Connecticut
6 Affordable Destinations In Connecticut For Budget Travelers
Despite being the third smallest US state in terms of area, Connecticut boasts an impressive catalogue of fun things for travelers to do. And while not the most affordable of states in terms of cost of living, largely due to its proximity to large urban areas like New York City and Boston, “The Constitution State” can, with adequate planning, be a good choice of getaway destination for those who travel on a budget.
If that sounds like you, then you may want to consider checking out some of Connecticut’s smaller towns, many of which provide an appealing blend of history, cultural events, and scenery without the high costs typically associated with travel in New England. For ideas and inspiration, here are six affordable destinations in Connecticut for budget travelers to ponder.
Mystic
Tranquil landscape of Mystic boardwalk in Connecticut.
Located just off the I-95 between New Haven and Providence, Mystic’s maritime heritage and cultural significance are big draws for tourists. A must-see is the exquisitely designed Mystic Seaport Museum, home to historic vessels like the Charles W. Morgan, the world’s last surviving wooden whaling vessel. Just a few minutes away, the Mystic Aquarium features diverse marine life, including a rare beluga whale exhibit. And for budget accommodations, rooms at the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Mystic can often be booked online for under $100 a night, depending on the season, while affordable eats can be had at The Mystic Diner & Restaurant.
Popular events worth considering include the Mystic Outdoor Art Festival held in August, showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople. The festival also has a kid’s component, the Children’s Art Park in Mystic River Park, which like the main event itself has no admission costs. Also fun (and free!) is taking a stroll through town to the Mystic River Bascule Bridge, an iconic old draw bridge built in 1919. Accessible from NYC and other cities by rail, Mystic has public transportation available through SEAT (Southeast Area Transit) buses, which connect Mystic to other nearby towns.
New London
Fort Trumbull in New London in afternoon sun.
Only a short distance from Mystic (remember, it is a small state!), New London is another historic coastal town with affordable attractions, as well as a fun and artsy vibe. History buffs will enjoy visiting Fort Trumbull State Park, a historic fortification offering fascinating exhibits, guided tours, a network of trails, and scenic views of the Thames River, all for a low admission cost of just $6 for adults. Although a little more expensive to get in, the Lyman Allyn Art Museum is worth the additional cost for its impressive collection of American art. And when you’re peckish, check out Captain Scott’s Lobster Dock for fresh seafood at reasonable prices.
Though peak summer season, New London’s Sailfest is a great time to visit. Held in July, this maritime festival features fireworks, tall ships, food vendors, and free admission. For affordable accommodations, check availability at the Red Roof Inn Mystic – New London which sometimes has rates available for less than $100 per night. Getting there is easy, too. For those not wanting to drive, the town is accessible via Amtrak and Shore Line East, making travel convenient. Public buses also operate within New London, connecting to local attractions.
Essex
Popular for its colonial history and architecture, the small town of Essex provides an affordable yet immersive experience for budget travelers. While the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat does require tickets, a cheaper option features only the scenic train ride along the Connecticut River, an especially fun activity during leaf-peeping season. The Connecticut River Museum is also worth a visit and details the maritime heritage of the region (a variety of discounted ticket options are available when purchasing combo tickets that include a boat ride).
For budget-friendly lodging, HomeTowne Studios Mystic – New London is a great option. But if you can splurge just a little, the historic Griswold Inn, one of the oldest continuously operating inns in the country, is worth the extra spending. Another option if you’re driving is to stay at one of the big brand economy hotels located outside of town along the I-95. Annual events like the Essex Go Bragh Irish Parade in March add to the town’s charm, celebrating Irish heritage with live music and food.
Wethersfield
Wethersfield, one of Connecticut’s oldest towns, presents a range of affordable attractions worth considering. While it does require an admission of $15 for adults, the Webb Deane Stevens Museum offers a good bang for your buck as it features tours of three superbly preserved colonial houses, each with significant Revolutionary War history. And you can make it up with a visit to Wethersfield Cove, a scenic inlet ideal for peaceful walks that won’t cost you a dime. While you could also pack a picnic to save money, the Heirloom Market at Comstock Ferre is a great local café that offers budget-friendly meals.
Need a place to stay? Budget accommodations can be found at the Comfort Inn Wethersfield-Hartford, providing affordable rates and easy access to nearby Hartford for additional dining options. Off-season savings can also be enjoyed if you travel in October, with the added benefit of being able to join in the fun of the town’s Scarecrows Along Main event.
Old Saybrook
Beautiful Lynde Point Lighthouse, Old Saybrook, Connecticut, USA.
Situated along the Connecticut shoreline and only 30 minutes from New Haven, Old Saybrook boasts a blend of excellent beaches, fascinating history, and affordable charm. The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, affectionately called “The Kate,” features exhibits related to the one-time Saybrook resident (admission is via an optional donation). Fancy some fun outdoors? Head to Saybrook Point for its picturesque (and free!) views of Long Island Sound.
You can book an affordable stay at the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Old Saybrook – Westbrook, conveniently located near these attractions. And for additional fun (and possible savings on out-of-season accommodations), the town hosts its Old Saybrook Torchlight Parade in December featuring fire trucks adorned with festive lights. Amtrak connects Old Saybrook to other towns and cities, providing convenient transportation.
Guilford
Guilford’s location just 15 minutes by car from New Haven (and just over two hour rail trip from New York City), not to mention its charming historical setting, make it a great option for a Connecticut getaway. Highlights for history buffs include a visit to the Henry Whitfield State Museum, built in 1639 and the oldest stone house in New England. Admission is only $10 for adults, something that’s even more reasonable when you consider you also have access to the 8-acre grounds. Speaking of being outdoors, be sure to include the Westwoods Trail on your budget-friendly visit to Guilford. This 6-mile loop is of course free to use (hiking and biking only) and is well worth it if you’re into great scenery.
Where to stay? Check out the rates at the Tower Inn & Suites in Guilford, a great budget option that’s located conveniently for both beach and town access. Come September the town hosts the Guilford Fair, Connecticut’s second-oldest agricultural fair with livestock displays, live music, and fairground attractions (admission is just $10 for adults, with discounts for seniors and kids). Accessible via Shore Line East trains connecting it to nearby New Haven, Guilford should definitely rate highly for those traveling on a budget.
The Bottom Line
For budget-conscious travelers, Connecticut offers a surprising number of affordable towns worth visiting. In addition to providing rich historical and cultural experiences, along with great scenery, they each offer a variety of inexpensive places to stay, especially in the off seasons. From the maritime heritage of Mystic to the colonial allure of Wethersfield, these six towns prove that exploring Connecticut’s charm doesn’t require a high price tag.
CONNECTICUT (WTNH) — The United States military carried out “large scale” strike inside Venezuela in the early hours of Saturday morning, capturing Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, according to President Donald Trump.
Leaders in Connecticut are responding to the military action.
Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) shared the following statement.
“If we’re starting another endless war, with no clear national security strategy or need, count me out. Maduro is a cruel criminal dictator, but President Trump has never sought approval from Congress for war as the Constitution requires – and our military deserves. We’ve seen several Administrations lead us into conflicts without objectives or timelines and with disastrous consequences. President Trump has also articulated no clear end game to prevent further chaos, violence, and bloodshed in Venezuela. The American people deserve—and Congress should demand—facts and clarity.”
Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) called the strike the start of an “illegal war” between the U.S. and Venezuela.
“President Trump thinks he is above the law. He steals from taxpayers. He thumbs his nose at the law. And now, he is starting an illegal war with Venezuela that Americans didn’t ask for and has nothing to do with our security. How does going to war in South America help regular Americans who are struggling? How does this do anything about drugs entering the U.S. when Venezuela produces no fentanyl? What is the actual security threat to the United States? And what happens next in Venezuela? He cannot answer these questions – and that’s why there was no briefing to Congress to explain this action, and no briefing scheduled. And Maduro’s illegitimate election does not give the president the power to invade without congressional approval, nor does it create a national security justification. That contention is laughable. This is about satisfying Trump’s vanity, making good on the long standing neocon grudge against Maduro, enriching Trump’s oil industry backers, and distracting voters from Epstein and rising costs.”
Rep. Jim Himes (D-Conn.) said the Trump administration acted without congressional approval.
“Maduro is an illegitimate ruler, but I have seen no evidence that his presidency poses a threat that would justify military action without Congressional authorization, nor have I heard a strategy for the day after and how we will prevent Venezuela from descending into chaos. Secretary Rubio repeatedly denied to Congress that the Administration intended to force regime change in Venezuela. The Administration must immediately brief Congress on its plan to ensure stability in the region and its legal justification for this decision.”
State Senate Republican Leader Stephen Harding (R-Conn.) shared that he hopes Maduro is brought to justice, calling him an “integral culprit” in the “narcotic ring” in the United States.
“President Maduro has been an integral culprit in fostering the narcotic ring in our country which has killed far too many Americans. I hope he is brought to justice and we can continue to address the substance abuse crisis that our state and country continues to face.
The Chairman of the Connecticut Republican Party Ben Proto shared the following statement.
“President Trump promised to stop the flow of drugs into the US that have been killing millions of Americans. Nicolas Maduro, who declared himself President, while getting about 30% of the vote in the last so called free election in Venezuela, was given multiple warnings to stop the flow of drugs from his country into America, was offered help by the Trump administration in stopping the flow, but he continued to, not only allow the flow of drugs, but condone it and profit from it. Presidents have long used their constitutional authority to intervene in other countries when those countries posed a danger to America and Americans. President Trump did just that. Unfortunately Democrats, particularly Jim Himes, Chris Murphy and Dick Blumenthal are more interested in playing politics than in protecting Americans. Nearly 1,000 Connecticut residents died from drug overdoses in 2024 and we have seen an increase in overdoses in 2025. If only Democrats cared as much about Americans as they do about a drug lord running another country who profits from the death of Americans.“
Rep. Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.) demanded that Congress must be briefed before further action.
“As information about U.S military strikes in Venezuela unfold, I have more questions than answers. Nicolas Maduro is a brutal dictator who caused so much harm to his people. However, as Americans we must seriously weigh the consequences of attacking a sovereign nation and committing to “run Venezuela.” Congress must be briefed immediately, before this situation continues to escalate. I will comment further as credible information becomes available to Members of Congress.“
Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) shared the following statement, claiming that there could be “severe repercussions for American interests.”
“President Trump’s unilateral decision to attempt a regime change operation in Venezuela by using military force to capture Nicolas Maduro and declaring, ‘we will run the country’, threatens global order and is a fundamental violation of the Constitution, which gives Congress the responsibility of authorizing major military actions that could have severe repercussions for American interests.
“America’s unprecedented global strength and prosperity was built on this principle of restraining military force through democratic bodies like Congress. President Trump has shredded this principle, and along with it has destroyed American credibility and emboldened our adversaries to act with similar aggression. This new foreign policy that President Trump and his advisors have used to justify this act of war, including invoking the 200-year-old Monroe Doctrine as a justification for America to do whatever it pleases in the Western Hemisphere, is the exact same reasoning that China would use to justify invading Taiwan, and which Russia has used to assault Ukraine.
“President Trump has also now threatened Cuba with similar language, and is preparing a giant corrupt giveaway to oil companies by claiming that the United States will acquire Venezuela’s oil. This is corruption of the highest order. Maduro was an authoritarian who stayed in power despite the will of the people, but that does not justify the United States in starting a war to benefit some of the world’s wealthiest corporations.
“President Trump did all of this without the consent of Congress, and without providing any details or day-after plans. The full consequences of this act of war will not be known for some time, and they may require putting American boots on the ground in Venezuela, as the President has said he was prepared to do. The American people do not want to be dragged into another endless conflict distracting from the rising cost of living and the affordability crisis. Whatever happens next, the responsibility will be squarely with President Trump and his contempt for the Constitution and for Congress.”
Rep. John Larson (D-Conn.) echoed the statements of his fellow Democrats.
“This is yet another authoritarian power grab by Donald Trump. As he indicated in his address, it’s clear it’s about the oil!!! And securing that oil!!! And securing it with the use of our brave men and women in the United States military!!! The Constitution entrusts Congress, not the President, with the power to declare war for a reason. It’s Congress’s responsibility to decide whether the nation goes to war or not! That’s why I’m joining with others in calling on the President to immediately brief Congress—and for Congress to assert its authority under the Constitution and the War Powers Act—to let this President know he does not have the authority to unilaterally commit our country to yet another endless war.“
This is a developing story. Stay with News 8 for updates.
ALLERTON, NY. (WFSB) – A Connecticut teenager has died and another is injured following a shooting in New York on Saturday night.
A 911 call reported shots were fired inside of a building located on Adee Avenue in Allerton at around 6 p.m., according to the New York Police Department.
When crews arrived, they found a male suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest.
On scene officers also found a 14-year-old near Laconia Avenue that was also suffering from a gunshot wound to the left arm.
First responders quickly responded to the scene and transported both victims to nearby hospitals.
The male they initially located was in critical condition but later died due to the extent of his injuries.
Officials have now identified the victim as 15-year-old Eric Aitken of Waterbury.
The 14-year-old remains in stable condition.
Police said no arrests have been made at this time.
This incident remains under investigation.
No further details were released.
Eyewitness News will provide more details as soon as they become available.
Copyright 2025 WFSB. All rights reserved.
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