Connecticut attractions cover the gamut from prehistory to fine art

Connecticut attractions for visitors run a wide gamut, touching on subjects like the state's ship building history at Mystic Seaport in Mystic to the tracks of actual dinosaurs at the Dinosaur Place at Nature's Art in Montville. Other attractions include a museum in Essex about the state's riverboats to a world-class museum of American Indians. Every visitor can find something of interest to see and explore.

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Ocean Beach Park

1225 Ocean Avenue New London, CT 06320 Phone: 860-447-3031 Toll-Free: 1-800-510-SAND (7263)

Half-Mile "Sugar Sand" Beach and Boardwalk

There’s family fun and more at Ocean Beach Park. New this year is our Splash Park for kids under 8. For more water fun we have the ocean, of course, an Olympic-size swimming pool and triple waterslide. Our award-winning lifeguard staff is on duty for your safety. For more fun we have rides, mini-golf, and a Family Fun Center with a video arcade. Kids can enjoy our playground and adults can work out in the health club. The nature walk and observation deck let you enjoy our natural beauty. When all the activity makes you hungry you can choose from our full-service restaurant, a food court, or ice cream stands. Ocean Beach Park can also accommodate picnics and corporate events. Our nightly entertainment schedule includes Classic Car Cruises on Mondays; kids movies on the beach Tuesday and Thursday; live magic on Wednesday; live bands on Friday; and family entertainment on Saturdays.

The Dinosaur Place

1650 Route 85 Montville, CT 06370 Phone: 860-443-4367 Fax: 860-443-0253

Discover an interactive science and nature adventure

At the Dinosaur Place, outdoor adventure can be found with over 25 life-sized dinosaurs nestled along 1 mile of easy walking trails. The nature trails include hands-on discovery stations and educational signs. During the summer, cool off on New England’s largest SPLASHPAD. Indoor activities include digging for gems, panning for “gold” or unearthing a dinosaur skeleton. The world-class gift shop is a must stop on your visit whether you are looking for mineral and fossil specimens, fine jewelry, gourmet foods, educational toys, or unique giftware. Plus, treat yourself and your family to a tasty lunch or snack at Cobalt Café. Picnic areas, snack bar, ice cream shop, and playground onsite. Visit our website for hours, rates, and directions.
 
Hartford/Central Mystic/Eastern New Haven/South Central
Hartford/Central top of listings

Farmington Valley Visitors Association

33 East Main Street Avon, CT 06001 Phone: 860-676-8878 Toll-Free: 1-800-4-WELCOME

Whatever the season, find your “Hidden Gem” in Connecticut’s Farmington Valley, a special wonderland just 2 hours from New York or Boston. First choose a season, then select a lodging property. Each property offers unique seasonal packages whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, a romantic escape or family fun activities. Coupon books for seasonal discounts and surprises await you at check-in. Explore shops, galleries, antiques, restaurants and more. Visit historic houses & museums. Hike, bike, canoe, kayak, fly-fish, tube, ski or hot air balloon, depending on the season! Free brochures and getaway information.

Greater Hartford Convention & Visitors Bureau Inc.

One Civic Center Plaza Hartford, CT 06103-1592 Phone: 860-728-6789

Since 1974, the Greater Hartford Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. has marketed and promoted the Hartford region as a convention and meeting destination. The Bureau provides complimentary services to all convention and meeting planners. We can assist you in finding a meeting facility, provide promotional literature and much more. For more information, please call (860) 728-6789 or (860) 446-7811 (outside CT).

Harriet Beecher Stowe House

77 Forest Street Hartford, CT 06105 Phone: 860-522-9258

Open: Tours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m.; open on Mondays, Memorial Day to Columbus Day and December. Closed major holidays.

Her words changed the world with "Uncle Tom's Cabin," the groundbreaking anti-slavery novel (1852). Tour the Victorian Gothic home (1871), the Katharine Seymour Day House (1884), and the Victorian grounds and gardens. Stowe Visitor Center showcases exhibitions, museum shop. Admission: Adults, $8; seniors,$7; children age 4-12, $4.
Mystic/Eastern top of listings

Argia Mystic Cruises

Schooner Wharf - 15 Holmes Street Mystic, CT 06355 Phone: 860-536-0416 Fax: 860-536-0000

Discover islands, lighthouses, and traditional windjammer sailing.

Step aboard the traditional sailing schooner Argia for a 2 1/2 hour journey into the past. The adventure begins with a tour by water of the famous Mystic Seaport Museum. See the Tall Ships: the whaling ship Charles W. Morgan – a national historic landmark, the fishing schooner L. A. Dunton, the sail training ship Joseph Conrad, and many more. Peer into the museum village and the Dupont Preservation Shipyard. Pass through Mystic's Historic Bascule Bridge, another national historic landmark, as you slide down the Mystic River. Morgan Point Lighthouse and the quaint fishing village of Noank greet you at the river’s mouth, followed by islands and peaceful sailing.

May 1st through late October, choose a half-day or sunset cruise aboard ARGIA!

Connecticut College Arboretum

270 Mohegan Avenue New London, CT 06320 Phone: 860-439-5020

Over 750 acres of beautifully preserved open space

Connecticut College Arboretum's 750 acres include the college campus, plant collections, natural areas, and managed areas. Its three major plants collections for public enjoyment are the Campus Landscape with 120 acres of trees and shrubs from around the world; the Native Plant collection, with 20 acres of woody plants and wildflowers indigenous to North America with a pond, and walking trails; Caroline Black Garden with an exquisite display of diverse woody plants in a garden setting. Open every day from sunrise to sunset. Free public guided tours every Sunday afternoon May - October at 2 p.m. Call 860-439-5060 for more information. Private group tours can be arranged upon request.

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

One Railroad Avenue Essex, CT 06426 Phone: 860-767-0103 Toll-Free: 800-377-3987 Fax: 860-767-0104

Ride the Steam Train, Ride the Riverboat!

Gather family and friends for the adventure of a sightseeing journey... aboard the only steam train and riverboat connection in the country! Your 2½ hour narrated journey begins at the historic 1892 Essex Station. Meander through the countryside aboard vintage rail cars pulled by an authentic steam locomotive. At Deep River Landing, you’ll be escorted onto to the Becky Thatcher Riverboat for a 1½ hour cruise along the Connecticut River - bursting with lush scenery and historic sights, such as Gillette Castle and Goodspeed Opera House. Upon Becky’s return to Deep River Landing, the steam train welcomes you for the return trip back to Essex.

Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center

110 Pequot Trail Mashantucket, CT 06338 Phone: 800) 411-9671

Open: Daily, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., last admission at 3 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving Eve, Thanksgiving day, December 24 and 25, December 31 and January 1

Permanent exhibits on the Native and natural history of southern New England include a cool descent into a glacial crevasse from 18,000 years ago. Walk through a 1550 Pequot Village. Interactive computer programs, films providing additional information and interpretation of the exhibits. Two research libraries, one for children. Museum store and restaurant. Admission: Adults, $15; seniors, $13; children age 6-15, $10; under 6 free.

Misquamicut Business Association

Misquamicut Beach Westerly, RI 02891 Phone: 401-596-9441 Toll-Free: 877-622-2930

Spanning seven miles from Watch Hill to Weekapaug, this is Rhode Island's longest stretch of beach with its pristine waters and white sand. Misquamicut Beach features an array of activities for the entire family, including our new state of the art Pavilion with plenty of parking. Activities include amusement parks with a carousel, mini-golf, go-carts, batting cages, kiddy rides and more. Enjoy native lobsters, steamers and swordfish from Block Island sound on the beach at our area's best restaurants. There is plenty of nightlife for couples and singles alike Located between Mystic, Ct and Newport, 15 minutes from the casinos and 5 minutes from historic Downtown Westerly and beautiful Watch Hill.

Mystic & Shoreline Visitor Information Center

Olde Mistick Village, Coogan Blvd. Mystic, CT 06355 Phone: 860-536-1641

Your Gateway to New England

The Mystic & Shoreline Visitor Information Center is located off I-95 at Exit 90 in Olde Mistick Village. Upon arriving in Mystic make us your first stop for:
  • Discount tickets to area attractions.
  • Hotels/B&Bs - 24-hour on-site reservations.
  • Brochures on over 225 area attractions and businesses.
  • Menus on display.
  • Maps, Postcards, Souvenirs.
Wherever your interest lies we have the information you need to make your stay in our area a memorable experience. Our courteous and knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you with your travel plans. Please call or e-mail us with your questions.

Mystic Country

27 Coogan Boulevard Mystic, CT 06355 Phone: 860-536-1205 Fax: 860-536-1480

Have you ever discovered Mystic, Connecticut? Mystic Country is defined by the three very different experiences that exist only miles from one another. These experiences take visitors from Adventure on the Coast to Entertainment at the Casino and back to Calm in the Mystic Quiet Corner. That contagious New-England hue that’s felt in Mystic comes from over 400 years of history and evolution. The Mystic locals, the landscapes, and the culture brim with life that still remains untouched – definitely something worth seeing! Rediscover New England and check out all Mystic has to offer for your family getaway here at MysticCountry.com

Mystic Seaport

75 Greenmanville Avenue Mystic, CT 06355-0990 Phone: 860-572-5315 Toll-Free: 888-973-2767

Open: Daily April through October, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., and November through March, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed Christmas Day.

Mystic Seaport – The Museum of America and the Sea – is the nation’s leading maritime museum. Climb aboard historic tall ships, stroll through a re-created 19th-century coastal village, discover stars in the planetarium, see a working preservation shipyard in action, explore exhilarating exhibits and marvel at gardens and daily demonstrations of maritime trades. The Museum is located one mile south of exit 90 off I-95 in Mystic, CT.

Ocean Beach Park

1225 Ocean Avenue New London, CT 06320 Phone: 860-447-3031 Toll-Free: 1-800-510-SAND (7263)

Half-Mile "Sugar Sand" Beach and Boardwalk

There’s family fun and more at Ocean Beach Park. New this year is our Splash Park for kids under 8. For more water fun we have the ocean, of course, an Olympic-size swimming pool and triple waterslide. Our award-winning lifeguard staff is on duty for your safety. For more fun we have rides, mini-golf, and a Family Fun Center with a video arcade. Kids can enjoy our playground and adults can work out in the health club. The nature walk and observation deck let you enjoy our natural beauty. When all the activity makes you hungry you can choose from our full-service restaurant, a food court, or ice cream stands. Ocean Beach Park can also accommodate picnics and corporate events. Our nightly entertainment schedule includes Classic Car Cruises on Mondays; kids movies on the beach Tuesday and Thursday; live magic on Wednesday; live bands on Friday; and family entertainment on Saturdays.

Stonington Borough Merchants Association

Exit 91 off Interstate 95 Stonington, CT 06378 Phone: 860-535-2298

The Jewel of the Connecticut Coast

Just ten minutes from the Mystic drawbridge lies Stonington Borough, called “the most beautiful seaside village in New England.” Because the Borough is a narrow, mile-long peninsula pointing into Fisher’s Island Sound and Little Narragansett Bay, nothing is more than a short walk from one of our inns, your car or boat.

Located just minutes from exit 91 on Interstate 95 in Connecticut, Stonington Borough is a world apart. Enjoy a relaxing vacation experience unlike any other. Discover the charms of Stonington Borough at a leisurely pace. Search for treasures in the many galleries and antique stores. Enjoy a delicious meal in one of our many restaurants. Watch artisans and craftsmen work in the historic Velvet Mill complex. Come discover the historic Stonington Borough, The Jewel of Connecticut’s Coast.

Submarine Force Museum

1 Crystal Lake Road Groton, CT 06349 Phone: 800-343-0079

Tour the world's first and finest nuclear powered submarine.

COME ABOARD…YOU WON’T BE BORED!

Step aboard the Nautilus — the world's first nuclear powered submarine at the only museum dedicated to the science, courage and history of the US Submarine Force. Whether you’re a kid or a history buff, there’s something here of interest for you.

  • Sit in the control room and experience hands-on what submariners had to manage.
  • Explore the memorabilia of historical interest about the submarines rich place in history.
  • Tour the world's first nuclear powered submarine and experience where the crew ate, slept, trained & played.
Live their adventure beneath the ocean’s waves. Our admission is always free. The experience is priceless!

The Dinosaur Place

1650 Route 85 Montville, CT 06370 Phone: 860-443-4367 Fax: 860-443-0253

Discover an interactive science and nature adventure

At the Dinosaur Place, outdoor adventure can be found with over 25 life-sized dinosaurs nestled along 1 mile of easy walking trails. The nature trails include hands-on discovery stations and educational signs. During the summer, cool off on New England’s largest SPLASHPAD. Indoor activities include digging for gems, panning for “gold” or unearthing a dinosaur skeleton. The world-class gift shop is a must stop on your visit whether you are looking for mineral and fossil specimens, fine jewelry, gourmet foods, educational toys, or unique giftware. Plus, treat yourself and your family to a tasty lunch or snack at Cobalt Café. Picnic areas, snack bar, ice cream shop, and playground onsite. Visit our website for hours, rates, and directions.

The Florence Griswold Museum

96 Lyme Street Old Lyme, CT 06371 Phone: 860-434-5542

This 11-acre riverfront campus calls itself the Home of American Impressionism, for its service in the 1910s as a summer boarding house to artists of the Lyme Art Colony. The Krieble Gallery hosts changing exhibitions of American art. The permanent collection includes works by Church, Cole, Twachtman, Hassam, and others. The Griswold House contains a remarkable collection of painted panels and doors left in their original places by the artists who stayed at the Florence Griswold House. Museum offers many seasonal events and activities for children.
Visitors today understand immediately the site's appeal to the artists who stayed with Florence Griswold. Her house, gardens and river view were favored subjects of her boarders. Walking the grounds, one is delighted by the same trees and gentle bend in the river. Visitors stand at the site of Childe Hassam's favorite spot, stroll Miss Florence's lovingly restored old-fashioned garden.
Hours: Krieble Gallery and Griswold House open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. Chadwick Studio and Rafal Landscape Center open mid-May through October.
Admission: Adults, $9; seniors, $8; students, $7; children age 12 and younger admitted for free.

Westerly/Pawcatuck Chamber of Commerce

Misquamicut/Watch Hill/Historic Downtown Westerly, RI Phone: 401-596-7761

Enjoy the perfect family vacation with a visit to Westerly, RI. Discover Westerly's seven miles of beaches, including Misquamicut, a mecca of family fun and activities that include water slides, mini-golf, night clubs, and more. Explore the picturesque village of Watch Hill, a charming Victorian seaside resort with a lighthouse and famous flying horse carousel. Take a walking tour of historic downtown Westerly-Pawcatuck, a two-state downtown named one of the 12 Most Distincitve Destinations by the National Trust For Historic Preservation. You'll find a 14-acre park, quaint shops, superb restaurants, and a river walk. The area features six golf courses, 40 restaurants, more than 50 hotels and bed and breakfasts, and hundreds of retail shops just eight miles from Mystic, Connecticut, and 30 miles from Newport. Call today for a free Go Westerly Magazine.
New Haven/South Central top of listings

Visit New Haven

127 Washington Avenue, 4th Floor West North Haven, CT 06473 Phone: 203-777-8550 Toll-Free: 800-332-STAY

Greater New Haven - lively, vibrant, enlightening, even delicious.

It's not easy to categorize Greater New Haven -- we happily admit it. A restaurant renaissance has made this a most exciting culinary destination. Then add bars, brewpubs and dance clubs. And then there's Yale University: with its medieval courtyards and stunning buildings -- from Gothic revival to acclaimed modernism. The cultural attractions are hard to forget. Can you name another area this size with world-class museums, theater and music? There are town greens to rival any in New England and preserved historic homes in even the smallest village. And alongside every town green are tiny boutiques and eclectic shops as well as superb bookstores. Now add the outdoors for long: sandy shores, nature preserves, centuries-old orchards, rocky hikes. So call Greater New Haven lively, vibrant, enlightening, even delicious.