The summer is on its way. You’re in luck, because Connecticut has some of the best ways to have fun in the sun, beat the heat, or help your kids pick up a new skill in an awesome location. The state has a little for everyone, from tiny boutique shopping in historic towns to a riverside resort for relaxation. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Connecticut, try these options to surprise and delight you.
Family-Friendly Connecticut Tourist Attractions
When you have a family, you want to keep everyone entertained in the summer. Kids have a lot of energy to burn off, and if you can squeeze in a little learning while you’re at it, that’s all the better. If you want a place that has a lot of options for people of all ages, Mystic is a great choice. This historically important seaport keeps much of its charm. Pay a visit to the Mystic Seaport Museum to learn more about the port’s role in travel and the transport of goods to the New World. Head to the Mystic Aquarium to see exhibits of the deep.
Cute Towns in CT
There are so many delightful towns in Connecticut that it would be hard to count them all. You could take a road trip along the Mystic or Connecticut rivers and see something new in every town you visit. These options each have a special focus that you’ll love:
- Chester: All the artsy vibes
- Essex: Historic houses and trains
- Greenwich: Local history and culture
- Old Saybrook: Charming waterfront
- Mystic: Fun coastal town
If you’re hoping to find a romantic getaway for two, you can’t go wrong with these options. Chester is home to the Terris Theatre, which is part of the Goodspeed Musicals group. There, you may be able to enjoy one of hundreds of shows each year. Prefer your art consumption at your own pace? Check out the Bruce Museum in Greenwich, which showcases the most beautiful and interesting exhibits in art and science. If you love the idea of spending the rest of your life in a place like this, check out the best places to retire in Connecticut.
What Are the Best Places in Connecticut to Visit in Summer?
When you start searching for great places to go during the summer, it’s easy to forget about the biggest cities. If you don’t live in one of them, it’s not a bad idea to play the tourist and visit Hartford or New Haven. These cities are large enough to have a lot of choices that will work for a variety of interests and temperaments. You won’t have to worry about bringing the kids, and you’ll find plenty of activities catering to adults, too. If you were too busy taking a spring getaway in CT, you can start fresh in the city.
If you want something outside the usual, consider heading to Gillette Castle State Park. The main attraction of the park, of course, is its castle. Actor William Gillette commissioned the mansion more than 100 years ago, which has been described using a variety of styles that might be contradictory at times. If you love a historic place, or even a collection of oddities, it can make a very good trip. You can also take advantage of delightful camping and hiking opportunities on the park grounds.
What Is Connecticut Like in the Summer?
Although this part of the country might be best known for its amazing autumn, the summers can certainly get your attention, as well. Connecticut has relatively hot summers, but it can be a little deceptive. You may see highs in the low to mid-80s and conclude the summer is pretty mild compared to other states in the region. It’s really the humidity that makes the heat.
How you look at Connecticut’s climate depends on your goals and what you like. Some people cannot get enough of this heat and love to spend as much time at the beach as possible, or window shopping one charming downtown after another. Others need a break from the temperature. If you’re in the latter category, or if you have small children, it’s wise to build in a few indoor activities throughout the day. Be sure to give yourself time to hydrate, and you’ll have a great time.
Where Should I Go for a 3-Day Vacation in CT?
If you’re dying to get away for the weekend, it can be difficult to choose the best spot for you. For a guaranteed good time, consider one of these categories:
- To get away from the heat: Norfolk
- Sun and fun with the family: Mystic Seaport
- Romantic getaway: Stonington
Connecticut sure has a lot of historic towns and places where you can shop or dine when the summer gets hot. Don’t hesitate to get out of town and find some of the lesser-known parts of the state, too. Campbell Falls State Park Reserve offers excellent hiking trails and fishing in an area that doesn’t get the same temperatures as the rest. The nearby city, Norfolk, is affectionately referred to as “the icebox” for good reason. It’s about 10 degrees cooler than most of the state.
Got Places to Go in CT While Remodeling? Here’s What to Do
The summer has two things in common: It’s the best time to travel, and it’s often the best time to remodel your home. You may have more flexibility due to the weather, and you don’t have to worry about the kids’ school schedules. Of course, running both at the same time can be tricky. That’s why you need a skilled professional team with a refined process.
At Fine Home Contracting, we’re happy to help you with a comprehensive range of services for your home. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make your dream home come true.
About the Author: David Perrotti
