Things to Do in Connecticut – Bridgeport
If you’re looking for things to do in Connecticut, the state’s largest city has a bit to offer. Bridgeport is home to the Beardsley Zoo, the Barnum Museum, and the Discovery Museum. You can also take a stroll through one of the many parks or go for a ride on the historic carousel.
Interesting Parks in Bridgeport
Seaside Park is a 33-acre public park located along the Long Island Sound. The park features a band shell, an outdoor amphitheater, picnic tables, and a playground. Trumbull Town Park is a large community park with walking trails, a pond, tennis courts, and a playground.
Veterans Memorial Park is a small park located in the downtown area. The park has a gazebo, a fountain, and is home to the Bridgeport Veterans Memorial.
Attractions to See in Connecticut – Stamford
Stamford is home to the Stamford Museum and Nature Center, the Bartlett Arboretum and Gardens, and the Chelsea Piers Connecticut.
- The Stamford Museum and Nature Center is a museum that features exhibits on local history, art, and nature.
- The Bartlett Arboretum and Gardens is a botanical garden with over 100 acres of gardens and hiking trails.
- The Chelsea Piers Connecticut is a sports complex where you can play basketball, ice skate, or go rock climbing.
Things to Do in Connecticut – Hartford
What are some things to do in Connecticut if you’re planning a tour of the state? If Hartford is one of your stops, here’s a list of must-see attractions.
Museums and Historical Sites in Hartford
The Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford was the author’s family home for 17 years and played an important role in his literary career. The museum offers a number of tours, as well as special events and programs throughout the year.
The Harriet Beecher Stowe Center is another must-visit museum in Hartford. The center is dedicated to the study and interpretation of the life and work of the influential author and abolitionist.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Hartford, take a stroll through Bushnell Park – it’s the oldest publicly-funded park in the country!
Other Attractions in Hartford
Other things to do in Hartford include visiting the Old State House, taking a ride on the vintage carousel at Elizabeth Park, or exploring the Connecticut Science Center.
Things to Do in Connecticut – New Haven
New Haven is home to Yale University, one of the most prestigious colleges in the country. A tour of the Yale campus is a must for any visitor to New Haven.
While you’re in town, be sure to check out some other great things New Haven has to offer, including the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, the Shubert Theater, and the Long Wharf Theatre.
And don’t forget about the food! New Haven is known for its pizzas, so be sure to try a famous Pepe’s Pizza or Sally’s Apizza while you’re in town.
Things to Do in New Britain, Connecticut
The New Britain Museum of American Art is another great option for those interested in art and history. The museum has an impressive collection of American art, spanning from the colonial era to the present day.
The New Britain Youth Museum is a great place to take the kids, with hands-on exhibits and programs that focus on science, technology, engineering, and math.
For those looking for things to do outdoors, Stanley Park is a great option. The park has walking trails, a pond, gardens, and playgrounds.
Places to Go in Connecticut – Smaller Cities
There are plenty of things to do in Connecticut’s smaller cities and towns as well. In Danbury, be sure to visit the Danbury Railway Museum. The museum is located in an old train station and has a number of restored locomotives and cars on display.
In Middletown, take a walk through Wesleyan University’s beautiful campus. Founded in 1831, Wesleyan is one of the oldest colleges in Connecticut. In Madison, head to the Hammonasset Beach State Park for a relaxing afternoon.
Bristol has the oldest continuously running amusement park in the U.S. – Lake Compounce. Make sure to go there for some family fun!
And in Norwich, be sure to visit the Slater Memorial Museum. The museum is home to a collection of art and artifacts from around the world, as well as a number of rotating exhibitions.
Places to Go in Connecticut – Small Towns
In addition to the larger cities, there are also many charming small towns worth exploring in Connecticut. Some of our favorites include Mystic, Essex, and Old Saybrook.
- Mystic is a quaint seaside town with a number of great shops and restaurants. Be sure to visit Mystic Aquarium and Mystic Seaport, the nation’s leading maritime museum.
- Essex is a historic town with a charming Main Street lined with shops and restaurants. Don’t miss the Connecticut River Museum, which offers exhibits on the area’s rich maritime history. Pay a visit to Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, too!
- Old Saybrook is another great option for those looking to explore a small town in Connecticut. The town has a number of beaches, as well as the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, which is dedicated to the life and work of the legendary actress.
Besides, Gillette Castle State Park between East Haddam and Lyme is a great place to explore too. The park is home to a number of hiking trails and a beautiful castle that was once the home of actor William Gillette.
An Example Tour of Connecticut
If you’re looking for things to do in Connecticut, here’s a sample itinerary for a great tour of the state:
- Start in Hartford and visit the Old State House, the Mark Twain House & Museum, and the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center.
- Head to New Haven and tour the Yale campus, visit the Peabody Museum of Natural History, and grab a slice of pizza at Pepe’s.
- Spend the day in New Britain exploring the New Britain Museum of American Art and the Stanley Park hiking trails.
- End your trip with a visit to one of Connecticut’s charming small towns, like Mystic, Essex, or Old Saybrook.
You could also take a day to visit Norwalk
Planning a Day Trip to Connecticut? Consider Staying for Longer
No matter what you’re looking for, Connecticut has something to offer everyone. From its bigger cities to its small towns, there are plenty of things to see and do in this great state. So get out there and explore all that Connecticut has to offer!
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