Hit the Road: Connecticut

Famous for its fall foliage, relaxing shorelines, to charming historic homes and gardens. Connecticut is the place to be for relaxing outdoor excursions.

With a Best Western Hotel and Resort to call home base, here are several must-sees in Connecticut to add to your itinerary:

Go into Town

New Haven

With 40 miles of shoreline, it’s absolute to spend some time in or around the water. If you are looking for something relaxing but active, try an evening stroll at one of the many shoreline beaches, such as West Haven Beach, Hammonasset Beach State Park, or Lighthouse Point Park. If you crave something that requires a little bit of work, hike up to the top of East Rock Park for breathtaking views of New Haven, or rent a kayak or paddleboard for some quiet time on the water. And once you are done exploring, shopping, eateries, breweries, and cultural activities, wait for you in town.

Hartford

Stepping into Hartford is stepping into a communal space of history, culture, and unique experiences. Spend time in Historic Pratt Street, where 200 years of stories and experiences can be found at every corner. If a historical experience is what calls you, visit the Mark Twain House & Museum, where you can walk in and explore the famous author’s 25 room Victorian mansion where he lived and wrote from 1874-1891. And for some fun and unique experiences, we suggest Bushnell Park Carousel, which has been active since 1914, and some instagrammable outdoor murals that will take you all around Hartford.

Get Outside

Kent Falls State Park

Kent Falls is a series of waterfalls that stem from the mountain stream known as Falls Brook. Though only 1/4 mile up, it’s easy to get to but a little steep. Visitors who make the push are rewarded with scenic views and a delightful 250-foot waterfall that heads down to the Housatonic River.

Squantz Pond State Park

This four-season park has recreational activities for every occasion, from picnicking, fishing, hiking, swimming to boating. Known for its “mountain-like” setting, the park has steep, wooded slopes to hike and navigate through and cool, blue ponds to swim and enjoy on any day.

Things to Do

• Like Vermont and many other New England states, Connecticut has a collection of covered bridges that capture driver’s attention. Make a fun day trip hitting some of these locations as they fit into your day. You won’t regret it: West Cornwall Bridge, Bulls Bridge, Huckleberry Hill Bridge, Comstock Bridge, and Ken Falls Bridge.
• All gardens are the same, right? Wrong. At least not in Connecticut. Visit one of the many beautiful gardens the state offers, from grand gardens in state parks to ones residing on the property of historical homes. Be sure to visit Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens – the world-famous rose garden – and Harriet Beecher Stower Center, named after ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin.’

Hit the Road with Best Western and travel with ease as our hotels are putting guests’ safety first by implementing our We Care Clean program. Book your next stay direct at bestwestern.com to get our lowest rates guaranteed. We look forward to seeing you soon.