Attractions

A Splash Pad, a challenging maze, a fun state-of-the-art playground, mini golf, a climbing tower — and dinosaurs! The Dinosaur Place at Nature’s Art Village really does have something for everyone. When you’re done shooting water cannons and climbing across balance-beam bridges and sinking that perfect putt, there are still dinosaurs to see — over 60 of them, life-sized, positioned along an easy-to-walk nature trail. Other activities include digging for gems at Jackpot Mine, panning for fools gold nuggets at Thunder Creek and heading over to Lapilli Landing for the equestrian-themed pedal-car track and Lucky Leroy train ride. Grab a burger or a hot dog at Monty’s Munchies, or bring your own picnic! And don’t go home without a treasure from the many shops offering fossils, crystals, beads, toys and trinkets.

Return to the romantic Age of Sail aboard the 81-foot schooner Argia. She is a US Coast Guard-inspected vessel and one of the last sailing ships in New England. Departing from Mystic CT, the ship sails in Fishers Island Sound, a calm, protected body of water, from May to mid-October. Bask in the sun on her spacious wooden deck while you sail past the seafaring village of Mystic, the surrounding islands, and historic lighthouses. Delight in quirky sea stories of the area, told by the crew and Captain of Argia. Feel free to bring your own picnic and beverages. Wine and beer are permitted. Enjoy a 2 hour day-sail, or experience the romance of the sea at twilight with a sunset sail.

Starting in early May, Black Hawk Sport Fishing provides the kind of fishing and sightseeing experiences that continue to make it one of Connecticut’s favorite party boats. Clean, comfortable and meticulously maintained, the Black Hawk is one of the fastest vessels of its kind in New England, and one of the most well-equipped to find fish, from blue fish and stripers to sea bass, cod and fluke. Mates will fillet and clean your catch for you to take home or donate to a local soup kitchen or food bank. For those interested more in what’s above sea level, there are a variety of sightseeing cruises, including trips to view sunsets, fireworks, seals and eagles. A galley serves hotdogs, burgers, snacks and beverages. Private charters are available.

Take a cruise aboard a replica of America’s first yacht, examine the very small interior of the Turtle, the first submarine to be used in combat in 1776, and examine historical artifacts and artwork at the Connecticut River Museum, a cultural center for activities and exhibits about the river and the river valley. Museum exhibits explore everything from the history of the river and its Native American communities to a look at the era of speed racing on the river, from 1900 to 1940. You can take an afternoon or evening cruise on the Onrust, a re-creation of a 1614 sailing vessel built in Manhattan, making it the country’s first yacht, or spy an osprey or eagle from the deck of the eco-tour boat RiverQuest.

Centrally located within 30 minutes of Hartford, Waterbury, and New Haven, CT, Lyman Orchards is a must-visit destination for all ages with plenty of events and festivals happening year-round. With nearly 100 varieties of pick-your-own fruits from June to October, it's a perfect outing! Explore the seasonal Sunflower or Corn Maze, offering fun and beautiful views. The Apple Barrel Farm Market provides fresh produce, handmade pies, and delicious sandwiches, while the 1741 Pub & Grill offers tasty meals with a view. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy three award-winning courses. Lyman Orchards blends tradition, nature, and recreation, making it an ideal spot for outdoor fun, farm-fresh flavors, and scenic beauty.

One of Hartford’s signature attractions, the Mark Twain House & Museum invites visitors into the 25-room Victorian home where Mark Twain lived during the Gilded Age and wrote many of his best-known books, including Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. Tours showcase the home’s striking architecture and richly decorated interiors, plus exhibits in the museum center that explore Twain’s life, legacy, and the era that inspired “The Gilded Age.” Make it a highlight of your Connecticut itinerary. 

Your Block Island adventure starts the moment you board the Block Island Express. The high-speed ferry departs from New London, CT or Orient Point, NY, whisking you to beautiful Block Island, RI in about 90 minutes. Settle into comfortable indoor seating or head to the open decks for panoramic views of sailboats, lighthouses and the Long Island Sound. The Cross Sound Deli serves sandwiches, snacks, craft beers and specialty cocktails for the ride. On the island, explore famous beaches, bike scenic trails, go kayaking or enjoy al fresco dining and nightlife. Thursdays, catch the half-price Dinner Run from New London. 

Few experiences along the New England coast are as memorable as a Cross Sound lighthouse cruise. Choose from three two-hour tours departing New London, CT or Orient Point, NY, each passing a remarkable collection of historic lighthouses — including Race Rock Light (said to be haunted), Watch Hill Light (authorized by President Jefferson) and New London Harbor Light, one of the original 12 colonial lighthouses in the country. Knowledgeable guides share the history and legends behind each one. Ride in comfort aboard a catamaran with air-conditioned lounges, sun-soaked decks and full snack and bar service.

Since 1974, the Central CT Regional Tourism District has marketed and promoted the Hartford region as a convention and meeting destination. We provide complimentary services to all convention and meeting planners. We can assist you in finding a meeting facility, provide promotional literature and much more. For more information, please give us a call!

Permanent exhibits on the Native and natural history of southern New England include a cool descent into a glacial crevasse from 18,000 years ago. Walk through a 1550 Pequot Village. Interactive computer programs, films providing additional information and interpretation of the exhibits. Two research libraries, one for children. Museum store and restaurant.
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 9am - 5pm.
Admission: Adults $22, Seniors & Students with ID $17, Youths 6-17 $13, Children under 6 Free.

A restaurant renaissance has made Greater New Haven a most exciting culinary destination. And then there's Yale University: with its medieval courtyards and stunning buildings -- from Gothic revival to acclaimed modernism. Can you name another area this size with world-class museums, theater and music? There are town greens to rival any in New England and preserved historic homes in even the smallest village. And alongside every town green are tiny boutiques and eclectic shops as well as superb bookstores. Now add the outdoors for long: sandy shores, nature preserves, centuries-old orchards, rocky hikes.