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, passing by countless scenic sights, historic stops, natural wonders, and unique destinations. If you’re looking for a road trip in Connecticut that will take you to some of the prettiest places in the state, check out the scenic Connecticut River Loop for a fantastic road trip no matter the time of year.

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1. Windsor Locks Canal State Park Trail: Suffield, CT
Windsor Locks Canal State Park Trail (Windsor Locks Canal Towpath), Suffield, CT, USA
Jennifer Yakey-Ault/Getty
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.
2. Talcott Mountain State Park: Simsbury, CT
Talcott Mountain State Park, Summit Ridge Dr, Simsbury, CT 06070, USA
Photo by Kelly Nigro/Getty
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.

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3. Elizabeth Park Conservancy: West Hartford, CT
Elizabeth Park Conservancy, 1561 Asylum Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117, USA
Elizabeth Park, Hartford CT/Facebook
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!
4. Dinosaur State Park: Rocky Hill, CT
Dinosaur State Park, 400 West St, Rocky Hill, CT 06067, USA
Cameron Coelho/GoogleReviews
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.
5. Gillette Castle State Park: East Haddam, CT
Gillette Castle State Park, 67 River Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA
Jason Huang/GoogleReviews
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.
6. Soundview Beach: Old Lyme, CT
Soundview Beach, Old Lyme, CT 06371, USA
Christine Anderson/Google Maps
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. And thus ends this lovely Connecticut River Loop drive!

It’s amazing that one river flows all the way through our great state! Did we miss your favorite stop along the Connecticut River Loop? Share your must-visit attractions in the comments.

Of course, this pretty drive isn’t the only way to explore everything our state has to offer. We have over a dozen of the best road trips in Connecticut already planned for you! Add an RV rental to your journey, and you have yourself the makings of the perfect getaway.

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More to Explore

Connecticut River Loop & Related Info

Jennifer | August 17, 2023

Does Connecticut have any scenic byways?

We love the Connecticut River Loop, but Connecticut also has an incredible 52 official scenic byways (both national and state), as well as numerous scenic roads and trails that crisscross every region of the state.

  • Route 1 is perfect for beach lovers.
  • Route 7 winds all the way down the entire western border of Connecticut.
  • Route 146 is short and sweet, but offers a plethora of waterfront views.
  • Route 169 is a dreamy road trip through some of the most charming small towns in Connecticut.

 

What are the best botanical gardens in Connecticut?

Spring, summer, fall... every season is garden season in scenic Connecticut! Fortunately, you can stroll through those phenomenal sights and experience Connecticut's vibrant flora up close and personal. Here are some of our favorite botanical gardens in CT to explore:

  • Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens
  • Connecticut College Arboretum
  • Dinosaur State Park and Arboretum
  • Elizabeth Park Rose Garden
  • Florence Griswold Museum, Old Lyme
  • Gertrude Jekyll Gardens, Woodbury
  • Harkness Memorial State Park
  • Hollister House Garden
  • Marsh Botanical Garden
  • Meigs Point Nature Center, Madison
  • Richard D. Haley Native Plant Wildlife Gardens
  • Wickham Park

 

What are some of the most beautiful places in Connecticut?

From fantastic waterfalls and canyons to lakes, geologic formations, parks, and man-made natural wonders, some of our favorite beautiful places in Connecticut include:

  • Candlewood Lake
  • Elizabeth Park
  • Essex, Connecticut
  • Killingly, Connecticut
  • Hollister House Garden

 

...and so many more!

 

 

 

 

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