Shake up your routine and explore Connecticut’s most spectacular hidden gems. From remote hiking destinations to fascinating historic relics, this state is full of marvelous attractions. You’ll love visiting these 8 underrated places in Connecticut.
- Dinosaur State Park, Rocky Hill
Daderot/Wikimedia Commons Thanks to a happy accident, visitors can stare at the largest collection of dinosaur footprints in the United States. A bulldozer operator stumbled upon thousands of these pristine three-toed tracks in 1966. Today, these tracks are protected by a geodesic dome. You’ll love looking at these wonderful pieces of history!
- Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center, Milford
Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center at Milford Point/Facebook Marvel at Connecticut’s stunning wildlife at the Audubon Society Coastal Center in Milford. This organization is dedicated to preserving the state’s ecosystem and educating residents about all of the wildlife in the area. As many as 315 different animals can be seen on this 8.4-acre beach. Bring your binoculars and prepare to be amazed!
- The Bijou Theatre, Bridgeport
Bijou Theatre CT/Facebook This thrilling destination has a rich history. The building was constructed in 1909, and it was a popular place to see a Vaudeville show. Today, visitors can watch a movie or concert while munching on a delicious slice of pizza. You’re certain to have a blast at this beautiful 200-seat theater.
- Air Line State Park Trail, East Hampton
Harold Carta/AllTrails This scenic 6.9-mile hike, located inside Air Line State Park, is full of breathtaking sights. The path used to be a popular railroad route in the 1870s. Now, it’s a beloved nature adventure that’s full of tranquil atmosphere. While it’s most popular during the spring and fall, it offers plenty of scenic views in the winter months as well.
- The Mayflower Inn And Spa, Washington
management/TripAdvisor If you’re in need of some rejuvenating rest and relaxation, there’s no better place to go than The Mayflower Inn and Spa. This stunning destination sits on 54 acres of perfectly manicured gardens and trails.
- People’s State Forest, Barkhamsted
Mark Morrell/AllTrails This peaceful hideaway is the perfect place to escape to when you need a bit of solitude. With 11 miles of gorgeous hiking trails, People’s State Forest is full of adventure.
- Barker Character Comic and Cartoon Museum, Chesire
Barker Character, Comic and Cartoon Museum/Facebook The Barker Character Comic and Cartoon Museum has more than 80,000 character-themed toys and artifacts. Stare at their wide selection of retro lunch boxes, unique Pez dispensers, and quirky figurines. You can even take a scavenger hunt through the building! It’s fun for the whole family.
- White Memorial Conservation Center, Litchfield
Litchfieldgirl/TripAdvisor Located on 4,000 acres of untouched nature, White Memorial Conservation Center is a must-visit. In addition to its educational and research efforts, this organization hosts exciting family-friendly events. Bring the young ones and explore the gorgeous boardwalks and hiking paths. This destination will make you fall in love with Connecticut all over again. Learn more by reading our feature article here.
What are your favorite underrated places in Connecticut? What would you add to the list?
Daderot/Wikimedia Commons
Thanks to a happy accident, visitors can stare at the largest collection of dinosaur footprints in the United States. A bulldozer operator stumbled upon thousands of these pristine three-toed tracks in 1966. Today, these tracks are protected by a geodesic dome. You’ll love looking at these wonderful pieces of history!
Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center at Milford Point/Facebook
Marvel at Connecticut’s stunning wildlife at the Audubon Society Coastal Center in Milford. This organization is dedicated to preserving the state’s ecosystem and educating residents about all of the wildlife in the area. As many as 315 different animals can be seen on this 8.4-acre beach. Bring your binoculars and prepare to be amazed!
Bijou Theatre CT/Facebook
This thrilling destination has a rich history. The building was constructed in 1909, and it was a popular place to see a Vaudeville show. Today, visitors can watch a movie or concert while munching on a delicious slice of pizza. You’re certain to have a blast at this beautiful 200-seat theater.
Harold Carta/AllTrails
This scenic 6.9-mile hike, located inside Air Line State Park, is full of breathtaking sights. The path used to be a popular railroad route in the 1870s. Now, it’s a beloved nature adventure that’s full of tranquil atmosphere. While it’s most popular during the spring and fall, it offers plenty of scenic views in the winter months as well.
management/TripAdvisor
If you’re in need of some rejuvenating rest and relaxation, there’s no better place to go than The Mayflower Inn and Spa. This stunning destination sits on 54 acres of perfectly manicured gardens and trails.
Mark Morrell/AllTrails
This peaceful hideaway is the perfect place to escape to when you need a bit of solitude. With 11 miles of gorgeous hiking trails, People’s State Forest is full of adventure.
Barker Character, Comic and Cartoon Museum/Facebook
The Barker Character Comic and Cartoon Museum has more than 80,000 character-themed toys and artifacts. Stare at their wide selection of retro lunch boxes, unique Pez dispensers, and quirky figurines. You can even take a scavenger hunt through the building! It’s fun for the whole family.
Litchfieldgirl/TripAdvisor
Located on 4,000 acres of untouched nature, White Memorial Conservation Center is a must-visit. In addition to its educational and research efforts, this organization hosts exciting family-friendly events. Bring the young ones and explore the gorgeous boardwalks and hiking paths. This destination will make you fall in love with Connecticut all over again. Learn more by reading our feature article here.
If you’re looking for more secret spots, check out these 10 hidden places in Connecticut.
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Address: Dinosaur State Park, 400 West St, Rocky Hill, CT 06067, USAAddress: 1 Milford Point Rd, Milford, CT 06460, USAAddress: 275 Fairfield Ave, Bridgeport, CT 06604, USAAddress: East Hampton, CT, USAAddress: 118 Woodbury Rd, Washington, CT 06793, USAAddress: 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield, CT 06877, USAAddress: 1188 Highland Ave, Cheshire, CT 06410, USAAddress: 80 Whitehall Rd, Litchfield, CT 06759, USAAddress: E River Rd, Barkhamsted, CT, USA
