The Fairytale Road Trip That'll Lead You To Some Of Connecticut's Most Magical Places
By Elisa Regulski|Updated on November 18, 2022(Originally published November 13, 2022)
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Elisa Regulski
Author
Elisa is a passionate travel writer with over five years of experience. After graduating with a B.F.A in acting from Oklahoma City University, Elisa earned a M.A in mass communication From Texas State University. When she's not writing about all of the amazing places throughout the U.S., she can be heard singing with her band.
Connecticut is home to whimsical places. Sometimes walking through the Nutmeg State is like experiencing a fairytale. If you want to really absorb all of the enchanting beauty this state has to offer, take this road trip to several magical places in Connecticut! The total drive time is only about 3.5 hours, but you’ll want to stretch it out over two days, so you can have time to really enjoy all of the magnificent sights around you.
It’s easy to adjust the journey depending on where you live. Click here for an interactive Google Map.
Gas up the tank and get ready to embark on this whimsical Connecticut fairytale road trip!
The adventure begins at
Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds in Old Lyme. This stunning destination perfectly combines art and nature for a breathtaking experience. Stroll through perfectly manicured lawns and stare at over 100 different sculptures. Most pieces were created by celebrated Connecticut sculptor Gilbert Boro, but you'll also see works from other renowned artists. The photo above features an enchanting piece from Deborah Hornbake. After exploring the grounds, it's easy to understand why this is a magical place in Connecticut.
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2. Harkness Memorial State Park, Waterford
Harkness Memorial State Park, 275 Great Neck Rd, Waterford, CT 06385, USA
Next, explore the 42-room Renaissance Revival mansion at Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford. The ivy-covered archways, perfectly landscaped gardens, and historic decorations will make you feel like you've entered another world. Find a secret garden of your very own, or wait and see if Rapunzel will appear from the tower windows.
After a breezy 45-minute drive, you'll reach Buttonwood Farm in Griswold. If you visit in the summer, you'll get to experience their vibrant sunflower fields. Whether you decide to take a relaxing walk or a fun tractor ride through the grounds, you'll be enamored with their sunny golden hue. Don't leave without getting a scoop of handmade ice cream from their delicious farm stand! But don't wait too long, the farm is open to visitors typically from March until the end of October.
After a full day of exploring, rest your feet at Roseledge Country Inn. This charming bed and breakfast sits just 8 minutes away from Buttonwood Farm, and it's the perfect place to recharge for the day ahead. With three fireplace guest rooms, a tranquil tea garden, and lovely antique shop, Roseledge Country Inn is perfectly whimsical.
5. Elizabeth Park, Hartford
Elizabeth Park Rose Garden, 1561 Asylum Ave, Hartford, CT 06105, USA
Enjoy a delicious breakfast from Roseledge Country Inn before taking the one-hour drive to Elizabeth Park in Hartford. This vibrant attraction is open every day of the year, and it's free to the public. Smell the fragrant flowers and keep your eye out for fluttering butterflies.
6. East Side Restaurant, New Britain
East Side Restaurant, 131 Dwight St, New Britain, CT 06051, USA
You'll really feel like you've stepped inside a classic German fairytale when you dine at East Side Restaurant in New Britain. This beloved restaurant serves authentic strudel and schnitzel in a charming environment. If the weather is nice, request a seat on their covered patio. You'll love relaxing in this scenic dining area.
7. Pine Mountain Reserve, Ridgefield
Pine Mountain Road, Pine Mountain Rd, Ridgefield, CT, USA
End your trip with a bit of forest bathing at Pine Mountain Reserve in Ridgefield. This secluded area is full of lush woodland hiking trails and peaceful babbling brooks. If you hike along The Red Trail, you may even come across a family of deer. You're going to love strolling through this natural oasis.
So, there you have it, and you are ready to get started on your road trip! Have you been to any of these magical places in Connecticut? What are your favorite whimsical destinations in the Nutmeg State? Let us know in the comment section. We would love to hear from you!
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Places To Visit In Connecticut
Katie Feldkamp|November 18, 2022
What is the best road trip in Connecticut?
It’s not easy to narrow the answer down to a single best road trip in Connecticut. The Nutmeg State may be small, but it feels like there are endless roads to amazing destinations for you to get out and explore. Here are several ideas for some of the best road trips in Connecticut:
