Outdoor Adventures

The only thing The Dinosaur Place at Nature’s Art Village has more of than dinosaurs is adventures — they are everywhere! In addition to meeting up with over 60 life-sized dinos along an easy-to-walk nature trail, you can work your way through the A-MAZE-asaurus maze (sliding through the giant mouth of a T-Rex!); or climb, jump and slide your way through Monty’s Playground. Over at the Splash Pad, there are dueling T-Rex water cannons among other great features, and the T-Rex Tower is a 2 1/2-story playscape with dozens of challenging features like a balance-beam bridge. The park also has an 18-hole mini golf course, a Jackpot Mine where you can dig for crystals and minerals and, over at Lapilli Landing, an equestrian-themed pedal-car track and Lucky Leroy train ride.

Aboard the 81-foot sailing vessel Argia, a modern replica of a 19th century packet schooner, you can travel back into the past – gliding by history-rich Mystic, helping the crew hoist and trim the sails – or just enjoy the view of islands, lighthouses and scenic coastlines from the vessel’s spacious wooden deck. The Coast Guard licensed schooner sails protected waters during the day and, for those seeking the romance of the sea at twilight, at sunset. Pack a picnic and a bottle of wine (or order snacks from us when you book) to make this excursion truly memorable. There are seats for all 49 passengers and a lovely little main salon down below.

Have an adventure out on the water — and come home with dinner! That’s the perfect combo they’re offering you when you book a fishing cruise at Black Hawk Sport Fishing. With a vessel specially designed for the party boat fishing industry, you’ll head out to fish for porgy, bluefish, striped bass or sea bass. Bring your own gear, or rent a rod and reel at the dock. And, yes, kids can fish, too — sometimes they can even honk the boat horns! Keep what you catch (as long as it’s legal in terms of size and season) — a mate will fillet and clean it for a nominal charge. Or, you can release the fish back into the water or have it contributed to a local soup kitchen or food bank.

For over 275 years, family-owned Lyman Orchards in Middlefield, CT has blended history, flavor, and outdoor fun into one unforgettable destination. From mid-June through late October, visitors can pick nearly 100 varieties of fruits, from juicy strawberries to eco-certified apples grown with care. Seasonal Sunflower and Corn Mazes add adventure (and Instagram-worthy views), while the Apple Barrel Farm Market tempts with pies, baked goods, and fresh sandwiches. After exploring, refuel at the 1741 Pub & Grill or tee off at three award-winning golf courses. With year-round events and festivals, it’s no wonder Lyman Orchards was named Connecticut’s Best Pick-Your-Own Farm for 2024.