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The 10 Best Nature & Parks in Connecticut, United States
Connecticut is a study in attraction and contrast. In one small state, you’ll find miles of sandy oceanfront shoreline, acres of forested hiking trails, and world-class museums, art and theater. Here family-friendly adventure parks and aquariums are just minutes from dynamic casino resorts and quaint, historic small towns — offering experiences that range from culinary to cultural, luxurious to laid-back. It’s the perfect place to unwind and recharge, all at the same time.
Restaurants in Connecticut
1. White Memorial Conservation Center
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 138 reviews
Reviewed By nos-im
What a beautiful and extensive place. In one not-too-large area are a nice variety of habitats and views - woods, swamp, lake-shore, scenic heights. There are extensive marked trails, and occasional explanatory signs. My wife and I were originally going to come here in May for the excellent birdwatching opportunities. We delayed our travels because of the pandemic and visited in November, when there are far fewer birds. But it was so lovely, I was happy to be there anyway. I hope to come back when the visitors center reopens and the bird migration is passing through. The location is also near several good restaurants and shops in Bantam and Litchfield. I didn't answer Tripadvisor's question about length of visit, because there are lots of possibilities, from a short half-hour trail to a couple days exploring various trails.
2. Farmington River
3. Farmington Valley Greenway
4. Elizabeth Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 418 reviews
This walkers' haven, with several gardens along its wildflower trail, a lovely pond and sports and concert facilities, is best known for its magnificent rose garden, with 800 varieties of roses.
Reviewed By Waterfallz
This is a beautiful park with lovely pond and famous Rose Gardens; also Heirloom Rose Garden and stunning Shade Gardens, Tulip Gardens, Perennial Garden, Iris Garden, Herb Garden and more.The accreditation of Elizabeth Park's Kim Arboretum occurred in 2019. Wedding ceremonies in the Rose Garden and other gardens are frequent. The Pond House Restaurant has (seasonal) outdoor seating options as well as indoor seating year round. Food is very good; decor is eclectic - something for everyone - and reasonably priced. There is also a lovely wedding/event venue in the building. There are well-used walking trails, green houses, a playground and more.
5. Housatonic River
6. Gillette Castle State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 744 reviews
This 24-room mansion has undergone extensive renovations.
Reviewed By DreamTravelGuru - Montgomery, United States
If you like an outdoor adventure combined with a trip through the past. This was a great visit. The outdoor park has a number of trails to walk. you could spend as little as an hour or the whole day just walking the trails. The Gillette Castle itself is a wonder to visit. the unique architecture and history if fascinating. I loved all the personalized rooms he had created. We also took a ride on the Essex Train and River Boat. This gave a great view of the castle from the River. a unique view, you cannot get anywhere else.
7. Hammonasset Beach State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 564 reviews
Sandy beach ideal for walking.
Reviewed By war1today - Kauai, United States
Where can you find 2 miles of beach that is part of a nearly 1000 acre park with biking, walking and jogging trails, a nature center, picnic tables and grills throughout the park including pavilions with seating, showers, changing rooms and bathrooms, a campground and some of the best views in Connecticut? The answer is easy: Hammonasset Beach State Park! In the Fall, Winter and Spring Hammonasset becomes a dog walker paradise with miles of hikes through the campground, as well as on the beach and on a newly paved walkway along the beach that connects the campground to Meigs Point on the opposite end of the park- more than 2 miles, flat and perfect for walking, jogging and bicycling... and don’t forget the awesome views. The park is free for Connecticut residents and there is a fee for non Connecticut residents. Easy access from 95 and you also have access to downtown Madison about 1 mile south on Route 1 which is one of the classic and beautiful New England towns offering boutique stores, restaurants and one of the best bookstores in New England.
8. Thimble Islands
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 276 reviews
Reviewed By barbaramN831FD - Ormond Beach, United States
Unless you take the tour and see these islands with their homes you would not believe living on an island in the Long Island Sound was possible. Great day trip. Bring the kids - not babies
9. The Maritime Aquarium
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,011 reviews
Easy access from I-95 or Metro-North Railroad, convenient covered parking next door, warm and spacious with two on-site cafes, gift shop and a 4D Theater, the Aquarium is a most excellent family outing, date or solo visit! The marine population we exhibit includes varieties of sharks, big and small, stingrays, harbor seals, sea turtles, game fish, jellies, crabs, lobsters, mollusks and more. We also exhibit tropical travelers that follow the Gulf Stream north to our waters. Plus we have some other fun animals, from tamarins to meerkats. We offer lots of touch experiences including stingrays, sharks, jellyfish and intertidal animals.
Reviewed By Nefman - New York City, United States
This is another one of the things that make CT such a value added proposition to raise our children. This place is practically hidden in plain sight off of I95. They have numerous little exhibits and enclosures which display fascinating wildlife and curious animals both from our region and beyond. My little ones loved the sting rays and sharks. The seal show was delightful! the Jelly fish tank and large shark tank were amazing on the second floor.
10. Audubon Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 55 reviews
