This Connecticut Road Trip Takes You From The Litchfield Hills To The Shore And Quiet Corner

While the Nutmeg State is often overlooked due to its small size, it can also be a real blessing. Like when planning a road trip, for instance. In a larger state, you could only expect to see a small portion of the state’s wonders when traveling. The small size means that it’s easy to plan a road trip through Connecticut where you can see the whole state pretty much from top to bottom! We’ve got one planned for you today that will take you through some of the best destinations in Connecticut. You’ll start in the beautiful Litchfield Hills region, head down to the beaches, then up to the so-called Quiet Corner.

Google Maps

The entire trip will require a little less than four hours of driving, though obviously you'll want to add in extra time to view all the stops. Check out the customizable itinerary on Google Maps, and you can add or subtract stops if you like.

Friends of Topsmead State Forest

Topsmead State Forest is such a beautifully-preserved area. This refuge was once the summer home of a wealthy businesswoman, who willed the property to the state upon her death. There are some great short trails here, and it's such a lovely place.

Topsmead State Forest, Litchfield, CT 06759, USA

Yale University Art Gallery/Google Maps

Being home to one of the top universities in the country certainly has its perks. Yale University has a stunning campus and a number of wonderful museums associated with it. One of our favorites is the Yale University Art Gallery. Fans of art can also check out the nearby Yale Center for British Art. Both galleries are free and open to the public.

Yale University Art Gallery, 1111 Chapel St, New Haven, CT 06510, USA

Dawn Foerch/Google Maps

Hammonasset Beach State Park is the longest beach in Connecticut. There are more than two miles of shoreline to explore, and it's even got a magical singing beach! No matter what time of year you visit, this is a great place for a oceanfront stroll.

Hammonasset Beach, Madison, CT 06443, USA

Vankfire/Flickr

The Nutmeg State probably isn't the first place you think of when imagining castles, but we actually have quite a few castles in Connecticut. One of the best is in Gillette Castle State Park. The East Haddam park spans 122 acres and includes a castle that was once the private residence of stage actor William Gillette. The castle is beautiful and the balcony has some of the best views in the state.

Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA

George Bayliss/Flickr

In truth, you could easily plan an entire vacation to Mystic. The little city is famous for its pizza and has a historic past as an important seaport in Connecticut. The Mystic Seaport Museum is the largest maritime museum in the country and makes for an excellent visit.

Mystic, Stonington, CT, USA

Roseland Cottage/Facebook

Northeast Connecticut may be nicknamed the Quiet Corner, but there's a lot to see here! Roseland Cottage is another beautiful home that was once a summer house for a wealthy resident. It's now a museum that documents life in 1800s New England. The beautiful gardens host many festivals and events throughout the year. You can find more information on the cottage's website.

556 CT-169, Woodstock, CT 06281, USA

What would you add to your road trip through Connecticut? Share your suggestions in the comments!