Connecticut is a small state, but it is packed with stunning views. From the Gillette Castle State Park to the public recreation area Devil’s Hopyard State Park, Connecticut has something to offer everyone.
In this blog post, we will list the top 10 best tourist destinations in Connecticut. These attractions offer stunning views for everyone from families to couples to solo travelers.
Connecticut offers a wide variety of activities for hikers, campers, skiers, anglers, and sightseers to enjoy.
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List of Top 10 Best Tourist Destinations in Connecticut: A Guide for Your Next Vacation
Connecticut is a small state, but it packs a big punch when it comes to tourism. From its charming colonial towns to its stunning natural beauty, Connecticut has something to offer everyone. Here are the top 10 best tourist destinations in Connecticut for stunning views:
1# Gillette Castle State Park: A Must-Visit Tourist Destination in Connecticut
Gillette Castle State Park is a beautiful and historic castle located in East Haddam, Connecticut. It was built by actor and inventor William Gillette, who used it as a summer home and workshop. The castle is now a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the Connecticut River and surrounding countryside.
Location:
Gillette Castle State Park is located at 67 River Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423. It is in the towns of East Haddam and Lyme, Connecticut.
Hours of Operation:
The park is open year-round, but the castle is only open for tours from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Tours start at 11:00 AM and run every hour until 5:00 PM.
What to see and do at Gillette Castle State Park:
There are many things to see and do at Gillette Castle State Park. Here are a few of the highlights:
- Explore the castle: The castle is full of interesting rooms and exhibits, including Gillette’s study, theater, and workshop.
- Take in the views: The castle offers stunning views of the Connecticut River and surrounding countryside. There are several overlooks where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Hike the trails: There are several hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy to moderate.
- Visit the museum: The park has a museum that tells the story of Gillette Castle and its history.
- Have a picnic: There are several picnic areas in the park where you can enjoy a meal outdoors.
The best time of year to visit Gillette Castle State Park:
The best time to visit Gillette Castle State Park is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, the castle is open year-round and can be a beautiful place to visit even in winter.
The cost of admission to Gillette Castle State Park:
The cost of admission to Gillette Castle State Park is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and students, and $5 for children ages 6-11. Children under 5 are free.
Tips for planning your trip to Gillette Castle State Park:
- Allow plenty of time to explore the castle and the park.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking.
- Bring a picnic lunch or snacks.
- Be sure to check the park’s website for current hours and information.
Accessibility:
- The main parking lot is accessible and has a designated accessible parking spot.
- There is a ramp that leads up to the castle, and the first floor of the castle is wheelchair accessible.
- The castle terrace also has a wheelchair-accessible ramp.
- The museum is wheelchair accessible.
- There are several accessible picnic areas in the park.
However, there are some areas of the park that are not accessible, such as the hiking trails and the second floor of the castle.
If you have any questions or concerns about accessibility, please contact the park at (860) 873-8288.
Here are some additional tips for planning a visit to Gillette Castle State Park if you have mobility issues:
- Call ahead to the park to inquire about accessibility and to make sure that the tour times work for you.
- Bring a wheelchair or other mobility device if you need one.
- Ask for help from a park ranger or staff member if you need assistance getting around.
- Take your time and enjoy the scenery.
Nearby Destinations:
Goodspeed Opera House: This is a living museum that recreates the 19th-century seaport of Mystic, Connecticut. It is home to a variety of historic ships, including the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship built in the United States.
Mystic Seaport: This museum tells the story of the Connecticut River, from its source in the Berkshire Mountains to its mouth at Long Island Sound. It has exhibits on the river’s history, ecology, and culture.
Connecticut River Museum: This charming town is located on the Connecticut River. It is known for its historic architecture, including the First Congregational Church, which was built in 1763.
Essex: This park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and swimming. It is also home to the Haddam Meadows EcoCenter, which offers educational programs on the park’s natural resources.
Haddam Meadows State Park: This historic theater is located in East Haddam. It has been hosting Broadway shows and other productions since 1927
I hope this article has helped you plan your trip to Gillette Castle State Park. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.
2# Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art: A Must-Visit Tourist Destination in Connecticut
The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is a world-renowned art museum located in Hartford, Connecticut. It is the oldest continuously operating public art museum in the United States and houses a collection of over 50,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and photographs.
Location:
The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is located at 600 Main Street, Hartford, Connecticut 06103. It is in the heart of downtown Hartford, just a few blocks from the Connecticut State Capitol.
Hours of Operation:
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM and until 8:00 PM on Thursday evenings. It is closed on Mondays and major holidays.
What to see and do at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art:
There are many things to see and do at the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. Here are a few of the highlights:
- Explore the permanent collection: The museum’s permanent collection spans over 5,000 years of art, from ancient Egypt to the present day. Some of the highlights include paintings by Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent, and Pablo Picasso; sculptures by Auguste Rodin and Henry Moore; and decorative arts from around the world.
- Visit the special exhibitions: The museum hosts a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year, featuring works from its own collection and from other museums around the world.
- Take a guided tour: The museum offers a variety of guided tours, led by expert staff members. These tours are a great way to learn about the museum’s collection and its history.
- Attend a lecture or performance: The museum hosts a variety of lectures and performances throughout the year, featuring artists, scholars, and performers from around the world.
- Have a picnic in the sculpture garden: The museum’s sculpture garden is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are also several picnic tables where you can enjoy a meal.
The best time of year to visit the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art:
The best time to visit the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, the museum is open year-round and can be a beautiful place to visit even in winter.
The cost of admission to the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art:
The cost of admission to the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and students, and $15 for children ages 6-17. Children under 5 are free.
Tips for planning your trip to the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art:
- Allow plenty of time to explore the museum. There is a lot to see and do, so it is best to plan for at least a few hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a water bottle and a snack. There are no food or drink concessions inside the museum.
- If you are visiting with children, be sure to check out the museum’s family guide. This guide has information on special activities and events for children.
Nearby Attractions:
There are many nearby attractions to the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, including:
Mark Twain House and Museum: This is the former home of Mark Twain, the famous American author.
The Harriet Beecher Stowe Center: This is the former home of Harriet Beecher Stowe, the author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”
The Connecticut Historical Society: This museum tells the story of Connecticut’s history.
The Wadsworth Mansion: This historic mansion is located in Hartford and is open for tours.
The Bushnell Park: This park is located in downtown Hartford and is a popular spot for concerts and events.
Accessibility:
The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is wheelchair accessible. There are ramps and elevators throughout the museum, and all of the galleries are accessible. There are also designated parking spots for people with disabilities.
3# The Mark Twain House & Museum: A Must-Visit Tourist Destination in Connecticut
The Mark Twain House & Museum is the former home of Mark Twain, the famous American author. It is located in Hartford, Connecticut, and is a popular tourist destination.
Location:
The Mark Twain House & Museum is located at 351 Farmington Avenue, Hartford, Connecticut 06105. It is in the West End neighborhood of Hartford, about 2 miles from downtown.
Hours of Operation:
The museum is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. It is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
The Mark Twain House & Museum is a popular tourist destination, and it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance. You can purchase tickets online or by calling the museum at (860) 247-0998.
What to see and do at The Mark Twain House & Museum:
There are many things to see and do at The Mark Twain House & Museum. Here are a few of the highlights:
- Explore the house: The house is full of original furnishings and artifacts from Twain’s life. You can see his study, bedroom, and billiard room where he wrote some of his most famous works.
- Take a guided tour: The museum offers a variety of guided tours, led by expert staff members. These tours are great for learning about Twain’s life and work.
- Attend a special event: The museum hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as lectures, concerts, and readings.
- Visit the gift shop: The museum gift shop has a wide variety of souvenirs, books, and gifts related to Mark Twain.
The best time of year to visit The Mark Twain House & Museum:
The best time to visit The Mark Twain House & Museum is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild. However, the museum is open year-round and can be a beautiful place to visit even in winter.
The cost of admission to The Mark Twain House & Museum:
The cost of admission to The Mark Twain House & Museum is $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and students, and $15 for children ages 6-17. Children under 5 are free.
Tips for planning your trip to The Mark Twain House & Museum:
- Allow plenty of time to explore the house. There is a lot to see and do, so it is best to plan for at least a few hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a water bottle and a snack. There are no food or drink concessions inside the museum.
- If you are visiting with children, be sure to check out the museum’s family guide. This guide has information on special activities and events for children.
Nearby Attractions:
There are many nearby attractions to The Mark Twain House & Museum, including:
- Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art: This is a world-renowned art museum located in Hartford. It houses a collection of over 50,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and photographs.
- Harriet Beecher Stowe Center: This is the former home of Harriet Beecher Stowe, the author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”
- Connecticut Historical Society: This museum tells the story of Connecticut’s history.
- Bushnell Park: This park is located in downtown Hartford and is a popular spot for concerts and events.
Accessibility:
The Mark Twain House & Museum is wheelchair accessible. There are ramps and elevators throughout the museum, and all of the rooms are accessible. There are also designated parking spots for people with disabilities.
I hope this article has helped you plan your trip to The Mark Twain House & Museum.
4# Silver Sands State Park: A Gem on the Connecticut Shoreline
Silver Sands State Park is a popular tourist destination in Connecticut. It is located in Milford, Connecticut, on the Long Island Sound. The park has a wide variety of activities and amenities, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Location:
Silver Sands State Park is located at 425 Silver Sands Pkwy, Milford, CT 06460. It is about 1 hour from Hartford and 2 hours from New York City.
Hours of Operation:
The park is open from 8:00 AM to sunset, 7 days a week. The admission fee is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and children ages 6-11, and free for children under 6.
What to see and do at Silver Sands State Park:
- Swim in the Sound: The park has a sandy beach that is perfect for swimming. The water is usually calm and clear, making it a great place to cool off on a hot day.
- Go for a walk or bike ride: The park has several miles of trails that are perfect for walking or biking. The trails wind through the dunes and along the Sound, offering stunning views of the water.
- Fishing: The park is a popular spot for fishing. There are a variety of fish species that can be caught in the Sound, including striped bass, bluefish, and flounder.
- Play volleyball or frisbee: The park has a volleyball court and a frisbee golf course. These are great activities for groups or families.
- Have a picnic: The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills. This is a great place to enjoy a meal with family and friends.
- Explore the nature center: The park has a nature center that has exhibits on the local wildlife and ecology. There are also programs and activities for children and adults.
The best time of year to visit Silver Sands State Park:
The best time to visit Silver Sands State Park is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the park is also a great place to visit in the spring and fall, when the crowds are smaller.
The cost of admission to Silver Sands State Park:
The cost of admission to Silver Sands State Park is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and children ages 6-11, and free for children under 6.
Tips for planning your trip to Silver Sands State Park:
- Pack a lunch: There are no food concessions in the park, so it is a good idea to pack a lunch.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be strong at the beach, so it is important to protect yourself from the sun.
- Wear comfortable shoes: There are a lot of walking trails in the park, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes.
- Check the tide charts: The tides can be strong at Silver Sands State Park, so it is important to check the tide charts before you go swimming.
Nearby Attractions:
There are many nearby attractions to Silver Sands State Park, including:
- Mystic Seaport: This is a living museum that recreates the 19th-century seaport of Mystic, Connecticut. It is home to a variety of historic ships, including the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship built in the United States.
- Connecticut Audubon Society’s Milford Point Bird Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to over 200 species of birds. It is a great place to go bird watching.
- Silver Beach Park: This park is located across the street from Silver Sands State Park. It has a playground, a picnic area, and a boat launch.
- Mohegan Sun Casino: This casino is located in nearby Uncasville, Connecticut. It has a variety of gambling games, restaurants, and shops.
Accessibility:
Silver Sands State Park is wheelchair accessible. There are ramps and accessible restrooms throughout the park.
I hope this article has helped you plan your trip to Silver Sands State Park.
5# Mystic Aquarium: A Must-Visit Tourist Destination in Connecticut
The Mystic Aquarium is a non-profit organization located in Mystic, Connecticut. It is home to over 35,000 animals, including sharks, dolphins, and whales. The aquarium offers a variety of educational exhibits and shows, and it is a popular tourist destination in Connecticut.
Location:
Mystic Aquarium is located at 55 Coogan Boulevard, Mystic, Connecticut 06355. It is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, 7 days a week
Hours of Operation:
The Mystic Aquarium is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, 7 days a week.
However, there are some exceptions to these hours:
- The aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
- The aquarium closes at 4:00 p.m. on December 24th and 25th.
- The aquarium opens at 10:00 a.m. on Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day.
It is always a good idea to check the aquarium’s website or social media pages for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
What to see and do at Mystic Aquarium:
- Shark Tank: This exhibit features a variety of sharks, including the great white shark and the hammerhead shark. Visitors can learn about the different types of sharks and their role in the ocean ecosystem.
- Dolphin Coast: This exhibit allows visitors to see dolphins up close. Visitors can watch the dolphins play and learn about their behavior.
- Beluga Harbor: This exhibit is home to beluga whales. Visitors can learn about the beluga whales and their unique adaptations.
- Sea Turtle Rescue: This exhibit features sea turtles that have been injured or orphaned. Visitors can learn about the sea turtle rescue program and how they can help sea turtles.
- Tropical Rainforest: This exhibit takes visitors on a journey through the rainforest. Visitors can see a variety of rainforest animals, including monkeys, snakes, and birds.
- 4D Theater: This theater shows educational films about the ocean. The films are accompanied by special effects that make visitors feel like they are part of the experience.
The best time of year to visit Mystic Aquarium:
The best time to visit Mystic Aquarium is during the spring or fall. The weather is mild during these times, and the aquarium is less crowded.
The cost of admission to Mystic Aquarium:
- Adults: $39.95
- Seniors (62+): $34.95
- Children (2-11): $29.95
- Children (under 2): Free
Tips for planning your trip to Mystic Aquarium:
- Buy your tickets online in advance to save time.
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
- Bring a camera to capture all of your memories.
- Allow at least 3-4 hours to explore the aquarium.
Nearby Attractions:
- Mystic Seaport: This living museum recreates the 19th-century seaport of Mystic, Connecticut. It is home to a variety of historic ships, including the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship built in the United States.
- Old Mystic Village: This historic village features a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Mystic Aquarium Adventure Cruise: This cruise takes visitors out on Long Island Sound to see the animals in their natural habitat.
- Mystic Aquarium Rooftop Bar: This bar offers stunning views of the Mystic River and the aquarium.
Accessibility:
Mystic Aquarium is wheelchair accessible. There are ramps and elevators throughout the aquarium, and there are accessible restrooms.
I hope this article has helped you plan your trip to Mystic Aquarium.
6# Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center: A Journey Through Native American History
The Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center is a world-class museum located in Mashantucket, Connecticut. It tells the story of the Pequot people, from their origins to the present day. The museum is a great place to learn about Native American culture and history.
Location:
The Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center is located at 110 Pequot Trail, Mashantucket, CT 06338. It is located on the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation reservation, about 2 hours from New York City and 1 hour from Hartford.
Hours of Operation:
The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, 7 days a week. The admission fee is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and students, and $12 for children ages 6-12. Children under 5 are free.
What to see and do at Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center:
- Explore the permanent exhibit: The permanent exhibit tells the story of the Pequot people through artifacts, interactive displays, and films.
- Take a guided tour: The museum offers a variety of guided tours, led by expert staff members. These tours are a great way to learn more about the exhibits.
- Attend a special event: The museum hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as festivals, concerts, and workshops.
- Visit the gift shop: The museum gift shop has a wide variety of souvenirs, books, and gifts related to Native American culture.
- Enjoy the outdoor space: The museum has a beautiful outdoor space with gardens, walking trails, and a playground.
The best time of year to visit Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center:
The museum is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild. The museum can get crowded during the summer months.
The cost of admission to Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center:
The cost of admission to the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center is $20 for adults, $18 for seniors and students, and $12 for children ages 6-12. Children under 5 are free.
Tips for planning your trip to Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center:
- Allow plenty of time to explore the museum: There is a lot to see and do, so it is best to plan for at least a few hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes: There is a lot of walking in the museum, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be strong in the outdoor space, so it is important to protect yourself from the sun.
- Check the museum’s website for current hours and information: The museum’s hours and information can change, so it is important to check the website before you go.
Nearby Attractions:
There are many nearby attractions to the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center, including:
- Foxwoods Resort Casino: This casino is located right next to the museum. It has a variety of gambling games, restaurants, and shops.
- Mohegan Sun Casino: This casino is located about 30 minutes away from the museum. It has a variety of gambling games, restaurants, and shops.
- Windham Textile & History Museum: This museum tells the story of the textile industry in Connecticut.
- Mystic Aquarium: This aquarium is located about an hour away from the museum. It has a variety of marine life exhibits.
Accessibility:
The Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center is wheelchair accessible. There are ramps and elevators throughout the museum, and all of the exhibits are accessible.
I hope this article has helped you plan your trip to the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center.
7# Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum: A Historical Gem on the Connecticut Coast
Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum is a historical park located in New London, Connecticut. The park is home to a 19th-century fort that was once used to defend the city from attack. The museum tells the story of the fort and its role in American history.
Location:
Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum is located at 90 Walbach Street, New London, CT 06320. It is located on the Thames River, about 1 mile from downtown New London.
Hours of Operation:
The park is open Wednesday – Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The Visitor Center and fort are open year-round. The park is closed between Labor Day and Memorial Day Weekends.
The cost of admission to Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum is:
- Visitor’s Center and tours only: adults $6, children (6-12) $2, 5 and under free.
What to see and do at Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum:
- Explore the fort: The fort is open to the public and can be explored on your own or with a guided tour.
- Visit the museum: The museum tells the story of the fort through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
- Take a walk on the beach: The park has a beautiful beach that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or fishing.
- Enjoy the views: The park has stunning views of the Long Island Sound and the Thames River.
- Attend a special event: The park hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as concerts, festivals, and reenactments.
The best time of year to visit Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum:
The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild. The park can get crowded during the summer months.
The cost of admission to Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum:
The cost of admission to the park is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and students, and free for children under 12. The museum is included in the cost of admission to the park.
Tips for planning your trip to Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum:
- Allow plenty of time to explore the fort and the museum: There is a lot to see and do, so it is best to plan for at least a few hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes: There is a lot of walking in the park, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be strong in the park, so it is important to protect yourself from the sun.
- Check the park’s website for current hours and information: The park’s hours and information can change, so it is important to check the website before you go.
Nearby Attractions:
There are many nearby attractions to Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum, including:
- Mystic Seaport: This living museum recreates the 19th-century seaport of Mystic, Connecticut. It is home to a variety of historic ships, including the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship built in the United States.
- Connecticut River Museum: This museum tells the story of the Connecticut River, from its source in the Berkshire Mountains to its mouth at Long Island Sound.
- New London Submarine Base: This submarine base is home to the USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine.
- Mohegan Sun Casino: This casino is located about 30 minutes away from the park. It has a variety of gambling games, restaurants, and shops.
Accessibility:
Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum is wheelchair accessible. There are ramps and accessible restrooms throughout the park.
I hope this article has helped you plan your trip to Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum.
8# Rocky Neck State Park: A Pristine Coastal Gem in Connecticut
Rocky Neck State Park is a 175-acre park located in East Lyme, Connecticut. The park is known for its rocky coastline, scenic views, and abundance of wildlife.
Location:
Dinosaur State Park is located at 1255 North Montville Road, Rocky Hill, Connecticut. It is about 15 miles from Hartford and 20 miles from New Haven.
Hours of Operation:
The park is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, 7 days a week.
What to see and do at Rocky Neck State Park:
- Explore the rocky coastline: The park’s rocky coastline is a great place to go for a walk, explore tide pools, or watch for wildlife.
- Enjoy the views: The park offers stunning views of Long Island Sound and the Connecticut River.
- Go for a hike: The park has several hiking trails that offer different perspectives of the coastline.
- Have a picnic: The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills.
- Go fishing: The park is a popular spot for fishing.
- Visit the Nature Center: The park’s Nature Center has exhibits on the park’s natural history.
The best time of year to visit Rocky Neck State Park:
The best time to visit Rocky Neck State Park is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild. The park can get crowded during the summer months.
The cost of admission to Rocky Neck State Park:
The cost of admission to Rocky Neck State Park is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and children ages 6-11, and free for children under 6.
Tips for planning your trip to Rocky Neck State Park:
- Allow plenty of time to explore the park: There is a lot to see and do, so it is best to plan for at least a few hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes: There is a lot of walking in the park, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be strong in the park, so it is important to protect yourself from the sun.
- Check the park’s website for current hours and information: The park’s hours and information can change, so it is important to check the website before you go.
Nearby Attractions:
There are many nearby attractions to Rocky Neck State Park, including:
- Mystic Seaport: This living museum recreates the 19th-century seaport of Mystic, Connecticut. It is home to a variety of historic ships, including the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship built in the United States.
- Connecticut River Museum: This museum tells the story of the Connecticut River, from its source in the Berkshire Mountains to its mouth at Long Island Sound.
- New London Submarine Base: This submarine base is home to the USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine.
- Mohegan Sun Casino: This casino is located about 30 minutes away from the park. It has a variety of gambling games, restaurants, and shops.
Accessibility:
Rocky Neck State Park is wheelchair accessible. There are ramps and accessible restrooms throughout the park.
I hope this article has helped you plan your trip to Rocky Neck State Park.
9# Dinosaur State Park: A Step Back in Time to the Jurassic Period
Dinosaur State Park is a state park located in Rocky Hill, Connecticut. It is home to one of the largest and most important dinosaur trackways in the world, with over 1,500 dinosaur footprints preserved in the rocks. The park is a popular tourist destination in Connecticut and is a great place to learn about dinosaurs and their history.
Location:
Dinosaur State Park is located at 1255 North Montville Road, Rocky Hill, Connecticut. It is about 15 miles from Hartford and 20 miles from New Haven.
Hours of Operation:
The park is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, 7 days a week. The admission fee is:
- Adults: $12
- Seniors (62+): $10
- Children (3-11): $8
- Children (2 and under): Free
What to see and do at Dinosaur State Park:
- Explore the dinosaur trackways: The park’s main attraction is the dinosaur trackways. These footprints are over 200 million years old and were made by a variety of dinosaurs, including sauropods, theropods, and ornithopods.
- Visit the museum: The park’s museum has exhibits on the dinosaur trackways, as well as on dinosaurs in general. The museum also has a fossil preparation lab, where visitors can see how dinosaur fossils are prepared.
- Go for a hike: The park has several hiking trails that offer different perspectives of the dinosaur trackways.
- Have a picnic: The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills.
- Visit the nature center: The park’s nature center has exhibits on the park’s natural history.
The best time of year to visit Dinosaur State Park:
The best time to visit Dinosaur State Park is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild. The park can get crowded during the summer months.
The cost of admission to Dinosaur State Park:
The cost of admission to Dinosaur State Park is:
- Adults: $12
- Seniors (62+): $10
- Children (3-11): $8
- Children (2 and under): Free
The park is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, 7 days a week.
Tips for planning your trip to Dinosaur State Park:
- Allow plenty of time to explore the park: There is a lot to see and do, so it is best to plan for at least a few hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes: There is a lot of walking in the park, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be strong in the park, so it is important to protect yourself from the sun.
- Check the park’s website for current hours and information: The park’s hours and information can change, so it is important to check the website before you go.
Nearby Attractions:
There are many nearby attractions to Dinosaur State Park, including:
- Mystic Seaport: This living museum recreates the 19th-century seaport of Mystic, Connecticut. It is home to a variety of historic ships, including the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship built in the United States.
- Connecticut River Museum: This museum tells the story of the Connecticut River, from its source in the Berkshire Mountains to its mouth at Long Island Sound.
- New London Submarine Base: This submarine base is home to the USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine.
- Mohegan Sun Casino: This casino is located about 30 minutes away from the park. It has a variety of gambling games, restaurants, and shops.
Accessibility:
Dinosaur State Park is wheelchair accessible. There are ramps and accessible restrooms throughout the park.
I hope this article has helped you plan your trip to Dinosaur State Park.
10# Devil’s Hopyard State Park: A Hiker’s Paradise in Connecticut
Devil’s Hopyard State Park is a 725-acre park located in East Haddam, Connecticut. It is known for its 12 miles of hiking trails, which wind through a variety of terrain, including forests, streams, and waterfalls. The park is a popular destination for hikers, backpackers, and nature lovers.
Location:
Devil’s Hopyard State Park is located at 242 Devil’s Hopyard Road, East Haddam, Connecticut 06423. It is about 20 miles from Hartford and 30 miles from New London.
Hours of Operation:
The park is open from 8:00 AM to sunset, 7 days a week. The admission fee is:
- Adults: $6
- Seniors (62+): $5
- Children (1-11): $3
- Children (under 1): Free
What to see and do at Devil’s Hopyard State Park:
- Hiking: The park has 12 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. The most popular trails are the Devil’s Hopyard Trail, which leads to the park’s namesake waterfall, and the Mohawk Trail, which offers stunning views of the Connecticut River.
- Camping: The park has 40 campsites, which are available for reservation. The campsites are located in a wooded area and have access to drinking water, restrooms, and showers.
- Fishing: The park has several fishing spots, including the Connecticut River and several small streams. The park is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, bass, and catfish.
- Picnicking: The park has several picnic areas, which are located near the trails and the campground. The picnic areas have tables, grills, and drinking water.
- Canoeing and kayaking: The park is located on the Connecticut River, which is a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking. The park has a boat launch that is accessible to the public.
The best time of year to visit Devil’s Hopyard State Park:
The best time to visit Devil’s Hopyard State Park is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild. The park can get crowded during the summer months.
The cost of admission to Devil’s Hopyard State Park:
The cost of admission to Devil’s Hopyard State Park is:
- Adults: $6
- Seniors (62+): $5
- Children (1-11): $3
- Children (under 1): Free
The park is open from 8:00 AM to sunset, 7 days a week.
Tips for planning your trip to Devil’s Hopyard State Park:
- Bring plenty of water: The park can be hot and humid, so it is important to stay hydrated.
- Wear comfortable shoes: There is a lot of walking involved in hiking the trails, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring insect repellent: The park can be buggy, so it is important to bring insect repellent.
- Check the weather forecast: The weather can change quickly in Connecticut, so it is important to check the weather forecast before you go.
Nearby Attractions:
There are many nearby attractions to Devil’s Hopyard State Park, including:
- Mystic Seaport: This living museum recreates the 19th-century seaport of Mystic, Connecticut. It is home to a variety of historic ships, including the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship built in the United States.
- Connecticut River Museum: This museum tells the story of the Connecticut River, from its source in the Berkshire Mountains to its mouth at Long Island Sound.
- Essex: This town is known for its historic downtown and its annual Essex Steam Train & Riverboat Excursion.
- Haddam: This town is home to the Haddam Meadows State Park, which has a variety of hiking trails and a lake for swimming.
Accessibility:
Devil’s Hopyard State Park is partially accessible. There are some trails that are wheelchair accessible, but there are also some trails that are not. The campground is also accessible.
I hope this article has helped you plan your trip to Devil’s Hopyard State Park.
End The End – Top 10 Best Tourist Destinations in Connecticut
In this article, we tried to discuss a few of the many great tourist destinations in Connecticut to visit.
From its charming historic towns to its stunning natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in the Constitution State.
These are just a few of the many great places to visit in Connecticut. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, the Constitution State is sure to have something to offer everyone.
So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
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