Places to Visit in Connecticut
The state of Connecticut is located in southern New England and offers both rural and coastal landscapes. In Mystic, you can visit a museum filled with centuries-old ships and the Mystic Aquarium, which is home to several beluga whale exhibits. New Haven is the home of Yale University and the Peabody Museum of Natural History. If you’re looking for a bit more culture, consider spending some time at the Saville Dam and Hill-Stead Museum.
Mystic Aquarium
Mystic Aquarium is a marine aquarium located in Mystic, Connecticut. It is one of only two aquariums in the United States to house Steller sea lions and is also home to the only beluga whales in New England. You can also view shark and ray touch pools, the jelly gallery, and dinosaur exhibits such as the “Jurassic Giants”.
You can learn about the local history of the Mystic region at the Mystic Aquarium, or explore some of the more unusual species of sea creatures in the nearby Mystic Zoo. The Mystic Aquarium is home to over 8,000 unique sea creatures, including giant stingrays and blue whales. You can also spend a day in the Mystic Children’s Aquarium. Mystic is one of the top places to visit in Connecticut.
There are numerous places to visit in the Mystic area. One of the most popular is the Mystic Aquarium. This aquarium is relatively small, but is heavily involved in ocean life preservation and research. You can see several live whales at the Mystic Aquarium. If you’re a history buff, you can visit the museum’s 7.5-mile bike path or stop at the town-owned Haley Farm State Park to enjoy the great outdoors.
Mystic Seaport Museum
The Mystic Seaport Museum, also known as the Museum of America and the Ocean, is located in the picturesque town of Mystic, Connecticut. It is the largest maritime museum in the United States, and is notable for its collection of sailing ships and boats. A recreation of a 19th-century seafaring village can also be found on the grounds of the museum. This museum is definitely one of the places to visit in Connecticut.
The Mystic Seaport Museum is located on 19 acres on the Mystic River. It features a restored 19th-century coastal village, several exhibit halls, and storage for historic artifacts. The museum also houses over 500 historic ships, including the 1841 whaler Charles W. Morgan. The museum also has a gift shop where visitors can purchase items that celebrate maritime history and culture.
If you want to learn more about the history of this area, you should visit the Mystic Seaport Museum. It is a historical seaport with a lot to offer visitors. There are craftsmen and musicians that will entertain you. You can even visit a working shipyard. You can see how wooden ships were made in the nineteenth century. It’s a great experience for both children and adults.
Hill-Stead Museum
The art museum and the Colonial Revival-style house are located on a sprawling estate in Farmington, Connecticut. The Hill-Stead is home to many French Impressionist masterpieces and is also known for its stately grounds. Its impressive architecture and landscaped grounds are a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Visiting this museum is a must for art lovers and a great way to learn about the history of American painting.
The hill-stead was designed by Theodate Pope Riddle for wealthy industrialist Alfred Atmore Pope. Egerton Swartwout translated the design into a working site plan. Construction was completed from 1898 to 1901. After the Popes’ death, their daughter Theodate Pope Riddle inherited the estate. Her will included a gift for the creation of the Hill-Stead Museum. She directed that the museum be maintained and open to the public.
In addition to the Hill-Stead Museum, the National Museum of American Art (NMAA) is another important place to visit in Connecticut. It is home to more than 8,000 works of modern art, including oil paintings. It often exhibits works by emerging artists. Other types of art on display include sculptures, works on paper, portraits, and abstract works. The museum is one of the best places to visit in Connecticut and has many programs for the whole family.
Saville Dam
When visiting the state, one must not miss out on visiting the historic Saville Dam. This earthen embankment dam, with masonry work, sits on the eastern branch of the Farmington River. It measures approximately 1,950 feet long and 135 feet tall, with an uncontrolled spillway on the western portion. Its masonry work is a piece of history in and of itself, making it a must-see attraction.
The Saville Dam is one of the most impressive man-made structures in the entire state. Named for its chief engineer, it is one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit in Connecticut. The dam is also a major water source for the city of Hartford, and offers panoramic views of the Connecticut countryside. The dam is a half-mile long and 135 feet tall, and has a picnic area with a breathtaking view of Lake McDonough.
Another great place to visit in Connecticut is the historic Hartland Hollow. Its pristine shoreline is home to the iconic Saville Dam, which first crested its spillway in 1948. The reservoir, home to the dam’s first crest, was constructed in only eight years. Despite the time it took to fill up, the lake’s beauty still inspires people to come visit. Saville Dam is just one of the many fascinating places to visit in Connecticut, and a perfect place to start your trip.
Greenwich Historical Society
There are many places to visit in Connecticut, but perhaps two of the most interesting are Greenwich and its surrounding towns. The historical society is located in the town, but you can also find plenty of attractions and activities in and around Greenwich itself. The town also boasts the historic Putnam Cottage, where Revolutionary War General Israel Putnam escaped the British by riding his horse over a cliff. Today, the museum offers tours of the Putnam Cottage, which is located in the town’s Putnam Hill Historic District.
Located just off I-95, the Greenwich Historical Society is a hidden gem. You can enjoy its grounds, lined with blossoms and a grape arbor, and wander through its expansive museum galleries. You’ll also find a store and cafe inside the historical society’s main building. A visit to this museum is an essential part of exploring Greenwich, Connecticut. If you’re looking for a fun activity, try your hand at one of the many art galleries or visit the museum shop.
While the town is a wonderful destination for tourists, it’s worth noting that it is one of the largest in the state. This town is home to beautiful architecture, picturesque countryside, and historical cottages. You can also enjoy great shopping in Greenwich. However, be sure to check the local regulations, as some businesses in Greenwich are closed due to global health concerns. Regardless, you’ll enjoy exploring this picturesque town, and you’ll be glad you did.
Wadsworth Athenaeum Museum of Art
If you’re looking for an excellent art museum in the state of Connecticut, the Wadsworth Athenaeum is a great place to start. Among its collections are European Baroque and classical bronzes, as well as French and American art. However, if you’re interested in American or French art, you’ll want to take a look at the museum’s collection of contemporary American art.
The Wadsworth Athenaeum’s collection of contemporary art is one of the best in the state. The museum was founded by Daniel Wadsworth, a Hartford art enthusiast who married the niece of the famous artist John Trumbull. The museum’s name comes from the site of his family’s old home, which he donated to the city of Hartford. Among the collections on display here are works by the Hudson River School, modern American artists, and European masters.
If you want to see modern art, the Wadsworth Athenaeum is one of the best places to visit in Connecticut. It offers a unique blend of modern and classical pieces from artists all over the world. The Wadsworth Athenaeum Museum of Art is also worth checking out, especially if you’re traveling with a family.
Yale University
If you’re planning a visit to Connecticut, you might want to check out Yale University. This private, Ivy League research university is located in New Haven, Connecticut. Founded in 1701 as a Collegiate School, Yale is the third-oldest higher-education institution in the U.S. and among the world’s most prestigious. Its students come from all over the world to pursue higher education at Yale.
New Haven is a port city in eastern Connecticut, located on the Quinnipiac River. Founded by the English Puritans in 1638, New Haven is famed as the home of Yale University. There are numerous places to visit and experience on the university campus, including the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, a mid-century building, and a historic zoo.
When visiting the campus, don’t miss the opportunity to tour the famous university. The school is home to the New Haven Symphony Orchestra, which was founded by Morris Steinert. It’s a long-time association with the Yale School of Music. Woolsey Hall, the home of the orchestra’s concerts, was built in 1901. The campus also features beautiful Gothic Revival buildings. While visiting Yale University, you’ll also have the opportunity to see the famous “Bridge Street” staircase, which is located in the University’s historic core.
Things to Do in Connecticut
With a mixture of urban areas, seaside resorts, and quaint coastal towns, Connecticut offers something for everyone. Small towns like Mystic are famous for the Seaport museum, showcasing centuries-old ships. New Haven is home to Yale University, as well as the Peabody Museum of Natural History. For some historical insight, head to New Haven’s Mystic Aquarium to learn more about the region’s history.
Arethusa Farm
For a unique day trip, visit the historic Arethusa Farm in Litchfield. The farm is a proud recipient of the Green Pastures’ Award, which dates back to 1948. In a bet, New Hampshire Governor Dale challenged other governors to find a better pasture. McConaughy won, and the award has since become based on overall dairy farm management. There are many things to do in Connecticut that feature this historic farm, but visiting Arethusa Farm is something you should not miss.
In the past, the farm operated as a dairy for 130 years. Then Trickle Down economics took hold and the farm was forced to close. Afterward, the property became a horse farm, and for two decades, it was abandoned. However, in 1999, George and Tony, executives at Manolo Blahnik shoes, decided to buy the property, which had been run by the Webster family since 1868. They were motivated by the history of the farm, which had been threatened by development and subdivision.
Mark Twain House & Museum
The Mark Twain House & Museum is a place to visit if you’re in the area. This historic Connecticut home was the home of the famous American author and humorist. The Twain family first moved to Hartford in 1873 and built a Victorian-style home on Farmington Avenue. They eventually moved to Europe but kept ownership of the home, which they later sold for a multi-million dollar visitor center.
The house was designed by Edward Tuckerman Potter and decorated by Louis Comfort Tiffany. The interior is full of Tiffany’s designs, including intricate stencils and handcrafted woodwork. Today, over 16,000 items from Twain’s personal collection are displayed in the Mark Twain House & Museum. The museum also features changing exhibitions and a film biography about the author by director Ken Burns. The home is accessible by wheelchair, but if you’re not in excellent health, it may be best to avoid the house.
Mystic Aquarium
If you’re visiting Connecticut, you have probably heard of the Mystic Aquarium. The aquarium is located in the Mystic Village, which is part of Groton and Stonington. Visiting the aquarium is a great way to learn about the life of sea creatures. You can also view a movie at the Mystic Theater. You can’t go wrong with either of these places.
Whether you’re looking for family fun, gambling, or some shopping, this aquarium is sure to please. The aquarium is home to a variety of marine life, including endangered beluga whales and penguins. Visitors can explore the various exhibits, enjoy a movie rental, or try out a virtual reality experience. It is a great place to spend a day in Connecticut. Whether it’s a rainy or sunny day, you’ll find plenty of activities to keep you busy.
If you’re looking for an educational experience for the whole family, the Mystic Aquarium is a must. With over 750,000 gallons of aquatic species, this aquarium will captivate your kids and leave them wanting more. The aquarium is open seven days a week, so you’re bound to find something to do with everyone. It’s not only educational, but fun for the whole family.
New England Air Museum
The New England Air Museum is an aerospace museum located adjacent to Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut. It houses three main display hangars, storage hangars, and restoration hangars. The museum features more than 2,000 aircraft in its collection. You’ll learn about the history and development of airplanes, including the Boeing 737 and the McDonnell Douglas DC-9. The exhibits are complemented by a wide variety of models, from vintage jets to modern fighter planes.
Visitors can learn about the history of flight by touring the museum’s exhibits and virtual activities. The museum recently added a Redbird Flight Simulator and augmented reality technology. The museum also has new aircraft on display and will have two new exhibits by the end of the year. Families can explore the museum’s history by learning about the people who built and flew these aircraft. And don’t miss the Wright Brothers’ engine!
Rocky Neck State Park
While on a visit to Connecticut, be sure to spend some time at Rocky Neck State Park. This public recreation area is situated on Long Island Sound in East Lyme, Connecticut. Its 708 acres include tidal river, broad salt marsh, rocky shores, and a 1930s stone pavilion. Visitors can swim, fish, or kayak in the sheltered waters of this park.
The best part of this state park is its beach, which is the main draw. You can also take scenic walks around the park’s seven hundred acres of salt marshes for great photo ops. While the beach is popular with families, you won’t find a better place to enjoy Connecticut’s wildlife and birdwatching than this state park. You can watch ospreys and see a variety of bird species at Rocky Neck State Park, or take a fishing trip and catch some mackerel, flounder, and striped bass.
There’s a variety of hiking trails at Rocky Neck State Park, and both are moderately challenging. Hikers should plan to start early if they want to avoid crowds. A two-hour extended loop hike, however, offers more views and a quieter path. Fishing at Rocky Neck State Park is a great option for the entire family, and you can even try your luck at catching winter flounder. If you’re not into fishing, there are also plenty of opportunities to catch blackfish, bluefish, and striped bass.
Submarine Force Library & Museum
The United States Navy Submarine Force Library & Museum is situated on the banks of the Thames River in Groton, Connecticut. It is home to several historic submarines. It is a fascinating place to visit if you love history books. You can also learn about the technology that made submarines operate and survive. The museum is free to enter and is a fascinating way to experience the history of America’s most famous submarine.
You can also tour the USS Nautilus, the world’s first operational nuclear-powered submarine. The tour takes about 30 minutes and includes mock-ups of various stations on board various modern Subs. The staff is very friendly and you’ll be able to interact with them. The museum is open daily, except Tuesdays. You’ll find something interesting and new to learn each time you visit.
The Submarine Force Museum in Groton, Connecticut, has one of the largest collections of submarine artifacts in the world. It is the only submarine museum run by the U.S. Navy and serves as the primary repository of U.S. Submarine Force history. Visitors can learn about the development of the “Silent Service” from the beginning to the present. Founded in 1955 by the Electric Boat Division of General Dynamics Corporation, the Submarine Force Library & Museum has since gained respect for its archival value.
Little Italy on Wooster Street
If you’ve ever been to New Haven, you’ve probably heard about the world-famous pizzerias on Wooster Street. These restaurants are the best in the state, but what makes Little Italy so special? Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana opened in 1925, and Zeneli Pizzeria e Cucina Napoletana just opened this summer. The neighborhood of Wooster Square is one of the most sought-after residential neighborhoods in the city, founded by industrialists in the 19th century. Today, this neighborhood has a mix of stately homes built by architect Henry Austin, but is mostly condos for young professionals and families.
Giulio Laurentino, a native of Naples, is planning to open a new Italian restaurant on the corner of Wooster Street and Chestnut Street. His plans for a restaurant on this block were first announced at the BZA meeting on the ground floor of 200 Orange St. The BZA unanimously approved a special exception for a restaurant liquor permit. Giulio’s proposed restaurant will be located on the ground floor of 121 Wooster St, at the northeast corner of Wooster and Chestnut Streets.
Frank Pepe Pizzeria Neapolitana
New Haven’s famous tomato pie is coming to Northern Virginia. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, which opened in Connecticut in 2008, has signed a lease at the Alexandria Commons shopping center. The restaurant will open in a space that was formerly occupied by Baja Fresh. It will open in the East Rock area of the city. Things to do in Connecticut at Frank Pepe Pizzeria Neapolitana include:
The Connecticut location of Frank Pepe has a replica of the New Haven location, which includes a 104-pound coal-fired oven. The charred crust and chewy texture of these pizzas is a result of cooking for six to ten minutes at 600 degrees. The restaurant’s interior is decorated to reflect the New Haven tradition, including wall decor and furniture reminiscent of the original restaurant.
The original New Haven location is a bona fide pilgrimage for pizza lovers. It consistently makes the “best” lists, including those from Tim Zagat, a former editor of Gourmet Magazine, Ruth Reichl, and the Guardian newspaper. While many of its fans insist that a copy of Pepe’s pizzas are not as good, many naysayers contend that a replica cannot compare to the original. However, the location is located in a prime location near major highways, making it convenient for travelers.
Best Sightseeing in Connecticut
If you are interested in visiting U.S. states that feature the ocean, check out Connecticut. This southern New England state is a combination of coastal cities and rural towns. You’ll find centuries-old ships at the Mystic Seaport Museum, and beluga whale exhibits at the Mystic Aquarium. You’ll also find Yale University and the Peabody Museum of Natural History in New Haven. You’ll find many interesting museums and historic sites to visit in Connecticut, too.
New England Air Museum
The New England Air Museum is an American aerospace museum located adjacent to Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks, Connecticut. It is made up of three display hangars, as well as two more for storage and restoration. Visitors can learn more about airplanes, engines, rockets, and satellites from the museum’s knowledgeable staff. Taking a guided tour will allow you to appreciate the history of these aircraft.
Children and families will also appreciate the B-29 Superfortress, which takes up one-eight thousand square feet of space. This plane was once used as a ship-based anti-submarine convoy escort in WWII. The museum received the aircraft in 1973, and it was restored in 1998. You can tour the cockpit and learn how to operate a plane or have a child climb aboard.
The New England Air Museum is a must-see for visitors to Connecticut. It has a diverse collection of vintage aircraft, restored airplanes, and personal memorabilia. Visitors can also see the oldest hot air balloon basket in the country. Admission to the museum is free through the North American Reciprocal Museums Association. The New England Air Museum is located on 36 Perimeter Road in Windsor Locks, Conn. It is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and closed on Mondays during winter.
Another must-see in Connecticut is the USS Nautilus, a former nuclear submarine used during the Cold War. It is now a decommissioned museum, but you can still experience a virtual tour of the submarine by completing an audio tour. Another great attraction is Lake Compounce Amusement Park, which opened in 1846. The park has the oldest amusement park in the US. It has rides for the entire family.
Enders State Forest
If you’re looking for some of the best sightseeing in Connecticut, a trip to Enders State Forest is on your to-do list. Its three-quarter-mile hiking trail offers several waterfalls with varying levels of difficulty, including Enders Falls. The tallest drop measures 30 feet, but you’ll need to be careful not to fall in the steep, slippery waterfall. Another great hike in this forest is the Enders Falls forestry trail, which takes you past three-quarters of a mile.
While Enders Falls may be a popular waterfall in New England, it’s also one of the quietest waterfalls in the state. You’ll find small natural swimming holes in the river, as well as a scenic waterfall. This hike is relatively short, and there are several access points for the scenic waterfall. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, however, as there are some steep rocks and ledges to negotiate.
If you’re looking for some more adventure, Connecticut’s New England Air Museum is a great choice. The museum has top-quality exhibits on aviation history and technology. Visitors can also get hands-on experience with flight science demonstrations and Build & Fly To Go Kits. You’ll love this Connecticut sightseeing spot! While you’re here, don’t forget to check out its Connecticut attractions, free activities, and popular tourist spots.
Wadsworth Falls State Park
For a breathtaking waterfall experience, make your way to Middlefield and Middletown and visit Wadsworth Falls State Park. Located along the Coginchaug River, this 285-acre park is sure to enchant your senses. Hiking trails and fishing opportunities are just a few of the ways to enjoy the falls. Unfortunately, you can no longer swim or consume alcohol at this state park.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, this state park is a must-see. The park is home to two waterfalls, Big Falls and Little Falls, and offers plenty of hiking and biking trails. Whether you want to soak up the natural beauty of the park or just enjoy the view, there’s something for everyone here. Whether you’re interested in a hike or a scenic drive, Wadsworth Falls State Park is a must-see.
In addition to a great waterfall, the park is home to diverse bird and amphibian life. There’s a bat house in the park, built as part of an Eagle Scout project to help restore the bat population. The park’s name hints at the park’s importance in the area’s ecology. In fact, the park was named after a prominent community leader, Clarence C. Wadsworth, a noted linguist and scholar, who was involved in the preservation of the state park’s natural beauty for forty years.
Another place to visit in Wadsworth Falls State Park is the Shore Line Trolley Museum. This museum houses a diverse collection of vintage trolley cars. Trolley enthusiasts will love the relics and exhibits, as well as archival artifacts. The park has plenty of great things to offer visitors, and is one of the best sightseeing in Connecticut. The waterfalls and park are a perfect way to start or end your day in the state.
Bushnell Park
In Connecticut, Bushnell Park is the hub of activity. It is the oldest publicly funded park in the country, and has been around for over 150 years. With its statues and fountains, the park is a great place to spend the day with your family. The park is also soon to have a new playground. It’s easy to see why Bushnell Park is a favorite among tourists and locals alike.
This park is located right in the middle of Hartford’s activities, and it offers a variety of free activities for visitors to enjoy. While there is no air conditioning, the park does receive a moderate climate, and it can even get quite cold at times. Bushnell Park is also home to the Butler-McCook Homestead, one of the most well-preserved historic buildings in the US. You can tour this historic landmark and admire its 17th-century architecture.
Another interesting sight in Bushnell Park is the Travelers Tower. Located close to the Connecticut Science Center and the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, it is a wonderful place to break up your history trip. You can also explore Hartford’s oldest church, built by Thomas Hooker in 1636, and the Travelers Tower, built as a tribute to the state’s Father, who was known as “the Genius of Connecticut”.
Bush-Holley house
The Bush-Holley House, a National Historic Landmark, is a historic house museum located at 39 Strickland Road in Cos Cob, Greenwich, Connecticut. Built in 1730, the house was later used as a boarding house. It was also the center of the Cos Cob Art Colony, Connecticut’s first artistic community. Today, the Bush-Holley House is a must-see for those visiting Connecticut.
The first stage of building the Bush-Holley House took place between 1728 and 1730. The house was situated in an ideal location to access New York City by sea. The house’s name comes from its owner, a Dutch-born farmer and town selectman named Justus Bush. After his father died, his son David took over as owner and made many changes in the house. In the refined Georgian style, the building has been renovated twice, from 1755 to 1777.
Bush-Holley House is located at 39 Strickland Road in Greenwich. It was built in 1730 and was once the home of the country’s first art colony. It is a National Historic Landmark and offers tours and exhibits. And, as part of its recent expansion, it’s now home to a museum. If you’re a fan of art, you’ll find a world of inspiration at the Bush-Holley House.
Mystic Seaport Museum
Located in Mystic, Connecticut, the Mystic Seaport Museum, also known as the “Museum of America and the Water”, is the largest maritime museum in the United States. The museum’s collection of vintage sailing ships and boats is especially noteworthy. Moreover, it has a reconstructed 19th-century seafaring village. Mystic is an interesting place to visit if you’re looking for something different.
This 19-acre maritime museum includes a working shipyard that preserves the museum’s historic vessels. A simulated 19th-century coastal village allows visitors to take a look at shipbuilding techniques and enjoy live entertainment. Visitors can also spend the day learning about star navigation in the planetarium. Moreover, the museum offers guided and self-guided boat tours. Tickets for general admission are available seven days a week. The museum also hosts a woodcarving and rigging show in the year 2021.
Besides the museum, the Mystic Seaport is also home to a marina. Visitors can board historic vessels to learn more about maritime history. You can even climb aboard a whaleship, the last wooden whaleship in the world. The museum has four National Historic Landmark vessels, including the Charles W. Morgan, which was built in 1841. You can also view the Treworgy Planetarium to learn about the planet’s natural history.
