7 Incredible Day Trips In Connecticut You Can Take Without A Car

It's easy to fall into the mindset of driving everywhere you want to go. But, what if you don't have your own vehicle? Or maybe you just want to take a trip where you don't have to worry about the traffic. In Connecticut, we have a great system of public transportation that offers you plenty of other options. Check out the best day trips in Connecticut — no car required!

Leave your gas guzzler at home and check out these fantastic ways to see the sights without getting behind the wheel.

1. Explore Downtown Stamford

Ride the train to Stamford and then enjoy a short walk to Trolley Stop 12. The charming Harbor Point Trolley will take you around downtown Stamford for free. Shop, dine, and stroll this scenic city for a captivating day trip. Find out more on the free shuttle Harbor Point Trolley. It's one of the best day trips in Connecticut!

2. Take A Bicycle Ride

Simsbury Free Bike loans out bicycles in the communities of Simsbury, Farmington, Avon, New Britain, and Cheshire. Leave a small deposit and receive a bike and helmet to use for up to 24 hours. Don't know where to go? The Farmington Canal Heritage Trail and the Farmington River Trail are two paved bike paths with stunning scenery to view along the way. Learn more about Simsbury Free Bike.

Note: the Simsbury Free Bike service concluded its final season in 2019. For other bike rentals in Connecticut, check out Bike Cheshire. They offer a free community bike sharing service.

3. Go Antiquing in Seymour

A community of charming antique shops and galleries is just a short walk away from the Seymour train station. Hunt for that perfect treasure and grab a bite to eat in the historic district. Learn more about Seymour's vintage shops.

4. Enjoy A Ferry Ride

Grab a train to South Norwalk and then hop aboard a picturesque ferry straight out to Sheffield Island. Check out the lighthouse museum, take a hike on the nature trails, or spend some time along the shore. There's plenty to do at this offshore treasure. Learn more about the Sheffield Island Lighthouse and Ferry.

5. Spend The Day In The City

Although a trip to the Big Apple is always appealing, a train ride to New Haven is much more affordable. The Union Station Shuttle will transport you from the train station to New Haven Green. Enjoy the open space and then embark on an adventure. Whether you want to shop, dine, visit museums, or just admire the great architecture, this is the place to do it. Find out more information on the Union Station Shuttle.

6. Visit An Aquarium

In Connecticut, we have not one, but two incredible aquariums to explore. The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk and The Mystic Aquarium are both loaded with educational exhibits and fascinating sea life. Each of these top-notch destinations is within walking distance of the train station in their respective towns.

7. Get Lucky At The Casino

Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun have plenty to offer other than slot machines and roulette. Enjoy a variety of scrumptious restaurants, tempting shops, or catch a live show. Many bus companies offer trips to these fun-filled destinations. Learn about the Greyhound shuttles to Foxwoods.

What do you think are the best day trips in Connecticut? Any other spontaneous "day trips near me in" Connecticut that you've done? Share your thought with us in the comments below!

If you need more adventure, check out these 13 hidden waterfalls in Connecticut.