Macricostas Preserve is your best bet for a long hike since it has trails as long as four miles spread over its 368 acres. The habitats here consist of meadow, farmland, a wooded ridge, wetlands, and a mountain. The mountain, a pinnacle overlook, is the highlight of Macricostas and it provides stunning views over Connecticut and Lake Waramaug. For families and nature lovers, the yellow blazed tail provides educational signs describing habitats and organisms found in different areas.
With about three different trails, including a historic carriage trail to an old family home, Jones Mountain Preserve is a pristine location for a hike. With a maximum loop of 2.5 miles, this scenic hike passes up the peak of a mountain (Jones Mountain), through an ancient stone bridge, and past native Connecticut flora. Listen carefully to see if you can identify any unusual bird species!
Salem Land Trust is a scenic, mostly flat parcel of land that is well cared for by volunteers. The hiking at Salem Land Trust is really lovely, with meadows, marshlands, and ponds. Visiting in each season brings different experiences, and visitors can expect to encounter numerous species of flora as well as some charismatic wildlife such as bunnies, foxes, birds, and turtles. Come in the summer to see milkweed blooming and monarchs, or in the winter to see cardinals and beaver dams.
Maintained by the Weantinoge Heritage Land Trust, Cobble Brook Vista is a preserved area of 158 acres featuring a roundtrip trail of 2.5 miles. Along the trail, hikers will see Cobble Brook Valley and surrounding hilly lands. The soil here is mostly composed of sand, so the flora is different here compared to the other natural preserves mentioned. That means you’ll see junipers, lichen, mountain laurel, and grasses. When hiking at Cobble Brook, be sure to bring along a copy of the trail map with you since trails do run along private property.
To protect Connecticut’s waterways, East Haddam Land Trust has protected several acres of land surrounding rivers and streams. It even features a beautiful walking bridge over Eightmile River within the Chapal Farm Open Space area, providing an overlook onto the river below, and is a great place to spot wildlife. In addition, hiking and kayaking events are schedule frequently and they are also seeking volunteers to help measure large trees within the associated preserves.
]]>White Memorial Conservation Center is a 4,000-acre property with trails, events, and an educational center. Though there are many other trails at the White Memorial Conservation Center, the Little Pond Boardwalk is recommended for those pushing a stroller as this boardwalk can be reached by car and is wide enough to permit a stroller. Other trails are appropriate for toddlers through teens and lead to interesting sights such as an avian enclosure and pollinator garden. Little learners will be able to study their environment along the Interpretive Nature Trail, or families can check the events calendar online for weeks offering free museum admission or educational walks guided by a scientist.
This excellent education center has 10 miles of hiking trails, some easy and some more difficult. Near the nature center, visitors will find some boardwalk trails leading to a duck pond. There is also an easy-to-reach butterfly garden. The Forest Loop is great for jogging with a stroller, and curious kids will pass through fields, woodland, marshes, ponds, and streams. Older children will enjoy the Ledge Trail, which features rock overlooks and wooded wetlands. Do remember to watch out for poison ivy (and/or wash with a bar of laundry soap after) and check for ticks after returning home.
The lovely Haley Farm State Park has both short and long trails, several of which are appropriate for strollers. A very short .8-mile bike trail is great for toddlers and a grassy open space is also great for kids who need to spend some energy running. The grassy area is also perfect for blowing bubbles, playing catch, or making daisy chains. Little naturalists will be able to keep a look out for wild birds, pond critters, and colorful wildflowers.
Can your kids spot the sleeping giant? Create a fun activity by seeing which angle is best to spot Connecticut’s very own giant. Perfect for beginners and little legs, a 1.5-mile-long trail stretches up the sleeping giant—Mt. Carmel—to an observation tower, providing views of surrounding Connecticut scenery and Long Island Sound. Sleeping Giant State Park is also picnic-friendly and offers picnic tables, picnic shelters, and bathroom facilities. Families will also be happy to hear that it is free to visit Sleeping Giant State Park (as well as all the other parks on this list)!
Devil’s Hopyard State Park is a really fun option for kids who are into geology and/or legends. Kids will note the round holes in the rocks by the falls, which were thought to have been created by the devil burning holes in the stone with his hooves because his tail got wet in the falls. Despite the interesting myth, the potholes are now known to be created due to currents creating depressions in the rocks. Following a sufficient exploration of the waterfall, families will be able to enjoy several relatively easy hiking trails leading to scenic views. A picnic area, pavilion, toilet facilities, and other amenities are also available at Devil’s Hopyard. Do keep in mind that hunting is allowed in designated areas in season, so it is best to dress yourself and your family in brightly colored clothing.
]]>This coastal reserve offers a delightful combination of hiking and biking trails, wildlife viewing, and easy access from Long Island Sound. It is perfect for a leisurely stroll with your pup by your side.
As part of Shelton’s efforts to create more open spaces for visitors to enjoy, this destination has become a go to spot for dog owners. Let your pup run wild in the expansive fields.
If your pup loves to explore the great outdoors, Bear Mountain Reservation will be a perfect choice. This 140-acre green space provides plenty of opportunities to explore wooded areas and access to Candlewood Lake.
Step into this peaceful and tranquil park and you will be greeted with life-like sculptures of wolves and bears. Explore open fields and dense woodlands with your pup and revel in this space around you.
On this 400-to-700-foot trap rock ridge your pooch will be able to get a spectacular view of Long Island Sound and the Vermont border. Plus, there are plenty of opportunities to explore wooded areas.
Spanning 389 acres of wooded areas, Mianus River Park offers the perfect space for rugged mountain biking and hiking. The park also includes tranquil fishing spots and lots of areas for your pup to get out and explore.
Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest welcome you and your pup to their 9,000 acres of recreation opportunities. Here, you can take a hike on one of their many trails, or cool off in Bigelow Pond or Mashapaug Pond.
Take your pup for a hike up the Castle Craig Tower, which offers some of the best views of the Meriden area. This stone observation tower was a gift from Walter Hubbard and remains one of the city's great philanthropic contributions.
This wild and picturesque park provides an opportunity for horseback riding and hiking, covering 242 acres of undeveloped public space. Your pup will have a blast on the Larkin State Park Trail, though note that they must be leashed at all times.
Explore this 389-acre preserve in Roxbury. Let your pup run free as you explore the 19th century iron mine, the restored stone and brick complex and the other historical markers in this stunning open space.
]]>Spanning across 3,000 acres, the West Hartford Reservoirs offer some of the most beautiful woodland hikes in the state of Connecticut. There are several loop trails in the area, extending anywhere from two to 3.5 miles. This is a perfect picturesque trek for any trail runner.
Featuring a 2.6-mile looped trail recommended for experienced runners used to moderate-to-strenuous runs, Devil’s Hopyard State Park provides gorgeous scenery as well. Runners will pass a stunning waterfall. The trail is open year-round.
The trail at Ragged Mountain Memorial Preserve is rated for moderate to advanced runners. There is lots of uneven, rocky footing. The views are spectacular along this run, however, featuring vertical cliff faces close at hand and the Central Connecticut region in the distance.
Talcott Mountain State Park affords a great view of the Farmington River. As runners ascend the mountain, they will view New Hampshire’s Mount Monadnock in the distance. Intermediate runners will love the full run. Beginners typically engage in the first 1.25 mile-run to the Heublein Tower.
An old rail trail that once transported passengers from New York to Boston, Airline State Park Trail is now a favorite among trail runners. The views are part of what draws people there, and the trail is popular among beginner trail runners. Check the website for where to park in the different towns and cities that have access to the trail.
]]>Discover what winter has to offer at White Memorial Conservation Center in Litchfield, Connecticut! Home to over 40 miles of trails, you can explore nature while snowshoeing. Make sure to stop by the Nature Museum to learn more about the wildlife and plants that call Connecticut home.
Candlewood Lake offers a variety of freshwater fishing opportunities for. Many species can be caught here including smallmouth and largemouth bass,walleye, pickerel, brown trout, and more. The Candlewood-Squantz Cove Public Boat Launch in Squantz Pond State Park is open year-round and offers easy access to the lake.In 2018, Bassmaster Magazine ranked Candlewood as the 22nd best bass lake in the Northeast.
Hit the slopes this winter at Ski Sundown in New Hartford, Connecticut. With over 16 trails, you're sure to find a trail to fit your experience level. With night skiing available, you can stay on the mountain until the stars come out.
Make the most of the winter season at Salmon River State Park in Colchester, Connecticut. This state park is home to 20 miles of trails, making it the perfect place for an exciting cross-country skiing adventure.
Race down the slopes and feel the adrenaline rush at Powder Ridge Mountain Park in Middlefield, Connecticut. This park offers a variety of tubing hills and a tow lift to keep you going down the hill. Make sure to grab some hot chocolate after and warm up with the family.
Peoples Forest offers snowmobilers an amazing experience, with nearly 13 miles of networked looped trails. Novice operators can enjoy the large open areas located near the parking lot, as well as seasonal hiking trails and unplowed forest roads, making it the perfect place for testing and practice.
Take your snowboarding skills up a notch at Mount Southington in Southington, Connecticut. With a variety of terrain to choose from, you can find the perfect hill for your experience level. This mountain also has its own terrain park, featuring rails, boxes, and jumps for snowboarders to explore.
Visiting Mohawk Mountain Ski Area for a snowtubing outing is an experience that is sure to please everyone in the family. Their magic carpet will get guests to the top in a jiffy, making the adventure all the more seamless. An hour and forty-five minutes of tubing fun has never been so easy, and all that is required is an arrival at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled session time - weather dependent.
The International Skating Center of Connecticut is more than just a rink - it offers public skating throughout the week for everyone to enjoy. ISCC is also the new home of the CT Whale Women's Professional Ice Hockey Team, making it a great destination for fans of all ages. Not only that, but its two ice rinks are available for figure skating activities and its full-service facility provides an array of exciting opportunities. All are welcome to come down and make some lasting memories at the International Skating Center of Connecticut.
End your day with a snowshoe hike at Sleeping Giant State Park in Hamden, Connecticut. This park is full of rocky ridges and hills, providing multiple options for a winter hike. Take a break and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Connecticut landscape before you continue your journey.
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]]>One of the top birding sites in Connecticut, Sherwood Island State Park affords outdoor enthusiasts the best of both worlds. In addition to close to 300 species of birds in the park, there are also hiking trails that traverse some of the 234 acres. Great horned owls are spotted here regularly.
A 40-mile trail marks the Farmington Canal Heritage Greenway, and within that span is a treasure trove of birdwatching opportunities. Part gravel, part asphalt, and part crushed stone, the trail is used by hikers and mountain bikers. Wear good hiking shoes, as the wear and tear on feet from the varied terrain can be tough. A vast number of bird species are spotted here with great frequency. Watch for woodpeckers, yellow warblers, and cardinals.
Forty miles of trails grace the White Memorial Conservation Center. Several bird species’ nest in the woods, by the lake, and near the marsh here. This spot is noted especially for the 15 species of nesting warblers, wild turkey, pileated woodpeckers, scarlet tanagers, and rose-breasted grosbeaks. In total, approximately 240 species call this conservation center home.
The trails that lead into the woods at Hammonasset Beach State Park make for good hiking, but they also take birders to spots where more than 250 bird species have been spotted. A nature center is located just over a mile and a half into the woods. From there, they extend further into the woods as well as to two raised platforms that allow views over the wetlands. Marsh wrens, saltmarsh sparrows, clapper rails, and American bitterns have all been spotted here.
Hike over sand dunes, along the beach and on the boardwalk at Coastal Center at Milford Point for a look at some beautiful birds. The sanctuary sits on the shores of the Housatonic River, where countless species have been viewed. Sand pipers, egrets, herons, and nesting osprey have all been spotted here. Climb the viewing tower and see a panoramic view of the center from a vantage point. Three hundred different species were spotted at this sanctuary in recent years. The 8.4 acres make for a nice hike, as well as increase the likelihood of capturing some great glimpses of beautiful birds—and maybe even some pictures, too.
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The Thomaston Dam is public land that is maintained for dirt motorbikes. Conditions here are well-maintained, although some areas are prone to flooding, limiting access during certain seasons. Nonetheless, Thomaston Dam is a top pick for dirt motor biking in Connecticut. Because the land is also open to hunting, riders might consider wearing bright colors for safety.
Though riding dirt motorbikes in state forests is limited in Connecticut, Pachaug State Forest is an excellent, free option for miles and miles of well-maintained trails. Trails cross town lines, head up and down hills, and track through dense forests. Many are wide enough to allow for motorcyclists riding in pairs, so if you are riding with a family member or friend, the trails at Pachaug State Forest might be your best bet.
Shenipsit State Forest is open to dirt biking opportunities for races and other events a few times a year. Amenities here include drinking water, pit toilets, and picnic benches for any necessary pit stops. This massive 7,000-acre state forest also has great hiking trails leading up Soapstone Mountain for those looking for views of Connecticut’s forests after an exhilarating trail ride.
]]>Featuring ATVs by Can-Am, Kawasaki, and Polaris, Land N’ Sea Powersports has both new and used inventory in stock. In addition, they sell all the gear needed to go off-roading safely, and they offer both parts and repairs.
Motorsports Nation has an ample number of both new and used ATVs in stock. Featuring Polaris ATVs and both Suzuki and Husqvarna dirt bikes, they service everything they sell. They’ll order parts for the do-it-yourself mechanic even if you don’t buy your ATV from them.
Featuring ATVs, side-by-sides, snowmobiles, and more, Scranton Powersports boasts the most knowledgeable staff around. In fact, they impress upon new customers that they are far more important than anything else, and strive to get to know each one personally. Their service is second to none!
Dirt bikes and ATVs are on tap at Enfield Motor Sports, featuring models by Suzuki, Kawasaki, Polaris, and Yamaha. Family owned and operated for decades, their aim is to keep customers happy, both during and after the sale.
In addition to selling ATVs by Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki and Yamaha, Superfly Motorsports stocks a full range of parts for your dirt bike. Check out their used and new inventory both in their store and online. They even have an eBay store that’s well worth checking out.
At New Haven PowerSports, customers can choose from new and used Kymco and Suzuki ATVs. They often have used dirt bikes in stock as well. Have fun browsing in their 22,000-square-foot showroom.
Featuring ATVs from a range of top brands, Savage Motor Sports is known throughout the region as the best place to repair your ATV or dirt bike. A family owned and operated business, the staff is especially enthusiastic when introducing young riders to the sport of off-roading.
Columbia Motorsports carries a nice selection of new and used side-by-sides and other ATVs by Suzuki, Yamaha, and Can-Am. They also provide their customers with helpful hints on the best places in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York to enjoy their new rides.
When you buy your ATV at Steel Horse Powersports, you’ll receive a world of wisdom along with your purchase. The owners and staff don’t just sell these off-road vehicles—they ride them, too. In addition, they sell the trailers so often needed to transport the ATVs.
Connecticut Power & Sport’s owners and staff love the outdoors, and they spend a great time in it on their own ATVs and side-by-sides. Choose from Kymco, Polaris, Yamaha, and Honda. They sell parts for your ATV or other off-highway vehicle, even if you didn’t buy it from them. Their service department is noted for its excellence.
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You’ll be energized after hiking Mattatuck Trail near Thomaston. With 36 miles, this wooded trail is perfect for hikers looking for a challenge (you don’t have to traverse the whole thing at once, though!) Your canine friends are welcome, too, but they must be leashed.
With 3,000 acres of woodland trails, there are hikes for every ability at MDC Reservoir #6. In addition to the hiking trails, there are 30 miles of paved and gravel roads. The area is known for some of the best woodlands views in the state. Try out the 3.6-mile red loop. Check their map online to figure out where you’re headed!
Hiking Hurd State Park finds you passing by the Connecticut River, as well as through heavily-wooded areas. Those looking for a route even more energizing will love the paths that ascend to much higher ground. They afford brilliant views of the river valley.
Hike on rock ridges, past a ravine that was created by glaciers, and more at this preserve. Oswegatchie Hills is a stunning spot replete with wildlife. Birders love it here. There are roughly seven miles of trails in the area to explore! Do it during the fall, and experience some of the most incredible natural beauty you’ve ever seen.
This trail, located near Meriden, Connecticut, is rated as moderate and one of the most scenic hikes in the state. On this two-mile hike, explorers will be able to soak in views of the immaculate Crescent Lake dam. The area features trees such as elm, maple, black birch, flowering dogwood, and more. It will take you roughly 2-3 hours to traverse and the area is dog-friendly, too!
]]>If you’re into paddling and primitive camping, you’ll want to plan your next adventure here. The 92-mile waterway takes you along a middle-of-nowhere journey that’s nothing short of breathtaking. There are also tons of hiking trails to explore, along with old railroads and trains that make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time.
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The Genesee River and gorge create a beautiful backdrop for camping. In the fall, the bursts of bright orange, red, and yellow along the river gorge make the entire trip worthwhile. With river rafting and more than 66 miles of hiking trails, it’s no surprise this park has been voted the number one attraction in New York State.
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By far one of the most diverse parks in Connecticut, Rocky Neck is simply stunning year-round. The area is teeming with birds and other wildlife, which are best seen from the viewing platforms in the saltwater marsh. Beautiful beaches, saltwater fishing and swimming, camping, and hiking make this the perfect site for families.
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One of Vermont’s most visited parks, Little River is a destination for campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all sorts. The site was once an early settlement that later become flooded, and you can still see the remnants of old saw mills, cemeteries, bridges, and other vestiges.
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Home of the historic Turkey Point Lighthouse, this state park remains a family favorite place to stay and play. Most notable are the miles of diverse hiking trails, including a challenging-yet-rewarding three-mile trek to the White Clay Cliffs that overlook the Chesapeake Bay.
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This might be the ultimate of family-friendly campgrounds. Located in the sleepy town of Salem, Witch Meadow Lake Family Campground features a gorgeous lake for swimming or relaxing in a tube. If the weather’s not great for watersports, test out their great playground that has a nice curly slide, recreation hall to play pool, pinball, ping-pong, or video games, borrow a book from the children’s library, or enjoy basketball, volleyball, softball, kickball, and tons of other outdoor sports. Adults will also be happy to hear that there is an Adult Lounge equipped with free Wi-Fi and a TV. Note that free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the park. For a warm swim, dip into the new heated pool. If all of these activities have your family hungry, stop by the restaurant area for breakfast sandwiches, coffee, hot dogs, and more. This is a pet-friendly park, so feel free to bring Fido along!
Pachaug State Forest is a great place for hiking and has numerous trails as this state forest is 24,000 acres and is the largest state forest in Connecticut. Families will find great options for camping located near Mt. Misery, Frog Hollow Horse Camp, and in the Green Falls area. Parents wanting to camp with young children will enjoy the freshwater fishing areas and beautiful Rhododendron Sanctuary that explodes with blooms in approximately mid-July. Little swimmers will find clean swimming areas as well. Do keep in mind that alcohol is not permitted at the campgrounds.
Hammonasset Beach State Park is a great option for families that love to swim. Hammonasset Beach is the largest shoreline park in Connecticut and features two miles of soft sand—ample enough space to spread out. Hammonasset features 550 campsites with bathrooms, showers, and other amenities. Camping at Hammonasset is a great budget getaway, and costs only $20-$35 per night for Connecticut residents or $30-$45 per night for non-Connecticut residents. Additionally, little naturalists will find events and programs at the Meigs Point Nature Center. This state park also features a long boardwalk and fun playground.
Located along Lake Zoar, Kettletown State Park offers visitors and campers swimming, hiking, picnicking space, and fishing areas. This 605-acre park has numerous hiking trails and 56 partly wooded and open camping spaces. Amenities include drinking water, bathrooms, picnic areas, and recycling.
Chamberlain Lake Campground is a great option for active kids into sports or the outdoors. This campground features a swimming and fishing area, basketball and volleyball court, horseshoe pits, game room, and a playground. So, if kids get bored of one activity, it is easy to move to the next. Row boat and canoe rental facilities are also provided. The general store on site will have you covered if any necessities get left at home.
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East Lyme is a lovely place to spend a summer in Connecticut since it has beautiful beaches, a great boardwalk, and a ton of tasty restaurants. The Island Campground puts you near all of these amenities and is located directly on the beautiful Pattagansett Lake. This large lake is 124 acres and is a great place for fishing if you have a valid permit. Seasonal RV site rentals and waterfront cottages are available for rent, but due to the popularity of this spot, you must rent a season in advance.
Litchfield is a naturally scenic area of Connecticut, and Hemlock Hill Camp Resort provides a lovely escape from everyday life. In the surrounding area, you’ll find vineyards, highly-rated golf courses, and antique shops for a bit of retail therapy. The campground itself is located in a wooded scenic area with a stream and two ponds. The resort also boasts two pools, a large playground, a hot tub, a sundeck, and more.
Opt for a summer vacation located in the quaint and fun town of Mystic! This historic town boasts a great aquarium, the Mystic Seaport, a lovely downtown area, great shopping, and is near vineyards, great restaurants, and Boston. Seaport RV Resort puts you right in Mystic for affordable prices. Approximately 130 sites are available, with many sites that allow hook-ups for RVs. Amenities include a swimming pool, mini golf course, laser tag, an arcade, a playground, and numerous outdoor sporting fields.
A local couple native to Moodus turned the former property of the Grand View Hotel into a summertime resort perfect for a relaxing getaway. Their passion for RVs and camping in general makes this a great spot to enjoy nature and simply relax. GrandView camping resort is a fully-equipped RV and tent campground. In addition, it offers cabin accommodations, a pavilion, and two halls that are perfect for weddings or celebrations.
Beaver Pines Campground is located at the edge of the Nipmuck State Forest, making it a great spot for those who love hiking and wildlife. The campground features spots for RVs and tents, and even boasts modern conveniences like satellite TV at sites with electricity and Wi-Fi available for a daily or seasonal charge. Other amenities include a pond for fishing, a playground, sports field, and horseshoes.
]]>Stocked with trout by the Connecticut DEEP, the beautiful Candlewood Lake is a nice option for catching sizeable trout of at least 12 inches long. Stocking rates are high, making Candlewood Lake a good option for first time fishers or kids learning to fish, since they will feel proud of their first catch!
Squantz Pond is a beautiful spot for swimming, kayaking, scuba diving, and fishing. The pond is well stocked with trout by the DEEP, making it a great option to catch your dinner. The convenient boat launch allows fishers to set out away from swimming areas to catch fish living in deeper waters.
Lake Wononscopomuc is beautiful year-round, with fishing, swimming, canoeing, and activities for all seasons. Located in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains, Wononscopomuc provides a picturesque background to any fishing activities, whether by boat or from land. Lake Wonoscopomuc is maintained by a counsel that ensures water quality and removal of invasive plant species. The DEEP stocks this lake with trout, making it great for fishing in season.
Bantam Lake is the largest naturally occurring lake in Connecticut and features many family-friendly activities in its waters and on its shores. Bantam Lake is home to large and small mouth bass, calico bass, white and yellow perch, and other species, allowing for a wide variety of catches. In addition, the DEEP monitors and stocks pikes allowing for more abundant fishing. Fishing can be enjoyed on shore, by wading, or from a boat.
Located in Bigelow Hollow State Park, Mashapaug Lake covers a massive 287 acres. Boating, scuba diving, hiking, hunting, and fishing are all allowed here. Paved boat launches are available for those interested in fishing from a boat. The bass fishing is great at Mashapaug Lake. If you tire of fishing at Mashapaug Lake, the nearby Bigelow Pond also allows fishing, but is much smaller.
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This pick-your-own farm is located in the rolling hills of Glastonbury, complete with a farm market offering fresh pie, local produce, and apple cider doughnuts! Right around the end of September through October is when their pumpkins are at their peak—the perfect period to snatch one up and have it carved just in time for trick-or-treating. Before that, though, the apples sit ripe on the trees and are available for picking!
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The Trail of Terror is a haunted maze through the woods, where actors lurk in the trees (ready to pounce when you least expect it). In the past, the mazes have imitated Halloween classics and usually revolve around some kind of theme. This trail isn’t for the faint of heart, as the sets use loud music and sound effects, special effects, strobe lights, theatrical smoke, and often have uneven ground. Trail-goers are forbidden from attending in costume, so if you’re brave enough to stop by as your real self, give it a shot.
Returning in late September, Lake Compounce’s haunted graveyard aims to make your weekends terrifying. At dusk, you can go on a one-mile journey through dark catacombs, a graveyard, a vampire’s haunt, a witch’s lair, and then a misty lake, complete with an ancient temple. There are also rides available starting at 5 p.m. to enjoy before your scares.
Fall days are cool and crisp, so why not compliment them with a nice bowl of chowder? On Columbus Day Weekend, Mystic Seaport serves a variety of chowders and bisques for you to enjoy at the Mystic Seaport Museum. The festival is included in the price of admission to the museum (though the food does cost extra). Alongside your bowl of chowder, you’ll be able to enjoy live music and other live entertainment as well as seasonal desserts. What’s not to love?
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This seven-acre corn maze just begs for you to get lost in it. With a different design every year, you’re sent into the maze with nothing but a map to help you find your way to their fact signs. Finding them and reading their themes will help you figure out where you are in the maze, and hopefully let you navigate your way out! But don’t fret: about halfway through is a wagon observation deck, perfect for getting your bearings or simply seeing what the maze looks like from above!
Talcott Mountain State Park has a one and a quarter mile tower trail that takes you about 30-40 minutes up the mountain to the Heublein Tower. There’s a seasonal observation deck available at the park, as well as a picnicking area and access to the Metacomet Trail. Best of all, until the end of October you can visit the historic museum every day except for Tuesday and learn a bit about history.
Beardsley’s pick-your-own orchard opens in early September for apple season. Visit on the beginning for Galas and Honeycrisps, or come later in the season for Empires and Jonagolds. Beardsley lists all their seasonal options on the website, so you’ll likely be able to find an apple you love! If you’ve got fermenting containers, they can be filled on weekends with fresh-pressed, untreated cider—giving you the option to make your own hard cider.
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Devil’s Hopyard poses an age-old mystery along its trails: were the holes in the falls really created by the Devil, or is it just nature at its finest? History says they were created by stones moving downstream in the water’s current but folktales suggest otherwise! Visitors are encouraged to seek the answers for themselves as they explore these wonderful trails.
These haunted history tours will show you where the ghost of Mystic visits the dining guests, what curse haunts the area, the historic artifacts and headstone engravings of Mystic’s old burial grounds, and the woman keeping watch over the Civil War Office, waiting for her long-lost lover.
Stamford’s farmers market offers some of the best goods and locally-grown produce in the area. With a list of around 14 participating vendors, this quaint market has a mix of breads, jams, cheeses, baked goods, and more—straight from their farms to your home!
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Hot Spots To Fish: Deservedly, Montauk, NY at the eastern end of Long Island is considered a storied mecca for striped bass fishermen. If you’re not going surf fishing on the beach or fishing from a jetty, Gone Fishing Marina (631-668-3232, gonefishingmarina78.com) can set up a charter trip for you. If it’s booked up, try Star Island Yacht Club (631-668-5052, starislandyc.com) or Montauk Marine Basin (631-668-5900, marinebasin.com).
Find the best fishing spots near you:
Down south, talk to the folks at Captain Hogg’s Charter Service (757-876-1590, captainhoggscharters.com) about fishing around the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Overdrawn Charters (252-202-4623, overdrawncharters.com) in Manteo, N.C. can help as well.
Tackle You’ll Need: Stick with 30- to 50-pound braid or monofilament and a 60-pound-test shock leader of fluorocarbon, with saltwater-ready spinning tackle heavy enough to handle 10- to 14-foot rods. Penn, Quantum and Okuma specialize in fairly inexpensive surf-fishing rods, and reels to match. If you have a reel, but no rod yet, the new Black Inshore Rods from Lamiglas are up to the task. The five spinning and five casting models range from a 6-foot, 10-inch light finesse spinning rod to a 7 ½-foot casting rod rated for lures from 3 to 12 ounces in weight.
Quick tip: The most successful anglers are those who spot gulls or other wheeling seabirds feeding on baitfish driven to the top by stripers and who then cast into the melee without dispersing the bass. From a boat, the trick is to approach schools carefully and take advantage of wind or tide to drift to within casting range. The stripers will stay up as long as the baitfish are hemmed against the surface.
Best Lures/Baits: The 4 1/2-inch Acme Kastmater XL spoon, the 1 ½-ounce Odin Popper, and the 5-inch pencil popper from Tsunami are popular artificials up and down the Atlantic seaboard. Other popular options include the 6- or 7-inch Savage Gear Sandeel Swimbait, 9-inch Sassy Shad swimbait and the 6-inch Rapala X-Rap SubWalk.
Find the best bait and tackle shops near you:
For anglers who’d rather soak baits from a boat or in the surf, live or cut bait, such as Atlantic menhaden (peanut bunker), herring, porgies, eels, bloodworms, anchovies and mullet, can flip the switch on chaotic striper blitzes.
Related articles that may interest you:
Fish Here This Fall—5 Reel-Screaming Adventures
How to Choose the Best Times to Fish