Top Things to do in Connecticut
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What to do and see in Connecticut, United States: The Best Scenic Walking Areas
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. Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 16 reviews
Reviewed By 877kimg - Bourne, United States
We stopped on our way to lunch, nice little bridge with lots of flower boxes and hanging plants. Little parking area-good for a picnic or a place to read.
2. Lounsbury House
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Lounsbury House, a National Historic Site, was built in 1896 by former Connecticut Governor Phineas C. Lounsbury. While attending the 1893 Chicago World's Fair, Governor Lounsbury was so taken by the Connecticut State Building that he built a replica to serve as his family home. Today, Lounsbury House is a place to celebrate life's memorable milestones. The House and classic gardens serve as a venue for weddings, corporate meetings, art gatherings, festivals and private events for all seasons.
3. Historic Downtown Mystic
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 657 reviews
Reviewed By christined584 - Salem, United States
Downtown Mystic is an easy walk from the Old Mystic Seaport...just follow the river! I found a charming and busy, and quite large, area filled with shops and restaurants of every kind including, my favorite, a wonderful bookstore to browse in. There are several historic inns downtown, and pleasant pedestrian traffic even early in the morning. The buildings are well kept vintage and would interest those who appreciate historic architecture, and the waterfront is right there to enjoy. The Mystic Museum of Art is located downtown, a short distance from the river. All in all, this is an adorable and well oiled downtown area.
4. Liberty Pole Square
5. Crystal Lake Park
6. Soldiers' Monument and Memorial Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
The picturesque Winchester Soldiers' Monument is considered unique among Connecticut's Civil War memorials. The 63" Gothic Revival tower with its bronze soldier vigilantly watching for invaders,also includes within its walls, the names of more than 300 soldiers who lived or enlisted from the town. The tower is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
7. Main Street Park, Essex Village
8. Quarry Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By agnitfom2000 - Glastonbury, United States
Quarry Park is an abandoned quarry converted by the town into a large park. The park is roughly 2 miles long and a half mile wide. It is bounded by Old Main Street on the west and Great Meadows on the east. A railroad track separates the two parks. A historic house (John Robbins house from 1767) is adjacent to the parking area. The park has three entrances, the north, south, and center entrance. The north entrance is the only one with parking. The south entrance is on a dead end street so a few cars could park there. No parking at all is available at the center entrance. This review describes a visit starting at the north entrance and looping through the park in a counterclockwise direction. One starts on the blue blaze trail and heads south. The trail goes along the top of the old Wethersfield Ski Hill. It passes the remains of the old 1936 Buick that powered the lift. Continuing further, hikers reach Lookaway Ridge. It is at a bench on top of a tall (~70 foot) cliff. It overlooks a pond, the southbound trail, Great Meadows, and much of Glastonbury and Portland. After observing the view, follow the ridge line until a trail veers off to the right. A steep rocky descent takes one down to the pond with geese and really loud bullfrogs. From here the southbound blue trail goes the length of the park. Continue down the trail to the south entrance. It is worth a detour to check out the middle entrance, though climbing a ridge is required. At the south entrance, one can return via the blue or yellow/white trails. The blue trail is most direct. It does pass a small cave. The yellow trail goes past the ruins of the Old Compressor House and Rocky Hill Stone Company. It includes loading areas for the old railroad. From the yellow trail one connects to the white trail and returns along the base of the ski hill. On the white trail once can cross the railroad and get to Great Meadows park. Wildlife in the park includes rabbits, chipmunks, squirrels, and numerous birds, including pileated woodpeckers. Depending upon the location, trees and ground cover vary greatly. On the south part of the park I found CT's only native yucca species. This park does have serious cliffs with 60 foot + drops. The worst cliff appears suddenly next to a park bench. Young children and dogs need to be carefully supervised. Hiking difficulty is variable. In most areas it is pretty easy but some short sections are steep and difficult, especially descending from Lookaway Ridge. In those areas hiking boots are helpful to avoid twisting an ankle. Admission is free. Dogs are allowed. Hours are approximately from sunrise to sunset.
9. Poquonnock River Walkway
10. Bradley Point Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 6 reviews
Reviewed By ItIsSunny
My favorite place in the area to get rid of stress. The sun & constant breeze are refreshing - dress accordingingly! There's a well-maintained concrete/asphalt boardwalk that extends a couple miles. There's public beach along the entire shoreline. There's a museum next door explaining the history of the Savin Rock. There are seabirds, shells, kids flying kites, people enjoying solitude and family time, beautiful ocean that changes color daily, ever-changing ships in the distance, and all that a local seaside has to offer. There are a couple of restaurants near by. There is a parking fee for non-residents during season. There are plenty of benches and ideal photo spots. A portable toilet is available in the parking lot and near the police station (down the boardwalk a bit) during season. The boardwalk is accessible. The bicycles, dogs & Pokemon Go seekers can get annoying at times, but most people are respectful. Everyone who comes to the beach is happy, so I always end up with a smile on my face here. It can get crowded at times with special events in the area, but usually offers a quiet place to walk close to, yet away from urban life. The boardwalk and grounds are well-maintained, although the trash does overflow sometimes. The Vietnam memorial, memorial benches and landscaping is beautiful.
