Any Connecticut local knows that the winding backroads, shaded by canopies of trees and traversing small forgotten towns, help to make just about any drive worthwhile. When you have to be somewhere fast, freeways are a fine choice, but whenever possible, you should slow down and really enjoy the beauty that surrounds you. That’s easy to do when you you have so many options for scenic drives in Connecticut. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best driving roads in Connecticut.

1. Route 219
Barkhamsted Reservoir, Connecticut, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
This lonely road is perfect for a Sunday morning drive. Who needs a destination on this historic drive? Passing the Barkhamsted Reservoir and the Saville Dam, this already scenic drive is boosted by water views.
2. Route 169
Connecticut 169, CT-169, Lisbon, CT, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
With its quiet towns and rolling hills, everywhere in the Quiet Corner feels like a backroad. One of only two official scenic byways, this drive is the most beautiful in the state and includes stops at historical homes. It's ripe with New England charm!

See what it’s like to drive along this scenic backroad:

3. Route 27
Mystic, Stonington, CT, USA
Google Maps
This road lets you see the quaint and historic Mystic up close and also passes a Stonington vineyard. With optional detours to local historic homes and wildlife areas, this road could easily be converted into its own road trip.

Take a walk through the charming small town of Mystic:

4. Route 148
Chester–Hadlyme Ferry, Connecticut, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Easily connect to other routes to extend your drive and enjoy some amazing river views. This route crosses the Connecticut River using the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry making it one of the more unique waterfront drives. Plus it has all the curves that backroads are beloved for.

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5. Route 154
Google Maps
Drive from Old Saybrook to Haddam and see the celebrity stomping grounds that the region is known for. Stately homes and Harvey's Beach complete this fun drive.

Check out beautiful Harvey’s Beach at sunset:

6. Route 85
Google Maps
This road was created especially for nature lovers. You'll see plenty of densely forested areas and can even make a stop at Blackledge Falls. The historic Comstock Covered Bridge is here too so why not stop to stretch your legs?
7. Connecticut 63
Google Maps
This drive through the Litchfield area is one of the quietest you can take. It's picture-perfect from beginning to end, passing small towns and farmlands as it connects Goshen to Cornwall.
8. Route 44
Litchfield, CT, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Here's another trip to the Quiet Corner you're sure to love. A real showstopper in the fall season, this road is a far cry from the crowded city streets you get everywhere else. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the quintessential small-town views.
9. US-7
Sharon, CT, USA
Google Maps
From Brookfield to Sharon you'll find 35 miles of scenic backroads to help you avoid the congested highway scene. Pass the Housatonic River on this densely forested two-lane road. Perfect for summer, cruise with the windows down and enjoy the quiet that surrounds you on this perfect road.

Have you taken any of these scenic drives in Connecticut? Which areas are your favorites? Let us know about them in the comments. For a more adventurous road trip in Connecticut, take a slow drive down this haunted street – if you dare.

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More to Explore

Scenic Small Towns in Connecticut

William Suphan | August 16, 2023

What are the most peaceful small towns in Connecticut?

The most peaceful small towns in Connecticut include:

  • Sprague. This little town has several historic neighborhoods that have maintained their old-fashioned charm.
  • Collinsville. This serene town has the wonderful Canton Historical Museum and some great antique stores.
  • Salisbury. There are lots of beautiful hiking trails here and the whole town looks like something from a postcard.
  • Niantic. This is a quiet little coastal town that local fishers love and there’s an excellent bookstore in which one could lose several hours.

Learn more about the most peaceful small towns in Connecticut. 

What are the most charming small towns in Connecticut?

The most charming small towns in Connecticut include:

  • Cornwall. This little town has lovely covered bridges, several historical attractions, and lush, rolling hills.
  • Kent. This town is home to Kent Falls State Park which is widely considered the most beautiful state park in Connecticut.
  • Mystic. As the setting for the film Mystic Pizza, this small town of fewer than 5,000 people is as beautiful as can be. 
  • Old Saybrook. This gorgeous little town is home to a gorgeous lighthouse and is a foodie hotspot for locals.

Discover more about the most charming small towns in Connecticut. 

What are the most underrated towns in Connecticut?

The most underrated towns in Connecticut include:

  • Chester. This town is full of galleries, art studios, amazing pubs, and even an alpaca farm.
  • Simsbury. The community of this town created the wondrous Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge and it’s simply gorgeous.
  • Ridgefield. This town is heavily dedicated to the arts and has a Museum in the Streets, a park dedicated to painting, a sculpture park, and more.
  • Stonington is a little coastal town with a ton of New England charm and history, including the Old Lighthouse Museum.

Find out more about the most underrated towns in Connecticut. 

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