Getting to travel is one of the greatest privileges that an individual can have. The chance to explore new places, experience wonders, learn things you have never known before. With 50 states available to travel to in this country, there are plenty of options for discovering unique environments.

The great state of Connecticut, one of our country’s smallest at under 6,000 square miles, has a lot to offer any kind of traveler. From backpackers to families on vacation to international tourists, everyone can find a fun place to visit and cool experiences to enjoy. For travelers who will visit Connecticut in the future or current residents who just want to know more about what their state has to offer, a comprehensive list of the various attractions across the state can be the perfect tool you didn’t know you needed. All of the Connecticut attractions listed below could work for any traveler, but it is organized by category to make things a little simpler.

For Adventurers

Are you someone that loves to get out into nature and experience everything that the living environment has to offer? Then you will find plenty of cool attractions in Connecticut to satisfy your need for adventure.

The Connecticut River

The largest river in New England boasts plenty of opportunities for the nature lover to experience the beauty of this region. There are many available hikes and walking paths along its length, with beautiful views of the river and surrounding valley. You can head to Windsor Meadows State Park just north of Hartford for some easy and quiet walks through a refuge by the water.

State Parks

Head to the northwest corner of Connecticut and you’ll find Mount Riga State Park, which includes popular hiking trails like the Bear Mountain Trail. For sandy beaches and salt marshes, check out Rocky Neck State Park in East Lyme. If you like the idea of camping and exploring various trails near beautiful waterfalls, then you’ll want to try out Devil’s Hopyard State Park in East Haddam. With so many options across the region, you’ll easily find a state park in Connecticut that connects with the nature-lover in you.

Wildlife Preserves

The natural world is an incredible place, and it is our job to preserve as much of it as possible. If you agree, then you will love places like the Elizabeth Park Conservancy. Acres and acres of formal gardens and beautiful trails allow you to take in the beauty of various flora. Head to Dinosaur State Park if you love a bit of natural history. This park preserves a massive collection of real dinosaur tracks discovered in 1966. Other options to get your fill of the living environment include the Roaring Brook Nature Center in Canton and the Oak Grove Nature Center in Manchester.

Stamford Museum and Nature Center

The Stamford Museum and Nature Center boasts outdoor adventures, nature trails, a planetarium, virtual tours, a mansion, and other features that will display the beauty of the natural world to visitors. Plan a group visit or check out one of their upcoming events to take part in.

Farmington River Trail

Visit the scenic Farmington River and either walk, bike, or jog along the Farmington River trail, a 16.5-mile trail that features a vast array of scenic overlooks and surroundings. Whether you are a nature lover or a fitness nut who is looking for a cool place to go for a bike ride, this attraction can suit just about anyone.

For History Lovers

There are many historic sites, world-class museums, and other similar locations that you can visit if you love to reflect on the past. Immerse yourself in history by checking out these attractions throughout the state of Connecticut.

Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History

From dinosaurs to Mesopotamia to microscopic life, the Peabody Museum of Natural History at Yale University has it all. Just head to the visitor center and see what the Yale Peabody Museum can teach you about natural history, both locally and around the world.

New England Air Museum

In the town of Windsor Locks you will find the New England Air Museum. This facility will teach you all about the past, present, and future of flight. Interactive experiences, full-scale plane modes, and exhibits about interesting topics like the Tuskegee Airmen will certainly thrill the history buff.

Essex Steam Train

Want to board an old-fashioned steam train for a narrated tour of the Connecticut River Valley? The Essex Steam Train, also known as the Valley Railroad Company, is the perfect experience for you. Beginning at the historic Essex station, this 12-mile round trip will give you a taste of history, nature, and a fun steam train ride all in one experience.

Mashantucket Pequot Museum

Learn all about a local Native American tribe at the Mashantucket Pequot Museum. You’ll discover the story of this tribal nation, see old artifacts, and experience a new culture, all while surrounded by a beautiful and natural swamp.

Gillette Castle

Built by a well-known playwright and actor, William Hooker Gillette, this 184-acre property features a large mansion fashioned after a medieval castle. Multiple trails allow you to explore the large property, and tours of the castle are also available. Gillette Castle makes for a great visit to a historic property between Lyme and East Haddam.

Mark Twain House

If you love the idea of living history tours about a well-known American author, then you can’t go wrong with the Mark Twain House. This museum and the restored home of the author make for a perfect and easy visit to Hartford, CT.

Greenwich Historical Society

Learn the story of a beautiful and historical town in Connecticut by visiting the Greenwich Historical Society. With plenty of interactive and fun things to do on your visit, history buffs will gain knowledge about an 18th-century village through crafts, tours, art galleries, a library, and the museum store.

For Art Enthusiasts

Connecticut is packed full of art exhibition facilities that you can visit if you are a fan of visual human accomplishments. With multiple museums and various genres of art displays available throughout the state, every art enthusiast should be able to find something for them.

Hill-Stead Museum

If you are interested in guided tours, poetry reading competitions, and impressionist art, then the Hill-Stead Museum is the destination you are looking for. Come for the art and stay for one of the “finest Colonial Revival house(s)” in the country. Don’t forget to head to the museum store before you leave to take home something to remember the trip.

Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum

In Ridgefield, CT, the Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum houses a fine collection of pieces and displays that attracts plenty of attention from visitors each year. It is one of the oldest contemporary art museums in the country and is solely dedicated to this genre of human creativity.

New Britain Museum of American Art

Founded in 1903, the New Britain Museum of American Art was the first of its kind in the United States. Today, you can find rotating displays of modern American art, various programs for visitors to partake in, and permanent exhibitions.

The Glass House

With both painting galleries and sculpture grounds, as well as a beautiful surrounding landscape and historical buildings, the Glass House is a must-see destination for art enthusiasts who are traveling through Connecticut. Head to New Canaan to find this gem and spend an afternoon exploring a gorgeous location with fine art displays.

Yale University Art Gallery

If you want to enjoy a broad range of art genres, including Indo-Pacific art, Asian art, and even contemporary art, then head to the Yale University Art Gallery founded in 1832. It is the oldest university art gallery in the country.

For Family Fun

Connecticut is also a great state to visit for families who are looking for exhilarating and even educational experiences. A day or evening of family fun is just around the corner with plenty of opportunities to get your children excited about new experiences.

Mystic, CT

The village of Mystic in Connecticut is chock-full of tourist attractions. Having been established in 1654 by the Mystic River estuary, one of the oldest villages in the country has a lot of historic charm for visitors and residents to enjoy. It is a crucial element of Connecticut history too. Head to this town for the day and you will find plenty of options for family fun ideas to keep both adults and kids entertained.

Mystic Seaport Museum

The Mystic Seaport Museum is one of the most popular destinations in the entire state. You can get out on the water, explore the historic maritime village, learn about the history of the seaport, tour historic vessels, and check out beautiful gardens all in one place. This attraction is perfect for families who are looking for an engaging activity that is both fun and educational.

Mystic Aquarium

Live animals, a theater, virtual reality experiences, and an emphasis on preservation make the Mystic Aquarium a must-visit for traveling families. You can take home some memorabilia from the gift shop as well. This popular maritime aquarium is sure to be a hit for both adults and children.

Olde Mistick Village

Have you ever wanted to shop in a mall that looked nothing like a modern mall? Then you should find Olde Mistick Village, a quaint little location that features various specialty shopping and dining options, housed in a charming, 18th-century New England-style town. Explore the recreated buildings, streets, and sidewalks with the family for a unique experience that everyone will remember.

Beaches

With a long coastline, Connecticut has many coastal beaches that you and your family can enjoy on a beautiful summer day. You can find over two miles of sandy beaches, the longest such stretch in Connecticut, at Hammonasset Beach State Park. Plenty of other beaches along the southern edge of Connecticut grant you access to the Atlantic Ocean. They are great locations for sunbathing, swimming, boogie-boarding, and relaxing for the day with your family.

Amusement Parks

What family doesn’t love an amusement park? Kids have a lot of energy, and when you want to help them use up that energy throughout the day, it is hard to beat a theme park. Lake Compounce is a great attraction located in Bristol, CT. This amusement park features an award-winning wooden coaster, voted as the best wooden coaster in the world five times. You can also hop on an antique carousel built in 1898 to get a historic flavor with your amusement park ride. There are plenty of both water rides and dry rides for the whole family to enjoy. Lake Compunce has other fun things to do like camping, shopping, dining, a Fall Fest, live music, and more. It truly is the ideal destination for vacationing families or local residents who are looking for a day trip with their kids.

How does the “world’s largest indoor ropes course” sound? Does that seem like the perfect way to spend an afternoon with the family? In New Haven, look for the IT Adventure Ropes Course inside Jordan’s Furniture. This gem can provide fun for every family member, but especially the little ones.

Sacred Hearts University Discovery Center

Do you want to educate your children in the sciences with a discovery room? Bridgeport, CT is home to Sacred Hearts University’s Discovery Center, a place where minds both young and old can learn to appreciate science through experiments, interactive experiences, and fun activities. Learn the wonders of static electricity, view the microscopic world through a telescope, and see how scientists are discovering more about the planet and its forces every day.

For Sports Fans

Connecticut is the home of many sports teams at various levels. With multiple stadiums across the state, sports fans can find an event that suits them and cheer on their favorite teams, or just enjoy a day/night at the game.

UConn Basketball

Both the men’s and women’s collegiate basketball teams have a storied past. The women have won many national championships, often consecutively, in the past decade, while the men also have multiple championships in recent years. You can head to one of these games at the XL Center in Hartford for multiple games throughout the year. Gampel Pavilion in Storrs Mansfield is another stadium where the UConn Huskies play multiple home games.

UConn Hockey

If you are a fan of the fast-paced and intense game of hockey, then you can check out either the UConn men’s or women’s hockey teams. Both of them will play multiple games at the XL Center throughout the season, as well as the Toscano Family Ice Forum.

Hartford Yard Goats

Is America’s pastime your favorite sport? Luckily, Connecticut has a Minor League Baseball team known as the Hartford Yard Goats. If you find yourself in this city, head to Dunkin Donuts Park for an afternoon or evening at the ballpark. Cheer on the team, enjoy a hot dog, try to catch a fly ball, and take part in one of Hartford’s beloved sports franchises. The season starts in the Spring and ends in the Fall, so there are plenty of games for you to check out.

Connecticut Sun

Are you a fan of the WNBA? Or are you looking for a live sporting event to attend in Uncasville, CT? Look no further than the Connecticut Sun. This professional basketball team plays its games at Mohegan Sun Arena from May to September. A Connecticut Sun basketball game is a great way to spend the evening if you are traveling through the southeastern part of the state.

UConn Football

One of the most popular sports in America is football, and if you want to support UConn’s football team, then you can find tickets during the fall. Spend some time tailgating in the parking lot before the game, then cheer on the boys as they compete with other big-name college football teams. Home games take place at the Pratt and Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field.

Miscellaneous Events

With an entire state to work with, you could probably find an interesting event to attend in every town, city, and park at some point during the year. The key is knowing what kinds of events to look for and when and where they will be happening. Here are a few event ideas that could make your experience of Connecticut even more intriguing.

Cirque Du Soleil

Whether you are an individual who loves performance artists or a family looking for some accessible and appropriate entertainment, the Cirque du Soleil could be the event for you. Multiple shows occur at the XL Center in Hartford, CT, so if you are in the area, see if there are any live performances that you could attend. It truly is the show of a lifetime.

Murder Mysteries

Adults who are looking for an evening of investigation and intrigue will often host murder mystery parties with friends and family, but they can take a lot of work to prepare and plan a fun night for all. In Connecticut, there are multiple ways to enjoy this type of experience without having to run it yourself. Head to the country’s largest interactive and comedic murder mystery dinner theater show in New Hartford. Murder mystery tours can also be found throughout the state, including at Aquila’s Nest Vineyards in Newtown. Sign up for a night of testing out your own investigative and observational skills, all while enjoying a fun tour or delicious dinner.

Self-Guided Tours

Exploring the wonders of Connecticut on your own is another way to experience this great state. Some apps that you can download on your phone allow you to explore a city with custom scavenger hunts that have been put together by others who have deep knowledge of all there is to do and see in Connecticut. If you want to get out on the water, rent a standing paddle board and head out on a lake or river to take in the sights. Pull up Maps on your phone and simply zoom in on your location to see what lies nearby that pops up as a place of interest.

Places of Note

Whether or not you have specific things in mind that you want to do while traveling through Connecticut, sometimes the best approach is to have no plan. Then, when you are visiting a city or town, you can just find out what is around by exploring or asking local residents. Here are a few locations that provide many opportunities for visitors to enjoy themselves at their own pace.

Yale University

One of the most prestigious institutions in the entire country and the world is located in New Haven, CT. This university was founded in 1703, making it one of the oldest in the United States. You don’t have to be an ambitious student to enjoy the campus and all of its facilities. Historic architecture, a rich history, the art gallery, and a beautiful campus allow residents and visitors to enjoy the university without having to worry about paying tuition or room and board.

East Haven

This beautiful town in New Haven County contains many attractions that any traveler or local resident could find interesting. Check out the Shore Line Trolley Museum for a little bit of history. Farm River State Park provides some easy walks through the woods if you want to immerse yourself in nature. Multiple breweries and a beach with a splash pad ensure that both adults and children can find something to enjoy in this beautiful area.

Rocky Hill

Head to Hartford County and look for the town of Rocky Hill just south of the city of Hartford. This town contains multiple attractions, including the above-mentioned Dinosaur State Park. You can also participate in the country’s longest-running ferry service between the towns of Rocky Hill and Glastonbury. If you are interested in a boat tour, Slipaway River Tours will take you along the Connecticut River for some lovely views.

Long Island Sound

One of the most significant geographical features for the state of Connecticut is the Long Island Sound. This Atlantic Ocean estuary lies between the southern coast of Connecticut and Long Island. It contains incredible diversity in both plant life and marine life. There are many boating, fishing, swimming, and tourism opportunities available along the Long Island Sound and its associated watershed. Tidal wetlands are a popular choice for visitors to check out along the coast of Connecticut.

Connecticut Wine Trail

Would you consider yourself a wine connoisseur? Well, even if you don’t, the Connecticut Wine Trail, which includes over 30 participating vineyards, is one of the fastest-growing wine regions in the United States. Vineyards can be an incredibly relaxing atmosphere for anyone, whether you are a wine lover or not. Try some samples, explore the workings of a wine vineyard, and enjoy the landscape while sipping on some bubbly.

For the Drive

When you have a lot of places to visit or a busy schedule to stick to, you can’t always hit up every notable location during your trip. That is exactly what this section of attractions is for. Interesting locations and attractions that are worth noting as you drive through the state of Connecticut can further enhance your experience of this state. As you travel through, keep an eye out for some of these features or areas that are still worth mentioning for various reasons.

West Cornwall Covered Bridge

If you find yourself traveling through West Cornwall on route 128 during your trip, you may encounter the West Cornwall covered bridge. This historic landmark is one of the last covered bridges in the entire state, and it still allows drivers to cross over the Housatonic River.

Connecticut Coast

As mentioned before, Connecticut has miles upon miles of coastline bordering the Atlantic Ocean. This means that there are tons of scenic drives overlooking beaches, bluffs, and the Long Island Sound from Mystic in the east through New Haven and to Stamford in the southwestern corner of the state. If you are driving anywhere along the southern parts of Connecticut, make sure you choose some routes that take you close to the water for some beautiful views and lovely towns.

Merritt Parkway

A 41-mile drive between Milford and Greenwich is the perfect place to travel. Lined with plenty of greenery in the summer and vibrant oranges, yellows, and reds in the fall, the Merritt Parkway also features unique bridge designs that will catch the eye of any architectural artist.

Litchfield Hills

If you want a mix of scenic hills, valleys, forests, state parks, and charming towns on your drive, then you should check out the South Litchfield Hills scenic route. This loop will take you through all of the above features, plus many well-known landmarks, some of which you may want to stop at and explore some more. If your travels take you through the northwestern region of Connecticut, then be sure to find this loop that starts in New Milford.

State Route 169

One thing that Connecticut offers that most other states cannot is proximity to New York City. Route 169 stretches from the city to the southeastern parts of the state of Connecticut, making it a popular drive for both commuters and other types of travelers. A scenic drive through hills, forests, and what is known as the quiet corner of the state should cause you to look around and take in the sights. Otherwise, you might miss out on this lovely region.

Why Travel to Connecticut?

As you can see, there are endless opportunities for tourists and residents to get the most out of their Connecticut experience. This state, while on the smaller side when compared to other states, offers so much in terms of attractions that are worth checking out. All across the state, there are charming towns, vibrant cities, scenic drives, gorgeous state parks, natural landscapes, and plenty of activities to engage in.

A Rich History

With some of the oldest towns in the entire country, Connecticut has a very rich history. As one of the original thirteen colonies that would eventually form the foundation of the United States, this municipality has an important role in the history of the country. Some of these 17th-century villages are still embracing their roots even now, telling a story with protected historical sites and museums. Plus, long-term institutions like Yale University make this state a hub of learning both in the past and the modern era. Gillette Castle evokes thoughts of medieval Europe, though this country’s age is far younger than those of nations across the ocean.

Breathtaking Landscapes

From the watershed of the Long Island Sound to the hills of the northwestern region, Connecticut boasts some beautiful natural features. The Connecticut River, which has its roots all the way in Canada, passes through the entire state and into the Atlantic, sustaining plants and wildlife all down its length. A long coastline means beautiful sand beaches for visitors to enjoy as well as unique land features like bluffs. Anywhere you go in the state, you will likely find beautiful views and sweeping landscapes.

Plenty of Activities to Engage Every Personality

No matter what your favorite activities are, Connecticut is full of things to do for every individual. Families can enjoy Lake Compounce park, Hammonasset Beach State Park, the maritime aquarium, the Essex steam train, and charming little towns along the water. History buffs have endless museums to visit on both natural history and human history. Art enthusiasts can find galleries and exhibitions throughout the state. Academics can check out a research center in Hartford or Danbury. If you are a big fan of playing pool, there is probably a famous billiard room in a nearby city that you could play in. Athletically-inclined individuals can find thousands of trails made for hiking, biking, or jogging. Sports fans can find local teams to support, many of them with significant national attention, in various cities around the state.

Instead of asking “what is there to do in the state of Connecticut?”, a better question to ask might be “what CAN’T I do in Connecticut?”. Everywhere you go, whether you are a one-time tourist in this great state or a full-time resident, you will be able to find PLENTY of activities and locations to enjoy.

Plan Your Trip to Connecticut Today

The state of Connecticut would be thrilled to welcome you into its borders. Whether you are looking for one place to stay for a week or want to plan a road trip around the whole state, there is a long list of must-see places to check out.

When you are planning any kind of trip, it is important to understand what your desires are. If you are traveling with multiple people, figure out how you can make the most of the trip for each individual. What types of locations does each person want to see to feel like they are getting the full experience? Should you focus on visiting multiple landmarks or staying in one city and hitting up various attractions in one place?

Another vacation tip is to leave room for relaxation and improvisation. Planning out every hour of the trip from when you arrive to the day you leave can create a stressful experience. Instead, focus on the activities and attractions that you really care about. Prioritize those few, then leave some room for flexibility in the rest of your schedule. You might find that traveling exhausts you and the crew needs some time to recuperate after a busy day. Wherever you are staying, give yourself a little time to relax each day and recharge. If you notice a place that you want to visit as you drive by, a full schedule will limit your ability to check it out. Have some wiggle room in your traveling plan so that your vacation doesn’t end with you feeling stressed and exhausted from a non-stop schedule.

Now that you know a little bit more about the state of Connecticut, what are your plans to enjoy a true experience of this state? Whether it is exploring charming maritime villages like Mystic, attending the Cirque du Soleil at the XL Center in Hartford, or taking your kids to the Discovery Center at Sacred Hearts University, you are unlikely to forget your trip to Connecticut. Enjoy your travels and keep this article bookmarked for your reference as you plan a trip to this amazing state.