With the quick approach of autumn, it is time to get outside and enjoy the beautiful scenery. There are many ways in Connecticut to enjoy the brilliant reds, oranges and golds found in the changing colors of the leaves. Here are a few suggestions of how to combine the fantastic foliage with an exciting day trip to embrace the outdoors.
1. Essex Steam Train and Riverboat
For a luxurious way to view the colors of autumn, hop aboard the authentic and historical Essex Steam Train to enjoy the beautiful Connecticut River Valley. You will travel comfortably through marshland and along the river while enjoying the unspoiled environment. Next, board the Becky Thatcher riverboat. From one of the three decks on the boat, you can enjoy views of local towns as you cruise down the river.
2. Mount Tom State Park
Located in Litchfield, Mount Tom Tower is a fire tower that offers a 360 degree view of the northern part of Connecticut. The tower can be reached by a short and fairly easy one mile hike, but then you will be faced with three flights of stairs to get to the top. It is worth the work, once you are at the top then you have the perfect view of all the brilliant fall colors.
3. Lyman Orchards
Imagining fall without apple picking and apple pie is a difficult task. Lyman Orchards has both available to the public. You can venture out into the orchards that sit up on hills allowing you to take in some gorgeous views. Afterwards wander down to the Apple Barrel store and pick up some locally made apple pies that taste amazing. 32 Reeds Gap Rd. Middlefield, Connecticut
4. Connecticut Garlic and Harvest Festival
You certainly will not want to miss the 13th annual Connecticut Garlic and Harvest Festival. It will be held October 7-8 in 2017 at the Bethlehem Fairgrounds off of Route 61. You will be able to watch garlic cooking lessons and learn how to grow your own garlic. But even better, there will be garlic dips and spreads and sandwiches. Make sure you have an empty stomach before you make this day trip.
5. Pell Family Farm
A traditional hayride is a great way to embrace autumn and all that it has to offer. If you travel to the northern part of Connecticut, at Pell Family Farm, you can take a free hayride, dive into a hay maze and pick up a pumpkin all at the same scenic place.
96 Kibbe Grove Rd., Somers, CT
6. Scotland Connecticut Highland Festival & Games
If you are looking to awaken all of your senses, consider attending the Scotland Connecticut Highland Festival & Games. You will enjoy bagpipes and harps as well as some great Scottish dancing. The festival will be held on October 8, 2017 and promises to have loads of entertainment, competitions and delicious food. Waldo Homestead, 96 Waldo Rd., Scotland, CT
7. Castle Hill Farm
It just doesn't seem like autumn without racing through a corn maze at a local farm. Castle Hill Farm in Newtown is celebrating 90 years of farming with a seven acre corn maze. The farm has a very picturesque setting and also offers some beautiful views. 25 Sugar Ln., Newtown, CT
8. The Boys and Girls Club of Milford presents Pumpkins on the Pier
What is fall without pumpkins? You will be able to see plenty of pumpkins at the annual Pumpkins on the Pier sponsored by the Boys and Girls Club of Milford, Connecticut. This event will take place on Saturday October 7, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There will be entertainment such as magic, dance and music. And of course there will be a whole bunch of pumpkins arranged in unique displays. Make sure you sign up for the pumpkin pie eating contest while you are there.
Consider adding some of these day trips in Connecticut to your list of things to enjoy this fall. What are your favorite day trips this time of year? Let us know in the comments section.
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