Outdoor dining is an experience: it's casual vibes, beautiful views, and, of course, delicious food! Connecticut has a variety of outdoor restaurants that will give you a true taste of The Constitution State. From lobster shacks to delicious burgers, you won't go hungry at any of the state's outdoor dining establishments. Here are eight outdoor restaurants in Connecticut you need to visit -- ASAP!

1. The Blue Oar, Haddam

Arrive by car or boat to this colorful riverfront restaurant. There is plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy the American classics and seafood served up with a water view. Appetizers and sandwiches are served all day at The Blue Oar, one of Connecticut's very best waterfront dining establishments.

2. Lobster Landing, Clinton

The menu is admittedly a bit limited, but the expansive coastal views at this seafood shack on the coast make up for that. Enjoy a fresh lobster roll (the house specialty), hot dog, or sausage and peppers. Three items to choose from, but they will keep you coming back for more! Find Lobster Landing, a seasonal 'shack, in Clinton.

3. The Place, Guilford

Enjoy food cooked over an open fire at this roadside restaurant. Lobsters, clams, roasted corn, and BBQ chicken are just a few of the offerings on the menu. Grab a seat on a tree stump and get ready for a true outdoor dining experience. Learn more about what makes The Place special in our recent feature.

4. Harry's Place, Colchester

Experience 97 years of nostalgia at this long-standing favorite in Colchester. Burgers, hot dogs, and fish 'n chips are menu staples here, but make sure you save room for ice cream after your meal -- it's spectacular!

5. Stowe's Seafood, West Haven

Find seafood classics at this funky pirate-themed shack on the shoreline. Enjoy lobster rolls, chowder, fried clams, and more while the shoreline breeze keeps you cool. Visit Stowe's Seafood next time a craving strikes for lobster rolls!

6. S&P Oyster Company, Mystic

This upscale spot on the Mystic River has a spectacular view of the bridge. Dine on fresh food with a South American flair. Shrimp, scallops, steak, and of course, oysters are carefully prepared to please your palate. One of the very best seafood restaurants in Connecticut, S&P Oyster Company is a must-visit.

7. Abbott's Lobster In The Rough, Groton

For lobster rolls, steamed lobsters, and other delicious seafood, visit this dockside spot with sweeping water views. Serving up a variety of seasonal offerings since 1947, locals await the opening of this summertime spot each year.

8. Shanks, Clinton

Shanks in Clinton is a seasonal dining establishment that's open May through the end of summer (closing dates vary!) You'll place your order at this dry-docked boat and then dine at a picnic table overlooking the harbor-- you'll find all kinds of yummy seafood and sandwiches on this delightful food boat.

How many of these outdoor restaurants in Connecticut have you dined at before? Which one do you plan on heading to next? Share your fave outdoor dining spots in the comments below -- we'd love to hear about them!

And we'd be remiss not to include dessert options in this roundup, too, so be sure to check out these ice cream stands in Connecticut. Rumor has it that they serve up some the very best milkshakes in the state!