4 Hidden Gems & Must-See Destinations: Connecticut Points of Interest

Located in Mystic, Connecticut, this maritime museum offers a perfect blend of family-friendly activities, learning, and adventure. The museum reminds us that the sea unites us, sharing stories of immigration, family traditions, sailing, and life-changing experiences. Visitors can explore fascinating exhibits, wander through the historic village, admire collections, and witness craftsmanship in the working shipyard. For those looking to get even closer to the water, there’s the option to board one of the museum’s boats. 

Looking for a place to stay nearby? Check out Captain's Mansion. Adorned with large oversized windows and intricately painted, highly detailed ceilings, the aesthetic here is truly exquisite. Rich in tradition, the property boasts hidden stairways and a belvedere lookout that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the sound and the historic Downtown Mystic.

In East Haddam, you’ll find Gillette Castle State Park. Each year, 300,000 visitors explore William Gillette’s inspired mansion located above the Connecticut River. Known for its history, architecture, and nature, you can tour the modern medieval stone castle, hike the wooded grounds along the former bed of a miniature train, and take in the stunning river views. It was built in 1914 by William Hooker Gillette, the actor, director, and playwright most famous for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes. In his will, he gave specific directions that the property did not fall into the hands "of some blithering saphead who has no conception of where he is or with what surrounded." 

Once you’re finished exploring for the day, settle in at the Griswold Inn which is located in the nearby and enchanting seaport village of Essex. Here, you won’t be disappointed as the Inn is the recipient of Connecticut's highest award for hospitality and features acclaimed dining in art-filled rooms, an award-winning taproom with live entertainment nightly, and a stunning wine bar. 

If you’re looking for things to do in Connecticut, the Mark Twain House & Museum should be on your radar. This Connecticut attraction’s goal is to preserve and present the house from which sprang most of Twain’s greatest works, offer a forum for exploring and discussing issues related to politics and current events, and educate and inspire other writers to pursue their passions like Mark Twain (or Sam Clemens) did. Flawlessly preserved, this house brings Mark Twain—as well as his characters—to life. 

Also in Hartford is The Goodwin, the perfect place to stay the weekend. Once a landmark 19th-century residential building and now known as the city’s premier boutique hotel, The Goodwin uniquely fuses the history of Connecticut’s capital city with contemporary style making your stay both comfortable and lavish.

When it comes to Connecticut’s points of interest, The Glass House tops our list because of how unique and strange it is. It’s best understood as a pavilion for viewing the surrounding landscape as it sits on a promontory overlooking a pond with views towards the woods beyond. The house is iconic because of its innovative use of materials and its seamless integration into the landscape. American architect Philip Johnson lived in the Glass House from 1949 until his death in 2005.

Nearby, you’ll find a charming and classic New England bed and breakfast: Stanton House Inn. Packed with stories and friendly people, this historic inn is just the place to rest and recover after a day of exploring all that Connecticut has to offer. 

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