12 Incredible Hidden Gems In Connecticut You’ll Want To Discover This Year
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Lisa Sammons
Author
Is your new year’s resolution to get out and explore some of the best places off the beaten path in Connecticut? We’ve got so many hot tourist attractions here, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have plenty of great non-touristy things to do in Connecticut, too. If you’re hunting for some of the state’s coolest places to visit, we’ve got you covered. Check out some of our favorite hidden gems in Connecticut:
1. Submarine Force Library & Museum: Groton
Submarine Force Library & Museum, 1 Crystal Lake Rd, Groton, CT 06340, USA
The Submarine Force Library and Museum is one of the best-kept secrets in Connecticut. The museum is free to enter, and has so much information about the history of submarine warfare. It's also home to the Nautilus, the world's first nuclear-powered submarine, but note that the Nautilus is currently closed for repairs. Even without seeing it, there's still a lot to do here!
2. The Glass House: New Canaan
The Glass House, National Trust for Historic Preservation, 199 Elm St, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA
The Glass House is an architectural marvel located within a beautiful 200-acre park. The home was designed by Philip Johnson, one of the most influential architects of all time. Note that the home is open for tours from mid-April through December each year.
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3. Yantic Falls: Norwich
Yantic Falls, Norwich, CT, USA
The gorgeous 40-foot Yantic Falls are not quite as well known as many of the state's other waterfalls, but they make for a great secret getaway in Connecticut. There's a well-preserved bridge here that makes this a photographer's dream spot.
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4. Connecticut's Old State House: Hartford
Connecticut's Old State House, 800 Main St, Hartford, CT 06103, USA
The Old State House in Hartford was once the seat of the Connecticut state government. It's now home to a visitor center, political/history museum, and also an oddities museum filled with taxidermied creatures like a two-headed calf. During the warm months, you'll find events like farmers markets and more held here regularly.
5. Abbey of Regina Laudis: Bethlehem
Abbey of Regina Laudis, 273 Flanders Rd, Bethlehem, CT 06751, USA
The Abbey of Regina Laudis was the first group of Benedictine nuns founded in the United States. The nuns that live here engage in a variety of crafts that are for sale to the public, such as hand-crafted leathers, handmade candles, and delicious cheeses. The Abbey is home to a breathtaking church that's been recently renovated and is open to the public.
6. Barker Character Comic and Cartoon Museum: Cheshire
Barker Character Comic and Cartoon Museum, 1188 Highland Ave building b, Cheshire, CT 06410, USA
This unique cartoon character museum is perhaps the most nostalgic of all the hidden gems in Connecticut. The museum has more than 80,000 artifacts spanning more than a century of pop culture, with everything from Dora the Explorer to early Disney memorabilia. It's a great place to feel like a kid again!
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7. Vintage Radio and Communications Museum of Connecticut: Windsor
Vintage Radio & Communications Museum of CT, 115 Pierson Ln, Windsor, CT 06095, USA
The Vintage Radio and Communications Museum of Connecticut in Windsor is one of the most underrated museums in the state. This is a broad subject matter, and the museum has everything from old ham radios to modern day computers. There's so much to see here, and many of the exhibits are interactive, making this a great option for an outing with kids.
8. Charles Island: Milford
Charles Island, Milford, CT 06460, USA
Fancy checking out some outdoor hidden gems in Connecticut? Charles Island is an island that you can walk to if you time your travels right. The island is tucked away at Silver Sands State Park and has a land bridge that's visible during low tide. If you believe the legends, Captain Kidd's treasure is buried here!
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9. Ragged Mountain: Southington
Ragged Mountain, Southington, CT 06489, USA
Ragged Mountain Memorial Preserve doesn't get nearly the love that it deserves. This place is an amazing hiking spot, and it's got some of the most stunning views in the state.
10. Hidden Valley Preserve: Washington Depot
Hidden Valley Preserve, 198 Bee Brook Rd, Washington Depot, CT 06794, USA
Want to visit even more of the best kept secret parks in Connecticut? Hidden Valley Preserve is an incredible option. This 650-acre park in Washington Depot features miles of hiking trails, a beautiful river, and a magnificent footbridge that looks straight out of a fairy tale.
11. Thorncrest Farm & Milk House Chocolates: Goshen
Thorncrest Farm & Milk House Chocolates, 280 Town Hill Rd, Goshen, CT 06756, USA
Thorncrest Farm has its own chocolate shop: what could be better? All of the artisanal chocolates here are made using the farm's own butter and milk, making for an exquisite candy like you've never had before.
12. Roseland Cottage: Woodstock
Roseland Cottage, 556 CT-169, Woodstock, CT 06281, USA
Roseland Cottage is a beautiful Victorian home in Connecticut's Quiet Corner. It's operated as a home museum and is one of the best-preserved summer cottages in all of New England. The grounds here are simply gorgeous, and there's often an event going on. Home tours are offered seasonally.
Did we miss your favorite hidden gem in Connecticut? Share your suggestions in the comments! And if you’re planning to explore these hidden gems, make sure to pack all your road trip supplies!
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