the curtains pulled back so we were able to take a sneak peek.

After reading the interior is just as extraordinary as the exterior with puzzle-like locks, trick mirrors, and secret passageways, we are definitely adding it back on our list of places to get back to.

Where: 67 River Road, East Haddam

14. Harkness Memorial State Park

After Labor Day, Connecticut state parks are free so we stumbled upon Harkness Memorial State Park on accident. We turned in one morning thinking it would probably have a trail or two to stretch our legs.

We were pleasantly surprised to find an estate with a flourishing garden and ocean views.

Where: 275 Great Neck Rd, Waterford

15. Try a Connecticut-style Lobster Roll

We are on the ocean! Do you know what that means? Lobster rolls are THE hot menu item, but there’s a catch. Pun intended.

The typical New England lobster roll is served cold and mixed with mayo and diced celery. Since I am not a fan of mayo, I am happy to find Connecticut style is served warm with melted butter.

Stop in the tiny town of Noank at either Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough or Ford’s Lobster Restaurant , order a lobster roll, grab a picnic table, and enjoy the beautiful view.

Hot Tip: At both establishments, it’s BYOB, bring your own booze.

16. Find Giant Seashells at Bluff Point Beach

Bluff Point State Park is an 806-acre park that’s also designated a coastal reserve.

Tucked alongside the Pequonot River, it’s a beautiful place to hike, bike, bird watch, kayak, fish, or search for seashells and sea glass. 

Where: 55 Depot Road, Groton

17. Board the World’s Last Whaling Ship

What is the most visited place in Connecticut? Most of the above places make that list including this must-do attraction, the Mystic Seaport Museum .

Since our travels this year have taken us to a lot of museums, albeit fantastic experiences, we are feeling a little museumed out. We considered skipping the seaport museum, but we are thankful we did not.

It’s not only the largest maritime museum in our nation, it also has the world’s last wooden whaling ship, the Charles W. Morgan.

If you are planning a family trip, it’s one of the top things to do in Connecticut with kids and adults alike. 

Spend the day among historically restored buildings and sailing ships learning about the whaling industry, preservation techniques, and what life was like in 19th century America.

Visit Mystic: Top Things to do in Connecticut in the fall

18. Eat at Mystic Pizza

And finally, if you are a Julia Roberts fan like me, don’t forget to visit Mystic Pizza in town. Made famous by the 1980s coming-of-age movie, it’s a can’t-miss establishment. 

If you are headed to Connecticut for a road trip, check out these cool places and fun things to do.

Have you been? What would you add to our Connecticut Bucket List? Share your favorite things to do in Connecticut below in the comments.

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Angela E. is a travel writer from the Chicagoland area who has visited all 50 states in the US and has traveled extensively around the world. She is passionate about exploring the great outdoors and hiking in particular. Her love for nature has taken her to some of the most beautiful locations on the planet. She has written extensively about her travels on her own website, Dang Travelers, and has been published in collaboration with other travel websites and multiple visitor bureaus around the country.

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22 Responses

Lola la paz.

You are doing an awesome road trip over there! That library does look amazing! And what about the size of that pizza? Looks like Connecticut has it all; nature, culture and good food!

Carol Colborn

Oh my! We only went to Yale and Mark Twain’s house. We missed so much. That State Capitol is very different from other states. And a visit to the last whaling ship would have been cool!

Michelle Girouard

Hit topsmead in Litchfield

Dang Travelers

Thanks Michelle!

Connecticut is one of the few US states we have not yet visited, but we hope to get there in the next couple of years. I shall definitely want to visit Mark Twain’s home and I doubt if I will be able keep Peter out of the Seaport Museum. And I shall definitely be sampling those delicious lobster rolls!

Connecticut looks amazing! You have really highlighted some fantastic places to visit. I would love to see Mark Twain’s home ( no idea he was extravagant), the Gilford girls town, the Yale library and that whaling ship! Thanks for all the great info. Love road trips.

Jenn and Ed Coleman

Connecticut looks just like I expected it to. I have a thing about visiting author’s homes since going to the Hemingway House. It’s fun to use it as a prompt to write a little memoir in the style of the author. Lots of Kerouac here in Central Florida (which is loads of literary fun if you give it a try). However, the top of my list was something Twainy. Seems like your bucket list is perfect for that. You could make it a twofer and write a little coming of age ditty a-la Mystic Pizza too.

P vinod Menon

I have a book on hiking in connecticut maybe old but still can use it from the berkshires to the coast first published by sue and Gerry hardy lovely book since I like small hikes

Michael Hodgson

Love Connecticut! Much of my exploration there has been in the parks and trails with a little into the cities and historical sites. Mark Twain’s home is fantastic for sure. Now, about that Lobster Roll … a really good lobster roll, be it from Maine (the best) or elsewhere, should be so well done you never taste the mayo, even if you hate it. 😉

Astrid Vinje

We haven’t really spent much time in Connecticut, to be honest. It’s always usually just a stop over on our way to Massachusetts. We did stop in Mystic for pizza at the restaurant from the Julia Roberts movie, “Mystic Pizza.” I didn’t realize Mark Twain’s house is there. That’s a good reason for me to come back and actualy spend time exploring Connecticut.

melody pittman

Connecticut is on my bucket list for the spring so this is definitely getting filed away. Great things to see and do!! I can’t wait to explore Mystic, see the state capitol, and the Gilmore Girls stuff. That pizza…OMG that thing is enormous! Looks so tasty!

Lara Dunning

I would love to explore this area of the US and many of my ancestors came over early and settled in the New England area, one is one of the founders of Hartford. I really enjoyed your post and learning about the things to do there. I would definitely want to visit the castle and the dam!

There are some great choices here! I was born and raised in CT and there are things here I’ve never done. Thanks for the ideas!

Thanks Ree! Love to hear that.

Some added attractions, growing up here some other worthy places of interest are Greenwich for the upscale or window shoppers and Litchfield are are two of my most favorite destinations. To the north of our state is a beautiful New England race track made famous by Paul Newman, called Lime Rock Park. Even if you aren’t into automobiles, I enjoy it myself. Farmington Polo Club also has many events besides horses, charities host numerous reasons to visit there most of the year.

This is great Alison! Thanks so much.

Susan Lewis

If you travel further west on the coast you will hit the town of Norwalk, Ct. I spent a great afternoon touring a civil war era mansion, the Lockwood Mathews Mansion, built in 1861 by Legrand Lockwood. The Precursor to the guided age mansions ofNewport, the woodwork and inlays alone are magnificent. Great docents that were very knowledgeable.

One location often overlooked is East Haddam, CT. Home to the Goodspeed Opera House and the Goodspeed Airport. One of the prettiest small generation aviation airports in the country. It also boasts the East Haddam Swing Bridge, one of the longest swing bridges ever built and still in daily operation in the US. Plenty of places to stop and eat while here.

There are so many good restaurants to stop at throughout Connecticut also to help keep you going! Nothing like a good out of the way local place to charge up and refuel.

Absolutely!

Also visit the little-known Boothe Memorial Park and Museum in Stratford CT. Set at the turn of the century, this 30 acre park is the site of the Boothe brothers homestead, train museum, blacksmith shop, nature museum and 13 other small buildings. Only open Mid-May – Labor Day

Thanks Ann! Sounds like a neat park!

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24 Fun Things to Do in Connecticut

A seaside state with equal parts cultural interest and scenic beauty.

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New Haven is one of many places to explore in the Constitution State.

If your idea of a great vacation involves scenic drives through the countryside, sunbathing on the beach, eating fresh seafood and strolling around towns rich in history and culture, it's time to plan a visit to Connecticut.

The word "Connecticut" takes its namesake from the Native American word "Quinnehtukqut" which references the river that runs through the state towards the Long Island Sound, which creates the state's iconic seaside border. Connecticut is a place whose essence is quite connected to its natural resources.

Although highly revered for its stunning fall foliage, outdoor adventures abound year-round, from sailing to skiing, and a cozy tavern is never far away if the weather turns bitter. The presence of an Ivy League university creates a rich cultural landscape, too, which rivals those of the state's more cosmopolitan neighbors. Read on to discover the best things to do in Connecticut.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Celebrate the sea in Mystic

This charming seaside village is one of the most iconic destinations in the state thanks to an array of activities, eateries and historic landmarks, like the Mystic River Bascule Bridge. Some of its top attractions include the Mystic Seaport Museum , where visitors can explore the country's largest collection of historic ships from tugboats to schooners and the Mystic Aquarium. A historic downtown district offers a pleasant place to stroll with more than 80 independent shops like clothing boutiques, artisanal candy stores and art.

In addition to Mystic Pizza, the self-entitled setting of a popular romantic comedy film from the 1980s, foodies will find an array of dining options to sample, from seafood shacks to AAA's four-diamond restaurants – many of which boast waterfront patios and views of the horizon – as well as several local breweries and a chocolate cafe.

The Whaler's Inn gets rave reviews for its cozy accommodations, friendly staff and convenient location just steps from downtown.

Refine Your mind in Hartford

As the state's capital city, Hartford is a hotbed of historic and cultural attractions to explore like the Connecticut Science Center, the Bushnell Center for Performing Arts and the Old State House, a national historic landmark that was the center of government activity from 1796 to 1878, which now serves as a museum.

One of the city's most popular landmarks is the Mark Twain House & Museum where the famous literary lived while penning several American classics, including the "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." Visitors speak highly of the beautiful Gothic-style home and grounds, accessible via guided tour only (advanced reservations recommended).

Twain's neighbor, author Harriet Beecher Stowe, also has a museum dedicated to her life and work located nearby. The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art houses its collections − described by aficionados as "impressive," "diverse" and "stunning" − in a 75,000-square-foot castle, and is the oldest public art museum in the country as well as the largest in the state. The Delamar West Hartford Hotel and its on-site restaurant, Artisan is considered one of the best stays and restaurants in town.

Mashantucket Pequot Museum

Courtesy of Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center

Founded to bring the story of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation to life, this museum offers a multi-sensory experience. Visitors learn about the history and culture of Native Americans of the northeast through dioramas, films, art, interactive programs, archival materials and a variety of exhibits.

Guests of the tribally owned and operated museum say they are surprised by the vastness of the museum, and that they learned a lot from their visit, especially the Pequot Village recreation. The 308,000-square-foot complex is home to the museum with permanent and temporary exhibits, research center, 320-seat auditorium, classrooms, restaurant, archives and a museum shop. Designed in unison with the environment, the architecture of the museum features a 185-foot stone and glass tower with views of the surrounding swamp and region, and two of the facility's five levels are situated below ground.

Ticket prices are $22 for adults and $13 for children.

Address: 110 Pequot Trail, Mashantucket, CT 06338

Gillette Castle State Park

A visit to this historic site offers a plethora of activities from hiking and camping to touring the unique home of Connecticut-born William Hooker Gillette, an acclaimed actor and playwright who resided here in the early 1900s. The Medieval-style mansion features 24 rooms and a multitude of custom elements designed by Gillette himself and crafted by local artisans. Travelers remark on the amazing architectural details of the structure, as well as the beautiful views of the river from the outdoor terrace. A network of short walking paths, including one that follows along an old railroad track, meanders throughout the surrounding 184-acre property bordering the Connecticut River offering fantastic scenery and plenty of places to picnic.

Castle tours are available in the summer months for a fee; entrance to the park is free and available year-round. The Boardman House bed and breakfast in the nearby town of East Haddam offers elegant accommodations near the riverside.

Address: 67 River Road, East Haddam, CT 06423

Hammonasset Beach State Park

A visit to this sandy, two-mile stretch of protected land is touted as one of the best things to do in Connecticut. Beachgoers flock here in the warmer months to sunbathe on its pristine beaches, swim in the surf and stroll along the historic boardwalk. More active types will also find plenty to do thanks to a network of walking paths, fishing piers and wildlife viewing areas, all of which are open year-round. People say this is a fantastic place to watch the sunset across Long Island Sound.

Be sure to stop by the Meigs Point Nature Center on the southern end of the park near Hammonasset Point to take a peek at the turtle habitat and tour its 10 themed gardens which showcase native plant species. Non-residents are required to pay a parking fee to access the park.

In addition to the on-site campground, a variety of lodging options are available in the nearby town of Madison, from the luxurious Madison Beach Hotel to the quaint Beech Tree Cottages.

Address: 1288 Boston Post Road, Madison, CT 06443

New England Air Museum

Courtesy of New England Air Museum

Aviation aficionados of all ages will be amazed by the extensive collection of planes, helicopters, engines and historic memorabilia on display at this unique indoor-outdoor museum located near the Bradley International Airport in the northern Connecticut town of Windsor Locks.

Visitors applaud the knowledgeable staff and volunteer docents readily available to answer questions about the exhibits, as well as the hands-on activities for kids, like building paper airplanes, family-friendly scavenger hunts and operating the Redbird Flight Simulator. Highlights of the collection include the oldest surviving aircraft in the country, which is actually a hot air balloon basket, as well as the oldest Connecticut-constructed airplane.

A variety of convenient lodging options are located along the Ella Grasso Turnpike on the east side of the airport.

Address: 36 Perimeter Road, Windsor Locks, CT 06096

Eat your way around New Haven

While New Haven is perhaps best-known as the home to Yale University and its accompanying world-class museums, it's only slightly lesser claim to fame is to creating the first American hamburger. Needless to say, this city takes its food scene very seriously. It especially prides itself on perfect pizza pie making, like the thin crust pizza pies at Modern Apizza, or the "white clam pie" at Frank Pepe's, which was ranked in the top five best pizza's in America by the Food Network.

In addition to superior American staples − including the aforementioned "hamburger sandwich" at Louis' Lunch, which travelers describe as "legendary" and "bucket list" worthy – the downtown area boasts numerous fine dining and global cuisine options such as the highly rated Union League Café and Olea restaurants. The college town also offers an array of budget-friendly food trucks, diners and dive bars, especially along Long Wharf Drive where a cluster of Latin-American street food vendors collectively called Food Truck Paradise whips out tacos, empanadas and Cuban plantains for takeout.

Thanks to its location overlooking the Long Island Sound, seafood is a dietary staple in New Haven and is best enjoyed at popular waterfront restaurants like Stowe's Seafood and Shell & Bones Oyster Bar and Grill.

Book a room at The Blake Hotel where you can cap off your feeding frenzy with a cocktail at the High George rooftop bar.

Hill-Stead Museum

Step inside this stately Colonial-style mansion to view a vast collection of European artwork from paintings to textiles, including pieces by Monet and Degas that rival those found in major cities. The 30,000-square-foot estate is appointed with original furnishings and décor from the late 19th century creating an elegant atmosphere that can be experienced on hour-long guided tours offered Wednesday through Sunday between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Masks are required to be worn indoors during your visit. The beauty continues outdoors to the surrounding 152-acre property flaunting picturesque flower gardens, rolling hills and serene walking paths meandering through lush woods. The grounds, which are described by guests as "breathtaking" and "spectacular," are even more stunning in autumn when the leaves are most vibrant. Located just one mile down the road, the Farmington Inn and Suites provides sophisticated accommodations with a complimentary breakfast.

Address: 35 Mountain Road, Farmington, CT 06032

Yale University

As the third oldest university in the country, as well as one of the most prestigious in the world, a visit to New Haven is not complete without taking time to explore this institution's scenic grounds, architecturally impressive buildings and world-class amenities.

Start your day at the Mead Visitor's Center with a free guided tour, where student docents lead you by foot to see historic landmarks like the Gothic Sterling Memorial Library and several of the 14 on-site colleges across seven distinct campus regions, while entertaining guests with stories about the university's lengthy lifespan. Visitors say the iconic Harkness Tower is a good place to take a photo, and is especially popular on graduation day. Families with children can pick up the "Architectural Treasure Hunt" brochure to help keep kids engaged during the tour.

Afterward, you can spend time exploring some of the university's attractions more in-depth, like the Peabody Natural History Museum (reopening in 2024), the 8-acre Marsh Botanical Garden or the Yale University Art Gallery, the oldest university art museum in the country boasting almost 300,000 pieces of art from around the globe. Be sure to check out the university event calendar, which is chock full of cultural and educational activities that are open to the public like film screenings, author appearances, workshops and live performances.

Round out your college-themed visit with a stay at The Study at Yale or The Graduate New Haven hotels.

Address: 149 Elm St., New Haven, CT 06511

Get to know the Connecticut River

The Connecticut River is a 410-mile waterway that flows south from the Canadian border and empties into the Long Island Sound near Old Saybrook. It provides scenic beauty as well as vast recreational opportunities both on and off the water to the hundreds of communities along its watershed, making a visit to its shoreline one of the best things to do in Connecticut.

Head to Eagle Landing State Park in Haddam, where you'll have access to a fishing pier and boat launch, as well as ample space to view the population of bald eagles that flock here in the winter to nest and fish along the riverbank. The Connecticut River Museum can be found in the town of Essex featuring a collection of artwork, memorabilia and interactive exhibits celebrating the history and wildlife of the waterway, as well as guided river cruises and tours, which are highly recommended by travelers.

More adventurous types can explore the waterway via canoe or kayak along the Connecticut River Paddler's Trail, which maintains a series of campsites and resources for paddlers. With two locations along the river in the towns of Old Lyme and Westbrook, Black Hall Outfitters can help get you out on the water with equipment rentals and guided tours.

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

Hop aboard a vintage steam train and a riverboat to explore the Connecticut River Valley. Operating daily during the summer months and select dates throughout the year, the Valley Railroad Company offers visitors the chance to step back in time while enjoying the New England scenery.

There are two operating steam locomotives, and travelers can choose from variety of passenger coaches and classes, including a seasonal open air car. The 2.5-hour round trip tours embark from the historic Essex Station, which was built in 1892. On the 12-mile journey travelers experience the scenery of the Connecticut River Valley, including the Selden Neck State Park (accessible only by boat) and the wetlands of Chester Creek and Pratt Cove. Upon arrival at Deep River Landing, passengers board the Becky Thatcher riverboat for a picturesque trip along the Connecticut River, taking in views of Gilette Castle, Haddam Swing Bridge and Goodspeed Opera House. Then, visitors get back on board the steam train to return to Essex Station.

Recent travelers say the ride is a great family activity and fun for railroad (and riverboat) enthusiasts. Themed excursions including wine and chocolate dinner excursions are also available.

Address: 1 Railroad Ave., Essex, CT 06426

PEZ Visitor Center

Courtesy of PEZ

Founded in 1925, this popular candy company now produces around five billion sweet treats each year in partnership with its headquarters location in Traun, Austria. Tickets for the self-guided tour of the 4,000-square-foot facility include a map brochure, souvenir PEZ lanyard and a $2 credit to use in the gift shop.

Inside you'll learn about the candy's colorful history, observe a product packaging line and browse an extensive collection of themed PEZ dispensers (including the world's largest PEZ dispenser). Interactive games throughout the space keep kids of all ages busy, and with a convenient location near the highway, many travelers say this is a great place to let kids burn off steam during a road trip or on a rainy day.

If you're interested in more than just a quick stop-off, the nearby Courtyard Marriott New Haven Orange/Milford features an outdoor pool and patio.

Address: 35 Prindle Hill Road, Orange, CT 06477

Explore the Connecticut Wine Trail

Did you know you can enjoy a wine-inspired vacation in Connecticut? Claiming to be the fastest-growing wine region in the country, the Connecticut Wine Trail features a collection of 24 winery members spread across all four corners of the state making it accessible from almost anywhere you wind up. In addition to sipping some award-winning wines, many facilities also offer live music and entertainment, fine dining, farm activities (like apple picking, pumpkin patches and Christmas tree cutting) and scenic views of the Connecticut countryside.

A few that stand out include the Connecticut Valley Winery, featuring a full range of award-winning varietals; the Haight-Brown Vineyard, the state's oldest winery; and the Sharpe Hill Vineyard, boasting a Zagat-rated restaurant on site. Travelers also like the Saltwater Farm Vineyard for its proximity to the sea, which adds a briny terroir to the wines, and the market and bakery at the Bishop's Orchards Farm Market & Winery.

Although springtime is said to be the best time to visit, several wineries are open year-round, offering cozy spaces and festive events in the winter, too.

Lake Compounce Amusement Park

Courtesy of Lake Compounce Amusement Park

This family-friendly attraction has several claims to fame, including the oldest theme park in North America and home to the state's largest water park , highlighting so many fun things to do in Connecticut.

Despite its age, visitors rave about how clean the park is, as well as its continued investments in updated rides and amenities, like the Venus Vortex water slide, a twirling tube that seats up to four passengers and overlooks the lake. Other popular rides include the Boulder Dash, a wooden "mountain coaster" that zips through the wilderness and the Wildcat, New England's oldest roller coaster, built in 1927.

The water park features a sandy beach area with shaded chaise lounges, two wave pools of varying intensities and a water playground for youngsters.

Tickets are required for guests older than 3 years old, which include access to both the water park and dry ride areas. Ticket prices range from $39.99 to $54.99.

The on-site campground has rustic accommodations including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins and tipi rentals available.

Address: 185 Enterprise Drive, Bristol, CT 06010

Get outdoors in Bridgeport

With 1,300 acres of public parks, beaches and recreational areas, the best way to experience this seaside city nicknamed "Park City," is by heading outdoors. Seaside Park is the crown jewel of the city's parks system, boasting three miles of shoreline, a dedicated cycling path and gardens where people often gather in the summertime to swim, sunbathe and have picnics. The 370-acre park overlooking the Long Island Sound also features a nature preserve and lighthouse to explore.

In the summer you can hop on a water taxi to access the remote Pleasure Beach, with an uninhibited shoreline to stroll and watch for wildlife. Located 2.5 miles east of this secluded gem is the hip Surfside Hotel, where you can wake up to the waves lapping the shore by the Stratford Seawall.

Beardsley Park is the site of Connecticut's only zoo, the Beardsley Zoo, which is home to 300 animals as well as a historic carousel and a botanical greenhouse. Although small in size and variety, visitors report the zoo is well maintained and entertaining for younger children, and that the animals seemed active throughout the day. The zoo is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Ticket prices range from $14 to $17. Tickets must be purchased online prior to visit.

Connecticut Science Center

This 154,000-square-foot facility offers a full day's worth of discovery and hands-on experience for curious folks of all ages with a 3-D theater and 165 exhibits to explore across six floors, including a sports lab, space galaxy simulator and medical experiments designed to make you think. Guests say that young kids especially love the water play area and the butterfly room, while parents enjoy the rooftop patio offering views of the Connecticut River. After looking at the river, head back inside to take a closer look at its ecosystem at the River of Life exhibit, featuring a virtual tour of the entire 400-mile waterway.

The Hartford Marriott Downtown hotel is located right next door to the museum with several on-site dining outlets, a fitness center and indoor pool.

Address: 250 Columbus Blvd., Hartford, CT 06103

Submarine Force Library & Museum

The Submarine Force Library and Museum is the only submarine museum managed by the Navy History and Heritage command division of the U.S. Navy. Admission to the museum is free, and guests are invited to step aboard the USS Nautilus, the world's first nuclear-powered submarine and a designated National Historic Landmark. The famous watercraft was constructed in the early 1950s just a few miles down the Thames River from the museum, making it a hometown favorite attraction.

Guests are amazed by their glimpse into the life of a submarine crew and recommend planning to spend at least 30 minutes poking around the narrow galleys, where you can also take a peek through a periscope. Self-guided tour materials are provided via a phone app so you can explore the facility at your own pace, and scavenger hunt activity packets are also available to help kids better engage with the historic nature of the museum.

The Hampton Inn Groton is conveniently located near the freeway, and features an indoor pool.

Address: 1 Crystal Lake Road, Groton, CT 06340

The Glass House

Michael Biondo | Courtesy of The Glass House

Owned and operated by the National Trust of Historic Preservation, the Glass House was constructed in 1949 by architect Phillip Johnson to function as his primary home. Aptly named, the modest yet complex home was designed with walls made entirely of glass to showcase the site's beautiful surroundings.

Guided tours are offered that take visitors beyond the main home into the artist's studio and outbuildings, including a guest house and several art galleries displaying Johnson's modernist work and collections (all tours originate from the visitor's center). The almost 50-acre pastoral property is also a masterpiece and is worth taking the extra time to explore on foot.

Tickets are required for admission to the Glass House. Children are allowed to take the tour but must be ages 10 or older. Ticket prices range from $25 to $250 depending on the day and type of tour guests are interested in. The nearby Roger Sherman Inn features sophisticated suites and a highly-rated French restaurant on site.

Address: 199 Elm St., New Canaan, CT 06840

Putnam Memorial State Park

In the midst of the American Revolutionary War, the troops of General Israel Putnam's Continental Army spent the winter of 1779 camping on this site, which is now the oldest state park in Connecticut. The facility features a visitor's center and museum to educate visitors on the rich war history of this area.

Admission to the park and its facilities are free of charge. Follow a well-maintained interpretive trail through the woods to immerse yourself in the ways of life during this era, with restored log cabins, archaeological sites and memorabilia like bronze statues and Civil War cannons along the way to aid your imagination. Further exploration of the grounds is encouraged by travelers who recommend the area for peaceful nature walks, picnics and taking kids to look for frogs in the pond.

The nearby town of Danbury offers a variety of lodging options, from basic chain motels to the upscale Ethan Allen Hotel.

Address: 499 Black Rock Turnpike, Redding CT 06896

Mystic Aquarium

Courtesy of Mystic Aquarium

A visit to this oceanic haven is one of the most fun things to do in Connecticut. The indoor-outdoor facility, though on the small side, boasts several unique features, including the only Stellar sea lion care facility and largest beluga whale pod in the continental United States. Guests rave about the whale exhibit and other interactive wildlife "encounters" but warn that many of these attractions are outdoors, making it a little less enjoyable in the winter months.

There are plenty of indoor activities, too, such as the mesmerizing jellyfish display or the touch-tank, where you can "pet" several species of sharks and stingrays while facing your fears of the animals intimately yet safely. Stop by the on-site gift shop before you go to pick out a cuddly souvenir of your favorite creature.

Timed-tickets must be purchased in advance. Ticket prices range from $28.24 to $39.99. Masks are required to be worn for the duration of your visit. The Hilton Mystic hotel is just across the street, featuring a swimming pool and free parking.

Address: 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355

[Read: The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State .]

Ski at Mohawk Mountain

This ski resort comprises 350 acres of scenic state forest land, 26 ski trails for a variety of skill levels and eight chair lifts. It is the largest ski area in the state, and was the first ski area to implement the use of mechanical snowmaking in 1948, a technology that is now widely used at ski resorts around the world. Non-skiers can go snow tubing or relax with a hot beverage in the main lodge located at the base. A second lodge is situated mid-mountain, featuring a spacious patio, massive stone fireplace and full-service restaurant for skiers to enjoy lunch or après snacks. The fun continues after dark with night skiing down several well-lit runs.

Guests mention that prices seem more affordable than some of the bigger resorts, making it great for families with young children. Lessons and equipment rentals are available. The Litchfield Inn is a welcoming estate located 11 miles southeast of Mohawk Mountain offering ski-and-stay packages.

Address: 46 Great Hollow Road, Cornwall, CT 06753

Slow down in Old Saybrook

The quaint seaside town of Old Saybrook, one of the oldest established communities in the state, is most revered for its idyllic scenes of New England life − picture sailboats swaying in the harbor, church steeples rising above fall foliage and the silhouette of a lighthouse on a rocky point with the sunset dipping into the water.

A nice way to explore the town's antique shops, historic landmarks and early Colonial architecture is with a self-guided walking tour brochure, provided by the Chamber of Commerce. Head to Harvey's Beach in the afternoon, where travelers say is a scenic spot to take a stroll, wade in the bay and enjoy a sunset picnic (parking fees required). End your day with a live performance at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, which hosts everything from country music artists to comedians. Many of the nautical-themed suites at the Saybrook Point Resort & Marina offer sweeping water views.

Drive across the West Cornwall Covered Bridge

Seemingly straight out of a painting you might find in an art museum, a quick detour to visit this photogenic structure is one of the many fun things to do in Connecticut. You might also recognize the 172-foot long wooden bridge − which has been transporting Route 128 traffic across the Houstantic River since 1864 − from the opening scenes of the 1967 movie "Valley of the Dolls." As one of the few of its kind remaining in the state, the structure is now enlisted on the National Register of Historic Places to ensure its continued preservation.

Architecture buffs will enjoy studying its unique lattice truss design, while nature lovers can sit on a bench overlooking the river and bask in the serene beauty of the area, which travelers say is outstanding. The nearby town of Cornwall offers a selection of lodging and dining options, as well as guides and outfitters for river recreation.

Address: Route 128, West Cornwall, CT 06796

Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

Courtesy of The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

This unique art museum houses no permanent collections but rather functions as a gallery space for traveling art exhibits, so no two visits are alike. Visitors applaud the well-curated rotating displays, as well as the two-acre outdoor sculpture garden, but mention it isn't a great spot to bring kids. The museum sits on a pretty green space just a few blocks from the center of the suburban town of Ridgefield, the first city in Connecticut to receive a Cultural District designation.

Located in the town's historic district, the 17,000-square-foot facility blends old and new with its traditional Colonial architecture juxtaposing the ultra-modern and contemporary artwork found inside. A half-mile walk will deliver you to the West Lane Inn, a boutique bed and breakfast. Admission ticket prices range from $7 to $12, but on the third Saturday of the month admission is free.

Address: 258 Main St., Ridgefield, CT 06877

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Weekend Getaways in New England
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• The Top Things to Do in Long Island
• The Top Things to Do in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire
• The Top Things to Do in Vermont
• The Top Things to Do in Pennsylvania
• The Top Things to Do in Rhode Island
• The Top Boston Harbor Cruises

Tags: Travel , New England Vacations , US Vacations

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November 14, 2023 By Lyndsay

15 Fun Day Trips from New Haven, Connecticut

• 1.1 1. Mystic, Connecticut
• 1.2 2. Branford, Connecticut
• 1.3 3. Bridgeport, Connecticut
• 1.4 4. Norwalk, Connecticut
• 1.5 5. Essex, Connecticut
• 1.6 6. Old Saybrook, Connecticut
• 1.7 7. East Haddam, Connecticut
• 1.8 8. Stamford, Connecticut
• 1.9 9. Hartford, Connecticut
• 1.10 10. Uncasville & Ledyard, Connecticut
• 2.1 11. New York City, New York
• 2.2 12. Poughkeepsie, New York
• 2.3 13. Boston, Massachusetts
• 2.4 14. Newport, Rhode Island
• 2.5 15. Providence, Rhode Island
• 3.1 How to spend a day in New Haven?
• 3.2 Is New Haven worth a visit?
• 3.3 What is New Haven best known for?
• 4 Day Trips from New Haven: Wrap-Up

This post may contain affiliate links! I will receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you purchase something recommended here.

Are you looking for the perfect day trip from New Haven?

Located in southwestern Connecticut, New Haven is a charming town with a beautiful arts and culture scene, world-famous pizza, and a stunning location near the Long Island Sound.

But if you’re looking to explore more of Connecticut and the surrounding areas, there are plenty of exciting day trips from New Haven.

Whether you’re interested in exploring historic coastal towns, hitting the beach, or taking a scenic drive through the countryside, there are so many interesting options within easy reach of the city.

When I was growing up in New Haven county, my family and I enjoyed all of these excellent day trips from New Haven.

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In-State Day Trips From New Haven

1. mystic, connecticut.

Mystic is a charming coastal town known for its historic seaport, which features a recreated 19th-century village, tall ships, and a maritime museum.

You can also explore the Mystic Aquarium, which displays various marine life.

One of the state’s largest living history museums, the Mystic Seaport, showcases maritime history for all those history buffs.

Since it’s one of my favorite Connecticut day trips with my mother, I have several resources to help you plan a day in Mystic , including recommendations on things to do , my favorite beaches nearby if you’re going in the summer, and my favorite autumn activities if you’re going in the fall.

2. Branford, Connecticut

Branford is a small town located just east of New Haven, and it is an excellent place to visit for a day trip.

You can take a stroll along Branford Green, a beautiful park surrounded by historic homes and buildings.

In the summer, you can enjoy one of the town’s several beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

You can also take a tour of the Thimble Islands.

This small Connecticut archipelago is a collection of granite islands that sailors once used.

Now, you can enjoy a boat tour to admire the luxury homes that dot the islands.

3. Bridgeport, Connecticut

Bridgeport is a city home to several museums, including the Barnum Museum, which is dedicated to the life and work of P.T. Barnum.

You can also visit the Beardsley Zoo, which is home to many different kinds of wild animals.

4. Norwalk, Connecticut

Norwalk is another coastal city located along the Long Island Sound.

The major landmark here is the Maritime Aquarium , which has a wide variety of marine life.

More than 7,000 animals call the aquarium home, and it’s the only one of its kind focused on the aquatic life of the Long Island Sound.

You can also explore the Norwalk Islands, a group of islands located just off the city’s coast.

Kayaking, bird watching, and camping are just a few activities you can enjoy on these islands.

5. Essex, Connecticut

Famous for its historic district, which features several 18th and 19th-century homes and buildings, Essex is an easy day trip from New Haven.

When you go, you must ride on the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, which will take you through the beautiful Connecticut River Valley.

Step back as you board the train at the historic 1892 station.

The 12-mile narrated ride takes you through the charming towns of Deep River and Chester, offering glimpses of the hidden gem, Selden Neck State Park, accessible only by boat.

6. Old Saybrook, Connecticut

Old Saybrook is a small beach town along the Connecticut coastline.

The town has several nature areas to explore, like The Preserve, the Plum Bank Marsh Wildlife Area, Ragged Rock Creek Marsh Wildlife Area, Harvey’s Beach, and Town Beach.

You can also walk through the historic district.

7. East Haddam, Connecticut

East Haddam is one of my favorite towns for a day trip from New Haven!

It’s home to the Tony Award-winning regional theater, the Goodspeed Opera House. This historic theater features a wide variety of performances throughout the year.

You can also explore Gillette Castle State Park, a beautiful castle built in the early 20th century by actor William Gillette.

8. Stamford, Connecticut

Stamford is one of the state’s major cities near New York City .

Several museums here, including the Stamford Museum and Nature Center, are housed in a 1920s mansion, which hosts various nature and cultural exhibits.

You can also visit the Cove Island Wildlife Sanctuary, a beautiful park and beach area home to several species of birds and other wildlife.

9. Hartford, Connecticut

You’ll find a nice mix of colonial history and modern architecture in the state capital, Hartford.

The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art showcases over 50,000 works of art, including paintings and textiles.

There’s also The Mark Twain House & Museum. The famous author lived here in the late 1800s and wrote several of his masterworks here, like Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and A Connecticut Yankee .

Along with the art and history, you can find the XL Center and Xfinity Theatre; they host conventions, concerts, and sporting events.

10. Uncasville & Ledyard, Connecticut

If you’re looking for exciting day trips from New Haven, Connecticut, you’re in luck, as there are two outstanding world-class casinos just a short 15-minute drive apart.

Over on the east side of the state, you can find the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville and Foxwoods in Ledyard.

These destinations offer many activities, including great dining, sports events, live performances, and traditional casino games, all while surrounded by the region’s scenic beauty.

In Ledyard, you’ll discover Foxwoods Resort Casino, one of the largest casinos in the area.

Located on Mashantucket Pequot tribal lands, this casino pays homage to its Native American heritage with the fascinating Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center.

The casino at Foxwoods boasts sprawling gaming floors, top-notch performance venues, and a diverse range of dining experiences.

If you’re a shopaholic, you’re in for a treat, as Foxwoods houses an entire Tanger Outlets mall right inside the casino.

Just next door in Uncasville, you’ll find Mohegan Sun, another impressive casino constructed on Mohegan Native American lands.

While slightly more intimate than Foxwoods, Mohegan Sun is far from small.

It offers a variety of family entertainment areas, multiple concert halls, and a selection of fantastic restaurants.

Don’t forget to visit the Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana location inside Mohegan Sun, a beloved New Haven, Connecticut apizza destination.

Both of these casinos make for a great inside destination during wintertime in this region.

Out-of-State Day Trips From New Haven

11. new york city, new york.

New York City is the best choice if you’re looking for a day trip from New Haven out of Connecticut.

It takes just under 2 hours to take a train from New Haven to New York City.

Once you arrive, you can explore everything the city offers, from its most iconic landmarks, like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Central Park, and Times Square, to small boutiques and neighborhoods.

You can also visit some of the city’s world-renowned museums, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the American Museum of Natural History.

As a licensed New York City tour guide, I have so many resources on how to get around the city and the best things to do once you’re there.

Take a look at all of my guides for more ideas!

12. Poughkeepsie, New York

Up in New York State’s Hudson Valley, Poughkeepsie is a charming town.

You can explore the town’s historic architecture, such as the Poughkeepsie Railroad Bridge, now a pedestrian bridge called Waalkway Over the Hudson River.

Also, did you know the 32nd President of the United States was from Poughkeepsie?

Visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site, and the Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center.

Take a look at my guide on the best things to do in the area for more ideas.

13. Boston, Massachusetts

Are you interested in more beautiful New England towns?

Boston, Massachusetts, is a historic city that still shows its Colonial past.

You can explore the city’s historic landmarks, such as the Freedom Trail, the USS Constitution Museum, and the Paul Revere House.

Alongside its colonial landmarks, the city has several world-renowned universities, such as Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

14. Newport, Rhode Island

The seaside city of Newport, Rhode Island, is another exciting choice for spending a day away from New Haven.

You can explore the city’s historic mansions, such as The Breakers, Marble House, and Rosecliff, built during the Gilded Age.

Take an opportunity to walk along the Newport Cliff Walk, a scenic trail that runs along the coast and offers stunning ocean views.

In the center of town, you’ll find many cute boutiques, artisan shops, and restaurants serving local New England fare– especially in the summer .

15. Providence, Rhode Island

Providence is the capital city of Rhode Island and another fantastic city to spend a day away from New Haven.

You can explore the city’s Roger Williams Park Zoo, the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium, and the WaterFire Providence, a popular art installation that lights up the city’s rivers.

Or, visit landmarks like the Rhode Island State House and the Providence Athenaeum.

One of my favorite things to do in Providence, though, is go shopping at Providence Place, the largest mall in the state.

Day Trips From New Haven: FAQs

How to spend a day in New Haven?

If you have a day to spare in New Haven, plenty of activities fill your time. u003cbru003eu003cbru003eStart your day by exploring the beautiful campus of Yale University, which boasts impressive architecture and a rich history.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eStroll through East Rock Park or Lighthouse Point Park in the afternoon for stunning views and fresh air.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eEnd your day with a classic New Haven experience at Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, which serves some of the most delicious pizzas in the United States.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eYou can check out my u003ca href=u0022https://thepurposelylost.com/your-guide-to-things-to-do-in-new-haven-ct/u0022 data-type=u0022postu0022 data-id=u00221672u0022u003elist of activities in New Havenu003c/au003e if you’re trying to develop more ideas!

Is New Haven worth a visit?

Absolutely! New Haven is a must-visit destination in the state of Connecticut.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eIt’s home to the prestigious Yale University, which is worth exploring for its impressive architecture and rich history.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eThe city is also known for its delicious and authentic pizza, making it a foodie’s paradise.u003cbru003eu003cbru003eAnd with its location on the Connecticut coast, offering beautiful views and plenty of outdoor activities.

What is New Haven best known for?

New Haven is best known for being the home of Yale University, one of the most prestigious universities in the world, as well as its delicious and authentic apizza, which attracts foodies from all over the country.

Day Trips from New Haven: Wrap-Up

Connecticut’s treasures offer a slice of history, the beauty of nature, and vibrant cultural experiences, all within a stone’s throw from New Haven.

And when you’re ready to spread your wings a bit further, neighboring states beckon with their unique charms, adding new dimensions to your day trips.

But day trips aren’t just about the places you visit; they are about the memories you create, the connections you forge, and the personal growth that comes from stepping outside your comfort zone.

Whether you stay within the Nutmeg State or venture just beyond its borders, one thing is sure: the world is full of remarkable places waiting to be discovered, and adventure is just a day trip away.

• The Best Beaches in New Haven, Connecticut
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9 Summer Day Trip Ideas in Central Connecticut

last updated: January 2024

CTvisit.com is proud to partner with some of Connecticut’s most popular bloggers for ideas, insights and inspirations from the people who are lucky enough to call Connecticut home. This article is from  MommyPoppins.com and has been edited by the Connecticut Office of Tourism.

In summer, there's so much family fun to discover in Hartford and New Haven counties, from kid-friendly museum outings to beach days. Our friends at  Mommy Poppins , a fantastic resource for families in Central Connecticut and beyond, make it even more compelling with a list of attractions for some seriously awesome summer adventures. They’re grouped by area, so you can easily create your own itinerary. Click through each link for more information and inspiration.

Close to Hartford

1. Admire and ride carousel horses at the Bushnell Park Carousel in Hartford.

2.  Sit in the cockpit of a fighter jet at the  New England Air Museum .

3.  Enjoy unlimited rides on vintage trolley cars at the  Connecticut Trolley Museum . 

4.  Spend the day exploring water forces, bubbles, robots, galaxies, and more scientific wonders at the  Connecticut Science Center .

5.  Get hands on with prehistoric history at  Dinosaur State Park .

Near New Haven

6.  Travel back in time on an authentic, restored antique trolley car on a real trolley line at the Shore Line Trolley Museum in East Haven.

7.  Channel your inner tightrope walker as you take on the 56-foot tall ropes courses and climb through cargo nets, angled rope ladders and more at IT Adventure Ropes Course in New Haven.

8.  See the world's largest collection of PEZ memorabila, PEZ motorcycle, the world's largest PEZ dispenser, PEZ trivia game, factory store, and more at the PEZ Visitor Center in Orange.

9.  Have a picnic at one of the  many great beaches  nearby.

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16 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in Connecticut

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Mar 30, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Formally known as the Constitution State, Connecticut is home to some of New England's best beaches, hiking trails, and nature reserves. Nestled between Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New York, and the Long Island Sound, this picturesque region also boasts a wide variety of charming towns, perfect for quick trips or romantic weekend getaways.

From quaint villages like Chester to bustling cities like Hartford, Connecticut offers something perfect for every weekend traveler. Those searching for culture will be rewarded by a multitude of impressive art, history, and science museums, especially if they head to some of Connecticut's best cities , like New Haven.

Foodies will enjoy the vast array of top-notch restaurants, ranging from local eateries to upscale dining. Sea lovers can expect to be lulled by long walks on the sand, boardwalks, and seaports. And fans of a louder, busier environment will love a weekend spent shopping, dining, and attending concerts and comedy shows indoors at Mohegan Sun.

Not sure where to start? Begin with our list of top weekend getaways in Connecticut.

3. Hammonasset State Park

4. rocky neck state park, 5. new haven, 6. hartford, 7. cornwall, 9. old saybrook, 10. mohegan sun, 12. madison, 13. litchfield, 14. greenwich, 15. westport, map of weekend getaways in connecticut.

This quaint rural town offers a panacea for stressed city dwellers. About two hours from both New York and Boston, tourists will feel their shoulders relax as they wander along the charming main street of this chart-topping weekend getaway in Connecticut.

Complete with cafés and cute gift shops, the town center is the perfect place to unwind.

Take the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry to East Haddam and visit Gillette Castle State Park , while you're here. It's an impeccably preserved, 24-room mansion with impressive views from atop one of the Seven Sisters hills.

In the morning, rent bikes to explore the area, stroll along the private beach, or have a massage in the spa.

Once a booming seaport essential for the region's trade, Mystic now boasts an impressive array of maritime-themed attractions. An hour from New Haven, this harbor town is home to a wide array of great restaurants - you'll be hard-pressed to find fresher seafood.

Movie buffs can enjoy a slice of pie at Mystic Pizza , the restaurant made famous by Julia Roberts' film of the same name. Step back in time with a visit to the Mystic Seaport Museum . You could while away hours climbing aboard historic vessels, exploring exhibits, and visiting the shipyard.

Next stop: Mystic Aquarium , where you can come face to beak with a penguin, pet a shark, and marvel at a beluga whale. Then, set sail on a trip with Argia Mystic Cruises . When else will you be able to travel aboard a schooner?

When it's time for bed, head to The Whaler's Inn for a relaxing and romantic stay. Traveling with kids? Book the Main Inn Junior Suite - kids get their own alcove complete with bunkbeds and a TV.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Mystic

It's easy to see why Hammonasset State Park tops the list of best state parks in Connecticut . Its main attraction is a stunning sandy beach that spans two miles of the Long Island Sound. It's the largest, and one of the best beaches in the state , with plenty of space to unfurl your towel, splash in the waves, and enjoy a waterside picnic.

The Meigs Point Nature Center is another big draw at this top weekend getaway, especially for kids. Programs and activities are frequently on offer, introducing visitors to important concepts such as dune ecology, and helping them to identify local flora and fauna.

Not ready to leave? We don't blame you. Luckily, this lovely park is one of the best places for camping in Connecticut , with over 500 campsites on offer.

If sleeping in a tent isn't your thing, the Madison Beach Hotel' s plush rooms, high-end service, and expansive beachfront property is a more luxurious option.

Yet another of Connecticut's state parks tops our list of the best weekend getaways. This lovely spot also features an inspired beach, and boasts a boardwalk that's perfect for romantic strolls. There's a large concession area to grab snacks, as well as a restroom and showers that make it easy to spend an entire day (or more) at this refreshing oasis.

When you're sick of picking sand from your bathing suit, lace up your walking shoes and head to one of the multiple hiking trails that pepper this 710-acre park. You'll pass salt marshes bursting with unique wildlife (the crabs and turtles are especially adorable) and you'll find plenty of spots perfect for bird-watching. Be sure to pack binoculars.

Like Hammonasset State Park, Rocky Neck State Park also ranks as one of the best places to go camping in Connecticut, so be sure to bring supplies if you're looking to pitch a tent.

Two hours of calming views soothe the soul as your train speeds along the Long Island Sound from New York. Home to Yale University , New Haven is known for its up-and-coming foodie scene and impressive galleries.

The Yale University Art Gallery , for instance, boasts over 250,000 objects, including paintings by Cézanne, Degas, Monet, and Manet. Plus, it's free. You won't want to miss the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library , Yale Center for British Art , or Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History .

Whether you're traveling with kids or are one at heart, spend a few hours at Jordan's Furniture store . It houses one of the world's largest indoor adventure ropes courses. At night, enjoy a show at the College Street Music Hall or Yale Repertory Theatre .

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in New Haven
• New Haven in Pictures: Beautiful Places to Photograph

Once known as the House of Hope due to its position as a Dutch trading post, Hartford sits on the Connecticut River. Attractions in Connecticut's capital are plentiful.

You'll kick yourself for missing the Mark Twain House or Harriet Beecher Stowe House , but perhaps the most interesting place to visit is the Connecticut Science Center . Hold a butterfly in the greenhouse, design and test a heli-flyer, or journey through the galaxy - all within the center's walls.

Other places to visit include the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art and West Hartford Reservoir , a peaceful nature reserve with walking trails. Talcott Mountain State Park is 20 minutes away. Hikers who make it to the Heublein Tower (1,000-feet up) are rewarded with spectacular views over the Farmington River Valley .

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Hartford

Small-town country charm abounds in this beautiful town. Its quaint buildings and unique shops will remind you of the way things used to be before technology got in the way.

Quietly nestled in Litchfield County , Cornwall is most famous for having one of the only covered bridges in Connecticut. Before you head out, pack a picnic and enjoy a day of hiking through lush forest trails in Mohawk State Park . The summit provides a 360-degree view across the picturesque landscape.

Mohawk Mountain is a hot spot for skiers who don't want to drive all the way to Vermont. A family-friendly resort, it's small enough that you won't lose your way, but big enough to race down trails of varying difficulties.

If you're looking for charm, you'll find it in Milford. This old-fashioned town dates back to 1639 and has an English feel. The Wepawaug River winds its way through the center, making Milford the perfect spot for those who enjoy a more laid-back, romantic weekend.

Apparently, Captain Kidd and other pirates sailed along the nearby coast and hid buried treasure along the way. Perhaps you can dig it up at Walnut Beach , Silver Sands State Park, or Charles Island .

Settle in to the Residence Inn Milford before browsing local shops. Then, enjoy a coffee (or two) at the charming cafés and wander through town at your own leisurely pace.

A hot spot for summer fun, Old Saybrook is just as beautiful, and enjoyable, at all times of the year. One of the best small towns in Connecticut , this charmer overflows with quintessential New England charm, this is where weekenders come to unwind and inhale the fresh, salty sea air.

Check out a performance at the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, soak up history at General William Hart House, and get inspired by impressionist art at the Florence Griswold Museum.

Then, head to Harvey's Beach for some fun in the sun. The water is calm and shallow, making this an optimal spot for those traveling with kids.

When it comes time to relax, lap up the luxury, and fabulous waterfront views, at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina . While you're there, book a massage and have dinner on the outdoor patio overlooking the marina.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Old Saybrook, CT

What do U2, live comedy, and an exotic body scrub have in common? You can enjoy them all at Mohegan Sun . A fantastic place to spend a weekend getaway in Connecticut, this expansive property overflows with fun things to do for families and adults alike. No matter what you're looking for—high-end restaurants, a concert venue, or a relaxing spa treatment—you'll find it, and so much more, at this popular weekend destination.

At this massive complex featuring more than 50 restaurants and food outlets, multiple lounges, a 350-seat entertainment venue, comedy club, and a whopping 10,000-seat arena, it's impossible to get bored no matter how long you choose to stay. The best part? You won't have to leave the premises to enjoy the many perks, including a comfy hotel.

Splash in the 10,000-square-foot indoor pool, visit one of the two luxurious spas (we highly recommend the Balinese massage to soothe tense muscles), shop in one of the 40 stores, or dance the night away in one of the on-site venues. Don't miss a visit to Tao , the upscale Asian bistro that will leave your taste buds begging for seconds.

Younger kids (aged six weeks to 12) can occupy themselves with games, an indoor playground, and their own basketball court within Kids Quest , an entertainment complex conveniently located near the shops. The licensed staff are friendly and competent, as well as trained in both first aid and CPR.

Teens can head to Cyber Quest , the family arcade featuring non-violent video and arcade games, as well as karaoke. It's like heading to Vegas without having to step foot on a plane.

A fan of fall foliage? You've come to the right place. A true natural beauty, it's easy to see why Kent is deemed one of the best places to visit in Connecticut . This sweet small town offers well-maintained, scenic hiking trails, which reward the adventurer with stunning views of the Catskill Mountains and Kent Falls State Park.

In fact, the main reason people come to Kent is for the immense trails like those found in Macedonia Brook State Park . You won't find the impressive shopping offered in larger towns like Greenwich, but your soul will thank you for the fresh air and close animal encounters.

Not a fan of walking? Rent a bike from the Bicycle Tour Company .

Get away from it all in this sweet, ocean-side town. One of the best beach towns in Connecticut , this beauty is a perfect option for a weekend getaway in Connecticut, especially during summer. Grab a good read at RJ Julia Booksellers and a coffee from a local café. Then head to Hammonasset Beach State Park for a calming start to your day.

Visitors also enjoy a trip to Meigs Point Nature Center , where they can get up close and personal with turtles, crabs, fish, birds, and snakes. A bonus: it's free!

Work off lunch with a walk or bike ride along the Shoreline Greenway Trail . It's flat and scenic, so perfect for kids. You'll wind down easily with a dip in the indoor pool at the Water's Edge Resort & Spa before heading to the Tanger Outlets for some retail therapy.

Lovely historic Litchfield will win your heart within seconds. A mere 50 minutes' east of Hartford, this pretty town is about as adorable as they get. Preserved homes line the streets and are set behind perfectly manicured gardens. During spring and summer, the blooms are breathtaking.

The Litchfield Historic District is a must-visit. Nestled around a Village Green peppered with picnickers, it offers visitors a trip through time that spans multiple blocks. The restaurants are found mainly on West and North Streets, and feature food so good, you'll forget you aren't in New York City.

Set within a natural nirvana within the luscious Litchfield Hills, there are plenty of opportunities for weekenders to get outside. The White Memorial Conservation Center is particularly popular and features 4,000 acres of forest, wetlands, and fields.

Nearby Topsmead State Forest is another one of the must-see attractions in Litchfield , which features miles of trails, a butterfly garden, and a luxurious summer estate that mimics an English Tudor home.

As for a place to rest your head, opt for a stay at The Litchfield Inn , a boutique hotel boasting standard rooms, as well as 12 well-designed theme rooms, including the presidential suite, log cabin, and Jacuzzi suite.

A commuter's haven, Greenwich is a mere 40-minute train ride from the Big Apple, making it a convenient destination for a weekend getaway in Connecticut. Greenwich Avenue , with its luxury designers, upscale restaurants, and trendy cafés, can make even the hardiest of shoppers believe she's on NYC's Upper East Side.

The Bruce Museum , a five-minute walk from the Metro-North train station, offers a cultural boost to your day, while the Flinn Gallery at Greenwich Library is a worthy spot for art lovers.

Are you a nature-lover? Head to the Audubon Center for a stroll along the well-established nature trails. Greenwich harbor is a local gem best viewed from the Delamar Greenwich Harbor hotel. No one will blame you for adding a spa treatment to your stay.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Greenwich

An easy commute from Manhattan (it's takes just over an hour from Grand Central), Westport offers a small-town vibe mixed with city flavor. From paleo to sushi, even the pickiest of eaters will have his palate tempted by local restaurants in this top weekend destination.

Grab fresh seafood, local veggies, and the best taco you'll ever eat at the Westport Farmer's Market on Thursdays. Make room for some of the fresh sweet treats on offer while you're there. Itching to shop? Main Street offers a wide array of stores that sell everything from Lululemon pants to sunglasses to freshly made gelato.

The top three favorite things to do in this town: hang out, swim, and build sandcastles at Compo Beach . For a more rustic beach experience, head to Sherwood Island State Park .

Later, catch a play at the Westport Country Playhouse or an outdoor concert at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts . The nearby Norwalk Aquarium offers a chance to touch stingrays and jellyfish, watch sharks feed, and take a cruise on the Sound.

The Westport Inn is your best bet for an in-town base.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Westport

Fans of The Gilmore Girls will love this town, which served as inspiration for Stars Hollow. Like its fictional television counterpart, it, too, is charming.

If you are on a family weekend getaway, hop aboard the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat for an experience everyone will love. The cheerful conductor will teach you about the region's history while you chug through an inspiring landscape.

Keep your eyes peeled for a bald eagle or heron while sailing along the water towards Gillette Castle . Use the charming Griswold Inn as a relaxing base. This historic beauty began welcoming lodgers as far back as 1776. It offers 34 updated rooms, a restaurant, and a fun atmosphere you can't beat.

More on Connecticut

These Are The 12 Most Beautiful Towns In Connecticut You Should Visit

• Key takeaways:
• Connecticut offers a variety of beautiful small towns with charming natural and historic beauty, including Kent, Chester, and Essex.
• These towns provide a range of activities such as hiking, visiting state parks, exploring local restaurants and shops, and enjoying the scenic waterfronts.
• Each town has its own unique character and attractions, making them ideal destinations for day trips or longer weekend getaways.

Besides its delightful New England charm, Connecticut offers a lot of fun things to do that can be seen everywhere, from its picturesque beachy scenery to its forested hills and its rolling farmland to its mountains, rivers, and seaside waterfronts. And there’s no better way to appreciate the state’s signature beauty than by checking out one of its most beautiful small towns—here are some of the very best.

UPDATE: 2023/09/04 13:26 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

Most Beautiful Towns In Connecticut To Visit

Connecticut is a lovely New England state with charming small towns that place tourists in the middle of nature. From lush forests to sprawling lakes, this updated article highlights the prettiest towns in Connecticut worth checking out.

Related: 10 Most Beautiful Hikes You Can Do In Connecticut

Famous for its fabulous fall foliage , Kent is a quaint Connecticut charmer whose lush scenery is a sight to behold—and not just when the leaves are at their best and brightest. A lovely town center completes this picture-perfect New England town, while a plethora of nearby outdoor attractions means there’s always something to see and do.

• Things To Do: Macedonia Brook State Park; Kent Falls State Park; Bull’s Bridge; House of Books; Kent Falls Brewing Co.
• Wine & Dine: Kingsley Tavern; Swyft; Sophie’s Restaurant & Bakery
• Stay The Night: The Victorian; Fife Country Inn

Its rolling hills and scenic Connecticut River setting make Chester a quaint rural retreat full of natural and historic beauty. But that’s not all: once a hub for shipbuilding and milling, the picturesque town is now home to an up-and-coming local art and culture scene that’s all Main Street USA charm.

• Things To Do: Gillette Castle State Park; Pattaconk Reservoir Trail; Little House Brewing Company; Godspeed Musicals at the Terris Theatre; Chester-Hadlyme Ferry
• Wine & Dine: The Village Bistro; Grano Arso; Thai Riverside
• Stay The Night: Copper Beech Inn (10 minutes); Boardman House (15 minutes)

The coastal town of Westport is all seafront scenery and colonial charm—and perfectly placed for a road trip to the Big Apple (50 miles away!), It’s the perfect weekend getaway from the city. Brimming with small-town beauty, Westport also has plenty of attractions to entice vacationers who like their R&R with a side of creativity and culture.

• Things To Do: Westport County Playhouse; Westport Museum for History and Culture; Compo Beach; Earthplace; Sherwood Island State Park
• Wine & Dine: Rive Bistro; Little Barn; Pane e Bene
• Stay The Night: The Inn at Longshore; Hotel Zero Degrees (10 minutes)

Colonial charm meets waterfront beauty in the pretty Connecticut town of Essex. The perfect place for both day trips and (long) weekends, visitors will enjoy strolling the picturesque harbor, admiring the historic architecture, and enjoying the fun shops and restaurants in the town center of this cozy rural retreat.

• Things To Do: Essex Steam Train & Riverboat; The Pratt House; Connecticut River Museum; Falls River Preserve; The Pratt House
• Wine & Dine: Scotch Plains Tavern; Carlson’s Landing; Tap Room at The Griswold Inn
• Stay The Night: The Griswold Inn; Old Lyme Inn (10 minutes)

A charming historic district—including the second-longest green in New England —gives the seafront setting of Milford quintessential small-town vibes. Full of character and idyllic beauty, plenty of eclectic shops and eateries are here to keep visitors busy when they’re not out on the water (or simply admiring its beachy beauty).

• Things To Do: Old Town Milford; Milford Historical Society House Tours; Silver Stands State Park; Eisenhower Park; The Coastal Audubon Center at Milford Point
• Wine & Dine: Founder’s House Pub & Patio; Bonfire Grille; Bridge House Restaurant
• Stay The Night: Homestead Inn; The Blake Hotel (20 minutes)

Wethersfield

An idyllic natural setting complete with tree-lined streets and lush landscapes makes Wethersfield one of the most beautiful towns in Connecticut—and the rural retreat. But there’s more to this beauty than meets the eye; the small hamlet also has a storied past, evident in everything from its plethora of architectural wonders to its many historical heritage sites,

• Things To Do: The Broad Street Green; Wethersfield Heritage Walk; Heritage Way Bike Route; Heirloom Market; Old Wethersfield Historic District
• Wine & Dine: The Charles; Lenoci’s Italian Kitchen; Kaliubon Ramen
• Stay The Night: Silas W. Robbins House; Goodwin Hotel (10 minutes)

Though just a short train ride from NYC, the cozy Connecticut town of Greenwich is all small-town charm: from its historic buildings to its Main Street USA vibes. But Greenwich’s location near the Big Apple also gives it a somewhat metropolitan flair seen throughout its distinctive local shops, boutiques, and eateries.

• Things To Do: Greenwich Avenue and Historic District; Greenwich Point Park; Putnam Cottage Tour; Babcock Preserve; The Flinn Gallery
• Wine & Dine: Le Fat Poodle; L’escale Restaurant & Bar; Elm Street Oyster House
• Stay The Night: Delamar Greenwich Harbor; The J House Greenwich

RELATED: This Quirky Connecticut Book Barn Might Be The Place For Book Lovers

With a location at the foothills of the Berkshires and housing much of Mohawk State Forest, it’s no surprise that Cornwall is famed for its scenic natural setting. And this forested beauty is not just easy on the eyes, it’s an epic outdoor playground, too—complete with plenty of year-round recreation opportunities for everything from biking to skiing.

• Things To Do: Mohawk Mountain Ski Area; Mohawk State Forest; West Cornwall Covered Bridge; Housatonic Meadows State Park; Bike the Western New England Greenway
• Wine & Dine: frank.food company; The Village Restaurant (10 minutes); When Pigs Fly South Southern BBQ (15 minutes)
• Stay The Night: Cornwall Inn; Winvian Farm (20 minutes)

Old Saybrook

Quintessential New England waterfront vibes abound in the pleasantly idyllic Old Saybrook . Think all the frills of a harbor town, like timeless charm, scenic seaside beauty, and locally-owned storefronts that make this welcoming community perfect for a day away—or a long (relaxing)weekend stay.

• Things To Do: Harvey’s Beach; Fort Saybrook Monument Park; Visit Essex Village; The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center; Rocky Neck State Park
• Wine & Dine: Alforno Trattoria; Little Pub Old Saybrook; The Essex
• Stay The Night: Water’s Edge Resort & Spa; Saybrook Point Resort & Marina

RELATED: It's Rumored That Captain Kidd's Famous Treasure Can Be Found On This Connecticut Island

Though the bustling CT town of New Haven is right on its doorstep, the picturesque and pretty Branford has a distinctly charming small-town feel that can be seen everywhere, from its bucolic beaches to its stately homes. From basking in beachy vibes to trekking the town’s scenic trail, this lovely suburb has it all.

• Things To Do: Branford Trail; Cruise to Thimble Islands; Shore Line Trolley Museum; Branford Point Beach; Stony Creek Brewery; Branford Supply Pond Park
• Wine & Dine: Home; Rosso Vino; Mosaico Cuisine
• Stay The Night: Owenago Inn; Thimble Islands Bed & Breakfast

Tourists will be hard-pressed to find a more charming Connecticut town than Mystic. Its rich maritime heritage is evident at every street corner, from the numerous sea-related museums that dot the town to the different annual events honoring boats and pirates. Whether looking to stay on dry land or venture out at sea, there are endless fun things to do in Mystic .

• Things To Do : The Seaport Museum, Olde Mystic Village, The Mystic Aquarium, Historic Ship Nautilus & Submarine Force Museum, Mystic Downtown Marina, Mystic Museum of Art
• Wine & Dine: Mystic Pizza, Trattoria Amalfi, The Mariner
• Spend The Night: Hilton Mystic, Steamboat Inn, Taber Inn And Suites

A sweet escape from the rigors of daily urban life, this sleepy town in the Connecticut countryside offers a therapeutic dose of natural beauty and small-town charm. Surrounded by sprawling hills and sparkling waters, Colebrook is the perfect playground for nature lovers and comes to its own during fall when hues of yellow, red, and orange highlight its lushly forested spaces.

• Things To Do: Lake Triangle Dam, Algonquin State Forest, Colebrook River Lake, Peoples State Forest
• Wine & Dine: Barnstormer's Burgers & More, Colebrook Store
• Spend The Night: Days Inn by Wyndham Torrington, Royal Coachman Tavern

These 12 Road Trips In Connecticut Will Lead You To Places You'll Never Forget

Taylor Ellis

Taylor Ellis grew up in southern Connecticut. She is a social boss who has worked with several major sites and brands. Follow her at taylorellisblogger.com

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Are you ready to hit the road and explore? Connecticut has some of the very best road trips in the country, and they’re all a quick drive away! Visit Connecticut compiled this list of epic road trips across The Constitution State, and today we’re sharing some of our favorites. So gas up the car, grab some snacks, and get ready to tackle these 12 epic road trips in Connecticut. Let’s go!

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Take A Haunted Road Trip To Visit Some Of The Spookiest Places In Connecticut

Thank you again to the Connecticut Office of Tourism for compiling so many road trips! Which one will you be taking this year? What are some of your favorite road trips in Connecticut? Share them with us in the comments below!

And if you’re in the mood for a road trip that’s a little, well, creepy, you have to check out this terrifying Connecticut road trip ; that is, if you dare!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Road trips in connecticut.

What are some of the most unique road trips to take in Connecticut?

In terms of most unique, our haunted road trip is pretty epic; it explores five of the state's creepiest attractions, all in a nice, neat, five-hour trip! On the other side of the coin is our fairytale road trip , a delightful little excursion to some of the state's most winsome destinations. Need more ideas? Here are 12 of the best day trips you can take in Connecticut!

Does Connecticut have any fun day trips?

One of the benefits of being a small state on the East Coast is that you're basically a quick day trip away from everything. That being said, there are some particularly memorable day trips in Connecticut worth adding to the top of your list: Avery's Soda in New Britain. Established in 1904, Avery's Soda is a Connecticut staple. They've been crafting delicious sodas from real cane sugar for over 100 years, and you can really taste the difference. Experience the magic on one of their factory tours. Learn more by reading our feature article here . Lover's Leap State Park in New Milford is 127 acres of exquisite beauty. Bring your camera and capture the sights along the Housatonic Gorge. Lavender Pond Farm in Killingworth is another stunner, offering some of the best scenic beauty in all of New England.

What are some fun roadside attractions in Connecticut?

Nothing beats a road trip: you get to sit back and enjoy the open road and scenery. And what puts the whole experience over the top, are the quirky roadside attractions you encounter along the way. The best thing about roadside attractions is that they’re quick and easy to visit, no matter what state you’re in. Stratton's Grave in Mountain Grove Cemetery is a fun one to visit; p ark-like and stunning, Mountain Grove Cemetery captures the beauty of architecture and rural Connecticut... plus it offers insight into local history. Did you know Connecticut has a bit of circus history? Charles "Tom Thumb" Stratton was a superstar of Barnum's Circus and stood at only 3'8". A life size statue of him sits atop his obelisk in Bridgeport. And of course, you have to visit Paul Bunyan.  You may know Paul Bunyan as a conqueror of the wild frontier, but a statue in his honor in New England somehow feels right. In Cheshire, no sign can stand above seven feet tall. So when the town made a fuss about the lumber business House of Doors erecting this 26-foot beauty, they got creative. Replacing the ax with a flag made it a flag pole, which has no height limitations. It's epic! One final roadside attraction of note: Eagle Rock.  Just past the intersection of Buck Road in Hebron is a rock that has been shaped and painted to resemble a bald eagle! 

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Featured Addresses

The Perfect Connecticut Day Trip Itinerary for Fall

June 2, 2023.

If you’re looking to take a day trip to Connecticut during a New England fall road trip or as a day trip from Boston , I’ve got you covered!

Connecticut is a beautiful New England state known for beautiful fall foliage and as the home of Yale. It was one of the original 13 colonies and is the 3rd smallest US state by land area.

Despite its small size, Connecticut is a great state for outdoor recreation! The state boasts 110 state parks (that’s more than Texas, which is MUCH larger) and 32 state forests. Connecticut ranks number 10 in the nation for the most state parks, which is quite impressive given its size! All this to say that you should be sure to spend some hiking and visiting state parks during your trip to Connecticut, and this itinerary has you covered.

This one day Connecticut itinerary is based on my visit to the area in late fall/early winter 2022. It covers central Connecticut and involves taking a road trip from South to North. The fall foliage was gone, but it was still a beautiful day full of adventure!

Table of Contents

Sleeping giant state park, chauncey peak, kinsmen brewing, hogan’s cider mill, ender’s falls, more things to do in connecticut, where to stay in connecticut, final thoughts, connecticut one day itinerary.

This itinerary is a mix of hiking with some great spots for food and drink along the way. Check out my beginner hiking tips blog if you’re new to hiking!

Start your day with a popular state park known for rocky trails and sweeping views of the area from the Sleeping Giant Observation Tower.

There are several hikes to choose from based on your abilities. The easiest way to hike up to the tower is on a road. This trail is about 3 miles and uphill , but the path is wide and smooth.

I opted for a more challenging route and took the Blue Trail up to the tower . The Blue Trail includes a lot of scrambling, including a section towards the beginning where you’ll need to climb down a steep area (about 15 feet) with rocks and roots and large steps.

From there, there is a bit more scrambling to reach the top. The high point of the trail has fantastic views and some neat rock formations protruding from the cliff. You’ll be able to look down steep cliff walls and see hikers on the tower road down below.

From here, you can climb down just a bit to connect over to the Tower Trail.

The Sleeping Giant Observation Tower was built in the 1930’s and is made up of 3 levels. Instead of steps, ramps will lead you to the top. There are some animal carvings on the outside of the tower and wonderful views from the top.

Note that this area can be particularly crowded, so go early to avoid throngs of people.

If you’re up for another trail, head about 20 minutes up the road from Sleeping Giant and visit Chauncey Peak. Here you can hike around the Bradley Hubbard Reservoir and take in a fantastic view from the top of Chauncey Peak.

The trail is about 2.2 miles with 350 feet of elevation gain . I went counterclockwise in order to go up the steepest portion. At the top, you’ll hike along the ridge for a bit and get to enjoy continuous views.

There is also an active quarry right next to the peak that you’ll be hiking alongside. It was a bit strange to be so close to mining activity while in a park.

The second half of the loop is an easy walk right along the water. While the quarry takes away from the magic, the views at the top looking down at the reservoir are beautiful and this quick hike is worth the effort!

After working up an appetite from hiking, head to Kinsmen Brewing for pizza and beer.

The Kinsmen Taproom was formerly a bolt factory and has been beautifully renovated and restored using reclaimed materials from the original factory.

Kinsmen serves a variety of beers, mainly being stouts, ales and IPAs. There were a couple sour beers on tap that I enjoyed as well.

They also serve pizza. I enjoyed The Farmer pizza, which was packed with veggies and had great flavor. There is also a small selection of other food items, such as a giant soft pretzel.

The spacious Kinsmen Brewing offers the perfect atmosphere to kick back and relax after a morning of adventure.

Hogan’s Cider Mill is a must-stop for a bit of shopping, a delicious cider drink, mini golf and more. Their offerings vary based on time of year. In the fall, one of their specials was a spiked hot apple cider with an apple cider donut. In the summer, they offer patriotic special drinks such as the Stars & Stripes Sangria Slushie and a ‘Merica shot.

In addition to a drink at the bar, you can shop in their farm store. It feels like a general store and items include candles, gifts, home decor and local food items.

The golf course next door has the same owners, so you can bring your drinks from the taproom over to the course and play either mini golf or the 18 hole course.

Hogan’s also has a large space for outdoor seating. Whether you enjoy a flight of cider, play a round of mini golf or just take a look around the shop, it’s worth a stop to see whatever seasonal decor Hogan’s has to offer.

End your day with one more beautiful outdoor stop. Enders Falls is a short trail that includes views of multiple waterfalls. It’s located inside of Elders State Forest, offering 2,103 acres of forests, wetlands and waterfalls.

The Enders Brook loop trail is 1 mile and rated easy with 134 feet of elevation gain. You will take some steps down and get to walk right along Enders Brook. I saw 4 waterfalls in just over a half mile! This spot is free to visit and makes for the perfect quick stop to end your day.

For more hikes in Connecticut and New England, my friend Kristen at Early Bird on the Trail has you covered! Check out her blog for many more Connecticut guides .

Some spots on my list for next time include:

• Steep Rock Preserve
• Mine Hill Preserve
• People’s State Forest
• Macedonia Brook State Park
• Kent Falls State Park
• Mount Tom Tower

If you need a place to stay in Connecticut, Hartford is a great central location between these spots.

For a historic hotel in downtown Hartford, it’s worth looking at a stay in The Goodwin Hotel . This is great if you’re looking for something more luxurious.

For more affordable hotel stays with good value, check out the downtown Hartford Holiday Inn or the Marriott near the Hartford airport .

For a unique camping experience, check out the Lake Compounce Campground . They offer cabins, tipis and sites for RVs and tents.

Finally, for a romantic cottage close to Enders Falls, take a look at the Windy Top Cottage on Airbnb .

I hope this gives you some ideas for a quick trip to Connecticut. It’s a beautiful state that is underrated when it comes to outdoor adventure.

For more New England and New York Travel Guides, check out these blogs:

• How to Spend One Day in Boston
• The Best Hiking Trails in Acadia National Park
• 7 Day Fall Road Trip Itinerary for New Hampshire and Vermont
• How to Spend 3 Days in Acadia National Park
• How to Spend 1 Day in Acadia National Park
• The Ultimate Fall Guide to Acadia National Park
• The Perfect 5 Day New England Road Trip
• How to Spend 1 Day in Rhode Island

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