visit connecticut in the fall

Fairfield Southwest

Hartford Central

Litchfield Northwest

Mystic Eastern

New Haven South Central

Fall foliage in connecticut 2024, historic town festivals, farm visits & colorful vistas.

Connecticut shows its brightest colors in early October. Best places to visit are the wooded areas of the state, like the Northwest Hills , the hilly Eastern parts of the state north of the Mystic, CT area , and upscale Fairfield County which is an quick drive or train ride from New York City. All these places have delightful small towns and gorgeous scenic drives. The fall colors are just part of the natural charm of Connecticut. The capital city of Hartford, CT has a beautiful city park, Bushnell Park , while New Haven, CT hosts the larger and more rugged East Rock Park . And around the state you'll find vineyards along the Connecticut Wine Trail that host harvest season events and tastings in fall.

Essential Information :

• Foliage Map (State of CT DEP)
• Pick Your Own Farms - Stop off for fresh apples, veggies, cider, pumpkins, baked goods and more!
• Connecticut State Map
• Great Things To Do in Connecticut - foliage train trips, harvest sales, seasonal events and scenic drives.

Foliage Driving Routes in Connecticut

New milford, kent, and mount tom state park (46mi.).

This drive will take travelers past the Housatonic River, famous for fly fishing and white water rafting; near two covered bridges; and through Kent, CT and its many art galleries, historic homes and churches; Washington, CT and its Institute for Native American Studies, and Mount Tom State Park . The Appalachian Trail passes through this area, and opportunities for day hikes are plentiful.

Points of Interest :

• Two covered bridges in the area are Bull's Bridge in Kent, CT and Kent Falls Bridge in Kent Falls State Park. Bull’s Bridge is a historic bridge, built in 1842; the Kent Falls bridge is a 1970s-era re-creation of a historic structure.
• Iron Mountain Preserve in Kent, CT : Stop for a 1.5-mile walk on a loop trail through varied forest and woodlands. Your host is the Nature Conservancy.
• The House of Books , also in Kent, CT , is packed with high-quality literature; a whole rooms of children's books; cards, music and gifts. The town is on the Appalachian Trail and the store specializes in maps, trail guides, books on local lore and the out-of-doors.

Side Trips :

• Travel a few miles north on Route 7 beyond Calhoun Corners , through Housatonic Meadows State Park , and into Cornwall, CT to see the West Cornwall covered bridge, which carries Route 128 across the Housatonic River. This area is famous for its great fall foliage, too.
• Mount Tom State Park in Litchfield, CT : Swimming and boating in the lake, hiking to a fire tower 1,325 feet above sea level.
• Institute for American Indian Studies in Washington, CT : Visit this museum to learn about the area’s first human residents. See the sachem’s house classroom, children’s discovery room, replicated Algonquian village, simulated archaeological excavation site.
• 45 on Main Coffee, Chocolate & Creamery in Kent, CT : The cure for low energy, before or after a glorious hike in the Litchfield countryside. Come enjoy and take home gourmet chocolates and handmade desserts and truffles. Lots of interesting coffees, teas, and smoothies.
• Hopkins Vineyard in Warren, CT : Located just north of Lake Waramaug, this farm has been in operation and owned by the same family for well over 200 years. Tastings, tours and events are regularly available.
• Eateries in New Milford, CT show great range: The Iron Rail , featuring a range from artisan dishes and casual fare; and the Three Brothers Family Restaurant , with a Greek diner-style menu and reports that the slice of carrot cake they give you is as big as your head!

Torrington to Norfolk Through People's State Forest (58mi.)

• People's State Forest & American Legion State Forest in Barkhamsted, CT : These two adjacent state forests are located along the west branch of the Farmington River. There are lots of places for picnicking. Check out the forests’ trail map and take a walk.
• Lake McDonough Park in Barkhamsted, CT : Stop for a picnic or a foliage hike on a scenic trail.
• Warner Theater in Torrington, CT : Leaf-peaking is a daytime activity, obviously, but if you are staying in the Litchfield Hills on a long weekend, check out what’s going on at this historic theater.
• Infinity Music Hall in Norfolk, CT : Echoing the comment above, if your trip through the beautiful towns and farms of Litchfield keeps you overnight, the Infinity Music Hall is a dynamic place that brings in lots of interesting, national-caliber entertainment.
• Thorncrest Farm & Milk House Chocolates in Goshen, CT is on the state’s Chocolate Trail. Calling itself The Home of Single Cow Origin Chocolates , Thorncrest serves chocolate in all the divine ways we have come to know and love.
• Jerram Winery in New Hartford, CT is on the Connecticut Wine Trail - wineries and vineyards that open their doors to tours, tastings, and sometimes classes and celebrations.

Waterbury Area Loop (42 mi.)

Nearby points of interest :.

• Brass Mill Center in Waterbury, CT : Home to great shopping, dining, activities and entertainment.
• The Palace Theater in Waterbury, CT : A historic theater presenting concerts, musicals, stage plays and other live shows.
• Southford Falls State Park in Oxford, CT : Hiking along the river and falls here during foliage season is quite wonderful.

Last Green Valley Scenic Byway (35mi.)

• The general scope of this drive is from Norwich, CT to Woodstock, CT , following Route 169, with plenty of side trips for nature viewing, shopping, walking, and dining. Norwich, CT is an old city on three rivers. People who love interesting Colonial architecture should walk past the homes, schoolhouse, shops, and taverns on the Benedict Arnold walking trail .
• Connecticut Audubon’s Grassland Bird Conservation Center at 218 Day Road in Pomfret Center, CT . Walk from dawn to dark, year-round, at the Bafflin Sanctuary or the Trail Wood Sanctuary . It’s all about the birds.
• Brooklyn, CT and the Brooklyn Green Historic District . This classic Connecticut town green is a beauty. Most buildings in the district date from 1750 to 1850.
• Taylor Brook Winery on Route 171 in Woodstock, CT welcomes guests Fridays through Sundays for tastings, self-guided vineyard tours, picnicking on the property, and a chance to buy cheese, sausage, crackers, dips, and other treats to enjoy with your wine.
• Driving west out of Brooklyn, CT on Route 6 takes you to the James. L. Goodwin State Forest in Hampton, CT , where you can take a walk on the many trails around Pine Acres Lake or visit a native plant wildlife garden.
• Alpaca Obsession in the town of Moosup, CT raises alpacas and angora rabbits and sells related products. Be sure to call ahead before visiting.

Dining and Shopping :

• Woodstock, CT is stocked with shopping that you won’t find in a big-box store. Pop in at Green Valley Floral Design (antiques, jewelry, plants) or Scranton's Shops (antiques in a historic blacksmith shop).
• Sweet Peas Fine Foods & Farm Market on Providence Road in Brooklyn, CT serves upscale take-out food, prepared meals, salad bar, quick cuisine, Venda Ravioli products, bakery goods, cheese. Perfect for a healthy and delicious picnic.
• The Stomping Ground on Main Street in Putnam, CT is a friendly local hangout with good lunches and dinner, live music nightly except Mondays and Tuesdays, and open mic nights.

Mystic and Old Mystic Via River Road (6mi.)

• Mystic Seaport in Mystic, CT . Marvelous living history museum and re-creates a 1830-period New England ship building village similar to historic towns of this area. Lots of season special events celebrating coastal New England history and culture. Great fun for adults and kids.
• Mystic Aquarium and Institute for Exploration , also in Mystic, CT : Wonderful aquarium includes Beluga whale exhibit and Titanic exhibit developed with help by Dr. Robert Ballard, discoverer of the sunken ship.

Norwich-Woodstock Turnpike (32mi.)

• Creamery Brook Bison in Brooklyn, CT : How often can you meet a bison? Farm welcomes visitors for special seasonal events and fun. Great for kids and families.
• Connecticut Audubon Society Center in Pomfret, CT : Spend some time outdoors with Audubon -- it wants you to meet the wilderness.

North Stonington to Sterling on Route 49 (22mi.)

• Pachaug State Forest , Voluntown (860-376-4075). The Pachaug State Forest offers trails for hikers, snowmobilers, and horseback riders.

Essex to Guilford CT Shoreline Loop Drive (35mi.)

• Essex Steam Train and Riverboat in Essex, CT : Enjoy a lazy ride up the lower Connecticut River in the lavish, antique railroad cars, then shift to a Mississippi-style river boat to complete your journey on the water.
• Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison, CT . Connecticut's largest shoreline park with lots of smooth beach for swimming and sunning, along with a fun boardwalk.
• Bishop's Orchards in Guilford, CT . Fun place to get out of the car, stretch, buy apples and pumpkins and autumn treats. Great for kids and families.
• On the way from Essex, CT to Old Saybrook, CT , you can take a short side trip eastward on Route 95 across the Connecticut River to Old Lyme, CT and visit the Florence Griswold Museum . This marvelous house operated in the early 1900s as a boarding house for a summer colony of New York artists, and it’s a hot spot for American Impressionism. You will see lots of art and beautiful gardens.
• When you reach Hammonasset Beach State Park, swing northward on Route 450 for a stop in nearby Madison, CT . There you will find a great bookstore, R.J. Julia Booksellers . Excellent book selection, gifts, kids activities, and special events.
• Penny Lane Pub in Old Saybrook, CT : an English style pub and restaurant with a friendly, neighborhood atmosphere. Located on the state’s Signature Cocktail Trail.
• Bufalina in Guilford : Enjoy authentic Neapolitan pizza from a wood fired brick oven. Located on the state’s Pizza Trail.
• Chamard Vineyards in Clinton, CT : Try a glass of their wine at their French-inspired bistro that serves lunch and dinner. Live music is presented on Friday through Saturday in the tasting room. Located on the state’s Wine Trail.
• The Wharf Restaurant at Madison Beach Hotel in Madison, CT : Serving fresh and locally sourced foods that spotlight the flavors of the Atlantic Northeast and New England. Eat in the dining room or on the year-round porch.

Shoreline and Country Roads Drive Route (57mi.)

• About 4.5 miles east of Branford, CT on Route 146, you might enjoy at small side trip to see shoreline where ferries depart for the Thimble Island Cruises . Simply take a right turn at Taken for Granite Antiquities on Leetes Island Road (which crosses Route 146) and head south on Thimble Island Road toward the village of Stony Creek, CT . After a breath of sea air or an island cruise, return to Route 146 via Thimble Island Road.
• The Guilford, CT green is a nice place to see a classic Connecticut town center. And the Guilford Art Center on Church Street may have something arty going on for your entertainment.
• Durham, CT is the northern terminus of the loop, and from here, the directions below take you back southward. For a short trip for pick-your-own apples, sunflowers, baked goods, and a great farm stand, head a little north out of Durham along routes 17 to 147 to Lyman Orchards in Middlefield, CT .
• The shoreline is not the best place to see foliage, but if you love ocean beaches, you might want to swing over for a stop at Hammonnassett Beach State Park in Madison, CT . Truly one of the state’s finest oceanside parks, with walk and a nature center.

Talcott Mountain State Park and Heublein Tower (7mi.)

• Talcott Mountain State Park
• Penwood State Park
• Heublein Tower in Bloomfield, CT : Gilbert Heublein was a German hotelier and restaurateur in Hartford and a developer of gourmet food. He built the Tower in 1914 as a summer vacation home for his family. The tower is open only in summer, but the property is accessible year-round for hiking and wildlife viewing.

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34 Things to Do in Central Connecticut this Fall

last updated: January 2024

When the air is crisp and vibrant foliage hues emerge, so do safe and fun fall activities. From active adventure and family fun to relaxation and romantic escapes, here’s your guide to the fall season in Central Connecticut.

As always, be sure to check with each location before venturing out as hours may change.

Active Adventure

1. Hike through foliage. See foliage up close and from the heights when you hike at Castle Craig & Hubbard Park in Meriden, Gillette Castle in East Haddam, the Mattabesett Blue Trail throughout Central Connecticut, and Talcott Mountain State Park in Simsbury.

2. Do yoga with goats. Get your muscles flowing outdoors – and make a new little friend. Try goat yoga at Bradley Mountain Farm in Southington or Nadeau Farm in Hamden.

3. Bike the trails. Pedal through the colorful leaves this season. Go fast-paced on mountain biking trails such as Rockland Preserve in Madison, West Hartford Reservoir , or Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort in Middlefield. Enjoy more leisurely rides on Farmington Canal Linear Trail in New Haven or Farmington River Trail in Simsbury.

4. Ride horses. Saddle up and take horseback riding lessons at Hidden Meadow Equestrian Center in Glastonbury or Shoreline Equestrian Center in Milford.

5. Row, row, row, your boat. Rent a canoe from Collinsville Canoe & Kayak and go gently down the stream – while admiring fantastic foliage of course.

Below are more spots to find active adventure:

Rest and Relaxation

6. Discover small town charm. Fall is a gorgeous time to appreciate Connecticut’s quaint villages. Take a leisurely stroll or drive through towns like Historic Wethersfield , Chester , Essex, and Old Saybrook .

7. Forest bathe in foliage. “Forest Bathing” is the act of being mindfully present to nature and one’s senses – and what better time than foliage season? Detach from technology, take in each scent, and notice the colors at parks such as  West Rock Ridge State Park  in Hamden,  Millers Pond State Park  in Durham,  Naugatuck State Forest , in Hamden/Naugatuck, or  McLean Game Refuge  in Granby.

8. Camp with Fido. Pets can provide such great comfort and companionship. Enjoy the serene outdoors and bring your furry friend along at pet-friendly campgrounds like Wolf’s Den Family Campground in East Haddam, GrandView Camp Resort & Cottages in Moodus, and Portland Riverside Marina .

9. Detox at spas. With back-to-school and pre-holiday stress, you deserve a self-care break. Pamper yourself with treatments at spas such as   Delamar Spa  in West Hartford,   Elm City Wellness  in New Haven, or  By the Sea Day Spa  in Branford.

Below are more spots to find rest & relaxation:

Arts, Culture & History

10. Get inspired by the masters. See masterpieces at Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art in Hartford, then go make your own art at Guilford Art Center .

11. Hear sweet music. Attend virtual concerts at Old Saybrook’s Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center or enjoy at-home offerings from Goodspeed Opera House .

12. Fill your artistic senses. Enjoy a variety of arts offerings such as visual arts exhibitions from new and emerging artists, independent film showings, literary readings and more at Real Art Ways in Hartford.

13. Travel the barn trail. Explore working farms with farm stands, orchards, wineries, historic sites with tours, displays and living history. Find Central Connecticut spots along the barn trail and take in the rural atmosphere.

14. Watch films outdoors. Bring your favorite blanket and enjoy movie showings in New Haven’s Pitkin Plaza.

15. Be a literature lover. Find books in unique places. Explore a vast array of literature at independent bookseller R.J. Julia Booksellers in Madison, or even find used books along with your food at Book Trader Café in New Haven and Traveler Restaurant in Union (where each person gets a free book with their meal!)

Below are more spots to find art, history & culture:

Food and Drink Adventures

16. Devour comfort food. Fall weather calls for comfort food. Find favorites like wings, shepherd’s pie, mac & cheese, loaded baked potatoes, and rice dishes at spots like J. Timothy’s Taverne in Plainville, The Corner Pug in West Hartford, House of Naan in New Haven, and Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ in Hartford, South Windsor, Windsor, and New Haven.

17. Find photo-worthy food. The only thing better than delicious food is food that looks as good as it tastes. Try insta-worthy pho at Pho Saigon in West Hartford, donuts at Donut Crazy in New Haven, chocolate at Divine Treasures in Manchester, brunch at The Place 2 Be in Hartford, and pizza at BAR in New Haven.

18. Sip hard cider. Fall might as well be the unofficial season of hard cider. Stop by one of Connecticut’s hard cider destinations like  Yankee Cider Barn at Staehly Farms  in East Haddam,  New England Cider Company  in Wallingford,  and  Bishop's Orchards Farm Market & Winery  in Guilford.

19. Chow down on chowder. Prolong summer’s seafood season and warm up with chowder. Find New England style at The Chowder Pot of Hartford , Rhode Island style at Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale in Westbrook, Manhattan style at Stowe’s Seafood in West Haven, and Market style at Atlantic Seafood Market in Old Saybrook.

20. Pick up farm fresh treats. From pies and cookies to apple cider donuts, find fall favorites at Bishop’s Orchard Farm Market & Winery in Guilford, Rose’s Berry Farm in South Glastonbury, and Rogers Orchards Shuttle Meadow Farm in Southington.

21. Visit craft breweries. Central Connecticut’s craft brewery scene is booming. Join the craze and check out Hops on the Hill in South Glastonbury, Kinsmen Brewing Company in Milldale, 5 Churches Brewing in New Britain, Rhythm Brewing Company in New Haven, or Thimble Island Brewing Company in Branford.

22. Try plant-based feasts. Plant-based eating is a growing trend, and whether you’re in it for the long run or simply sampling new dishes, Central Connecticut’s got you covered. Find mouthwatering meals and sweet treats at 21 Oak in Manchester, Flora in West Hartford, Three Girls Vegan Creamery in Guilford, and Claire’s Corner Copia in New Haven.

Below are more spots to find food & drink adventures:

23. Get lost in corn mazes. Enjoy the thrill and creativity of Connecticut corn mazes and find your way out as a family. Discover great mazes at Treat Farm in Orange and Lyman Orchards in Middlefield.

24. Go apple picking. The kids can’t miss this fall favorite! Pick your own apples at Johnny Appleseed’s Farm in Ellington, Karabin Farms in Southington, Drazen Orchards in Cheshire, and Easy Pickin’s Orchard in Enfield.

25. Swing from ropes. Experience thrills from the heights on ropes courses at Nomads Outdoor Adventure in South Windsor. Or if the fall air gets a bit too chilly, take the fun indoors at ropes courses like IT Adventure Ropes Course in New Haven or Soarin’ Indoors in Manchester.

26. See farm animals. Pay a visit to some furry friends on the farm at Flamig Farm in West Simsbury, Ray of Light Farm in East Haddam, Maple View Farm in Granby, and Buttermilk Lane Farm in Orange – you may even get to pet them!

27. Make your own soda. Tour a local soda factory and invent your own unique flavors at Avery’s Soda in New Britain. When you’re done, take home your drinks and enjoy!

28. Pick pumpkins. You can’t make a jack-o-lantern without a great pumpkin. Pick your own at The Pickin Patch in Avon, Belltown Hill Orchards in South Glastonbury , and Hickory Hill Orchards in Cheshire.

29. Get spooked. If you have some brave little souls in your family (or older kids) get in the Halloween spirit and visit legendarily haunted spots like Ancient Burying Ground in Hartford or Grove Street Cemetary in New Haven.

Below are more spots to find family fun:

Romantic Escapes

30. Wake up to foliage. Escape to an inn with foliage views and romance will ensue. Find scenic rooms at the Simsbury 1820 House , the Scranton Seahorse Inn in Madison, or the Boardman House Inn in East Haddam.

31. Take a horse-drawn wagon ride. What says fairytale like a horse-drawn wagon? Surprise your special someone with a ride from Maple View Farm in Orange.

32. Cozy up by the fire. Choose the perfect ambiance and enjoy a romantic meal set fireside at Abigail’s Grille & Wine Bar in Simsbury, Union League Café in New Haven, and Fresh Salt in Old Saybrook.

33. Ghost hunt together. Try a thrilling and unique date idea: ghost hunting. Visit legendarily haunted spots like Cedar Hill Cemetery in Hartford, Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum in Wethersfield, Grove Street Cemetery in New Haven, or the Milford Historical Society . Be sure to hold each other tight!

34. Float through foliage. Experience the breathtaking magic of foliage views from a hot air balloon ride from Berkshire Balloons in Plainville – a romantic date for the books.

Below are more spots to find romantic escapes:

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11 Of The Most Beautiful Fall Destinations In Connecticut

Discover the best places to visit in Connecticut during the fall for stunning autumn views and outdoor activities.

Written by  

The best places to visit in Connecticut in the fall are calling you! So throw on your cozy jacket and lace up your hiking shoes! It's time to experience the best fall getaways in Connecticut. We all know The Nutmeg State is home to enchanting autumn views, but these 11 places really make the season sparkle.

1. Mount Tom State Park, Washington Depot

Mount Tom isn't just one of Connecticut's oldest state parks - it's also one of the most gorgeous. Visit in the fall and gaze into the crimson colors all around you. The views from the top of the Tower Trail are especially enchanting. This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Connecticut in fall for foliage, so start planning your visit.

2. Talcott Mountain State Park, Simsbury

Listen to leaves crunch under your feet as you explore Talcott Mountain State Park in Simsbury. The hike to Heublein Tower is only 1.25 miles long, but it's jam-packed with astonishing sights. When you climb to the top of the majestic 165-foot tall structure, a colorful landscape will stretch out before you. This is definitely a place to visit in Connecticut in the fall .

3. Devil's Hopyard State Park, East Haddam

Meander through 1,000 acres of blissful autumn views at Devil's Hopyard State Park in East Haddam. This gorgeous destination has something for everyone: hike and bike trails, tranquil picnic areas, and wonderful fishing spots. Why not make an entire weekend out of it and pitch a tent under the trees? The campsites at Devil's Hopyard State Park are nothing short of incredible. And it's even considered a spooky park in Connecticut , so visit today!

4. Nehantic State Forest, East Lyme

When fall foliage reflects into Norwich Pond, the end result is breathtaking. Take a trip to East Lyme and explore New London County's first forest! You'll never grow tired of these eye-catching sights. Start planning your trip by learning more about Nehantic State Forest .

5. Southford Falls State Park, Southbury

Is there anything more lovely than a covered bridge surrounded by crisp fall leaves? We didn't think so either. Of course, this is just a glimpse of the amazing beauty you'll discover at Southford Falls State Park in Southbury. Hike to waterfalls, fish for trout, and picnic under a shady tree. This is one of the best places to visit in Connecticut in the fall !

6. Burr Pond State Park Torrington

Burr Pond State Park is home to the world's first condensed milk factory, but that's not the only reason to visit this scenic destination in Torrington. This unique attraction really comes alive during fall. Kayak along the water and immerse yourself in the peaceful autumn views all around you. Everyone should experience this hidden gem in Connecticut at least once!

7. Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam

When you visit Gillette Castle State Park, you'll feel like you've stepped into the pages of a storybook. The intricate structure looks like a medieval fortress, and it'll definitely spark your imagination. During peak season, the entire area is surrounded by gold, red, and orange. This is one of the best Connecticut fall getaways , so put it on your bucket list.

8. Peoples State Forest, Barkhamsted

With multiple lookouts, Peoples State Forest is an incredible place to enjoy Connecticut's fall colors. We recommend exploring the Jessie Gerard Trail, a 1.3-mile hike that leads to the Chaugham Lookout. Believe us, these views look even more magnificent in person. For one of the most peaceful getaways during fall in CT , be sure to check out this great state forest.

9. Macedonia Brook State Park, Kent

Hike to the top of Cobble Mountain and stare into another mesmerizing fall landscape. Macedonia Brook State Park belongs on every Nutmegger's fall bucket list.

10. Shenipsit State Forest, Tolland County

This massive forest spans across Stafford, Somers, and Ellington. No matter where you go in this 7,000-acre natural area, you'll be blown away. We always love gazing out over the Soapstone Mountain summit lookout tower (pictured above). Start at this park for an awesome fall foliage road trip in Connecticut .

11. Enders State Forest, Granby and Barkhamsted

Explore colorful woodland trails, picturesque wetlands, and astonishing cascades at Enders State Forest. Be sure to visit the Enders State Forest website for the latest information regarding trail closures and hours.

What do you think are the best places to visit in Connecticut in the fall? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

Looking for more places to go leaf-peeping? Take this 2-hour fall foliage drive through Connecticut . But before you hit the road, remember to pack some car-friendly snacks !

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You’d Never Know One Of The Most Incredible Natural Wonders In Connecticut Is Hiding In This Tiny Park

Gardner Lake State Park in Salem, Connecticut, doesn't even measure 10 acres, but it's home to a beautiful (and massive!) lake.

The Nutmeg State is a beautiful place. Anyone who's spent much time here knows there are plenty of natural wonders in Connecticut : the mighty Kent Falls, the collection of the tiny Thimble Islands, the white sands of Ocean Beach Park... the list goes on and on. One underrated natural wonder here is tucked away in a tiny park in Salem, Connecticut. The gorgeous Gardner Lake lies partially within the state park that shares its name. While the lake itself is about 530 acres, Gardner Lake State Park is one of the smallest state parks in Connecticut at only 9.75 acres. What it lacks in size, it more than makes up for with scenery. This lake is stunning to look at, provides recreational opportunities, and has a fascinating history to boot.

Gardner Lake is a natural lake that spans about 530 acres, making it one of the largest lakes in the state. There are actually three parks that surround Gardner Lake: Gardner Lake State Park, Minnie Island State Park , and Hopemead State Park.

It's a stunning area. While Gardner Lake State Park is small and doesn't even measure 10 acres, it provides boating, fishing, and swimming access to the south portion of the lake.

The lake features in one of the strangest stories from Nutmeg State history.

In 1894, a grocer wanted to move his two-story home from the lake's south side to the east side. He felt he could save money and time by moving the house, fully furnished, via sleds once the lake froze over. He attempted to do so in February 1895 but lost control of the sleds, and the house drifted into a snowbank. The homeowner was unable to free it, and in the coming months, as the ice thawed, the home sank to the bottom of the lake. The second story poked above the lake's surface for many years, but the house eventually rotted away.

While history may have taught us that it's not a good idea to move a house across it, Gardner Lake is a beautiful place for relaxing, boating, or fishing.

Since the three state parks that surround Gardner Lake are only a few miles apart, you can even paddle from one to the other.

The lake is stocked with walleye each year, and it's also home to bullhead and catfish, so it's an excellent spot to cast a line.

Of course, just relaxing by the water and enjoying a sunset is always a great way to spend a day, too!

For more information about Gardner Lake State Park in Salem, Connecticut, check out the Connecticut government website .

This State Park In Connecticut Is So Little Known, You’ll Practically Have It All To Yourself

Haddam Island State Park in Connecticut offers tranquility and natural beauty, accessible only by boat.

Sometimes, even going to a giant state park isn't enough to guarantee you'll be away from crowds. After all, some of our more popular state parks in Connecticut draw quite a few visitors. Hammonasset Beach State Park is incredible and definitely worth a visit, but more than three million people a year do just that... so, if you're looking for tranquil peace to enjoy on your own, it's probably not the best spot. One lesser-known state park that does manage to offer all the beauty you'd expect of a spot designated as a state park while still not drawing oodles of people is Haddam Island State Park. Come along as we tell you all about it. We're sure you'll agree that it is also one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Connecticut.

This state park is undeveloped, so you won't find picnic tables and bathrooms or other amenities here.

What you will find, though, is good old peace and quiet.

The 14-acre island is only accessible via boat, so it doesn't draw nearly as many visitors as more easily-accessed state parks.

There's a small beach and a good bit of forested land.

Be careful if you are out exploring, as there's lots of poison ivy.

Needless to say, the sunsets from this private island oasis are glorious.

In the early 20th-century, this was a popular spot for picnickers and swimmers.

Its popularity has waned greatly over the years with the opening of newer, more easily-accessible parks.

This is such a lovely state park off the coast of Haddam. Make sure to stop by next time you're floating down the Connecticut River!

Have you ever been to Haddam Island State Park while kayaking or boating down the Connecticut River? What did you enjoy the most? Would you agree that this is perhaps one of the best parks in Connecticut? Are you aware of any other hidden gems in Connecticut? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

For more state parks that not that many people are aware of, check out this article: Explore A Gorgeous Waterfall At This Underrated State Park In Connecticut.

If you really enjoy the great outdoors, these 8 stunning boardwalks are definitely worth a visit.

Thinking about taking a Connecticut vacay soon? Then consider booking your flight via the Dollar Flight Club  because there are so many wonderful things to do in CT!

If you’re still in the mood for more Connecticut adventures, take a look at this video:

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