Is your inner photographer is itching to shoot some spectacular scenery? Or maybe you just want to get lost in a fairytale setting for a few hours? You can do both at this magnificent seaside garden and estate nestled away in one of Connecticut’s most captivating state parks.

Located on the Long Island Sound in Waterford, Harkness Memorial State Park is a picture perfect spot to spend the day. Explore the mansion, gardens, and beach for that fairytale afternoon you've been craving.
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The Roman Renaissance Classical Revival-style mansion is set amongst enchanting gardens and expansive green lawns on the waterfront. The estate was built in 1906 and purchased by Edward and Mary Harkness in 1907 to serve as their summer home.
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The 42-room mansion and grounds were given to the state in 1950 and developed into a state park. You can tour the mansion weekends and holidays from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
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During the rest of the year, wander the grounds and admire the incredible architecture from the outside. Each step you'll take is absolutely entrancing.
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The mansion is flanked by lush manicured gardens. The formal gardens were developed over an 11 year period during the 1920s by landscape designer Beatrix Jones Farrand.
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Spring and summer brings plenty of color to the grounds with bursting blooms around every corner. Even the most amateur photographer can get some incredible shots in this landscape.
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These seaside gardens are a big draw for butterflies. And the coastal location makes it an ideal spot for bird watching too.
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The gardens have the wonderful backdrop of the Long Island Sound. You'll want to take the boardwalk path right down to the beach.
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The curved shoreline creates a stunning view and the white sandy beach is a fantastic spot for a leisurely stroll. Let the coastal breezes carry your stress away as you tour this storybook place.
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Find Harkness Memorial State Park at 275 Great Neck Rd., Waterford, CT 06385. The park is open from 8 a.m. - sunset year round. Learn more by visiting the Connecticut DEEP website.

Connecticut’s state parks all offer something different. From historical sites to sandy beaches and spectacular waterfalls to picturesque forests, there are more than 100 different state parks to explore.

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