The secret corner of Connecticut is a group of historic, unspoiled towns nestled into some of the most breathtaking scenery of our small state. Located in the northwest corner of the state, the area is characterized by its cheerful town centers and greens, lush forests, working farms, and pre-Revolutionary construction. This road trip is designed to uncover some of the best places to visit in this area which are so full of New England charm.
This road trip takes less than one hour and 45 minutes to drive, but of course you are going to want to spend some time in each spot. You may want to add in an overnight stay and make this a weekend trip. You can do all of that on the trip map by adding or removing locations, or even changing the order of the route.
You can find our totally customizable road trip map for the secret corner of Connecticut here on Google Maps. Are you ready to get this road trip started?
You are going to need some fuel for this road trip and we aren't talking about gasoline for the car. Stop in to Collins Diner in Canaan for some top notch food and a bit of nostalgia. The Diner has been around since 1941 and is a National Historic Landmark. This spot overlooks the historic railroad station and is a close walk to downtown shops if you want to do some further exploring.
In Falls Village, you are going to want to adventure into the outdoors. Access to the Appalachian Trail and the Great Falls of the Housatonic River are right at your fingertips. The views and natural beauty are stunning, so make sure to bring your camera along for this part of the Secret Corner Road Trip.
In Lakeville, you will want to visit Lime Rock Park, New England's historic race track that has been in operation since 1957. The track was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2009 and legends such as Paul Newman and Mario Andretti have raced this venue.
The classic village center of Salisbury is home to many cozy shops including an incredible bakery. Sweet William's Bakery has two locations in the town. One spot serves coffee and fluffy pastries and the other shop is stocked with sweets like cupcakes and cookies. You won't want to miss grabbing a bite and then strolling the Main Street to absorb the quaintness of Salisbury.
The Sharon Audubon Center is located on more than 1,000 forested acres. You can hike eleven miles of trails or visit the many things to do at the center itself. Stroll through the butterfly and herb gardens, visit the working sugarhouse, or visit the beautiful birds in the raptor aviaries. There is even an adventure center for the kids at this lively spot.
Kent is located in a beautiful rural town where you won't find any chain stores, but only independent small businesses. The most popular thing to do is head over to Kent Falls State Park for the magnificent natural beauty. The falls drop over 250 feet and make quite a splash. Hiking, fishing and picnicking are all popular activities at the falls.
The iconic emblem of Cornwall is its gorgeous covered bridge. Established in 1841, this is quite a little piece of history. Walk over the stunning bridge and then sit a minute on a park bench and relax as the river tumbles by.
While in Goshen, you are going to want to visit the amazing Action Wildlife Park. It offers a drive-through safari to view animals like yak and zebras. Then get out of your car, stretch your legs, and get up close and personal with some adorable animals at the petting zoo. There is also a great hands-on educational center for the kids. Located in sweeping fields of green, this animal adventure is a beautiful piece of what Sharon offers the secret corner of Connecticut.
The Infinity Hall in Norfolk is a beautiful theater that was built in 1883. It hosts many incredible performances throughout the year. The historic theater has a bistro and bar on site so this is a great place to wind up your road trip with a drink and a delicious meal.
20 Greenwoods Rd., W, Norfolk, CT
Would you take this road trip to the secret corner of Connecticut? What other spots might you visit while you are there? Let us know in the comments section below.
While you are up in the secret corner, you might also want to visit this incredible chocolate farm in Goshen.
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