Connecticut
8 Perfect Destinations for a Long Weekend in Connecticut
Connecticut is a wealth of little-known destinations perfect for a long weekend getaway. With its plethora of cute coastal towns and tranquil countryside retreats, this New England gem offers a variety of experiences that cater to every traveler.
Find eight idyllic small towns that promise to make your long weekend unforgettable. From serene spa treatments at Winvian Farm in Litchfield to the breathtaking views of Yantic Falls in Norwich, you will find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, rich history, and delightful culinary options. So, get yourself packed, and choose your own adventure in The Constitution State!
Essex
Essex, Connecticut, is a wonderful destination perfect for a long weekend escape on the beautiful Lower Connecticut River. Begin your adventure with a stroll along Essex Village’s Main Street. Here, you can pop into cute shops and endless eateries. The Connecticut River Artisans is a favorite for finding unique handcrafted goods. After shopping, fuel up with a delicious coffee from Essex Coffee and Tea Company, or treat yourself to a decadent truffle shot at Chocolate Geeks.
If you are a history buff, a trip to the historic Ivoryton Playhouse is a must. If you can finagle a summer visit, grab a ticket to one of their unforgettable live performances. On a separate historical note, the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat Museum provides a glimpse of local history along with unforgettable steam train rides and riverboat cruises. Their 4-course Clipper Dinner Train is a once-in-a-lifetime treat.
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy hiking the trails at Canfield Meadow Woods. Grab a set of binoculars as well for awesome birdwatching amidst pristine forests and wetlands. When your feet are tired, take a ferry to Essex Island. This road-less-traveled retreat welcomes you to explore its 13 acres, take a dip in the resort pool (or in the ocean), and savor an incredible meal and waterfront views at Siren.
For a romantic stay, book a room at the Griswold Inn. Established in 1776, this historic inn combines old-world charm with modern comforts right in the heart of Essex.
Madison
Madison is a sweet little town that captures the essence of New England with its quaint, old-school streets and friendly small-town atmosphere. Downtown, you will find a multitude of boutique shops and eateries. Definitely pop into R.J. Julia Booksellers, a cozy, well-loved independent bookstore. Once you have found the book of your dreams, treat yourself to an olive oil and vinegar tasting at The Shoreline Vine.
Madison boasts rich historical significance, embodied by well-preserved historic buildings, including the Deacon John Grave House. This 17th-century home-turned-museum offers an insightful glimpse into colonial life via fascinating artifacts and exhibits. Turn your attention to more modern affairs and check out Madison’s Sculpture Mile. This treasure hunt for 3D art scattered throughout the center of town is a great way to get acquainted with this New England gem.
Nature lovers will appreciate a visit to Hammonasset Beach State Park. Here, two miles of shoreline beckon visitors to stroll, sunbathe, swim, and/or picnic (depending on the time of year). While you are there, pop into Meigs Point Nature Center. Here, you can learn about local ecology and natural history through hands-on exhibits and educational programs.
From the State Park, hop on the Shoreline Greenway Trail. The Hammonasset segment of the trail runs right through Madison, where you can hike, bike, and bird-watch to your heart’s content before freshening in a well-appointed, ocean-view guest room at Madison Beach Hotel. Tuck into a meal at their award-winning restaurant, The Wharf, and, the next day, treat yourself to a rejuvenating session at the hotel’s spa.
Middletown
Home to Wesleyan University and right on top of the meandering Connecticut River, Middletown is another surprising must-visit. Just a short drive from town, you will find the unmissable Lyman Orchards. Established in 1741, this iconic destination offers incredible apple-picking in the fall as well as sunflower and corn mazes, perfect for families. If you are in the mood for some friendly competition, play a round of golf at one of Lyman Orchards’ three well-maintained courses.
For those looking to get acquainted with the great outdoors, Wadsworth Falls State Park is home to stunning natural beauty and opportunities for adventure. Here, you can hike along the Mattabesett Trail, a 62-mile route that meanders through New England’s sweeping landscapes.
Another option for outdoor enthusiasts is Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort. In the summer, the park is a hot spot for hikers and mountain bikers. When the snow falls, it turns into a popular ski resort.
When it comes to lodging, Inn at Middletown is a top pick. Housed in a building that once served as a bank and then a National Guard Armory, this historic boutique hotel has cozy accommodations with a touch of elegance as well as an excellent meal at their Tavern at the Armory.
Kent
Kent, is an adorable town nestled in the Litchfield Hills. It’s an ideal retreat for visitors looking to delve into vibrant local culture as well as natural beauty. A great place to stay during your visit is The Firefly Inn, where you can borrow bikes to tour around town. Embark on a leisurely ride over the Bull’s Bridge, an iconic covered bridge, and stop by the weekly Friday farmers market for fresh produce and artisanal goods.
While you are in Kent, check out the Connecticut Antique Machinery Association, where you can admire historical machinery such as locomotives and tractors and learn about the state’s industrial heritage. For a look at more modern vehicles, the Lime Rock Race Track hosts thrilling car races throughout, drawing motorsport enthusiasts from near and far.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in the area, with Macedonia Brook State Park and Kent Falls State Park boasting beautiful hiking trails and stunning scenery. Don’t miss the opportunity to relax and swim at Lake Waramaug, a true natural beauty. In the winter, hit the slopes at Mohawk Mountain Ski Area nearby.
With so much to do, you are going to need to fuel up. Indulge a magnificent brunch at Kingsley Tavern, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious fare. For dinner, indulge in wood-fired pizza at Swyft. For those looking to take in the local beverage scene, visit Ten Mile Distillery for handcrafted spirits, savor a glass of wine at Hopkins Vineyard with stunning views of the lake, or stop by Kent Falls Brewing Company for an array of refreshing craft beers brewed right on-site.
Litchfield
Litchfield is a charming town celebrated as a culinary hotspot, surrounded by breathtaking opportunities to adventure into nature and appreciate rich historical sites. For a dive into the area’s history, consider a hike up Mount Tom Tower. This stone tower is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and rewards trekkers with stunning panoramic views from the top. The Camp Columbia Tower at Camp Columbia State Park is another historic site that provides 360° views. Climb to the top to take it all in before exploring the park below. It used to be a World War I military training facility, and you can still find the remnants of practice trenches.
Nature lovers will fall in love with the White Memorial Foundation. It’s home to 4,000 acres of stunning landscapes and 40+ miles of hiking trails. Bantam Lake is another local gem featuring two in-town beaches (Morris Town Beach and Sandy Beach) where you can soak up the sun by (or in!) the water. In the winter, head up to Mohawk Mountain, just a 16-minute drive away, for epic skiing and/or snowboarding runs.
The region is a must-visit for food lovers. For a romantic evening, consider an unforgettable meal at the nearby Arethusa al Tavolo, recognized as the best restaurant in Connecticut. Otherwise, Thorncrest Farm & Milkhouse Chocolates in Goshen makes artisanal chocolates from local ingredients, and the Litchfield Distillery is a great place to sample handcrafted spirits and learn about the distilling process.
If you are planning on staying the night, Winvian Farm is an exquisite lodging choice. Make sure to spend time at their award-winning spa and treat yourself to a cozy meal at Maggie’s Tavern.
Norwich
Nestled among rolling hills and surrounded by natural beauty, Norwich is a peaceful town affectionately known as “The Rose of New England.” Catch a performance at the Chestnut Street Playhouse or the Norwich Arts Center, which showcases local talent and diverse productions. For history buffs, a visit to the Leffingwell House Museum and the Slate Memorial Museum provides fascinating insights into the area’s rich heritage.
You can’t miss a trip to Yantic Falls. A short hike (just under a half mile) takes you to 40-foot falls and the remnants of a historic mill. Gorgeous! Then there is Mohegan Park. These beautiful grounds feature thoughtfully laid-out rose gardens and are the perfect place for a leisurely walk and/or a picnic.
Hungry? Thirsty? Epicure Brewing and These Guys Brewing are both great spots to chow down on a cozy meal and sample the local brew scene. Then, walk it off with a scenic stroll along the Riverfront trail.
For lodging, consider The Spa at Norwich Inn, where you can relax and indulge in spa treatments amidst serene surroundings, making your visit to this lovely New England town truly memorable.
Stonington
Stonington, a picturesque coastal town in Connecticut, is renowned for its breathtaking waterfront, rich maritime history, and colorful art scene. Visitors can start their journey by exploring the historic Stonington Borough, where cobblestone streets are lined with beautifully preserved 18th and 19th-century homes, boutique shops, and welcoming eateries.
For a taste of local history, a visit to the Stonington Lighthouse Museum is a must. This museum, housed in the historic lighthouse, provides insights into the town’s maritime heritage and stunning views of Long Island Sound. The Palmer House Museum is a historic site worth visiting. This beautifully preserved 18th-century home-turned-museum gives visitors a sneak peek into the lives of early settlers and the area’s maritime heritage.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Barn Island Wildlife Management Area, which features miles of trails for hiking and birdwatching. The area is home to diverse wildlife and stunning views of salt marshes and tidal flats. For a relaxing day by the water, head to Stonington Point, where you can enjoy a picnic or simply take in breathtaking views of the ocean.
Stonington is famous for its seafood. Indulge in fresh catches at local favorites like The Oyster Club in Mystic, known for its farm-to-table approach and seasonal menu. Tantalize your taste buds further with a wine-tasting tour at Stonington Vineyards before checking into a room at the Inn at Stonington. The Inn boasts comfortable rooms, stunning views of the harbor, and easy access to the town’s attractions.
Branford
Branford, one of Connecticut’s well-appointed coastal towns, is known for its gorgeous shoreline and welcoming community. Start your exploration at Branford Point, where you can appreciate stunning views of Long Island Sound. Want to get out on the water? The Thimble Islands, located off the coast, are a stunning destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can embark on a kayaking and windsurfing expedition and/or book a relaxed boat tour of the rock formations and dream-like cottages dotting the landscape.
History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the Branford Historical Society Museum. Here, you can learn about the town’s rich heritage and its role in the development of the region. After the museum, take a stroll around the Branford Center Historic District, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and brimming with historic buildings and landmarks.
This New England retreat boasts a variety of dining (and imbibing) options, from casual seafood shacks to upscale restaurants. Lenny’s Indian Head Inn is a local favorite known for its fresh seafood and waterfront views. The local brewery scene is also pretty hoppin’ (pun intended). Thimble Island Brewing and Caius Farm Brewery are a great place to start.
As the day winds down, check into a room at the Owenego Inn. This waterfront resort has been impressing guests since 1847, and it’s no wonder why. Its beautiful grounds (complete with tennis courts), comfortable accommodations, and easy access to the town’s attractions make it an easy favorite.
That’s a Wrap on Connecticut
Connecticut is a treasure trove of adorable small towns just waiting to be discovered on a long weekend getaway. Whether you find yourself savoring fresh seafood at The Oyster Club in Stonington or exploring the scenic trails of Canfield Meadow Woods in Essex, each moment spent in these picturesque locales is a reminder of the beauty and culture that New England has to offer.
So what are you waiting for? Pick a town (or three!) and set off on an adventure through the tranquil landscapes and vibrant communities of this small but mighty state.
As the legislative session approaches its May 6 conclusion, a new national report underscores what many residents already feel: the state’s affordability challenges remain deeply entrenched.
Despite acknowledging cost reduction as a top priority heading into the 2026 session, lawmakers are advancing policies that risk moving in the opposite direction — potentially worsening the state’s already high cost-of-living and weak economic outlook.
According to Rich States, Poor States, published by the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), Connecticut ranks 46th in the United States for its economic outlook and 48th for economic performance. The outlook ranking represents a decline from the previous year and continues a troubling long-term trend.
Over nearly two decades, Connecticut has consistently placed in the bottom tier, averaging around 38th overall. Its highest placement was 32nd in 2009, while it fell as low as 47th in both 2015 and 2016.
These findings are not an outlier.
Other national assessments, including the Tax Foundation’s State Business Tax Climate Index, Wallethub’s rankings for business environment and costs, and CNBC’s 2025 “America’s Top States for Business” report, show similar results. Across these measures, Connecticut consistently underperforms in areas tied to economic competitiveness, including tax burden, regulatory climate, and labor policy.
Overall, the state imposes high personal and corporate income taxes, maintains one of the heaviest property tax burdens in the nation, and ranks poorly in structural indicators such as estate taxes and labor flexibility.
Connecticut did post strong GDP growth in 2025, ranking 12th nationally. But that short-term performance masks longer-term challenges. From 2014 to 2024:
- GDP growth ranked 41st
- Domestic migration ranked 43rd
- Non-farm employment growth ranked 45th
These indicators suggest that while the state can experience periods of growth, it continues to struggle with attracting residents, retaining workers, and expanding its economic base.
Even within New England, a region known for higher costs, Connecticut trails most of its neighbors: See Table One
While other states in the region face similar structural challenges, Connecticut’s relative performance remains among the weakest.
There has been progress.
Since 2017, Connecticut’s fiscal guardrails have introduced spending discipline, bond rating upgrades, helped reduce pension liabilities, and contributed to the buildup of a $4.1 billion Rainy Day Fund. These reforms also enabled the largest income tax cut in state history.
However, the state still carries one of the highest debt burdens in the nation, particularly when measured on a per-capita basis. In recent years, adjustments to the guardrails have also raised concerns about maintaining their long-term effectiveness.
Preserving the core principles of these reforms, disciplined spending, predictable budgeting, and continued progress on long-term liabilities, remains critical to improving the state’s fiscal outlook.
Strengthening Connecticut’s economic outlook trajectory will require addressing structural challenges in taxation, spending, and regulation.
Instead, lawmakers are considering proposals that would increase taxes on high earners and businesses, including a potential statewide property tax, higher income tax rates, and a capital gains surcharge.
These policies carry risks. Connecticut already relies heavily on a relatively small group of high-income taxpayers (2.5%), who account for a disproportionate share of income tax revenue (41%). Increasing that burden further may influence decisions about where individuals live, work, and invest.
A shrinking tax base would have broader consequences, affecting revenue stability and the state’s ability to fund services.
Connecticut’s challenges are not new: they are structural and well-documented.
High housing costs, rising energy prices, and a heavy tax burden continue to drive concerns about affordability. Surveys consistently show residents considering relocation to states with lower costs and stronger economic growth.
At the same time, population growth in lower-cost states across the South and Southeast reflects a broader trend: individuals and businesses are responding to policy environments that support affordability and opportunity.
Reversing course will require more than incremental adjustments.
It will require a renewed focus on fiscal discipline, structural reform, and policies that improve competitiveness, including controlling spending, maintaining effective guardrails, and reducing tax and regulatory burdens.
Connecticut has seen what works. The challenge now is sustaining and building on those reforms.
As the legislative session enters its final weeks, the direction is becoming clear: without meaningful structural change, the state risks continuing the same pattern of high costs, slow growth, and persistent outmigration that has defined its economic trajectory for decades.
The costs of climate change are being borne by those who did the least to cause it. This Earth Day, we should expect more than symbolic gestures. We need our elected officials to stand up to harmful industry influence and deliver policies that hold major polluters accountable.
The effects of climate change have been inescapable across the world, especially in Connecticut. Just last month in March there was persistent unseasonable heat that was so intense that the continental United States registered its most abnormally hot month in 132 years of records, according to federal weather data. And the next year looks to turn the dial up on global warmth even more.
Connecticut residents are now more than ever facing the harmful and costly effects of climate change disasters. These costly disasters and effects have no limits on who is impacted.
A newly published DEEP report showed that climate change had already adversely affected Connecticut residents, businesses, and infrastructure over decades. Extreme weather has cost the state and private sector billions of dollars since 2010. This will continue, according to recent data on climate change.
Between 1880 and 2020, Connecticut experienced climate change impacts, including eight to nine inches of sea level rise; increased coastal erosion, warming of Long Island Sound; warmer hottest and coldest days of the year; increasing annual rainfall; decreasing annual snowfall; and increased rainstorms and flash flooding. In just 2023 and 2024 Connecticut faced multiple extreme weather events from deadly flooding in Southbury, deadly brush fires in Berlin, and millions of dollars of damage to farms from drought.
Let’s be clear, Connecticut taxpayers and residents are paying for 100% of these climate costs, costs that are falling on those least responsible.
Since the 2016 Paris Agreement, just 57 companies are directly linked to 80 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Carbon Majors Database. These companies include fossil fuel giants like Chevron, Shell, and BP, who raked in record profits in the last quarter of 2023.
Why shouldn’t those most responsible pay their fair share?
Fossil fuel companies are spending hundreds of millions of dollars every year to influence lawmakers and block climate action, because they know real accountability would cost them far more. Instead of paying for the damage their pollution has caused, they’re investing heavily in lobbying and political influence to avoid “polluter pays” policies and shift those costs onto taxpayers.
In light of Climate Superfund laws being introduced in over a dozen states including here in Connecticut, fossil fuel companies are actively shaping climate legislation to shield themselves from accountability. With more than 30 lawsuits filed by states and cities across the U.S., the industry is pushing for legal immunity to avoid paying for climate-related damages. These efforts are aimed at blocking “polluter pays” policies, like climate superfund laws, that would require them to cover the billions of dollars in costs tied to environmental harm, infrastructure impacts, and years of misleading the public.
This Earth Day, we need to flip the script. For too long, fossil fuel companies have pushed the idea that climate change is the result of individual choices, telling us to turn off the lights, take shorter showers, and shrink our personal footprint. Those actions matter, but they’re not the whole story.
The truth is, a small number of corporations are responsible for a massive share of global emissions. While they promote small lifestyle changes, they continue expanding fossil fuel production and investing millions to block meaningful climate policy.
We won’t see real progress until we name what’s actually happening. Accountability must be at the core of climate action, shifting the burden off everyday people and onto the biggest polluters. That means strong policies, real enforcement, and a firm commitment to a “polluter pays” approach. The Connecticut Legislature must act and pass a Climate Superfund bill to move costs off taxpayers and require fossil fuel companies to finally pay their fair share.
Julianna LaRue is an organizer for the Connecticut Chapter of the Sierra Club.
Amtrak says it will not close any railroad bridges along Connecticut’s shoreline during the 2026 World Cup, backing away from a potential proposal that had sparked concerns from boaters, harbor officials, and marine businesses.
In an email Tuesday to NBC Connecticut, Amtrak spokesperson Jason Abrams said: “At this time, in coordination with the Coast Guard, we will not be closing any bridges on the Connecticut Coast Line during the tournament.”
The statement is a shift from a plan previously circulating among members of the boating community. That proposal outlined possible hourslong closures of several movable railroad bridges on the Connecticut shoreline on dates tied to World Cup matches in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
The affected bridges would have included the spans over the Connecticut River, Niantic River, Shaw’s Cove, Thames River and Mystic River.
The proposal had raised alarms among charter boat operators, harbor masters and marine industry leaders, who warned the closures could disrupt navigation during the height of the summer season, create safety risks on crowded waterways and hurt businesses that depend on fishing and recreational boating.
Amtrak also said is “exploring all options to move travelers safely and reliably during the World Cup with minimal interruption and inconvenience to local communities, visitors, and other stakeholders and travelers.”
Fans are expected to use rail service along the Northeast Corridor to travel to matches in the Northeast, including in the Boston area, where passengers would use connecting service to reach the stadium in Foxborough.
Earlier Tuesday, the U.S. Coast Guard told NBC Connecticut it was reviewing Amtrak’s request related to the bridge proposal.
“The Coast Guard has received Amtrak’s request for the bridge closures and are reviewing it to reach a final decision. When that decision is made, the Coast Guard will work with Amtrak. We are also aware of the mariners and boating communities concerns regarding this,” the Coast Guard had said.
It was not immediately clear whether Amtrak had formally withdrawn that request or whether the rail operator’s latest statement means the bridge closures are no longer under consideration.
NBC Connecticut reached out to the Coast Guard to request additional information.
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