Our state is such a unique and wonderful place to live. There is no doubt that Connecticut has many beautiful spots to visit, and everyone has their favorite. Yet it is always a great surprise to discover something new. Here are seven hidden gems in Connecticut that might be out of the way, but you should take the time to explore.

1. Mianus River - Greenwich

Mianus River, Greenwich, CT 06878, USA
U.S. Geological Survey/Flickr
Flowing south through Fairfield County, the Mianus River has some very spectacular spots. Three great places to visit the river are Mianus State Park, Mianus Glen and Newman Mills Park. It’s one of our favorite hidden gems in Connecticut!

2. Squantz Pond - New Fairfield

Squantz Pond, Connecticut, USA
Joe S./Flickr
Squantz Pond is simply peaceful and serene especially during the autumn months. The mountainous setting around it makes you feel isolated in a very cozy way. Connecticut hidden gems don’t get much better than this!

3. West River - New Haven

West River, New Haven, CT, USA
Flickr/slack12
Winding through southern Connecticut, the West River spans 13.5 miles. It travels through Bethany, Woodbridge and New Haven. There are many breathtaking views to be had along the West River. One of the best hidden gems in CT!

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4. Charles Island - Milford

Charles Island, Milford, CT 06460, USA
J J/Flickr
Accessible only by a sandbar that comes and goes with the tide, Charles Island is truly a hidden gem. Some locals believe that Captain Kidd buried some of his treasure on this island off of the coast of Milford. Maybe there is a treasure to be found on the island. This is one of the wonderful hidden gems in Connecticut.

5. Ragged Mountain - Southington

Ragged Mountain, Southington, CT 06489, USA
Brian Manning/Flickr
Even at only 761 feet tall, Ragged Mountain, which is located in the towns of Belin and Southington, offers some gorgeous scenery. To access the views, there is a 5.5 hiking trail that makes a loop. Along the way is a small lake which makes a perfect resting spot. If you’re in Southington and looking for a hidden gem near me, head straight to Ragged Mountain!

6. Kent Falls State Park - Kent

Kent Falls State Park, 462 Kent Cornwall Rd, Kent, CT 06757, USA
Jaine/Flickr
The water cascading down 250 feet creates a stunning view. Several viewing platforms are along the way to the top of the falls. You can stop often and take photos or take a moment to enjoy the sounds of the rolling water. This rates high on our favorite Connecticut hidden gems!

7. Tory's Cave - New Milford

Tory's Cave Preserve, 499 Kent Rd, New Milford, CT 06776, USA
alltrails.com/lee seeman
Tory's cave is small in size, but it truly is a natural wonder in that it is the only "real" cave in Connecticut. It can hold up to 24 people, but what this cave really houses well is the local bat population. Tory's cave is closed from November until April to keep the bats safe. You could say it’s one of the best hidden gems in CT!

We may not be the biggest state in the country, but we deliver some pretty fascinating hidden gems in Connecticut when you know where to look. Have visited any of these spots yet?

For more places to explore in Connecticut, check out these 11 free outdoor activities. And if you need some good outdoor gear, we love REI!

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More to Explore

Hidden Gems In Connecticut

Megan McDonald | November 29, 2023

Is there anything interesting in Connecticut?

Connecticut offers a wide array of interesting attractions and activities. It's known for its rich colonial history, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant arts and culture. You can explore historic sites like the Mark Twain House & Museum or the Mystic Seaport, a living-history maritime museum. 

Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the scenic beauty of places like the Litchfield Hills or the beaches along the Long Island Sound. Connecticut also boasts charming small towns with unique shops and restaurants and beautiful state parks ideal for hiking, biking, and camping. The state's proximity to major cities like New York and Boston makes it a convenient destination for visitors looking for urban and rural experiences.

What is Connecticut known for? 

Connecticut is known for:

  • Rich colonial history and significant Revolutionary War sites.
  • Yale University, one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
  • Picturesque small towns with a New England charm.
  • Maritime history, exemplified by Mystic Seaport.
  • The insurance industry, particularly in Hartford, is known as the "Insurance Capital of the World."
  • Beautiful landscapes, including rolling hills, wooded areas, and beaches along Long Island Sound.
  • Submarine capital of the world, home to the U.S. Navy's main submarine base.
  • The Peabody Museum of Natural History and other cultural institutions.
  • Fall foliage, offering some of the most beautiful autumnal scenery in New England.
  • Notable residents and authors, including Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe.

 

Connecticut is well known for its fun arts and culture scene, beautiful landscapes, and colonial history.

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