Town - Country

This is one of 20 pairs that ran in various types of out-of-home advertising in summer 2018. It ran in Columbus Circle station in NYC, on digital kiosks all over Manhattan, along the rail lines for Metro North and LIRR, on bus shelters in Boston, and on a few roadside billboards near the edges of Connecticut.

Featuring: Lavender Pond Farm | Town of Greenwich

Christmas, Connecticut-Style

Starting with the day after Thanksgiving and going straight through to New Year’s, the Christmas season in Connecticut is packed with holiday activities, celebrations and every kind of tradition. We’ve pulled together a few of the events and happenings for 2020 here. But new items are being added to our This Weekend and Events pages every single week so be sure to check back often! Please make sure you check ahead, due to events are subject to change.

Featuring: Allen Hill Farm | Charlie Brown's Christmas Tree Farm | Connecticut Trolley Museum | Florence Griswold Museum | Goodwin Park | Hubbard Park & Castle Craig | Jones Family Farms | Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum (c.1864) | Olde Mistick Village | Shore Line Trolley Museum | The Shops at Yale | Towill's Christmas Tree Farm | Town of Bethlehem | Town of Greenwich | Town of South Windsor | Wickham Park | Winterberry Farm

8 Connecticut Towns with Real Holiday Spirit

No one dresses up for the holiday season quite like Connecticut. To find a few of the towns that show particularly scenic levels of festive spirit, we consulted the photo book, A Connecticut Christmas by Caryn B. Davis. We’re sharing some of her photographs that we think perfectly capture the charm of Connecticut and the warmth of the holiday season! 

Featuring: City of Meriden | City of New Haven | Connecticut River Museum | Cornwall Bridge Pottery | Falls Village Inn | Griswold Inn | Homestead Inn - Thomas Henkelmann Restaurant | Hubbard Park & Castle Craig | Libby's Italian Pastry Shop | Little House Brewing Company | Mystic Aquarium | New Haven Green | Olde Mistick Village | Pattaconk 1850 Bar & Grille | The Shops at Yale | The Village Restaurant | Thompson Chocolate | Tollgate Hill Inn | Town of Chester | Town of Essex | Town of Greenwich | Town of Litchfield | Town of Mystic | Town of Newtown | West Cornwall Covered Bridge

Connecticut’s Favorite Shopping Towns

Part of Connecticut’s attraction has always been its small-town centers, filled with personality, history and charm. And what draws visitors again and again are the shops, boutiques and artisans that reward browsers and buyers alike. Whether you’re planning a girls’ trip or looking for a great way to spend a day with family, here are a few of the towns around the state that offer great shopping (and dining) districts.

Featuring: Barcelona West Hartford | Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets | Delamar West Hartford | Elbow Room | Hey Day Antiques | Hopkins Inn | Inn at Stonington | J House Greenwich | Litchfield Distillery | Little Pub Greenwich | Lobster Landing | Milkcraft - West Hartford | Old Saybrook Antiques Center | Penny Lane Pub Restaurant | Roger Sherman Inn | Saybrook Home | Saybrook Point Resort & Marina | Sharlene Cottage | Silvermine Arts Center | Stonington Borough | The Dutch Epicure Shop | The Glass House | The Velvet Mill | Town of Clinton | Town of Greenwich | Town of Litchfield | Town of New Canaan | Town of Old Saybrook | Town of Stonington | Town of West Hartford | Water Street Cafe | West Hartford Center | West Street Grill | elm Restaurant

Instagrammable Connecticut: Afternoon Tea

If you caught royal fever while watching the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, no need to worry because Connecticut has plenty of High Tea inspired spots that will have you sipping and feeling like a real British royal all year long! With our Instagrammable Connecticut series, we’re inviting Instagrammers to share their pictures! Check back often for new topics. Or if you have some photos to share, tag them with #CTvisit!

Featuring: Savvy Tea Gourmet | Town of Greenwich | Town of Seymour

St. Patrick's Day Celebrations!

With so many St. Patrick’s Day celebrations and festivities around the state this March, it’s easy to be green! Join in the fun and take part in Celtic traditions throughout Connecticut. There are parades, Celtic music, food and events, and plenty of good Irish cheer for all!

Featuring: City of Hartford | City of New Haven | City of New London | Connecticut Irish-American Heritage Trail | Garde Arts Center | Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center and Museum | Mohegan Sun | Town of East Lyme | Town of Essex | Town of Greenwich | Town of Mystic | Town of Putnam | Town of Southington

10 Famous Movies Filmed in Connecticut

Connecticut has always been a favorite location for filmmakers, in fact, quite a few Academy Award-nominated productions have filmed here. The variety and diversity of locations available, coupled with a helpful Film Office, makes the state ideal for television, film and digital shoots. It was difficult to narrow down the list, but here are some of the more well-known movies you may recognize—and the Connecticut towns that played a role.

Featuring: City of Bridgeport | City of Norwalk | City of Shelton | City of Stamford | City of Waterbury | Essex Steam Train & Riverboat | Lake Compounce Theme Park | Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum (c.1864) | Mohegan Sun | Mystic Pizza | Mystic Seaport Museum | Town of Beacon Falls | Town of Bethel | Town of Darien | Town of Farmington | Town of Greenwich | Town of New Canaan | Town of Redding | Town of Trumbull | Yale University Visitor Center

6 Connecticut Towns and 30 Ways to Enjoy Them

Six small towns... five reasons to visit each in summer. The math seems simple: that’s 30 reasons to plan a Connecticut getaway. But these suggested things to see, eat and do only hint at what awaits. There’s always something happening in these vibrant communities—something for you to discover. And no calculator can compute the joys of making a small town “your” place.

Featuring: Antiques Marketplace | Argia Mystic Cruises | B&B at Bartlett Farm | Bradley Playhouse | Bruce Museum | Connecticut River Valley Inn | Deary Brothers/Mikes Stand | Delamar Greenwich Harbor | Guilford Art Center | Henry Whitfield State Museum | Macedonia Brook State Park | Mansion at Bald Hill | Max Fish | Meli-Melo | Mystic Aquarium | Mystic Seaport Museum | Red 36 | Rooftop 120 | Rose's Berry Farm | Shoreline Segway | Starbuck Inn | Steamboat Inn | The Place | The Shops at Somerset Square | Town of Glastonbury | Town of Greenwich | Town of Guilford | Town of Kent | Town of Mystic | Town of Putnam | West Cornwall Covered Bridge | l'escale

Walkable Town Centers

Sometimes it’s nice just to get out of the car or off the train and walk. Connecticut has many town centers where a nice ramble takes you to shops, restaurants, galleries, museums, and even a park bench or two. Here are some of the best ones to consider:

Featuring: City of New Haven | Town of Chester | Town of Greenwich | Town of New Canaan | West Hartford Center

5 Ways to Get the Most out of Fall

Step out in the cool, crisp weather this season and refresh yourself with fun fall adventures and gorgeous autumn scenery! From family hayrides, scenic leaf-peeping journeys and historic sites to romantic getaways, cultural outings and fabulous food, you’ll find an abundance of New England fall favorites here.

Featuring: Adventure Park at Storrs | Berkshire Balloons | Chester/Hadlyme Ferry | Gillette Castle State Park | Hopkins Inn | Litchfield Saltwater Grille | Macedonia Brook State Park | Miranda Vineyard | New Britain Museum of American Art | Saybrook Point Resort & Marina | Studio 80 + Sculpture Grounds | Talcott Mountain State Park | Town of Fairfield | Town of Greenwich | Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art | elm Restaurant

Bike Trails for Every Speed

Shredding through mountain trails or gliding along an open road along the coast or through the countryside, there are so many ways to enjoy biking in Connecticut. We’ve pulled together a few recommendations and resources to help you find the ride that’s right for you.

Featuring: Air Line State Park Trail | Bicycle Tour Company | Bluff Point Coastal Reserve | Collis P. Huntington State Park | Connecticut Bed & Breakfast/Bicycle Trail | Connecticut Shoreline Bike/Boat Tour | Covered Bridge Electric Bike Rental | Farmington Canal Linear Park | Gay City State Park | Mohawk State Forest | Mountain Biking at Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort | Pedal Power - Vernon | Pedego SoNo Electric Bikes | Rockland Preserve | Town of Clinton | Town of Derby | Town of East Hampton | Town of Fairfield | Town of Greenwich | Town of Harwinton | Town of Litchfield | Town of Mystic | Town of Old Lyme | Town of Plainfield | Town of Putnam | Town of Ridgefield | Town of Simsbury | Town of Trumbull | Town of West Hartford | Town of Westport

Follow the Lights to Holiday Cheer!

Holiday cheer is upon us in Connecticut! Get in the holiday spirit by getting out and experiencing some of the brilliant holiday lights festivals and displays around the state. Enjoy a festive, magical, memorable and safe outing sure to delight audiences of all ages.

Featuring: Cava Restaurant | City of Torrington | Connecticut Trolley Museum | Danbury Railway Museum | Dockside Brewery & Waterfront Biergarten | Fairfield Museum & History Center | Goodwin Park | Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater | Hubbard Park & Castle Craig | Lake Compounce Campground | Lighthouse Point Park | Mystic Seaport Museum | Olde Mistick Village | Railroad Museum of New England/Naugatuck Railroad Company | Shore Line Trolley Museum | The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk | Town of East Hartford | Town of East Lyme | Town of Essex | Town of Greenwich | Town of Hebron | Town of Old Saybrook | Town of Windsor | Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art | Wickham Park

Places to Grill and Chill - and Pick Up Fresh Meat and Seafood in Connecticut

Summer is the time for outdoor fun, and that means getting together with friends and family at Connecticut's state parks and beaches. Many Connecticut state parks offer grills, available on a first come, first served basis. Here’s a current list of where to find them. A few of the state parks with beaches offer grills too, like: Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison, Rocky Neck State Park in East Lyme and Burr Pond State Park in Torrington. Passport to the Parks program is for residents with Connecticut license plates on their vehicles can enter all state parks and state forests free of charge. But wherever you decided to have your cookout or picnic, we’ve got a few suggestions on where to pick up fresh meat and seafood on the way!

Featuring: City of Danbury | City of Norwalk | Town of Branford | Town of Branford | Town of East Hampton | Town of East Lyme | Town of Fairfield | Town of Greenwich | Town of Mystic | Town of Westport | Town of Wethersfield

Summer in Connecticut — What’s on Your Bucket List?

Have you made your Connecticut summer bucket list yet? See how the Connecticut Office of Tourism and Fox 61 are teaming up to make sure you don’t miss a second of the fun this summer in Connecticut. 

Featuring: Black Hall Outfitters - Old Lyme | Town of Greenwich | Town of Southbury

Great Places to Hike with Your Dog

Nothing beats the freedom of getting out there on the trail — and that’s true for you and your best friend. Luckily, in Connecticut, we’ve got easy access to some of the most beautiful and diverse hiking in New England. Here are just a few of the places you can take your dog for a long walk, run or swim they’ll love (some even off-leash!) As well as a few places to “pawse” and enjoy a little downtime.

Featuring: Bigelow Hollow State Park | Bluff Point Coastal Reserve | Burger Bar & Bistro | City of Danbury | Cranbury Park & Gallaher Estate | Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center | Elbow Room | Elizabeth Park Rose Gardens | Esker Point Beach | Haight-Brown Vineyard | Harry's Place | Hidden Valley Preserve | Homewood Suites by Hilton - Stratford | Hop River State Park Trail | Lovers Leap State Park | Macedonia Brook State Park | Niantic Bay Beach | Sea View Snack Bar | Shenipsit State Forest | Sleeping Giant State Park | Sunnybrook State Park | The Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk | Topstone Park | Town of Avon | Town of Avon | Town of Branford | Town of Clinton | Town of Greenwich | Town of Manchester | Town of Monroe | Town of Monroe | Town of Ridgefield | Town of Simsbury | Town of South Windsor | Town of Southington | Town of West Hartford | White Memorial Foundation

Stargazing - Astrotourism in Connecticut

Astrotourism is gaining in popularity. You can find vast night skies above parks, forests and lakes throughout Connecticut, and there are many campgrounds that improve your chances of seeing a celestrial show overnight. In places where city lights make viewing the stars challenging, regional observatories and rural locations are offering visitors opportunities to see the night sky in Connecticut as never before. Each observatory has public viewing nights and events, so be sure to check their websites for schedules before you visit. Here are few ideas to get you started on your search for the stars.

Featuring: American Legion State Forest | City of Danbury | City of Middletown | City of New London | Copernican Observatory & Planetarium | Grace Farms | Hammonasset Beach State Park | Leitner Family Observatory & Planetarium | Mashamoquet Brook State Park | Rolnick Observatory | Stamford Observatory | Town of Avon | Town of Greenwich | Town of New Milford | White Memorial Foundation

Places to Celebrate - Anniversary Ideas in Connecticut

Connecticut is a great place to come to celebrate an anniversary, especially if it’s a special milestone. There’s so much to do, so close, it’s easy to arrange a romantic hotel, dining and activities for a short visit or as part of a longer stay. Check out a few interesting ideas that may require some planning ahead but are sure to be an anniversary celebration to remember.

Featuring: Argia Mystic Cruises | Boardman House Inn | Bruce Museum | Delamar Greenwich Harbor | Dinners at the Farm | Gelston House | Goodspeed Musicals - The Goodspeed | Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center and Museum | Lady Katharine Cruises - Haddam | Madison Beach Hotel | Mayflower Inn & Spa | Mystic Knotwork | R.J. Julia Booksellers | Saybrook Point Resort & Marina | The Antiques Depot | The Whaler's Inn | Town of Greenwich | Town of Mystic | White Flower Farm | White Horse Country Pub | White Memorial Foundation | Winvian Farm

Mountain Biking at Its Best

With its many abrupt elevation changes, well organized forest lands and long history with two-wheelers (the pedal-assisted bicycle was invented in New Haven), Connecticut turns out to be a great place for mountain biking. There are dozens upon dozens of terrific trails in the state, many of them within state parks or forests. So get out your bike and helmet and begin your travels.

Featuring: Collis P. Huntington State Park | Millers Pond State Park | Mohawk State Forest | Nepaug State Forest | Pachaug State Forest | Rockland Preserve | Town of Greenwich | Town of Manchester | Westwoods Trails

Pet-Friendly Places in Fairfield County

For the most part, our furry companions have endured the same isolation that we have over the past year; and with the change of seasons and a brighter outlook, Fido, Fifi, Felix, and friends are itching to get out, engage in some serious exercise, and see the sights. Fortunately, the Litchfield Hills are a pet-friendly place that welcomes four-leggers with open arms – to parks and campgrounds, hotels and inns, even restaurants, wineries, and distilleries (anybody have a St. Bernard?). So, if you’ve got a notion to explore, and want to bring your pet along on your travels, you won’t have any problems at all. Here are just a few of the many options in all categories (woof!).

Featuring: Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens | Brick + Wood | Burger Bar & Bistro | Captain's Cove Seaport | Cranbury Park & Gallaher Estate | Delamar Greenwich Harbor | Delamar Greenwich Harbor | Delamar Southport | Fifth State Distillery | Flipside Burgers & Bar | Hilton Garden Inn Norwalk | SoNo 1420 American Craft Distillers | Surfside Hotel | Town of Fairfield | Town of Greenwich | Veracious Brewing Company | Webb Mountain Discovery Zone | Weir Farm National Historic Site

Connecticut's Foliage Finder: Week-by-Week Guide

Planning a New England leaf-peeping trip? Drive no farther than Connecticut! Since we offer New England's longest foliage season, you’ll find amazing color here throughout October and into November. To help you plan your trip, we’ve provided this handy guide showing peak foliage areas by week, courtesy of our friends at the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, as well as suggestions for seven driving loop tours.

Featuring: City of Danbury | City of Hartford | City of New Haven | City of New London | City of Norwich | City of Stamford | City of Waterbury | Macedonia Brook State Park | People's State Forest | Shenipsit State Forest | Talcott Mountain State Park | Town of Branford | Town of Greenwich | Town of Guilford | Town of Kent | Town of Litchfield | Town of Mansfield | Town of Norfolk | Town of Simsbury | Town of Woodstock

Places to Dance in Connecticut

Itching to put on your dancing shoes? From ballroom to barn dancing, social clubs to club scenes—Connecticut offers something for every type of dancer to get their groove on. We’ve rounded up some of the most popular places for you to swing, salsa, even country line dance your way across Connecticut.

Featuring: Avalon Nightclub | BAR | Casona | City of Danbury | City of Groton | City of Hartford | City of Middletown | City of Milford | City of New London | City of Stamford | Club Van Dome | Mambo Bar & Restaurant | Partners Café | Shrine at Foxwoods | Town of Coventry | Town of East Lyme | Town of Enfield | Town of Greenwich | Town of Hamden | Town of Rocky Hill | Town of Southington | Town of Waterford | Town of West Hartford | Town of Wethersfield | Town of Windsor Locks | Vista Lounge

Immersive Travel in Connecticut

Ever heard the expression, “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey”? Today, travelers are adapting this mentality more and more. They consciously look to visit destinations where they can immerse themselves in local cultures and ways of life. Immersive travel experiences offer a range of possibilities for the traveler—focusing less on fitting specific places and attractions into an itinerary, and more on experiencing the special traits that make a destination unique.

Connecticut has lots of unique characteristics and authentic experiences for visitors to immerse in. From attending staple events to meeting local artisans to working and learning on farms—here are a few ideas to inspire your immersive travel trip to Connecticut!

Featuring: B&B at Bartlett Farm | Bashan Lake Mansion | Bridgeport Islanders | City of Hartford | City of New Haven | City of New London | City of Norwalk | City of Stamford | Cold Spring Farm | Connecticut Historical Society Museum and Library | Connecticut Sun | Fitstyle Walking Tours | Greenwich Historical Society | Griswold Inn | Guilford Art Center | Hartford Athletic | Hartford Wolfpack | Hartford Yard Goats | Heirloom Market at Comstock Ferre | Lavender Pond Farm | Lime Rock Park | Milford Walking Tour | Silas W. Robbins House | The Blake Hotel | The Wine Press | Town of Greenwich | Town of Mystic | Town of New Milford | Town of Southington | Town of Westport | Wall to Wall: The New London Mural Walk | Winvian Farm

39 Things to Do in Connecticut This December

Looking for something to do in Connecticut in December? Whether you want something active, relaxing, cultural, or nature-oriented, we have you covered. Learn more!

For even more ideas, check out CTvisit.com, where you can search by type of activity under the DO navigation tab, or browse articles full of ideas under the IDEAS tab.

Featuring: Adventure Rooms | Alice in the Village | Ansonia Nature & Recreation Center | Bantam Lake | Blue Ox Axe Throwing - Bridgeport | Bridgeport Islanders | Bruce Museum | Bushnell Park | Charlie Brown's Christmas Tree Farm | Connecticut Science Center | Connecticut Trolley Museum | Eleanor Buck Wolf Nature Center | Essex Steam Train & Riverboat | Florence Griswold Museum | Goodwin Park | Guilford Art Center | Hartford Stage | Hartford Wolfpack | Hot Rod Cafe | International Skating Center of Connecticut | Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts | Lake Waramaug State Park | Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum (c.1864) | Long Wharf Theatre | Lou's Christmas Tree Farm | Mohawk Mountain Ski Area | Mohegan Sun | Montana Nights Axe Throwing | Mount Southington Ski Area | Mystic Aquarium | Mystic Seaport Museum | New Britain Museum of American Art | Osborne Homestead Museum | Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort | Railroad Museum of New England/Naugatuck Railroad Company | Ridgefield Playhouse | Salt Cave of Darien | Shore Line Trolley Museum | Ski Sundown | Spa at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina | Sundial Gardens & Tea Shop | Tea Roses Tea Room | The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts | Thrillz High Flying Adventure Park | Town of Bethlehem | Town of Essex | Town of Greenwich | Town of Litchfield | Town of Madison | Town of Middlebury | Town of New Milford | Town of South Windsor | Warner Theatre | White Memorial Conservation Center Museum | Wilton Historical Society | Winding Trails Cross Country Ski Center | Wood Memorial Library & Museum | Yale Center for British Art

6 Ideas for Truly Unique Culinary Experience Gifts

Is there a foodie on your shopping list this holiday season? Or a wine and cheese aficionado? How about a chocolate lover? We teamed up with our CT Ambassadors from UnlockingConnecticut.com to share a few amazing culinary experience gift ideas your friends and family won’t soon forget.

Featuring: City of Hartford | City of Milford | City of New Haven | City of Waterbury | Fascia's Chocolates | Sunset Meadow Vineyards | Taste of New Haven Tours | Town of Fairfield | Town of Goshen | Town of Greenwich | Town of Weston

Holiday Tidings & Santa Sightings

Fun-filled Connecticut events brimming with holiday cheer at this special time of year!

Featuring: American Clock & Watch Museum | City of Stamford | City of Torrington | Connecticut River Museum | Connecticut Trolley Museum | Danbury Railway Museum | Fairfield Museum & History Center | Florence Griswold Museum | Foxwoods Resort Casino | Goodspeed Musicals - The Goodspeed | Goodwin Park | Hartford Healthcare Amphitheater | Hartford Stage | Lake Compounce Theme Park | Lighthouse Point Park | Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum (c.1864) | Mohegan Sun | Olde Mistick Village | Palace Theater | Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field | Railroad Museum of New England/Naugatuck Railroad Company | Sherman Playhouse | Shore Line Trolley Museum | Shubert Theatre | Stanley-Whitman House | The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts | The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk | TheaterWorks | Town of Bethlehem | Town of East Lyme | Town of Greenwich | Town of Mystic | Town of Old Saybrook | Town of Putnam | Town of Windsor | Toyota Oakdale Theatre | Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art | Warner Theatre | Wickham Park

Special & Safe: Thanksgiving 2020

'Tis the season to cherish what we're grateful for — even if it looks a little different this year. To keep your family and community safe, we recommend reviewing the state's holiday guidance and considering these low-risk celebration ideas . The holiday may be smaller and quieter in 2020, but we certainly can still make it memorable. We've gathered a few Thanksgiving ideas for you and your closest kin, so you can still make the day special!

From unique take-home feasts and dine-out dinners to farm fresh shopping, Christmas tree chopping and more, the Thanksgiving fun doesn’t just make your day great — it helps support beloved Connecticut businesses who have been hit hard by the pandemic. And when you do, you can even use our hashtag #SupportCTBusinesses to help keep our restaurants, attractions and hotels top of mind.

Featuring: Abigail's Grille & Wine Bar | Allen Hill Farm | Angevine Farm | Avon Old Farms Hotel | Bear's Smokehouse (Hartford) | Bear's Smokehouse (New Haven) | Bear's Smokehouse (South Windsor) | Bear's Smokehouse (Windsor) | Bishop's Orchards Farm Market & Winery | Captain Daniel Packer Inne | Castle Hill Farm | City of Danbury | City of Hartford | City of Norwalk | City of Stamford | City of Waterbury | Clark Farms at Bushy Hill Orchard | David Burke Prime Steakhouse | Dzen Tree Farm | Ekonk Hill Turkey Farm | Fairfield Museum & History Center | Fairview Tree Farm | Fire at the Ridge | Flora | Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina | Griswold Inn | Hamilton Park | Hickory Ridge Tree Farm | Holmberg Orchards & Winery | Hopkins Inn | J. Gilbert's Wood-Fired Steaks | Judy's Bar + Kitchen | Lincoln Financial Sculpture Walk at Riverfront | Maple Bank Farm | Maple Hollow Christmas Tree Farm | March Farm | Market Grille | Match | Max Amore | Max Downtown | Max a Mia Ristorante | Mill on the River | Miller Tree Farm | Millwright's Restaurant | Olde Mistick Village | On the Rocks Restaurant | Pequot Library | Silverman's Farm | Staehly Tree Farm & Winery | The Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk | The Shops at Yale | The Spa at Norwich Inn | The Waters Edge at Giovanni's | The Wharf Restaurant | Town of Branford | Town of Deep River | Town of Enfield | Town of Greenwich | Town of Manchester | Town of Morris | Town of Newington | Town of Newtown | Town of Stratford | Town of Washington | Town of Wethersfield | Town of Woodbury | Wall to Wall: The New London Mural Walk | Westbrook Outlets | Whittle's Willow Spring Farm | Winterberry Farm | l'escale

33 Things to Do in Connecticut This December

Looking for something to do in Connecticut in December? Even with all the COVID-19 safety restrictions, there is still so much to see and do — and you can be sure businesses are working hard to keep you safe. Whether you want something active or relaxing, cultural or nature-oriented, historic or trendy, Connecticut's got you covered. Here are some highlights for December.

Featuring: Adventure Rooms | Alice in the Village | Allegra Farm & Horse-Drawn Carriage & Sleigh Rides | Bantam Lake | Barnes Museum (c.1836) | Bear's Smokehouse (Hartford) | Blue Ox Axe Throwing - Bridgeport | Cabela's | Carriages & Country Weddings - Wood Acres Farm | Cedar Knoll Farm | Charlie Brown's Christmas Tree Farm | City of Hartford | City of Torrington | Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets | Corner Pug | Danbury Ice Arena | Delamar West Hartford | Fifth State Distillery | Full Moonshine | Gilbertie's Herb Gardens | Goodwin Park | Guilford Art Center | Hartford Flavor Company | House of Naan Indian Kitchen & Bar | International Skating Center of Connecticut | J. Timothy's Taverne | Lake Waramaug State Park | Litchfield Distillery | Lou's Christmas Tree Farm | Mayflower Inn & Spa | Mohawk Mountain Ski Area | Montana Nights Axe Throwing | Mount Southington Ski Area | New Britain Museum of American Art | Northford Ice Pavilion | Olde Mistick Village | Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort | Pratt & Whitney Stadium at Rentschler Field | Quaker Diner | Railroad Museum of New England/Naugatuck Railroad Company | Salt Cave of Darien | Sayulita | Seaside Shadows Haunted History Tours | Shore Line Trolley Museum | Ski Sundown | The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum | The Dudley Farm Museum | The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk | The Promenade Shops at Evergreen Walk | The Shops at Farmington Valley | The Spa at Norwich Inn | Thrillz High Flying Adventure Park | Town of Bethlehem | Town of Greenwich | Town of Hebron | Town of Litchfield | Trumbull Nature & Arts Center | Waypoint Spirits | White Memorial Foundation | Wickham Park | Winding Trails Cross Country Ski Center | Yurechko Tree Farm

Safe, Merry & Bright: The Holiday Season in 2020

Walkin’ in a winter wonderland may look different this year, but we can still make the holiday season memorable. While the state’s holiday guidance calls for smaller or even virtual gatherings, Connecticut has many new and creative ways to keep your holiday spirits up.

Featuring: Abigail's Grille & Wine Bar | Action Wildlife Foundation | Allen Hill Farm | Angevine Farm | Bear's Smokehouse (Hartford) | Bernard's + Sarah's Wine Bar | Black-Eyed Sally's Southern Kitchen & Bar | Blue Back Square | Broken Arrow Nursery | Cafe on the Green | Castle Hill Farm | Cava Restaurant | Charlie Brown's Christmas Tree Farm | City of Bridgeport | City of Bristol | City of New London | City of Norwalk | City of Torrington | Connecticut Chocolate Trail | Connecticut Trolley Museum | Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo | Copper Beech Inn | Da Capo | Divine Treasures | Dzen Tree Farm | Essex Clipper Dinner Train | Essex Steam Train & Riverboat | Evergreen Acres Tree Farm | Fairview Tree Farm | Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar | Fresh Salt at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina | Goodwin Park | Greiser's Coffee & Market | Griswold Inn | Hickory Ridge Tree Farm | Hubbard Park & Castle Craig | Jones Family Farms | La Trattoria | Madison Beach Hotel | Maple Hollow Christmas Tree Farm | Maple Row Farm | Mayflower Inn & Spa | Mill on the River | Miller Tree Farm | Mohawk Mountain Ski Area | Mount Southington Ski Area | Mozzicato DePasquale Bakery & Pastry Shop | Mystic Seaport Museum | Olde Mistick Village | Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort | River - A Waterfront Restaurant & Bar | Shell & Bones Oyster Bar & Grill | Sift Bake Shop | Ski Sundown | Staehly Tree Farm & Winery | Tavern at Graybarns | The Inn at Woodstock Hill | The Shops at Yale | The Whaler's Inn | Town of Avon | Town of Greenwich | Town of Hebron | Town of Sherman | Town of Southington | Town of Washington | Town of West Hartford | Town of Wilton | Town of Windsor | Toyota Oakdale Theatre | West Street Grill | White Memorial Conservation Center Museum | Wickham Park | Winding Trails Cross Country Ski Center | Winterberry Farm | elm Restaurant

Safe and Creative Outdoor Dining for Colder Weather

Featuring: 116 Crown | Cava Restaurant | Essex Clipper Dinner Train | Fire at the Ridge | Guilford Mooring | J Restaurant & Bar | Luce | Millwright's Restaurant | Oyster Club | Powder Ridge Mountain Park & Resort | Sign of the Whale | The Stand | Toro Loco | Town of Cheshire | Town of Greenwich | Town of Plainville | Town of Westport | Town of Woodbury

Cut or Pick Your Own Christmas Tree & More in Fairfield County!

Exactly when does that joyful holiday spirit really kick in? That’s easy ­– when you bring home the Christmas tree! So why not make a memorable day of it by visiting a local tree farm and cutting your own? Find out which species provide the perfect color, branch strength, needle retention and aroma for your home. Each farm adds their own special touches – like cider and hot chocolate, hayrides and visits from Santa. So, bundle up, grab the kids and Rex (on a leash) and rev up the holidays at a Connecticut Christmas Tree Farm. 

Featuring: Bartaco - Westport | Brick + Wood | Connecticut Audubon Society - H. Smith Richardson Tree Farm | Connecticut's Beardsley Zoo | Courtyard by Marriott - Shelton | Fairview Tree Farm | Jones Family Farms | Maple Row Farm | Sabia Tree Farm | Stamford Museum & Nature Center | Stamford Suites Hotel | Town of Greenwich

Holiday Tidings - Christmas Fairfield County Style

Even during these challenging times, Fairfield County is brimming with safe holiday festivities and cheer for the whole family to enjoy!

Featuring: Crowne Plaza Hotel Stamford | Delamar Greenwich Harbor | Downtown Cabaret Theatre | Fairfield Museum & History Center | Hilton Garden Inn Norwalk | Inn at Fairfield Beach | Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum (c.1864) | Stepping Stones Museum for Children | Town of Greenwich

Top Hiking Trails in Fairfield County

It’s hard to find a silver lining in the COVID-19 cloud; but if there is one, it’s that Connecticut residents, as well as out-of-state visitors young, old and in-between, have ventured into the great outdoors in search of fresh air and exercise as they take in our state’s rejuvenating natural wonders. Walkers, joggers, hikers, bikers – and their furry companions – have discovered the vast number of parks, forests, and trails in Fairfield County (most of which are accessible at no charge and pet-friendly), with each one offering its own unique and memorable features. Whether you are a novice or seasoned hiker or nature lover, Fairfield County has parks, preserves, and open spaces for everyone, with more than 235 miles of hiking trails.

Featuring: Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens | City of Norwalk | City of Stamford | Connecticut Audubon Society Center at Fairfield | Cranbury Park & Gallaher Estate | Earthplace, The Nature Discovery & Environmental Learning Center | Lucius Pond Ordway/Devil's Den Preserve | Mianus River State Park | New Canaan Nature Center | Town of Fairfield | Town of Greenwich | Town of New Canaan | Town of Weston | Town of Westport | Trout Brook Valley State Park Reserve

Unique (and Safety-Friendly) Businesses Launched During the Pandemic

It’s no secret that the pandemic has turned our lives upside down, including the way we dine, play, and travel – but that hasn’t stopped these businesses from opening new ventures during these difficult times.  We’ve rounded up a few of the new experiences that have popped-up in the last year, all of which have been designed with safety in mind. From new Covid-safe dining models to unique ways to relieve stress, check out these new options invented with a little help from Mother Necessity.

Featuring: Aquila's Nest Vineyards | City of Bridgeport | City of Middletown | City of New Haven | NewSylum Brewing | Parkville Market | Sift Bake Shop | Six Summit Gallery | Smash Avenue | The Essex Public Market & Food Hall | The Lloyd | The Vault Virtual Reality | Town of Fairfield | Town of Greenwich | Town of Mystic | Town of Newtown | Young Buns Donghnuts

A Coastal Connecticut Road Trip

There’s nothing like a road trip down the coast – especially  when the views are as spectacular as they are in Connecticut. But how do you make the most of the coast? From quaint beach towns to vibrant cities, ice cream shops to oyster clubs, cruises to aquariums and everything in between, there’s so much to see and do along the Connecticut coast that we had to break it into three different guides! Here’s how to enjoy some of Connecticut’s coastal towns – whether you’re stopping in one town or road tripping through them all!

Featuring: City of Milford | City of New Haven | Town of Greenwich | Town of Old Lyme | Town of Old Saybrook | Town of Stonington

Coastal Western Connecticut

Coastal Western Connecticut offers everything from historic lighthouses and shoreline parks to upscale shopping and vibrant cities. Below, discover a few of Western Connecticut's coastal towns and ways to soak in the salt air.

Featuring: Avon Theatre Film Center | Bella Napoli Pizza | Bistro V | Black Duck Cafe | Bruce Museum | Byram Shore Park | Captain John's Tiki Tours | Cask Republic Stamford | City of Milford | City of Norwalk | City of Stamford | Compo Beach | Connecticut Audubon Society Coastal Center | Delamar Greenwich Harbor | Elm Street Diner | Fort Stamford | GrayBarns Inn | Great Captain's Island | Greenwich Audubon Center | Gulf Beach | Homestead Inn | Hotel Zero Degrees Norwalk | Island Beach | La Plage | Longshore Park | Match Burger Lobster | Milford Walking Tour | Mill River Park & Greenway | MoCA Westport | Music Theatre of Connecticut | OKO | Oak & Almond | Old Mill Beach | Pedego SoNo Electric Bikes | Prime Stamford | RPM Bar + Grill | Residence Inn by Marriott - Milford | Ripka's Beach Cafe | Scoot & Paddle | Sea Kayak Connecticut | Sheffield Island Lighthouse and Harbor Tour | Sherwood Island State Park | Sign of the Whale | Silver Sands State Park | SoNo Nightlife | SoundWaters | Stamford Museum & Nature Center | Stanton House Inn | Terrain Garden Cafe | The Beer Garden at Shippan Landing | The Cone Zone | The Corner Restaurant | The Ginger Man | The Inn at Longshore | The Lloyd | The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk | Town of Greenwich | Town of Westport | Walnut Beach | l'escale

Celebrating Black Culture & Businesses in Connecticut

Connecticut is a state with rich history and remarkable innovation – and so much of it has been influenced by the Black individuals who live or have lived here. From historic monuments to Black-owned restaurants, boutiques, and other businesses, we’ve gathered ways to honor and support the Black history, culture, and businesses that make Connecticut special.

Since there are so many great businesses, we were only able to feature a sample, but encourage you to find even more at ShopBlackCT.com.

Featuring: Amistad Center for Art & Culture | Amistad Memorial | Ancient Burying Ground of Hartford | Black-Eyed Sally's Southern Kitchen & Bar | Capital Ice Cream | City of Bridgeport | City of Bristol | City of Hartford | City of Meriden | City of Middletown | City of Milford | City of New Britain | City of New Haven | City of New London | City of New London | City of Norwich | Connecticut Historical Society Museum and Library | Connecticut Science Center | Connecticut's Old State House | Fire & Spice Vegan Restaurant | Harriet Beecher Stowe Center | Music Theatre of Connecticut | Mystic Seaport Museum | New Britain Museum of American Art | Prudence Crandall Museum | Rhythm Brewing Company | Ruby & Calvin Fletcher African American History Museum | Soldiers' Monument & Memorial Park | Soul de Cuba Café | The Bijou Theatre | The Russell | Tosca | Town of Bloomfield | Town of Cheshire | Town of Coventry | Town of Derby | Town of East Haven | Town of Enfield | Town of Fairfield | Town of Farmington | Town of Greenwich | Town of Hamden | Town of Simsbury | Town of Watertown | Town of West Hartford | Town of Windham | Town of Windsor | Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art

Top 10 Spring Things to do in Fairfield County

Is anybody out there that doesn’t have cabin fever? After a long winter (and an even longer year), things are looking up and popping up in Fairfield County, offering loads of fun things to do – alone, with your mate or friends, and with the kids. Check out this 10 must-dos now that the air is warm and the sun is shining – and put a little Spring in your step!

Featuring: Antique & Artisan Gallery | Aspetuck Brew Lab | Avery & Dash Collections | Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens | Black Rock Antiques Center | Blackstones Grille | Brewport | Captain's Cove Seaport | City of Bridgeport | City of Norwalk | City of Shelton | City of Stamford | Connecticut Island Outfitters | Crab Shell Restaurant | Fairfield Auction, LLC | Fairfield County Antique & Design Center | Fairfield Craft Ales | Fort Stamford | Greenwich Living Antiques & Design Center | Half Full Brewery | Harbor Lights | Isabelle et Vincent | Jones Family Farms | Knapp's Landing | Le Rouge Handmade Chocolates by Aarti | Middlebank II | Mongers Market | New Canaan Nature Center | Pedego SoNo Electric Bikes | Stratford Antique Center | The Spread | Tongue in Chique LLC | Town of Easton | Town of Fairfield | Town of Greenwich | Town of Monroe | Town of New Canaan | Town of Weston | Town of Westport | Trout Brook Valley State Park Reserve | Two Roads Brewing Company | Veracious Brewing Company | Washington Prime (Norwalk) | Weir Farm National Historic Site | l'escale