The Best Road Trip Stops In Connecticut
Connecticut was one of the original 13 colonies of the United States, so it holds a sacred part of American history. And thanks to this, you’ll find many excellent road trip stops in Connecticut to explore.
The state is famous for being home to Yale University and many famous museums that display the remarkable history of the state.
So, let’s take a closer look:
Where To Stop On Your Road Trip In Connecticut
Connecticut is in Southern New England and provides its visitors with some beautiful coastal cities and small rural towns.
And in this section, I’ve laid out some of the best road trip stops in Connecticut so you know exactly where you should stop:
Mark Twain House & Museum
If you’re an avid reader, you might want to take a trip to the late Mark Twain's house. Mark Twain is a famous American writer, entrepreneur, publisher, and humorist in the 1800s.
Throughout his life and beyond, he has been lauded as the “greatest humorist” the United States has produced, and now you can get a chance to explore his home.
The Mark Twain House & Museum
The Mark Twain House & Museum gives you an inside glimpse into the life of one of America's most defining cultural figures of the time. And all though it’s not possible to take photos there, you do get the chance to soak up beauty with your own eyes.
While there, you’ll be left in awe as you admire the hand-stenciled walls, the intricate dark woodwork, and Tiffany glass.
Yale University
You’ll find Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. The Ivy League research university was founded in 1701, making it the third-oldest institution for higher education in the United States and among the most prestigious in the world.
One of the great things about the university is that each campus emits a unique vibe combined with architecture, landscape, and history.
Yale University
You’ll be able to take a tour of the campus, which is primarily aimed at prospective students. Still, it offers a great deal of information about the campus's history and architecture. And this can make it an enjoyable outing for everyone involved.
While you’re there, check out the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library and the Sterling Memorial Library, it’s certainly something to behold.
Lockwood Mathews Mansion Museum
The Lockwood Mathews Mansion Museum has been a National Historic Landmark since 1971 and is regarded as one of the US's most significant Second Empire country houses.
You’ll find the country house in Norwalk, Connecticut. And although it’s now a museum, it was initially built in 1864-68 for railroad and banking magnate LeGrand Lockwood.
Now, the museum gives you a glimpse into the Victorian Era by displaying the Gilded Age interiors and stunning jewelry.
The Witch’s Dungeon
The Silver Screen Movie Museum has origins going back to 1966 as a museum. The museum gives a nod to all the famous actors and makeup artists that brought our favorite sci-fi and fantasy films to life.
While you’re there, you’ll be able to exhibit all the waxwork models of some of your most beloved characters.
The museum is so respected it has been touted by “Entertainment Tonight” as the longest-running exhibit and has even been featured on CNN.
Dinosaur State Park
If you love dinosaurs, you might want to come and visit the 80 acres of state-owned parkland to discover the natural history.
The dinosaur State Park is found in Rocky Hill, Connecticut, and is one of North America's most significant protected dinosaur track sites.
Dinosaur Valley State Park
You’ll relish the fact of following a 200 million-year-old trackway while enjoying the interactive exhibits the park has to offer.
Entrance fees cost $6 for anyone over the age of 13 and $2 for 6-12 years of age; anyone younger is free of charge.
Stepping Stones Museum For Children
If you’ve got young children craving a hands-on experience while you’re on your road trip, there’s no better place to stop than the Stepping Stones Museum for Children.
It’s aimed at children 10 and under and is found at 303 West Avenue, in the Central section of Norwalk, Connecticut.
The museum was designed to broaden and enrich children's opportunities in the educational sector. While your child is there, they’ll get the chance to expand their understanding of the world via hands-on activities.
Chester Hadlyme Ferry
The service began in 1769 and was originally operated by Jonathan Warner, who owned land on both sides of the Connecticut River.
But now, the Chester Hadlyme Ferry acts as a seasonal ferry crossing across the Connecticut River between the town of Chester and the village of Hadlyme.
The original ferry was pushed across rivers using long poles until 1879 when it changed to a steam-powered barge.
Now, the vessel can transport 8 to 9 cars and up to 49 passengers across the river.
Dinosaur Place - Nature’s Art Village
Dinosaur Place is a family-oriented theme park spread across 60 acres and features over 50 life-sized dinosaurs.
The theme park features many family activities, from searching for fossils, gems, rocks, and minerals, to gazing/finding the life-sized dinosaurs.
But that’s not the only thing to do at the theme park; you can also get lost in their maze, chill out at the splash pad, or mess around at the playground.
The Mashantucket Pequot Museum And Research Center
If you love looking back at American history, one of the best places to visit is the Mashantucket Pequot Museum and Research Center.
It’s the largest Native American Museum which is dedicated to the history and culture of the Pequots and other tribes.
The Museum and Research Center was opened in 1998 with over 308,000 square feet of floor space. And today, they offer an engaging experience for people of any age or walk of life.
Final Thoughts & Takeaways
Connecticut was one of the original 13 colonies, which means there’s a lot of history for you to explore. And hopefully, that shows on the list I’ve provided you today. Connecticut is home to some of the most beautiful museums that introduce you to fascinating parts of history.
Road Trips > Cross Country Road Trip > Connecticut Road Trip Stops
About the Author
Jason Fox: Four years ago, I decided to quit my job as a chef to travel the world and see where life took me. The skills I learned while traveling led me to become a freelance writer so I could share my experiences with the world. Since then, I've been traveling the world working as a digital nomad. Find me on Instagram.
