7 Best Places to Visit in Connecticut – United States. The Connecticut River divides the state in two. This makes Connecticut a stunning place to visit. Unfortunately, many tourists miss Connecticut and instead go to New York or Boston. You can experience New England’s authentic side without crowds.
It is one of the original thirteen colonies and home to many of America’s oldest settlements and towns. There are many fascinating historic tourist attractions and cultural landmarks in Connecticut. Many of Connecticut’s best places to see relate to its rich maritime history.
Many of the main cities are located on Long Island Sound. There is beautiful coastline for you to explore, and many state parks await you in its interior.
Hammonasset Beach State Park
Hammonasset Beach State Park, the largest beach in the state is a great spot to relax and enjoy the warm rays. It is very popular, especially in the summer, but there is plenty of sand. There is also a peaceful, relaxing vibe to it.
The state park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including cycling, hiking, camping, and other outdoor pursuits. The calm waters are ideal for boating, fishing, and swimming.
It is worth visiting Hammonasset Beach State Park to see its saltwater marshes, and get a glimpse at the wildlife and birds that call this area home.
Gillette Castle State Park
Gillette Castle is a stunning and unique sight to see. It was built by William Gillette between 1914-1919. The “medieval castle”, now a tourist attraction, was once William Gillette’s private residence. The interior is as special and unique as the exterior.
There are many treasures inside, including carved wooden light switches, Steampunk-like door latches, secret passageways and custom-built furniture.
A beautiful state park is located just a few minutes away from the castle. It contains elegant gardens and beautiful forests, as well as many great hiking trails. The views from the castle and the surrounding areas are breathtaking.
Norwalk – Best Places to Visit in Connecticut
The town of the same title is located on the banks the Norwalk River and just a stones throw from the Atlantic Ocean. It boasts a proud maritime heritage. The town’s main attractions can be found along its lively, but crumbling waterfront.
There are many shops, bars, restaurants, and bars to explore, as well as a few museums and an art center. But the aquarium is undoubtedly the highlight. It is home to many brightly colored fishes and marine mammals. You can also find an IMAX cinema.
It is close to New York so you can get in and out quickly. New Haven is also not far if you just want to stop by Norwalk while you are on your way.
Silver Sands State Park
Silver Sands State Park is located in Milford on Long Island Sound. It encompasses many different ecosystems and landscapes. The park borders the Atlantic Ocean shoreline and includes woods, marshes and dunes. You will find many great trails to hike through the park’s rugged terrain.
Silver Sands State Park is a wonderful place to have a picnic and to swim in the ocean. Many different species of birds can be seen flying in the cool breeze from the Atlantic.
It can be tempting just to cross the sandbar and reach Charles Island. However, it is important to verify the tides as you don’t want to be left there overnight.
Stamford – Best Places to Visit in Connecticut
Because of its close proximity to New York Stamford is home a lot of large corporations as well as a few Fortune 500 companies. This has led to an increase in fine dining options and the opening of many great bars and shops.
The state’s third largest city, Long Island Sound, is a great place to spend time. Its vibrant feel and multi-cultural make-up makes it feel like you are in New York when you walk around the downtown area.
There are many things to do and see in Stamford. You can also check out Cummings Park and Cove Island Park for recreational activities and parks. Shippan Point is the southernmost section of the city and offers stunning views of Long Island.
Stonington
The small Connecticut town of Stonington was founded in 1662. It is the oldest settlement in Connecticut. It is worth visiting if your goal is to find a peaceful, quiet getaway.
It is situated on a narrow stretch of coastline, with Mason’s Island and Fischer’s Island just offshore. Therefore, it shouldn’t surprise that Stonington has a rich maritime heritage. Its beautiful, old lighthouse is one of its most prominent attractions. This lighthouse was once used to warn fishermen about the dangers ahead.
New London
New London’s strategic location at the Thames River mouth, right where the Long Island Sound meets Atlantic Ocean, has made it an important seaport for many years. This rich maritime history is evident everywhere you go.
Although the glory days of this city are long gone, there are still many beautiful buildings scattered around. You can still find the US Coast Guard Academy, and US Naval Submarine Base.
Some parts of New London still display the city’s once-great wealth. There are interesting historical landmarks and cultural landmarks that relate to its whaling history and significant role in the American Revolutionary War.
Mystic
The historic Mystic seaport is a popular tourist destination in Connecticut. It is home to many amazing things and its picturesque harbor is a beautiful place to visit.
The town is located on the banks of Mystic River and was once one of the largest shipbuilding ports in the country. Wealth poured in from all over the US.
CONCLUSION – Best Places to Visit in Connecticut
There is beautiful architecture along the waterways. You can also see picturesque marinas with boats and yachts. Mystic’s maritime heritage shines through everywhere you go. The state’s Seaport Museum is the top attraction in the town. You should also visit the amazing aquarium in the town and the magnificent historic vessels that are moored at port.
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