Connecticut in winter can be quite chilly, but even so, it's not as legendarily frigid as some Midwestern states or the areas farther north than us. You may be surprised to learn that we do have one particularly cold town in Connecticut that is nicknamed "the icebox of Connecticut." Norfolk is considerably colder than most of the state, but that doesn't mean it's not worth a visit, even in winter. It's a small town with around 2,000 people, but there's a wonderful historic district here and plenty to check out here.
There's a lot to see in Norfolk, whether you're a fan of history, architecture, small town businesses, or nature.
If you're looking for natural beauty, Campbell Falls State Park is one of the most underrated state parks in Connecticut. This 102-acre oasis has beautiful trails and a 50-foot waterfall.
You'll also find Haystack Mountain State Park here. The park is home to a 1,716-foot tall mountain that shares its name, and the lookout tower has some of the best views in the state.
It's full of things to see and places to be, but you'll definitely want to bundle up if you visit in winter! Norfolk is right in the foothills of both the Berkshires and Appalachian Mountains and has one of the highest elevations in Connecticut.
Fall in Connecticut is truly an amazing time. The foliage in New England is absolutely gorgeous, and there are some great fall festivals in Connecticut. The brisk weather and festive foods make autumn in Connecticut a wonderful season. We think there's no better time for a weekend getaway than fall, and when you're looking for great towns to visit for some fantastic fall day trips in Connecticut, there's no shortage of candidates. One of our favorite destinations for a Connecticut day trip at any time of year is Essex, and it just so happens to also be one of the best places to see fall foliage in Connecticut.
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One of the best things to do in Essex, CT to enjoy a ride on the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat.
Riding on a steam train or riverboat is such a nostalgic feeling at any time of year, but being surrounded by the beautiful hues of fall is especially remarkable. The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat offers special tours in autumn that will show off all the best foliage.
Enjoying a stroll through Essex's historic district is a wonderful way to soak up the city's beauty.
Have you ever visited Essex? What are your favorite places for fall day trips in Connecticut? Share your best destinations in the comments! While you're visiting Essex, put on your hiking boots and explore some of the surrounding outdoor attractions:
While the sun shines bright and the warm sand feels good beneath our feet, a beach day trip in Connecticut is a great way to spend a day. It’s time to take advantage of our extensive shoreline and hit the beach. Whether you want a family-friendly locale or a nature lover’s paradise, there is something for everyone when you go on Connecticut day trips. One of these nine beach day trips is sure to fit the bill when you need a late summer day-cation. Are you ready to experience some of the best beaches in Connecticut?
This seaside spot in Norwalk is buckets of fun for the whole family. It's easily one of the best day trips in Connecticut! Not only can you lounge on the sand and swim in the waves, but a beachside splash pad gives you a fun break from the Sound. There is also a playground, volleyball courts, a skate park, and plenty of open space. Stay until after the sun goes down for movie nights, classic car shows, and other seasonal events. Visit Calf Pasture Beach on Calf Pasture Beach Road.
Take a journey to Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk, CT in this video from
This small family-friendly beach at the mouth of the Thames River is great for younger kids. Shallow water provides plenty of entertainment. Picnic tables and a playground are other bonuses that make this spot a gem of a find. Spend the day with a picnic lunch or grab a bite at the concession stand to make your trip complete. Visit Eastern Point Beach at 1 Beach Pond Road.
Visit Cove Island Beach for its sandy shores on the Long Island Sound. This 83-acre park has plenty of open space with paved paths for walking and rollerblading. A fitness park and playground will keep you entertained when you tire of the beach. Nature lovers can sight local birds hanging around the small tidal salt marsh while some rocky shore offers anglers a spot to try to catch the big one.
Hammonasset is Connecticut's largest beach with two miles of shoreline to use for the day. Wander down to Meig's Point to visit the nature center, hunt for seashells, or walk the fishing jetty. There is also plenty of rocky coastline to explore where you may just spot a seal in the distance if the timing is right. You can camp overnight in the campground, but book early, as spots fill up quickly at this popular shoreline spot. This beach is certainly one of the best day trips in Connecticut.
Hole In The Wall Beach is reached by walking through a tunnel. The small sandy beach is in a cove, making it popular among families with smaller children. The entrance to the Niantic Bay Boardwalk is right next to the beach, where you can enjoy a nice stroll with panoramic views.
Jem's Lens takes us on a tour of Hole In The Wall Beach in Niantic, Connecticut in this video showing what you can expect to see when you come visit:
Plenty of amenities and beautiful scenery make it easy to spend the day at Connecticut's oldest state park. Enjoy splashing in the water and relaxing in the sand, but stop by the nature center for an added bonus. Don't forget your camera, there are many stunning photos waiting to be taken. Take in a day on the beach at Sherwood Island State Park for the perfect day.
If your goal is to find an action-packed location that will keep the family busy for hours, Ocean Beach Park has it all. Sugar white sand and rolling waves are draws to the beach, but the Olympic-sized pool with ocean views is pretty amazing, too. On top of it, the park has a boardwalk, arcade, splash pad, water slides, amusement rides, and much more.
Silver Sands Beach is a welcome oasis on the shoreline. Frolic in the surf or enjoy relaxing with a good book. Take a stroll on the wooden boardwalk to enjoy the scenery. Time your visit right, and you can walk the sandbar out to Charles Island, where you might stumble upon a pirate's buried treasure.
Rocky Neck State Park combines a sandy beachfront with plenty of nature. Explore the plentiful hiking trails, and then take a refreshing swim. Pack a picnic and take advantage of the green expanse of lawn for a lunchtime break. This state park also offers overnight camping, so you can make a mini-vacation out of it.
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Let's check out Rocky Neck State Park in East Lyme CT in this beautiful and peaceful video from Afternoon in Connecticut:
Taking CT day trips to the beach is a wonderful way to spend time with those you love on a warm sunny day. Which beach day trip in Connecticut appeals to your sense of adventure? What do you think are the best day trips in Connecticut? Share your thoughts with us in the comments! Beach camping is one of the best things to do in the summer. Set up a tent at some of the best campgrounds in Connecticut:
