Posted in Connecticut
June 10, 2022
Follow The Connecticut River Along This Scenic Drive Through Connecticut
The mighty Connecticut River is the longest river in New England. It flows through the entirety of the Nutmeg State, from our northern border on down to the southern shore. If you’re looking for a great road trip in Connecticut, check out this scenic nature road trip that will take you to some of the prettiest places in the state.
Rivers tend to have beautiful greenery surrounding them, and many areas around the Connecticut River are no exception. This road trip in Connecticut follows right along the river. You'll get to see some of the most stunning areas of the state on this trip. The driving time is only about 2.25 hours, but there are quite a few stops, so you'll want to plan for two or three days. For a customizable itinerary, check out Google Maps.
Windsor Locks Canal State Park Trail (Windsor Locks Canal Towpath), Suffield, CT, USA
This is one of our favorite trails in Connecticut. The trail runs for 4.5 miles, though of course you don't have to go the entire route. You'll get great views of both the river and the old Enfield Canal.
Talcott Mountain State Park, Summit Ridge Dr, Simsbury, CT 06070, USA
Talcott Mountain State Park is one of the best places for hiking in Connecticut. This park is filled with some magnificent trails, and is also home to the magnificent 165-foot Heublin Tower, where you can find catch a bird's eye view of the world below you.
Elizabeth Park Conservancy, 1561 Asylum Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117, USA
Your next stop will be Connecticut's capital city, Hartford. The Elizabeth Park Conservancy is a stunning garden that features a rock garden, magical tunnel of roses, and more. Regardless of what season you visit in, make sure to check out the on-site Pond House Cafe for a meal: you can't beat those views!
Exhibit Center at Dinosaur State Park, 400 West St, Rocky Hill, CT 06067, USA
Editor's Note: Parts of Dinosaur State Park are closed for renovations during part of 2022.
It's amazing to think that dinosaurs once roamed through Connecticut. You can still see evidence of them at Dinosaur State Park in Rocky Hill. This place has one of the largest sets of dinosaur footprints in the country.
It's amazing to think that dinosaurs once roamed through Connecticut. You can still see evidence of them at Dinosaur State Park in Rocky Hill. This place has one of the largest sets of dinosaur footprints in the country.
Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA
Your next stop is a real life castle in Connecticut. Gillette Castle State Park features the eponymous castle, which is open for tours in the summer. This place is absolutely stunning, inside and out, and is such a unique attraction! The park surrounding the area is gorgeous as well, and contains several hiking trails.
Soundview Beach, Old Lyme, CT 06371, USA
You'll end your trip down at the shore. Soundview Beach is a small public beach that has plenty of nearby restaurants and bars. The waves aren't too strong here, so it's a good opportunity to wade in the water.
It’s amazing that one river flows all the way through our great state! Did we miss your favorite stop along the Connecticut River? Share your must-visit attractions in the comments.
Address: Windsor Locks Canal State Park Trail (Windsor Locks Canal Towpath), Suffield, CT, USA
Address: Talcott Mountain State Park, Summit Ridge Dr, Simsbury, CT 06070, USA
Address: Elizabeth Park Conservancy, 1561 Asylum Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117, USA
Address: Exhibit Center at Dinosaur State Park, 400 West St, Rocky Hill, CT 06067, USA
Address: Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA
Address: Soundview Beach, Old Lyme, CT 06371, USA
