Connecticut is a small state that is packed with plenty of things to see and do, while its breathtaking scenery makes it the perfect place to visit in New England once autumn arrives. I love this time of the year and I think a road trip is the best way to see the state.
- Hammonasset Beach State Parkrickpilot_2000 / Beach Photos / CC BY
Nestled in between Massachusetts and New York state, Connecticut is certainly convenient to explore when on holiday in the USA. There are plenty of ways to visit the state, and Bon Voyageoffers a good selection of breaks that are well worth considering. Here are my ten top things to visit while here.
1. Hammonasset Beach State Park
The beach is still a lovely place to visit in the USA’s fall, especially as you can go on a scenic stroll along it and soak up the fresh sea air. Spanning 2 miles, the beach provides you with plenty of space to stretch your legs on the sand at Hammonsasset Beach State Park in Madison and enjoy the views, although there are lots of other activities to take part in here. Just a handful are scuba diving, saltwater fishing, hiking and boating.
2. Essex Steam Train and River Boat
The seaside town of Essex lies on the banks of the Connecticut River, and as you’d expect this is a lovely place to be in autumn. The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat is well worth going on, and it’s great value for money as you’re taken on a 2.5-hour trip through the gorgeous valley.
3. Captains’ houses
Essex used to be an important shipbuilding hub, and while it is a yachting port now, you can still see the legacy of its past. One part of this are the majestic former captains’ houses dotted throughout the town – I would recommend you take them in on a walking tour.
4. Mark Twain House and Museum
The state capital is Hartford, which lies in the River Valley close to Essex. One of Hartford’s top attractions is the Mark Twain House and Museum, which is where the famous author used to live. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn were written in the Victorian property, which you can explore.
5. Connecticut Science Center
Located in Hartford, the Connecticut Science Center is one of the state’s latest attractions to open, and I think it should definitely be on your itinerary. With everything from daily science shows to hands-on activities, it’s a fantastic place for people of all interests.
6. Yale University
I’ve heard about Yale University so much in American films, the opportunity of taking a tour around its campus and seeing for myself what all of the fuss is about is something I had to seize upon! The highly-regarded university is located in New Haven, so if you’re passing by make sure you take the time to visit.
7. Mystic Seaport
America’s leading maritime museum is Mystic Seaport, which is found in the town of Mystic. Boasting 17 acres packed with exhibits, the attraction means you can easily spend a couple of hours here. It’s home to National Historic Landmark boats and individuals who recreate what life was like in the 19th century.
8. Mystic River
If you’re holidaying in New England between April and October and decide to come to Mystic, make sure you go on a boat tour of the river. You’ll get a fantastic vantage point of the tall ships and other exhibits at the museum, as well as take in the autumnal colours of the trees.
9. Marinelife Aquarium
This is also in Mystic, meaning you can fit a lot into one day while in this corner of Connecticut. The Marinelife Aquarium houses the state’s only beluga whales, as well as African penguins, sea lions, seahorses and turtles.
10. Lake Compounce Theme Park
If, like me, you’re a fan of theme parks, make sure you come to Lake Compounce in Bristol. This is in the Litchfield Hills part of the state, and is Connecticut’s largest water park. In addition, you can ride on Boulder Dash, which has been voted the best wooden rollercoaster in the world.
