The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum
The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum features changing exhibits of thought-provoking contemporary art and does not collect art or hold a permanent collection. It showcases works based on changing themes and is dedicated to promoting the work of innovative artists who encourage viewers to think creatively. Also on the grounds is a two-acre outdoor sculpture garden.
Several other attractions in Connecticut are good places to visit for tourists interested in art. Among them are the Weir Farm National Historic Site in Wilton and the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme. Weir farm was the summer home and studio of artist J. Alden Weir, and the Griswold Museum is a restored 1817 mansion whose owner hosted a number of American Impressionist artists and collected their works.
Address: 258 Main Street, Ridgefield, Connecticut
Accommodation: Where to Stay in Ridgefield
Go On A Day Trip To New York City
A very large city that is nearby is New York City. Doing a day trip together to this place is great and it takes about 2 hours to reach NYC!
New York City has so many things to do for couples! So there are definitely things that you can do with your partner. That’s why this day trip is wonderful if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Hartford.
For example, you can go sightseeing and see the most iconic sights of the city, such as the Statue of Liberty.
Also, you can attend a performance at one of the many theaters in the city.
And you can try New York-style pizza together, which is great too!
Visit The Mashantucket Pequot Museum
This museum contains eighty-five thousand square feet of space. As soon as you walk in, you will be greeted by a life-size diorama. As you wander through the museum, you will see exhibits that share information about the Arrival of People, Life on the Reservation, the Pequot War, and Life in a Pequot Village.
You may also like: Best Places to Swim with Dolphins in the US and World
You May Like: Things To Do For Toddlers In Cleveland
Day Out With Thomas 202: Dream Big Essex
Weve been waiting for this one all year and this is the final weekend. The Day Out with Thomas event is the ultimate weekend activity for toddlers!
In addition to an awesome train ride and a meet and greet with Sir Topham Hatt, there will be rides, music, a magic show, and a Thomas & Friends-themed play area.
The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat Museum has so much more for your whole family to experience, too.
So, come for the Day Out with Thomas event and stay for a riverboat ride or check out some antique trains.
- Date: June 4th & 5th, 2022
- Time: 9am 3:45pm
Weekend Getaways In Ct: Silas W Robbins House Bed And Breakfast
Travel back in time and enjoy breakfast al fresco on the front porch of the stunning Silas W. Robbins House Bed and Breakfast. This large Victorian home has been meticulously and lovingly restored to allow visitors the chance to stay in an inn that is both stately and elegant.
Breakfast includes coffee, juice and fresh fruit, as well as orange zest French toast. Entrees change daily and seasonally. All 5 rooms are finely and beautifully appointed with interiors reflecting the period of this home. Each room also has its own private bathroom. Attention to detail and impeccable hospitality are hallmarks of this property.
185 Broad Street, Wethersfield, CT 06109, 860-571-8733
Romantic places near me this weekend, all inclusive, live music, unique shopping in town, nightlife for tourists, caves, snow, resort, hotel, fishing spots near me, romantic restaurant, trailer park, museums, springs, island, light house, brunch places near me, fish, attractions near me: Niagara Falls, Arizona Day Trips, Cincinnati, Best Place to Stay in Grand Teton
Read Also: Things To Do Mystic
Inn At Harbor Hillmarina
Recognized as one of the best romantic getaways in CT, this beautiful Inn is situated just off the shoreline of Niantic, Connecticut. Enjoy the calming waves gently lapping the shore, take a romantic stroll along the beach, shop in the small seaside village boutique shops and dine in exquisite restaurants and cafes. Inn at Harbor Hill Marina offers 16 stunning rooms overlooking the towns marina district. Each guestroom has options for fireplaces, balconies and whirlpool tubs making this one of the best beach hotels in CT.
Visit Ogle Enders Falls In Granby
A perfect destination for waterfall lovers, Ogle Enders Falls in Granby is a must-see natural marvel in Connecticut. This captivating site actually features five separate waterfalls, surrounded by some of the states most picturesque forest scenery!
The first fall is six feet tall, then its followed by three shorter, gentler cascades that appear like a staircase. The last fall features two falls, plunging at 15 feet into an inviting pool below.
The best way to take in its beauty is from the summit. You can reach it by following one of the best waterfall hikes in Connecticut, which leads you to a photogenic vista of the cascades and beautiful rock formations.
In summer, several of the waterfall cascades plunge into popular swimming holes for adventurers. If youre looking for a less-crowded option, wait until you get to the fifth fall before you jump in.
Its a perfect day trip from the capital city of Hartford, less than a 30-minute drive to Enders State Forest. In this 2,000-acre natural oasis, youll find a landscape of diverse forests, wetlands, and waterfalls to explore.
Read Also: Mystic Ct What To Do
Also Check: Things To Do In Mystic
Silver Sands State Park
Edge Digital Imaging / Shutterstock
This CT destination is a wonderful place to visit.
Comprising white sandy beaches, boardwalks, bird watching, and more, Silver Sands State Park is a natural oasis for year-round outdoor activities.
During the summer months, you can enjoy sunbathing on more than half a mile of Atlantic Ocean shoreline, saltwater swimming, and walking the boards while taking in the picturesque scenery.
Additionally, you can enjoy year-round saltwater fishing day and night.
The park has nature trails for strolling and one of the beachs coolest features is the Tombolo, an exposed jetty that can be explored at low tide.
Furthermore, the beach and boardwalk are handicap accessible and for your convenience, there are free picnic areas.
A travel guide will tell you that this Connecticut destination is beautiful and serene and certainly worth an add to your itinerary.
Wondering where to visit during your stay in CT?
Be sure to add this top spot to your list.
Address: 1 Silver Sands Pkwy, Milford, CT 06460, United States
Hike To The Top Of The World Part : Heublein Tower
Active couples, look no further than a hike up to Heublein Tower at Talcott Mountain State Park in Simsbury. I already pointed out that this is a great place to propose. Naturally, then, its a great option as an active date idea at only 1.25 miles in length from bottom to top. Check out the trail map then point your GPS to for parking.
Hiking in general is a strong category of fun date ideas in Connecticut. We dont have true mountains here, so most outings are moderate and easier. And its like they say: couples who sweat together stay together.
Once you two catch your breath, take a short drive down to Andys Italian Kitchen, La Joya, or Millwrights for a rewarding meal.
Read Also: Fun Things To Do In Germantown
Romantic Boat Through Long Island Sound
It goes without saying that watching the sunset over Long Island Sound is without a doubt, one of the most romantic activities for couples in CT. While there may be several options to explore the sound by boat, we recommend using Captain Johns Tiki Tours.Captain Johns Tiki Tours offers a full day of exploration for couples on their romantic getaways in CT. The day ends with a beautiful sunset over the Sound. This is by far one of the most romantic and fun activities for couples in CT.
Romantic Things To Do In Ct During The Covid Pandemic
Romantic activities like dinner and a movie, museums and art galleries, even getting drinks at a local bar became risky, if not impossible.
But that meant that instead planning a weekend in Connecticut of romantic activities during Covid required more research.
And there was plenty of time to be had during the lockdown and afterwards.
Instead of the typical date night ideas, we found plenty of romantic activities to keep us busy.
- Socially-distanced day trips throughout the state, from Hartford to New Haven, and Stonington to Greenwich
All in all, it was a huge improvement over sitting isolated in your apartment all day.
Read Also: Things To Do In The Summer When Your Bored
Lovers Leap State Park In New Milford
Lovers Leap legends abound and hikes to them promise a great view. You can check out another one we take at Purgatory Chasm in Massachusetts. This park also contains the Berlin Iron Bridge one of only five remaining iron bridges in Connecticut. The moderately easy hike to Lovers Leap crosses the Housatonic River over that bridge and is 1.1 miles long.
Submarine Force Library & museum
Submarine Force Library & Museum
This epic museum boasts one of the best collections of submarines in the nation.
A tour of the Submarine Force Library & Museum is an immersive one that naval history enthusiasts will thoroughly enjoy.
The museum provides individual and group tours, scavenger hunts, phone tours, youth and scout activity packets, STEM classes, and more.
Additionally, the museum has a theatre experience where they show a history of submarines or a film that depicts the design and construction of submarines.
One of the museums most prized artifacts is the USS Nautilus, a submarine constructed in 1952 and launched in 1954.
Today, you can tour the USS Nautilus at this Connecticut museum.
Beyond this attraction being historically enriching and super fun, its one of a few awesome free things to do in Connecticut both parking and admission are free!
Although food and beverages are not permitted in the museum, there are a few vending machines on-premises, but there are also many restaurants near the museum.
Finally, the museum does have a fine gift shop where you can purchase submarine-themed souvenirs.
If youre asking yourself where to go when youre in Connecticut, be sure to consider the Submarine Force Library & Museum.
Address: 1 Crystal Lake Rd, Groton, CT 06340, United States
Don’t Miss: Things To Do In Mystic Ct Today
Most Romantic Weekend Getaways In Ct For Couples
This guide to romantic places and getaways in CT is a bit of a choose your own adventure.
Pick your destination first from the list of the most romantic places in Connecticut.
Then, decide on which romantic restaurant to visit and place to stay on your trip, including options like:
- Cabins
- Inns
- Hotels
With the basic building blocks in hand, you can get more granular in your planning by looking at our list of date ideas in Connecticut, or leave the rest to fate.
Omni New Haven Hotel At Yale
Planning the ultimate weekend getaway in Connecticut? Luxury, Romance, History and top notch service is what you will get at this beautiful, lavish 4-star hotel. Situated right next to Yale University, guests are just steps away from New Haven Green, Yale Repertory Theater & Yale University Art Gallery.Ranked at #7 in Luxury hotels in Connecticut, guests can expect to see some of the most beautiful places in CT while starting out over the beautiful Yale University Campus and Long Island Sound.
Recommended Reading: Activities In Wichita Falls
Weir Farm National Historical Park
Nancy Kennedy / Shutterstock
Situated in historic Wilton, Connecticut, this historic site is one of many beautiful places to go in the Constitution State.
Weir Farm National Historical Park combines the beauty of the natural world with the art of the human world.
Once home to impressionist artist Julian Alden Weir, Weir Farm National Historical Park is the history-rich site of the artists home, studios, and body of work.
Pristinely preserved and open to the public to tour, the farm also boasts over 100 acres of intertwined hiking trails.
While visiting Weir Farm you may take self-guided or guided tours of the property, explore the gardens and grounds, draw inspiration from the landscape to create your art, talk with rangers, visit museum exhibits, and children can even become a junior park ranger.
Of all the beautiful places to go, Weir Farm National Historical Park should be at the top of your list.
Address: 735 Nod Hill Rd, Wilton, CT 06897, United States
Look For Eagles With Riverquest
Heres another unique Connecticut date idea for you: go bird/nature watching on the water with RiverQuest. Associated with the Connecticut River Museum in Essex , this company offers themed public and private cruises. Trips run throughout most of the year and you can bring your own wine on board. If you plan this one well, itll be one of the more romantic date ideas in Connecticut for sure.
Right down the street from the museum is The Griswold Inn, the oldest bar in Connecticut and one of the oldest in the country. They have some good drinks and sandwiches.
Don’t Miss: Best Things To Do In Minocqua Wi
Go Camping In Pachaug State Forest
A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Pachaug State Forest is the largest state forest in Connecticut. Boasting over 26,000 acres and spread across multiple towns, its an ideal getaway for an overnight camping adventure.
Start your adventure in Pachaug State Forest by following one of its scenic hiking trails. Youll find both short and long-distance hiking options, with the Pachaung Trail running about 30 miles from Pacha Pond to Green Fall Pond.
The Nehantic Trail is a 15-mile route leading to the Pauchaug River, while the Quinebaug Trail runs for seven miles over gentle hills and through beautiful pine forests. When its time to rest before another day of adventure, set up your tent in one of the areas popular campgrounds.
Green Falls Campground in Voluntown offers 18 wooded sites with pond fishing and swimming available, while Mt. Misery Campground has wooded sites along with stream fishing. If horseback riding is on your itinerary, the Frog Hollow Horse Camp is exclusively for equestrian use with 18 semi-wooded sites.
Climb Aboard The Essex Steam Train
Chugga, chugga, chugga! Find a seat and get comfy on the Essex Steam Train. An antique train featuring vintage coaches, this fun ride allows visitors to roll their way along the splendid Connecticut River Valley.
Guided by an enthusiastic conductor, you’ll learn historical facts while traveling from Essex Station on the 12-mile round-trip journey. Along the way, you’ll pass the sweet towns of Chester and Deep River, which up the charm factor.
Add a Riverboat tour to your ticket to prolong the scenic adventure. The Becky Thatcher riverboat will take you on an unforgettable cruise highlighted by glimpses of impressive wildlife , beautiful shoreline, and historic sites like the Gillette Castle and Haddam Swing Bridge.
Recommended Reading: Sur La Table Canton Ct
Stop By The Mark Twain House
Are you a literary fan? You might want to pay a visit to The Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford. Author Mark Twain, born Samuel Clemens, lived in this 11,500 square foot home from 1874 to 1891. While in residence, he wrote some of his most famous works, including The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, and A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthurs Court.
Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort
Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort
Connecticuts Powder Ridge Park is loaded with year-round outdoor activities for the whole family.
During the winter months, Powder Ridge is a destination ski resort.
Skiing, snowboarding, snow-tubing, and even snow biking are all available for wild winter fun.
In the warmer months, the park hosts activities such as mountain biking, ziplining, and disc golfing.
With so much to do and see, the mountain park is worth a whole weekends visit.
In addition to the mountain sports and outdoor activities, Powder Ridge is also a resort with suite-like day rooms available to rent for overnight stays.
The resorts amenities include a pro shop, restaurants, a tavern, picnic area, marketplace, fire pits, brunch, live entertainment, and more.
With lots to do on one giant property, Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort is one of the best places to visit in Connecticut.
Address: 99 Powder Hill Rd, Middlefield, CT 06455, United States
Read Also: Things To Do Near Wichita Falls Tx
Soak Up The Sunshine At Hammonasset Beach State Park
If youre a beach lover and not sure what to do in Connecticut, add a trip to Hammonasset Beach State Park to your list! Its Connecticuts largest shoreline park, offering two miles of sun-kissed beach for a fun day of swimming, strolling the boardwalk, and relaxing in the sunshine.
This beach getaway is about an hours drive south of Hartford in Madison and is also a popular destination for overnight camping trips. Let little ones play in the sand as you enjoy beautiful views of Long Island Sound, then head to the pavilion showers and snack bar when you need to freshen up.
In summer, the beach is filled with colorful umbrellas and kids building sandcastles, but its big enough to find your own patch of sand. When you want to stretch your legs, follow the walking trails to admire the areas beautiful flora and fauna.
The Hammonasset Beach State Park Walk is one of the most popular walking paths, with the 3.4-mile paved multi-use trail starting at the Meigs Point Nature Center. For a shorter trek, the Willards Island Nature Trail stretches for 1.1 miles through the parks bird-filled salt marshes.
