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Moving to a new state opens the door to exciting possibilities and new experiences. If Connecticut is your destination, you’re in for a treat. From picturesque landscapes to vibrant cultural hubs, Connecticut offers a plethora of attractions that will captivate your senses. In this guide, we’ll delve into the must-see attractions that await you after moving to Connecticut. Whether you’re a prospective homebuyer or a new resident, these attractions will help you truly embrace the spirit of the Nutmeg State.
Mark Twain House
The Mark Twain House in Hartford was the home of famous American author Mark Twain from 1874 to 1891. Twain wrote some of his most iconic books here, including The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Today, the Georgian style house has been restored and offers tours that provide an intimate look into Twain’s life and work. Visitors can see the billiards room where he entertained guests, the grand library where he did much of his writing, and the conservatory added to the house by his wife. This National Historic Landmark is a must-see literary landmark for new residents.
Mystic Seaport
Mystic Seaport is the nation’s largest maritime museum located along the Mystic River in Mystic. This living history museum recreates a 19th century seafaring village with historic ships, restaurants, demonstrations by tradespeople, and exhibits. Popular highlights include touring the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaling ship in the world, riding on the 1871 tall ship Joseph Conrad, and exploring the village’s historic homes, shops, and shipyard. The museum brings Connecticut’s rich maritime heritage to life.
New England Air Museum
The New England Air Museum in Windsor Locks provides an up-close look at aviation history. The museum has an extensive collection of aircraft, engines, and artifacts spanning the history of flight. Some standouts include the Sikorsky VS-44 Flying Boat, the fastest plane in the world in 1942, and the only B-29 Superfortress bomber on display in New England. Visitors can climb aboard aircraft, walk through the interiors, and learn about aviation developments through informative exhibits. The museum offers a unique experience for aviation enthusiasts living in Connecticut.
Foxwoods Resort Casino
Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket is one of the largest casinos in the world. The resort offers gambling, entertainment, dining, shopping, and more on a massive property. Visitors will find over 5,000 slot machines, poker tournaments, keno, bingo, and table games like blackjack, roulette, and craps. Live entertainment options include comedy shows, concerts, and Broadway-style productions. With 20+ restaurants, 50+ stores, a spa, and golf courses, there is something for everyone at this premier gaming destination.
Yale University and New Haven
The vibrant college city of New Haven is home to prestigious Yale University. The Ivy League institution was founded in 1701 and its historic campus offers beautiful architecture and museums to explore. Highlights include the Peabody Museum of Natural History, Yale University Art Gallery, Yale Center for British Art, and iconic Yale Bowl football stadium. Beyond campus, downtown New Haven has a lively dining scene, Long Wharf harborfront, and unique shops. Nearby East Rock Park also offers gorgeous city views.
View City of New Haven Events Calendar
Wadsworth Atheneum
The Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford is the oldest continuously operating public art museum in the United States. The museum has over 50,000 artifacts covering 5,000 years of world history. The collection is especially strong in Baroque, Impressionist, and Hudson River School paintings but includes works across many genres. Highlights include paintings by Caravaggio, Monet, and Picasso plus the iconic statue The Museum Boy by Auguste Rodin. The Wadsworth Atheneum offers a world-class art experience rivaling top museums around the globe.
Gillette Castle State Park
Gillette Castle State Park is located along the Connecticut River in East Haddam. The medieval-style castle was built in 1919 by actor William Gillette famous for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes. He created his private retreat with a unique combination of stonework, steel, and handcrafted wood. Visitors can tour the castle’s interior to see the built-in furnishings, 3-story grand staircase, and quirky details. The surrounding state park offers scenic hiking trails with river overlooks in addition to the castle.
View Page on Connecticut Tourism Office Website or Get Directions
Essex Steam Train
The Essex Steam Train offers a nostalgic, scenic journey through the Connecticut countryside. This excursion uses antique trains including a coal-fired steam locomotive dating to the 1940s. The trains run 12 miles between Essex and Chester with views of the Connecticut River. Passengers can opt to add on a riverboat cruise, take a train robbery adventure, or ride in first class. This iconic attraction lets train enthusiasts and families experience vintage rail travel through the natural beauty of central Connecticut.
New Haven Food Tour
New Haven has a nationally renowned food scene thanks to its many pizzerias, delis, and iconic dishes like the hamburger. Food tours are a delicious way to sample local specialties and learn about New Haven’s culinary heritage and culture. Tours make stops at famous eateries like Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, Sally’s Apizza, and Louis’ Lunch. Participants get behind-the-scenes looks at kitchens while hearing stories about these storied establishments. The tours provide tasty introductions to New Haven’s iconic flavors.
Find a food tour at Taste of New Haven
Connecticut offers many remarkable attractions that provide history, culture, entertainment, and natural beauty. From literary landmarks and maritime museums to amusement parks and castle tours, there is something to interest every new resident. Exploring these iconic sites provides fun day trips across Connecticut and helps newcomers get to know the rich heritage and charm of their new home state. With such a diversity of attractions, everyone can create their own must-see list after moving to Connecticut.
Connecticut experiences all four seasons, making it a year-round destination. Spring and fall are particularly popular for their pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
Connecticut boasts picturesque beaches. Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison is one of the most popular, with its sandy shores and diverse wildlife. For a quieter experience, visit Rocky Neck State Park in Niantic, known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful landscapes.
Connecticut is home to some great zoos. Be sure to visit Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport, offering a variety of animals and educational programs. Another top pick is LEO Zoological Conservation Center in Greenwich, known for its conservation efforts and unique animal species.
Connecticut offers some fantastic aquariums. The top choices include Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, featuring marine life and interactive exhibits, and The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, showcasing a diverse collection of sea creatures and an IMAX theater.
Old Saybrook offers several must-visit historical sites, including the General William Hart House and the well-preserved historic district.
The Litchfield Hills region in Connecticut is perfect for outdoor lovers, with hiking trails, conservation centers, and scenic views.
The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile-long path that takes you to 16 historical sites in Boston, offering a glimpse into the events that shaped American history.
Some of the best day trip destinations within driving distance from Connecticut include Newport, Rhode Island, New York City, Boston Massachussets, Mystic, and the Berkshires in Massachusetts.
Pets on a leash are permitted in most state parks and forests, except in buildings, swimming areas and camping areas. Pets are not permitted: Sherwood Island or Squantz Pond State Parks between April 15 and September 30, at Dinosaur State Park, in the formal gardens or beaches at Harkness Memorial State Park. Pets are permitted in State Forest camping areas, , but must be on a leash no longer than 7 feet at all times. Pets are not allowed in cabins or on rustic cabin sites.
Top venues for theater and the arts are the Shubert Theatre, Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts, Yale Repertory Theatre, Goodspeed Opera House, and Eugene O’Neill Theater Center.
Recommended factory and winery tours include Litchfield Distillery, the Essex Steam Train, Connecticut Wine Trail, Trash Museum, Connecticut Valley Tobacco Museum, and UpCountry Brewing Company.
Top amusement and water parks include Lake Compounce, Quassy Amusement Park, Brownstone Exploration & Discovery Park, and Splash Adventure Waterpark.
Important historic sites to visit are Mystic Seaport, Mark Twain House, Harkness Memorial State Park, Pequot Museum, Weir Farm National Historic Site, and Fort Griswold Battlefield State Park.
Top museums in Connecticut include the Yale University Art Gallery, Mystic Seaport, Wadsworth Atheneum, New England Air Museum, Mark Twain House, and Connecticut River Museum.
Great family-friendly attractions in Connecticut include Lake Compounce Amusement Park, Mystic Aquarium, Dinosaur State Park, Connecticut Science Center, and Beardsley Zoo.
Meet Sarah Perrotti
REB.0793764
Based in Litchfield County, Connecticut, Sarah is a distinguished full-time realtor specializing in luxury properties and concierge services tailored to discerning buyers and sellers.
With a Masters degree in Social Work, Sarah brings a unique perspective to real estate, ensuring confidentiality and seamless transactions.
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Meet Sarah Perrotti
REB.0793764
Based in Litchfield County, Connecticut, Sarah is a distinguished full-time realtor specializing in luxury properties and concierge services tailored to discerning buyers and sellers.
With a Masters degree in Social Work, Sarah brings a unique perspective to real estate, ensuring confidentiality and seamless transactions.
