These Old Photos From Connecticut’s Abandoned Resort Are Truly Chilling

There's something so haunting about abandoned places in Connecticut, though they are also eerily beautiful. Why is it that we love to look at places like this? Seeing spots that were once grandiose as shells of their magnificence makes us remember that all of life is fleeting and could end at any time. Let's take a look back in time at the remains of Sunrise Resort in Moodus, CT. This was a once-thriving vacation area near East Haddam. These Sunrise State Park photos, taken in 2011, show a vivid scene of bittersweet nostalgia. The state of Connecticut demolished these decrepit buildings in 2013, but the photos bring back a whirlwind of memories, especially for those who have ever visited anywhere similar to Sunrise Resort in CT. Check out these Sunrise State Park photos:

This exciting attraction began its life as Ted Hilton's Vacation Hide-A-Way in 1916. It later became Frank Davis Resort, and finally turned into Sunrise Resort.

During its heyday, it housed 500 vacationers at once! This place was so popular, there was even a direct train line from New York City to Colchester and East Haddam built specifically for Sunrise Resort in CT.

After its closure, the resort sat vacant for several years before the city stepped in to demolish the remains. During this brief moment in time, this abandoned resort in Connecticut stood as an eerie reminder of days gone by.

In 2009, the state of Connecticut purchased the property for $3.2 million with plans to maintain the recreational facilities. They ultimately failed to find developers, and the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection demolished over 80 dilapidated buildings in 2013.

You can almost hear the band playing under the creaky wooden gazebo.

So many must have had fun evenings of dancing here!

Weeds and shrubs slowly took over the lodging areas. Wildlife and ivy invaded.

This red wooden building once housed the children's area. Toys sat all around the house, almost like kids would come back to play at any moment.

Glasses, plates, and supplies sat on shelves, covered in dust.

It's almost like employees and vacationers expected to return someday and relive past summers of fun.

The resort's dining hall stood tall as growth took over the surrounding area.

The empty pool was an especially bone-chilling sight.

The miniature golf course was once an exciting place to spend an afternoon, putt-putting away.

Sunrise Resort in Moodus, CT really was a world of fun. Now, it's nothing but a memory.

Take a tour of the old Sunset Resort in CT, and listen to an interview with the most recent owner, Bob Johnson, in this video:

Today, the area where the resort stood is known as Sunrise State Park. Though you won’t find any old buildings here, you can still meander through 146 acres of peaceful nature.

Did you ever spend a summer at Sunrise Resort in CT, or maybe even back when it was still the Frank Davis Resort? If so, we want to hear all about it! Share your memories with us in the comments.

And if you're looking for an exciting adventure you can still take today, embark on this thrilling road trip to these five abandoned places in Connecticut. Before taking any road trip, make sure to check out our Road Trip Essentials Packing List to ensure you're prepared for whatever life throws at you!