Connecticut gets a bad rap as just another New England state, but my recent trip completely changed my mind. Watching the sunset from Gillette Castle (yes, Connecticut has a literal castle) and wandering through Yale’s campus in New Haven, I kept thinking, “Why didn’t anyone tell me this place was so cool?”
After discovering all the awesome things to do in Connecticut, I can tell you this state is seriously underrated. Between stuffing my face with the best pizza I’ve ever had (sorry, New York) and chasing waterfalls in state parks, I found myself wishing I had more time. Who knew the smallest state in New England could pack such a punch?
Must-See Places to Visit in Connecticut
Looking for the coolest things to do in Connecticut? Walk through the historic Mystic Seaport, visit landmarks like Gillette Castle State Park, and explore the thrills of Lake Compounce. Learn about art at the Yale University Art Gallery, take a scenic ride on the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, and soak in the charm of this New England gem. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or adventure, here are the top attractions to visit in Connecticut.
- Best for Maritime History: Mystic Seaport
- Best Art Experience: Yale University Art Gallery
- Best Family-Friendly Adventure: Lake Compounce
- Best Architectural Marvel: The Glass House
- Best Castle Experience: Gillette Castle State Park
- Best Aquarium for Families: Mystic Aquarium
- Best Scenic Train Ride: Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
1. Mystic Seaport
Step into the past at Mystic Seaport, the nation’s largest maritime museum. Located in the charming town of Mystic, Connecticut, this living history village immerses visitors in the seafaring life of the 19th century. Stroll through historic buildings, watch shipbuilders at work, and explore a fleet of preserved vessels. The Charles W. Morgan, the last surviving wooden whaling ship, is a must-see. Climbing aboard, I could almost hear the echoes of sailors from centuries past. Interactive exhibits make it easy to picture what life was like when whaling ruled the seas.
Beyond the museum, Mystic itself is worth exploring. Grab a fresh seafood meal at S & P Oyster Company or walk along the scenic Mystic River. If you have time, stop by Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream for a cone while watching the drawbridge rise. Whether you’re a history buff or just love coastal charm, Mystic Seaport is an unforgettable experience.
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2. Yale University Art Gallery
Art lovers can’t skip a visit to the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven. As the oldest university art museum in the U.S., it holds an impressive collection spanning centuries and continents. The galleries showcase everything from ancient Greek sculptures to masterpieces by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Monet. Walking through, I was drawn to the modern and contemporary art wing, where bold colors and abstract designs create a striking contrast to the museum’s historic architecture. The museum’s Louis Kahn-designed building is a masterpiece itself, blending light and space to enhance the experience.
One of the best parts? Admission is completely free. After exploring the gallery, take a stroll around Yale’s historic campus or grab a bite at Louis’ Lunch, the birthplace of the hamburger. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for a unique cultural stop, this museum is one of Connecticut’s hidden gems.
3. The Mark Twain House & Museum
Step into the world of Mark Twain at his former home in Hartford, a stunning Gothic Revival mansion where he wrote classics like The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. The intricate woodwork, lavish décor, and original artifacts transport visitors back to the late 1800s. A guided tour reveals fascinating stories about Twain’s life, including his love for billiards and how he entertained famous guests in the grand parlor. Standing in his study, I imagined the author scribbling away at his desk, crafting the adventures that defined American literature.
Beyond the house, the Mark Twain Museum offers exhibits on his life, career, and legacy. Hartford itself has plenty more to explore, including the nearby Harriet Beecher Stowe Center. Whether you’re a literature buff or just love historical homes, this visit is a deep dive into one of America’s greatest writers.
4. Lake Compounce
For thrill-seekers, Lake Compounce in Bristol is a must-visit. As the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the U.S., it blends classic charm with modern excitement. The star attraction is Boulder Dash, a world-famous wooden roller coaster that weaves through a mountainside. I’ll never forget the rush of speeding through the trees at night, with nothing but the moonlight guiding the way. If coasters aren’t your thing, check out the Wave Swinger, take a scenic ride on the antique carousel, or cool off at Crocodile Cove Water Park.
Families and nostalgia lovers will enjoy the retro atmosphere, complete with traditional carnival games and classic fair food. Don’t leave without trying a fresh-squeezed lemonade and fried dough. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or just looking for a fun day out, Lake Compounce delivers a perfect mix of history and adventure.
5. The Glass House
The Glass House in New Canaan is an architectural masterpiece that feels like stepping into a minimalist dream. Designed by Philip Johnson, this transparent home blends seamlessly into the surrounding 49-acre landscape. With floor-to-ceiling glass walls, the house offers uninterrupted views of rolling hills and forests, making nature an integral part of the living space. Standing inside, I felt like I was in an open-air sculpture, surrounded by modernist simplicity. Beyond the main house, the property includes other fascinating structures like the Brick House, the Painting Gallery, and the Sculpture Gallery, each showcasing Johnson’s innovative designs.
Guided tours offer insight into Johnson’s creative process and the significance of the house in modern architecture. Whether you’re an architecture buff or just appreciate unique design, The Glass House is a must-see Connecticut landmark that proves homes can be both functional and artistic.
6. Gillette Castle State Park
Perched high above the Connecticut River in East Haddam, Gillette Castle looks like something straight out of a medieval fantasy. Built in the early 1900s by William Gillette, an actor famous for portraying Sherlock Holmes, this quirky stone fortress is filled with hidden surprises. Inside, you’ll find intricate woodwork, secret doors, and even trick locks, all designed by Gillette himself. Walking through the castle, I felt like I was in a mystery novel, half-expecting to stumble upon a hidden passage.
The surrounding state park offers scenic hiking trails, picnic spots, and stunning river views. One of the best ways to visit is by taking the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, which provides a beautiful approach to the castle. Whether you explore the fortress or just enjoy the breathtaking surroundings, Gillette Castle State Park is a perfect mix of history, nature, and adventure.
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7. Mystic Aquarium
Home to New England’s only beluga whales, Mystic Aquarium in Mystic offers an unforgettable marine adventure. The Arctic Coast exhibit lets you get up close with these gentle giants, watching them glide effortlessly through the water. I spent way too long admiring their playful interactions and expressions, something you don’t often see in aquariums. Other highlights include the Shark Touch Pool, where you can feel the sandpaper-like skin of a real shark, and the Coral Reef exhibit, which showcases vibrant tropical fish.
Beyond the animal exhibits, the aquarium focuses on marine conservation and education, offering interactive experiences and behind-the-scenes encounters. Located near Mystic Seaport and the waterfront, it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring this charming coastal town. Whether you’re visiting with kids or just love marine life, Mystic Aquarium is one of Connecticut’s most exciting attractions.
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8. Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
For a scenic adventure, hop aboard the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat for a nostalgic journey through the Connecticut River Valley. Starting at the historic 1892 Essex Station, the vintage steam train chugs past rolling hills, charming villages, and the beautiful Connecticut River. The rhythmic sound of the locomotive and the views from the open-air cars transport you to a simpler time. Halfway through the trip, passengers board the Becky Thatcher Riverboat for a peaceful cruise along the river, offering views of Gillette Castle, the Goodspeed Opera House, and lush nature preserves.
Seasonal experiences like the Fall Foliage Excursion and Polar Express Train Ride make this attraction even more magical. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, a nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing way to soak in Connecticut’s beauty, the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat delivers an unforgettable ride through history and nature.
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9. The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
If you love marine life, The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is a must-visit. This aquarium focuses on the ecosystem of Long Island Sound, offering a fascinating look at local marine species. Walking through the shark tank tunnel, I found myself mesmerized by these sleek predators swimming overhead. The Jellyfish Gallery is another highlight, showcasing delicate, glowing jellies that move like living art. For hands-on fun, visitors can interact with rays at the Ray Touch Pool or watch playful harbor seals during feeding time.
The aquarium also features Connecticut’s largest IMAX theater, showing nature documentaries on a massive screen. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just enjoy the ocean, this aquarium blends education and entertainment perfectly. It’s an ideal stop in Norwalk, especially if you want to combine it with a stroll along the waterfront.
10. The Submarine Force Museum
Dive into the depths of naval history at The Submarine Force Museum in Groton, home to the legendary USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine. This one-of-a-kind museum offers a self-guided tour inside the USS Nautilus, where you can explore the control room, torpedo bay, crew quarters, and engine room. Walking through its narrow passageways, I could barely imagine spending weeks underwater like the sailors who once lived here.
Beyond the submarine itself, the museum showcases a fascinating collection of submarine artifacts, models, and historical exhibits. You’ll learn about the evolution of submarine warfare, from early hand-cranked submersibles to today’s advanced nuclear-powered vessels. Interactive displays and real-life naval accounts bring the history of the “Silent Service” to life. Admission is completely free, making it a must-visit for history lovers, military enthusiasts, or anyone curious about what life is like deep beneath the ocean’s surface.
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11. The New England Air Museum
For aviation enthusiasts, The New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks is an incredible destination packed with history, interactive exhibits, and legendary aircraft. Three massive hangars house over 100 aircraft, ranging from early biplanes and WWII bombers to helicopters and modern supersonic jets. Standing beneath the enormous B-29 Superfortress, I was in awe of its sheer size and historical significance.
The museum offers hands-on experiences, including flight simulators, open cockpit days, and interactive STEM exhibits for kids and adults alike. You can sit inside vintage planes, learn about Connecticut’s role in aerospace engineering, and even test your piloting skills on a simulator. Special events, guest lectures, and workshops add even more excitement to the visit. Whether you’re a serious aviation buff or just curious about the history of flight, this museum delivers a fascinating journey through the skies.
12. The Connecticut Wine Trail
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to explore Connecticut’s countryside, the Connecticut Wine Trail is a fantastic option. With over 25 vineyards scattered across the state, this trail offers a chance to sample award-winning wines while taking in breathtaking views of rolling hills, lakes, and charming small towns. Hopkins Vineyard, overlooking Lake Waramaug, quickly became one of my favorites—sipping a crisp white wine while soaking in the peaceful scenery was unforgettable.
Each winery has its own specialty, from bold reds at Jonathan Edwards Winery to refreshing rosés at Gouveia Vineyards. Many locations host live music, food pairings, and seasonal events like grape stomping in the fall. Some even offer vineyard tours where you can see the winemaking process firsthand. Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a true connoisseur, this scenic wine trail is the perfect way to experience Connecticut’s growing wine scene.
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