Even a state as scenic as Connecticut can get lost behind all the buildings and bustling cities. But these roads will let you return to the Connecticut you know and love. No matter what the season, these are the best scenic drives in Connecticut to do any time of year.

1. Route 27
Connecticut 27, CT-27, Stonington, CT, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Start in Mystic and head north to Route 184. You'll pass through a vineyard in Stonington and are free to take the detour to Barn Island Wildlife Management Area. Take in all the trees and historic homes this area has to offer on the 30-mile round trip drive. This is one of the best scenic drives in CT.
2. Route 146
Connecticut 146, CT-146, Branford, CT, USA
Google Maps
We love Route 146. Though it spans just 13 miles, every mile is packed with scenic beauty. Route 146 stretches from Branford to Guilford, offering an alternative path to US-1, which lies adjacent to I-95. It’s one of the best scenic drives in Connecticut.
3. Route 8
Connecticut 8, CT-8, Winsted, CT, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Start at Route 8 in Torrington, also known as James H Darcey Memorial Highway, and head North to Route 44. Passing the Saville Dam and Barkhamsted Reservoir will move you to snap photographs. This drive is fantastic at night as well. In the fall, it’s one of the best scenic drives in Connecticut.
4. US-7
U.S. 7, US-7, New Milford, CT, USA
Google Maps
Take US-7 in to CT-41 from Brookfeild to Sharon and enjoy 35 miles of greatness as you pass along the Housatonic River and heavily-wooded two-lane roads. If you’re thinking, “Scenic drives Connecticut? ” Think US-7!
5. Merritt Parkway
Merritt Parkway, Merritt Pkwy, New Canaan, CT, USA
Wil S./Yelp
This historic road in Fairfield County is a 37-mile stretch of National Scenic Byway. It's known for the architecture of its overpasses, and it's one of the greatest drives on a winter's day. We think it's one of the best driving roads in Connecticut.

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6. Route 169
Connecticut 169, CT-169, Lisbon, CT, USA
Doug Kerr / Flickr
You'll be glad you know about this road come autumn! The foliage along this peaceful strip is to die for. You will pass through quaint towns with colonial structures and lots of rolling farmland. If you’re in Lisbon and looking for scenic drives near me, take this one!
7. Connecticut 63
Connecticut 63, CT-63, Watertown, CT, USA
Google Maps
Start on the 63 in Goshen, and then catch the 128 in to Cornwall for a look at the Litchfield area. These towns are known for being picturesque, and this two lane drive will be devoid of noise or trucks. It is one of our favorite scenic scenic drives in CT.
8. Route 149
Connecticut 149, CT-149, East Haddam, CT, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Follow the Salmon River to the beloved Connecticut River as you drive from Colchester to East Haddam. This vineyard-lined road is also heavily wooded, culminating at the famed Goodspeed Opera House. We love this scenic drive in Connecticut.
9. Route 94
Connecticut 94, CT-94, Glastonbury, CT, USA
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Jump from the 94 to the 85 to the 16 as you travel from Glastonbury to East Hampton. You'll pass Blackledge Falls and get to pay a visit to the covered Comstock Bridge. We love this scenic drive in Connecticut!
10. Route 154
Connecticut 154, CT-154, Old Saybrook, CT, USA
Adam Moss/Flickr
Follow the Connecticut coast from Old Saybrook to Haddam as you pass the renowned Harvey's Beach and Fenwick, where celebrities come to feel the breeze. This is a great scenic drive near me.

I wish I was on the road right now! Have you had a chance to take any of the best scenic drives in Connecticut? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!

Looking for more great drives? We love driving in Litchfield Hills. And if you’re going on a road trip, don’t forget the ultimate guide to road trip snacks!

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More to Explore

Best Scenic Drives In Connecticut

Megan McDonald | August 18, 2023

What is the scenic parkways in Connecticut?

The Merritt Parkway, designated as Route 15, is Connecticut's iconic scenic parkway. Stretching from the New York state line in Greenwich to the Housatonic River in Stratford, the Merritt Parkway is celebrated for its unique blend of nature and architecture. Opened in 1938, it quickly became renowned for its individually designed and artistically crafted overpass bridges, each exuding a unique character and aesthetic. Flanked by trees, the parkway offers a captivating display of colors during the fall foliage season, making it a favorite drive for residents and visitors. Besides its scenic beauty, the Merritt Parkway holds historical significance and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preserving its legacy as a testament to early 20th-century highway design.

What are the best scenic drives in Connecticut?

Connecticut offers a variety of scenic drives that showcase its historic towns, coastal landscapes, and dense woodlands. Here are some of the best scenic drives in the state:

  • Merritt Parkway (Route 15): A historically significant highway, the Merritt Parkway is renowned for its beautiful bridges and the lush landscape that surrounds it. Particularly gorgeous in the fall with changing foliage.
  • Litchfield Hills Loop: Covering Routes 7, 63, 45, and 202, this loop takes you through picturesque towns like Litchfield and offers glimpses of rolling hills, serene lakes, and quaint farms.
  • Route 169: Designated a National Scenic Byway, this route travels through the Quiet Corner of Connecticut, offering views of farms, colonial churches, and historic New England villages.
  • Route 146 – Guilford to Branford: This drive meanders along the coast, providing views of salt marshes, beaches, and historic homes.
  • Post Road (US Route 1): Stretching from Greenwich to Stonington, this route guides many of Connecticut's coastal towns and offers a mix of historic and modern sights.

When exploring these drives, remember to take your time, make stops in local towns and parks, and enjoy Connecticut's diverse landscapes and history.

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