Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Hartford, United States
1. Mystic Seaport
Explore a vibrant coastal village with over 50 historic buildings and working vessels. Delve into American maritime history.
- Nautical Atmosphere: Authentic seaport setting, recreating a 19th-century coastal village
- Living History Museum: A unique museum where visitors can engage in hands-on experiences
- Maritime Activities: Opportunities to sail, boat build, and even clam dig!
2. Farmington Valley National Scenic Area
Experience the charm of New England with picturesque landscapes, historic towns, and beautiful farms.
- Natural Beauty: Breathtaking views of rolling hills, forests, and rivers
- Historic Towns: Includes Avon, Canton, Farmington, and Simsbury
- Outdoor Recreation: Perfect for hiking, biking, or scenic drives
3. Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
Take a trip back in time aboard a steam train and riverboat. Enjoy the Connecticut River Valley's scenic beauty.
- Steam Train Experience: Ride an authentic, vintage steam train
- Scenic Riverboat Rides: Relax on a leisurely boat ride along the Connecticut River
- Historic Attractions: Visit destinations like Deep River, Chester, and Essex
4. Newport, Rhode Island
Indulge in Gilded Age elegance with stunning mansions, charming seaside ambiance, and vibrant nightlife.
- Gilded Age Mansions: Tour opulent mansions like The Breakers and Marble House
- Seaside Charm: Stroll along Cliff Walk, enjoy beaches, and dine in quaint waterfront restaurants
- Vibrant Nightlife: Discover a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues
5. Woodbury, Connecticut
Step back in time in this picturesque village with antique shops, art galleries, and historic architecture.
- Antiquing Destination: Over 60 antiques shops and dealers
- Historic Architecture: Well-preserved colonial buildings and structures
- Art Galleries & Studios: Showcasing local artists' works
6. Lighthouse Point Park, New Haven
Enjoy beach and picnic facilities, scenic views of Long Island Sound, and a historic lighthouse.
- Beach & Picnic Area: Perfect for relaxing, sunbathing, or having a picnic
- Historic Lighthouse: Built in 1920 and still operational today
- Scenic Views: Panoramic vistas of the Long Island Sound
7. Beacon Falls, Connecticut
Experience the beauty and tranquility of this picturesque waterfall. Take a leisurely hike along the trail system.
- Waterfall Viewing: Two breathtaking falls, Beacon Falls and Spruce Brook Falls
- Leisurely Hiking Trails: Easy to moderate trails with stunning views of the falls and surrounding forest
- Historic Mills: Explore remnants of the old Beacon Falls Mill
8. Lyman Orchards, Middlefield
Enjoy a day of fun and relaxation at this family-friendly destination with an apple orchard, corn maze, and winery.
- Apple Orchard: Pick your own apples during season
- Corn Maze & Activities: Navigate the corn maze or enjoy other fall activities like a hayride
- Winery & Restaurant: Taste award-winning wines and dine at the on-site restaurant
9. Niantic Bay Boardwalk, East Lyme
Stroll along a scenic boardwalk offering views of Niantic Bay and the ocean. Enjoy nearby beaches and restaurants.
- Scenic Boardwalk: A relaxing, accessible path for walking or biking
- Ocean & Bay Views: Panoramic vistas of Niantic Bay and the ocean
- Restaurants & Beaches: Nearby dining options and beaches like East Beach and Ocean Beach Park
10. Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison
Relax on a sandy beach or explore the wooded trails at this beautiful state park along Long Island Sound.
- Sandy Beach: A pristine, family-friendly beach
- Wooded Trails: Perfect for hiking or birdwatching
- Campground: Over 500 campsites available for overnight stays
11. Quinebaug Valley Scenic Byway
Explore the rural beauty of eastern Connecticut along this scenic byway, featuring historic towns and natural wonders.
- Scenic Beauty: Rolling hills, farmland, rivers, and forests
- Historic Towns: Includes towns like Danielson, Putnam, and Woodstock
- Natural Wonders: Sights such as the Quinebaug River Gorge and the Quinebaug Valley Wildlife Corridor
12. Stonington Borough, Connecticut
Discover a charming coastal village with picturesque streets, historic homes, and waterfront dining.
- Picturesque Streets: Narrow, winding streets lined with colorful homes
- Historic Homes: Well-preserved colonial and Federal-style buildings
- Waterfront Dining: Enjoy seafood and stunning views at restaurants like Captain Scott's Lobster Dock
13. Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Relax on a beautiful beach, visit the historic lighthouse, or enjoy shopping and dining in this charming coastal village.
- Beautiful Beach: Watch Hill Beach offers stunning views and soft sand
- Historic Lighthouse: Flying Point Light, built in 1895
- Shopping & Dining: Unique boutiques and waterfront restaurants
14. North Haven Beach, Connecticut
Relax on a peaceful beach with crystal-clear waters and scenic views. Enjoy local seafood and ice cream shops nearby.
- Peaceful Beach: A quiet, laid-back beach experience
- Crystal-Clear Waters: Perfect for swimming and snorkeling
- Local Seafood & Ice Cream: Savor fresh seafood and delicious ice cream at nearby restaurants
15. East Haddam Swing Bridge, East Haddam
Experience a unique engineering marvel as you cross the Connecticut River on this historic swing bridge.
- Historic Engineering: One of only three remaining vertical-lift bridges in the U.S.
- Scenic River Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Connecticut River
- Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning images of the bridge in action