4 Connecticut Tourist Spots I Tried to Hate (But Ended Up Loving)

Growing up in a state that borders Connecticut, I'm no stranger to what the state has to offer, whether a destination only locals seem to know or a popular spot that crowds of tourists flock to. While I love peace and quiet, I will visit anywhere at least once, even places considered overly crowded. And while the following destinations are among the must-see attractions in Connecticut, I ended up loving each one despite trying to dislike them... and I would visit them all again!

1. Mystic Pizza

Because it is one of the best-known, therefore touristy, restaurants in Connecticut, the bar was set pretty low in my mind. My parents all but dragged me to Mystic Pizza on a day trip to Mystic one year in my early adulthood, and I didn't want to go. Say what you will, but despite its popularity due to the classic 1988 film "Mystic Pizza," starring Julia Roberts, I was surprised to find it was way better and more enjoyable than I expected. I was also skeptical about the food because we lived in Rhode Island, which has some of the best pizza in the country (at least that's what I believe). However, with its nostalgic ambiance that feels like stepping into a scene from "Mystic Pizza," plus the delicious pizza, I know I'll be back!

2. PEZ Visitor Center

When living in Baltimore, my son and I would take numerous road trips to Rhode Island to visit family. Every time we drove through Connecticut on I-95, we noticed a sign for the PEZ Visitor Center. One day, I decided it was time to stop at what I thought would be a tourist trap. Well, I was wrong. The colorful sign outside the visitor center/museum greeted us as we entered the parking lot. We then walked through the door, paid admission, and checked out all of the displays. I was impressed by the thousands of PEZ dispensers, both new and old, many still in their original packaging, on the shelves of the vibrant, cheerful museum. Because I loved this museum so much, I tell anyone who listens to visit.

3. Olde Mistick Village

During childhood, my aunt used to take my sister and me on an annual trip to Olde Mistick Village around the holidays. The first time, however, I wasn't so impressed with the thought of going—I thought I'd be bored. But after that first time, walking around, shopping, seeing the enchanting Christmas lights and decorations, and listening to the seasonal music in each store we entered, it became one of my favorite places, one filled with a bit of Christmas magic and lasting memories with my aunt and sister that I'll always cherish.

4. The Dinosaur Place

Who would have thought a dinosaur attraction would be so much fun for an adult? As a mom, I've been to many attractions that I couldn't wait to leave. Not this one, though. The Dinosaur Place is a 60-acre park with a splash pad, trails, a maze, a dinosaur-themed playground, and over 100 life-sized dinosaurs. Of course, the kids had fun, but so did I! This place took me back to the carefree days of childhood, and I'd love to visit again.

How many of these tourist destinations have you been to? What are some of your favorite tourist spots in Connecticut? Please fill out our nomination form if you have a place you'd love to share with us.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip to Connecticut's best hidden gems and tourist attractions using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.