Connecticut

Travel Guide

Photo provided by visitNewHaven.com
Photo provided by visitNewHaven.com
Photo provided by visitNewHaven.com
Photo provided by visitNewHaven.com
Photo provided by Michael Melford, courtesy of Mystic Country, Connecticut

A state of gentle pleasures and bucolic landscapes, Connecticut offers fascinating cultural and historical sights in a scenic yet seldom-explored corner of America. 

Sometimes Connecticut is unfairly dismissed simply as New York’s neighbor or a state for commuters. Yet the rolling hills, forested valleys and historic coastal towns make the “Constitution State” an engaging and welcoming destination in its own right. Discover the friendly and authentic charm of one of New England’s lesser-seen regions.

Connecticut was one of the 13 original colonies of America that declared independence from the British Crown. Wander down classic American Main Streets in towns that maintain the charm and character of the Revolutionary era. Browse the exhibits of the Museum of Connecticut History in Hartford to learn about the state’s industrial history and to see displays on America’s abolition movement and the famous underground railroad.

Linger in the charming capital city of Hartford to visit its other cultural attractions. Stop by the eye-catching 19th-century Mark Twain House and Museum, a burnt-orange home with displays dedicated to the life of the writer. The Wadsworth Atheneum, a public art gallery, is the oldest museum of its kind in the U.S.

Soak up the academic atmosphere of Yale University in the stylish town of New Haven. This famous educational institution is the home of Yale University Art Gallery and the Yale Center for British Art. Visitors are welcome to stroll around the picturesque campus grounds.

The history of Connecticut is inextricably linked with its connections to the Atlantic Ocean. Visit quaint waterfront towns along the length of the Long Island Sound and visit historic ports. Mystic Seaport, in the town of Mystic, offers an in-depth insight into the state’s maritime history and features four National Historic Landmark ships. The Connecticut River Museum in Essex gives visitors the chance to travel upriver in old schooners while learning about the state.

Connecticut borders New York City, making it easily accessible from all flights into that metropolis. Drive northeast of JFK International Airport for just an hour to reach the town of Norwalk, a great place to begin your exploration of compact Connecticut. Visit the state in fall to experience New England’s famously beautiful fall colors.

Where to stay in Connecticut

Connecticut Science Center featuring a garden

Downtown Hartford

4/5(448 area reviews)

Downtown Hartford boasts a bustling business district, housing major corporations and Connecticut's state government. Explore historic sites like the Wadsworth Atheneum, Bushnell Park, and the Old State House, while enjoying convenient access to Connecticut Transit Hartford and Union Station.

Downtown Hartford
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West Mystic

5/5(37 area reviews)

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in West Mystic and surrounding area, you can visit Mystic Downtown Marina and Mystic River Bascule Bridge.

West Mystic
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Downtown Stamford

4/5(199 area reviews)

Central business district with major retail establishments, a shopping mall, and a university campus. Explore the historic district's architecture, enjoy bars and restaurants near Columbus Park, and easily access the Metro-North train station.

Downtown Stamford
New Haven which includes a river or creek and kayaking or canoeing as well as a couple

Downtown New Haven

4/5(138 area reviews)

In the heart of New Haven, this residential downtown area boasts a variety of restaurants, cafes, theaters, and stores. Explore the arts at Chapel Street Historic District, Broadway area, and Ninth Square district, or visit the Shops at Yale.

Downtown New Haven
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Lake Pocotopaug

5/5(1 area review)

Though Lake Pocotopaug might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Lake Terramuggus and Comstock Bridge.

Lake Pocotopaug
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Westbrook Center

4.5/5(78 area reviews)

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Westbrook Center and surrounding area, you can visit Westbrook Town Beach and Chalker Beach.

Westbrook Center
The Capitol Hotel
The Capitol Hotel
3 out of 5
440 Asylum St, Hartford, CT
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$103 nightly
The price is $118 total per night from Jul 15 to Jul 16
$118 total
Jul 15 - Jul 16
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Hartford. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
7.4/10 Good! (1,026 reviews)
"The equipment in the fitness room was broken throughout the duration of our stay."

Reviewed on Jul 10, 2025

The Capitol Hotel
Hilltop Inn and Suites, near Foxwoods Casino
Hilltop Inn and Suites, near Foxwoods Casino
2.5 out of 5
373 Norwich Westerly Rd, North Stonington, CT
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
$84 nightly
The price is $97 total per night from Jul 15 to Jul 16
$97 total
Jul 15 - Jul 16
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in North Stonington. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient ...
8/10 Very Good! (2,235 reviews)
"MY FRIEND SEEMED TO THINK THE ROOM HAD A SMELL.....BUT I DIDNT NOTICE"

Reviewed on Jul 11, 2025

Hilltop Inn and Suites, near Foxwoods Casino
Bellissimo Hotel, Trademark by Wyndham Near Foxwoods Casino
Bellissimo Hotel, Trademark by Wyndham Near Foxwoods Casino
3.5 out of 5
411A & 411B Norwich Westerly Road, North Stonington, CT
$106 nightly
The price is $121 total per night from Aug 10 to Aug 11
$121 total
Aug 10 - Aug 11
Total includes taxes and fees
Stay at this 3.5-star hotel in North Stonington. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and the pool in our ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (2,328 reviews)
"Love this place"

Reviewed on Jul 11, 2025

Bellissimo Hotel, Trademark by Wyndham Near Foxwoods Casino
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Stamford Suites
Stamford Suites
4 out of 5
720 Bedford St, Stamford, CT
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly aparthotel in Stamford. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
5.6/10 (44 reviews)
"The room was very clean, and had so much space. Staff was nice as well. I will definitely be back!"

Reviewed on Jun 26, 2025

Stamford Suites
DUNE Fairfield Beach
DUNE Fairfield Beach
3 out of 5
1160 Reef Rd, Fairfield, CT
Stay at this 3-star beach apartment in Fairfield. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and free bicycles on site. Popular attractions Hartford HealthCare Amphitheater ...
9/10 Wonderful! (59 reviews)
A great beach getaway
"A cute hotel close to the beach! Super easy check in and check out."

Reviewed on Jul 2, 2025

DUNE Fairfield Beach
Regency Inn and Suites - RS Handicapped Non Smoking Double Bed Hearing
Regency Inn and Suites - RS Handicapped Non Smoking Double Bed Hearing
New London
Stay at this vacation home in New London. Enjoy free breakfast, a fitness center, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions New London Ferry Dock and ...
7/10 Good! (2 reviews)
Weekend stay
"The listing states a 1 bedroom, don’t be confused thinking there is a room with a door and then another room, as it’s just a single room with a bed. There was one gentleman that was very blunt and rude with his words. I unfortunately dealt with him prior to my visit, via phone, and once I got there. ..."

Reviewed on Mar 8, 2025

Regency Inn and Suites - RS Handicapped Non Smoking Double Bed Hearing
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Cities near Connecticut