The world is always changing, and it's often fun to take a glimpse back to the past. From the cherished Caldor stores to the exciting Agora Ballroom, there's a number of businesses that left this state too soon. These are 8 places from Connecticut's past that we will never stop missing.
1. The Great Danbury State Fair
From 1821 to 1981, this thrilling extravaganza burst with excitement. People came from all around New England to enjoy the rides, food, and spectacle. The photo above features a lively parade from the fair in the '60s.
2. Savin Rock Amusement Park
In the 1950s and '60s, this attraction was the Connecticut equivalent of Coney Island. People always loved riding the exhilarating roller coasters and playing carnival games. The park closed in 1966, but you can still get a nostalgic hot dog from Jimmie's nearby. To learn more about this beloved historic attraction in Connecticut, read our feature article here.
3. Mortensen Dairy Restaurant
Losing Mortensen Dairy Restaurant in 2013 was a huge disappointment. This welcoming eatery was the perfect place to enjoy a meal with the family. Thankfully, we can still devour their delicious ice cream at their location in Newington.
4. G. Fox & Co.
At one time, G. Fox & Co. was the largest privately held department store in the nation. But in 1965, G. Fox was sold to May Department Stores Company. By the early '90s, this beloved store started rebranding. Do you remember shopping at G. Fox?
5. Ames
If you wanted to go bargain hunting, chances are you went to Ames. This department store boasted excellent prices and exciting selection. For a while, Connecticut was lucky enough to have the Ames headquarters within its borders! Unfortunately, this chain store went bankrupt in 2002, and we miss it every day.
6. The New Haven Coliseum
If you were looking for a memorable night out, this was where you went. The New Haven Coliseum hosted a slew of exciting concerts and hockey matches, but it was tragically torn down in 2002.
7. Howard Johnson's
You'll still find a few HoJo hotels around the area, but we always long for their cozy restaurants. The photo above gives a glimpse back to the HoJo in East Lyme in the 1970s.
8. Bradlee's
These discount department stores were always full of excellent finds. Sadly, these stores closed in 2001.
What Connecticut places do you miss the most? Let us know in the comments below!
If you want to take another step into the past, check out these 11 rare old photos of Connecticut.
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