The end of summer is almost here, whether we’re ready for pumpkin spice season or not. If you still haven’t come up with a good answer for the inevitable “did you do anything cool this summer?” questions, fear not. Complete this summer bucket list, and you’ll have plenty to talk about. You’ll definitely capture a few Instagram-worthy shots along the way.
1. Tubing on the Farmington River is like a lazy river on a real river.
From Farmington RIver Tubing's launch point in New Hartford, enjoy a scenic 2.5 mile ride down the Farmington River. The ride includes 3 sets of rapids sure to please thrill-seekers.
92 Main St, New Hartford, CT 06057
2. Relax until the sun goes down at Candlewood Lake.
The 11-acre park includes a picture-perfect beachfront. If you're relaxation-averse, rent a boat from Lakeside Watersports and go water skiing or waterboarding.
Lakeside Watersports: 16 Forty Acre Mountain Rd, Danbury, CT 06811
3. The Brownstone Exploration and Discovery Park was build for thrill-seekers.
At Brownstone, zip line over water, jump off a cliff, fly from a rope swing, wake board, kayak, scuba dive, snorkel, hike, and bike, all in a gorgeous natural setting.
161 Brownstone Ave, Portland, CT 06480
4. Discover the Thimble Islands on a cruise tour.
The Thimble Islands contain all sorts of odd bits from history, including buried treasure legends, a quarry that provided the granite for the Lincoln Memorial, and President William Taft's "summer White House." Cruise around the Thimble Islands to discover even more Thimble Islands history and take in the gorgeous views.
Departs from Stony Creek Town Dock.
Indian Point Rd.
Branford, CT 06405
5. Lake Compounce is a Connecticut summer classic, especially for thrill-seekers.
Lake Compounce is the oldest continuously operated theme park in North America. Take that, Coney Island! There's something for everyone here, from classic carousels to upside-down roller coasters.
186 Enterprise Dr, Bristol, CT 06010
6. Relax at the beach and meet a few sea creatures at Hammonasset Beach State Park
Hammonasset's two miles of sandy shoreline might be Connecticut's most popular beach. Hammonasset includes Meig's Point Nature Center, where you can meet turtles, snakes, and crabs native to the area.
1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443
7. Learn about maritime history at Mystic Seaport.
Mystic Seaport will turn even the most devout landlubbers into sailors. Climb aboard 18 ships, including the oldest wooden whaleship in the world. After a long day at sea, explore the Maritime Village or head to the planetarium.
75 Greenmanville Ave, Mystic, CT 06355
8. Explore 11 different courses at The Adventure Park at The Discovery Museum in Bridgeport.
The adventure park contains over 100 platforms connected by bridges and zip lines. There are a range of challenge levels to keep all ages and levels of bravery entertained.
4450 Park Ave, Bridgeport, CT
9. With 38 rides on 20 acres, Quassy Amusement Park has something for everyone.
Quassy Amusement Park consists of a full-fledged amusement park, a waterpark, and a beach. On summer Fridays, ride tickets, hot dogs, and small drinks are just 50 cents each.
2132 Middlebury Rd, Middlebury, CT 06762
10. Find all of the ingredients for summer fun right in one place at Ocean Beach Park.
In addition to a half-mile stretch of sandy beach and an Olympic-size swimming pool with views of the beach, Ocean Beach Park features a waterslide, mini golf, amusement park rides, and nature trails.
98 Neptune Ave, New London, CT 06320
Connecticut adventure-seekers, you have your work cut out for you. If you finish every activity on this list, you’ll have plenty of amazing stories and Instagram likes to show for it.
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