mansion tours in ct

Welcome to Wadsworth

Located in central Connecticut and framed by formal landscaping and over 100 acres of wooded parklands, the historic Wadsworth Mansion is the quintessential country estate. Constructed at the turn of the century, its style is reflective of the gilded age when the art of entertaining was perfected. Gracious in its historic elegance and exclusive in its setting, the Mansion has gained its reputation as the “gem of Middletown”.

Weddings at the Mansion

Wed at wadsworth.

The Wadsworth Mansion has been hosting weddings and events since the year 2000 providing couples an enchanting setting for a once in a lifetime celebration. As only one event is hosted per day, couples are allowed exclusive use of the Mansion and grounds to design the wedding of their dreams. Featured in Frommers Best Weddings in all 50 States, and on TLC’s 50 States of Gorgeous Weddings, the Mansion is one of Connecticut’s most sought after venues for an unforgettable wedding experience.

Corporate Retreats and Events

Meet at the mansion.

Versatile in its layout and the ability to offer outdoor and indoor space, the Mansion is the perfect location for a corporate meeting, retreat, or gathering. Utilize the indoor space for meetings and break out rooms or take your gathering outside for team building sessions. Mansion staff will help find the best option for each organization’s unique needs.

Something About Our Events

Upcoming public events.

Daffodil Day

Cosmos and Cocktails

Music at the Mansion

421 Wadsworth Street, Middletown, CT 06457 | P: 860.347.1064 | E: [email protected]

© Copyright 2021 Wadsworth Mansion. Design By  Cause Inspired Media

Announcements

Daffodil day: sunday, 4/21 free, cosmos & cocktails with ballet hartford.

May 17, 6pm – Tickets on Sale!

• 50 Forest Street, Manchester, CT 06040
• 917 796 0558

The Philip Cheney Mansion

The Philip Cheney Mansion, a National Historic Landmark building was rebuilt and designed by Charles Adams Platt in 1928.

This luxurious and sophisticated estate is an ideal setting for boutique weddings, personalized corporate or family events, wellness retreats or photoshoots and film sets.

The house has been lovingly restored to its original historic grandeur and is decorated with extensive collections of antiques, fine textiles, global treasures and fine china and silver.

Each room is unique in style and sensibility, but each space is both grand yet inviting and warm. The character of the Philip Cheney Mansion fosters joyous and truly memorable events and celebrations.

The estate offers beautifully manicured grounds and a sunken rose garden that provides a picturesque setting for your special event. The house sits on top of the Great Lawn that is located in the heart of the Cheney Brothers Historic Landmark District in Central Connecticut.

Relax & unwind.

The Philip Cheney Mansion is an oasis of cultured elegance and curated beauty. One arrives here and has the opportunity to leave the modern world behind and step back in time. One is invited to walk through the doorways of history and dream and imagine new tomorrows.

Inviting in every corner.

The Philip Cheney Mansion has many grand yet intimate sitting areas to gather with friends and associates with fine wines and specialty drinks or enjoy the peace and tranquility on one's own with a cup of tea in fine hand painted China.

Recharge in our Luscious gardens.

The gardens of the Philip Cheney Mansion rest on top of the Great Lawn with its expansive vistas in every direction. One can relax and enjoy the intimacy of the gardens and the expanse and grandeur of the Great Lawn. The Western gardens have lovely bronze sculptures and the Eastern gardens have a sunken rose garden and historic sculptures. The house is surrounded by hundreds of rhododendrons, climbing roses, wisteria, climbing hydrangea and honeysuckle and pines and dogwoods and a specimen tree garden.

About The Mansion

The Philip Cheney Mansion, a National Historic Landmark building was designed by Charles Adams Platt in 1928. The majestic 7.5-acre estate sits on the expansive Great Lawn in the heart of the 175-acre Cheney Brothers National Historic Landmark District.

To read our latest feature on the press.

• 20,000 SQ foot historic mansion on 7.5 acres
• Beautiful expansive gardens in every direction blooming April-October.
• 62 rooms, 9 fireplaces, 9 bathrooms, 8 bedrooms, 7 staircases, 99 doors, 91 windows and 6 outdoor spaces
• Ideal location for boutique weddings, personalized corporate or family events, wellness retreats and photo shoots and film sets.
• Historic, elegant yet inviting design and decor with extensive antique collections, fine textiles and silver and tableware collections.
• Located in Cheney Brothers National Historic Landmark District in Manchester CT just outside of Hartford CT.
• Ten minutes to Bradley international airport.
• Two hours north of New York City, two hours west of Boston.

The Philip Cheney Mansion was the perfect place for our non-profit to hold our annual corporate retreat. The exquisite furnishings surrounded by the beautiful green grounds gives the home a peaceful, inspiring feeling, that transferred itself to our work. The rooms are decorated down to the last detail in period style, yet it is all very approachable and there is even a children's room and swing outside for small children. Ryan, the manager took great care of us and provided a continental breakfast each morning, as well as snacks throughout the day . Thank you Cheney Mansion for helping make our retreat an unforgettable experience!

Wow. If you want an incredibly beautiful, uniquely historic and artfully curated, spacious 8 bedroom Mansion set on beautiful green acreage this is the haven for your group. The Historic Philip Cheney Mansion was exceptional, from start to finish. The host was responsive, communicative and easy to work with .We even ordered an in-house massage in the room, with a fresh breeze coming in off the lawn through the open windows, which was just divine. The queen bedrooms are one of a kind, really dreamy. This was a really relaxing and enjoyable stay. One of our favorite experiences was to sit in each of the rooms throughout our stay. Tea in the Loggia, overlooking the lawn, surrounded by beautiful antiques; cocktails in the decadent wood paneled Library - so richly decorated; a champagne in the Grand Salon. It was magical and inspirational. We also enjoyed the walk around the grounds on site. Such a special stay, very memorable and one of a kind. The owners have done an amazing job to restore this beautiful place. .

This is an AMAZING house, with spectacular decor, comfort, artwork, and grounds. We had a 10 person family reunion for my Dad's #80 and the house and the generous and thoughtful innkeeper Ryan made the whole event memorable and special beyond belief. Even if you don't need to be in Manchester, you need to stay here. It's very special and one of a kind.

Hours & Admission

The museum is currently open 7 days a week from  9:30 am to 4:30 pm. final  tours begin at 3:15 pm et.

The historic home is shown by guided tour only. We offer two kinds of tours each day : general house tours and living history tours. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.   Do you want to use your museum membership or other discount to visit the house? Click here to find out how.

PLAN AHEAD! Due to the limited capacity on tours, we recommend that you purchase tickets in advance, as tours sell out days ahead of time. If you choose to show up without purchasing tickets in advance, we may not be able to accommodate you and your group. *Note: all prices listed on this page include the $2.00/ticket processing fee

Please note the museum is closed on Easter Sunday, July 4th, Thanksgiving Day, December 24, December 25, and January 1.

General House Tour

Sam & Olivia Clemens built this unique 3-story mansion in 1874. For the next 17 years, they raised their 3 daughters here with the able assistance of their butler, coachman, maid, cook, gardener—and a lot of pets! Join one of our historic interpreters on a 55 minute guided tour of the home where Sam—better known as Mark Twain—wrote his most enduring works!

Buy tickets here!

Senior Citizens (ages 65+)  $25 Adults (ages 17-64) $27 Children (ages 6-16) $15 Children Under 6 FREE!

Living History Tour

Offered daily, our living history tours are an immersive experience that allow you to explore a slice of life in the Clemens household. Meet the family and friends that shaped Mark Twain’s day to day life and celebrate the hardworking servants that kept the household running, ask questions face to face, and hear their stories in their own words. Led by an actor portraying a member of the household, each tour is about 70 minutes and includes opportunities not available on a general house tour.

Senior Citizens (ages 65+)  $30 Adults (ages 17-64) $30 Children (ages 1-16) – Not Recommended for Children Under 8 $22

Growing Up in the Gilded Age

What was it like to learn, play, and grow up in the the gilded age.

In this special hour-long interactive tour , young visitors explore the everyday lives of the Clemens daughters—the books, games, and songs they loved, the subjects they studied, and the people they interacted with. Led by an experienced guide, this inquiry-based tour invites children to think about the ways that childhood and family life in the Gilded Age were similar and different to their own.

This tour offered every Saturday and Sunday morning at 10 AM , and is best suited to children ages 4-9; in order to best serve our youngest visitors and fully explore the experience of childhood in this home, the tour does not include the third floor of the house.

Graveyard Shift Ghost Tours

Ghostly tales and stories of spirits surround the Mark Twain House. Learn about the Victorians’ fascination with spiritualism – and find out why SyFy Channel’s popular paranormal series Ghost Hunters brought its investigative team to the house – three times!

Ghost tours are offered seasonally and are available by reservation only.

Get a CLUE Tours

Who killed that varmint Pap Finn? Play our live-action version of the classic game CLUE in the Mark Twain House. Was it Becky Thatcher with the revolver in the Conservatory? The Prince (or was it the Pauper?) with the knife in the Library? This hour-long tour features actors from SEA TEA IMPROV playing Twain’s beloved characters/suspects and all the murder, mayhem, and merriment one would expect from Sam Clemens! These tours were featured on the Travel Channel show Wackiest Tours !

Get a CLUE tours are offered seasonally.

Discounts & Coupons

Museum members.

Members   of The Mark Twain House & Museum receive free admission. Log in to your member account to redeem your benefits online.

Library Member Pass

The Mark Twain House & Museum is pleased to welcome visitors through our Library Membership Program.  A library membership pass is available, in partnership with local libraries, to offer patrons discounted admission to the museum.  Purchasing a library membership provides your patrons with access to Mark Twain’s historic home, as well as our Webster Bank Museum Center, featuring two exhibitions and a short film about Twain’s life by acclaimed filmmaker Ken Burns.

For more information, or to join or renew as a library member, please email [email protected] . The Library Membership application may be found  here.

Individuals should contact their local library to ask if they participate in our Library Membership Program.

North American Reciprocal Museum Program (NARM)

If you have a membership with another museum that participates in the  North American Reciprocal Museum Program (NARM) , you are eligible for complimentary admission to a standard house tour for a member couple.(This discount does not apply to specialty tours such as Graveyard Shift, Get a CLUE, or Living History tours.) Present your membership card with a current NARM sticker at the ticket desk or snap a picture of your NARM membership card and email it to [email protected]. We will respond with a promo code you can use to get your discount online.

Visit the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center!

T he Harriet Beecher Stowe Center is next door!  As you plan your trip to the Mark Twain House, we encourage a visit to the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center the same day. Although the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center and the Mark Twain House & Museum partner on a number of projects we are separate institutions.  For more information and tickets for the Stowe tour visit  https://www.harrietbeecherstowecenter.org/ . There is currently no discount in place for visiting both sites.

Blue Star Museum Program

The Mark Twain House is proud to participate in the Blue Star Museum Program for military families.  From May 21-September 5 the program allows for the military ID holder and up to five family members. The military ID holder can be either active duty service member or other dependent family member with the appropriate ID card. The active duty member does not have to be present for family members to use the program. Just bring your DD Form 1173 ID Card, or DD Form 1173-1 ID Card, for active duty military family members. The free admission program is available for those currently serving in the United States Military–Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard–including Reservists, National Guardsman (regardless of status), U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps, and up to five family members. Qualified members must show a Geneva Convention common access card  (CAC),  DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID), or a DD Form 1173-1 ID  card. This program is not intended for military veterans or retirees. Blue Star Families to book online: Email to [email protected] . Use the words “Blue Star Family” in your email and wait for the reply.  You will receive a link and instructions by email. You will need to show the proper ID upon checking in order to redeem your tickets.

• Select a State
• Connecticut

The 10 Best Guided Tours in Connecticut!

Connecticut’s history and culture runs deep, and visitors or residents aiming to learn more about its local heroes could opt to take an informative tour to learn more. Historical residences, buildings, and districts can be toured, and the diversity of cultures in Connecticut can even be savored through food tours. Dive into some fun with a guided tour in the Nutmeg State!

Taste of New Haven Food and Drink Tours, New Haven, CT

Join an experienced tour guide and fellow food lovers for a tour around New Haven’s hip culinary scene and unique heritage. Taste of New Haven offers several different tour options including Live to Eat Tour for education on healthy eating accompanied with great food, Pizza Lovers Tour to visit famous Wooster Street pizzerias as well as downtown and East Rock joints. They also offer a sweets tour, different neighborhood tours, and cooking classes.

Eolia Mansion Tours at Harkness State Park, Waterford, CT

The elegant summertime mansion of the Harkness family was built in 1906 and in the summer, visitors can enjoy guided tours of the mansion and learn history about the family. Tours are available on weekends and public holidays only from Memorial Day Weekend until Labor Day, but is closed during special events such as weddings. The grounds of Harkness State Park are stunning and Eolia is surrounded by carefully manicured gardens and beaches protected for nesting birds.

Connecticut State Capitol Tours, Hartford, CT

Year-round guided tours are available weekday mornings and early afternoons of the Connecticut State Capitol. During this tour, visitors will learn about the history of the capitol, see important artifacts, learn about the legislative process, and see several different halls and office buildings. Guided tours are free and provided by enthusiastic volunteers.

Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, Hartford, CT

Several different tour options are available at the historic home of the author and activist Harriet Beecher Stowe including a family tour, Spirts at Stowe (only in October), and the Stowe Center Experience. Visitors will learn all about Stowe’s life, her novel, and discuss the impact of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin.”

Mark Twain House and Museum, Hartford, CT

Next door to the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center is the Mark Twain House. As the home of the famous author, visitors will be treated to excellent guided tours of his home as well as learn information about Twain’s life, work, and family.

Nathan Hale Homestead, Coventry, CT

Nathan Hale is Connecticut’s state hero, and those itching to learn more about this brave man should stop by the Nathan Hale Homestead for a guided tour. This homestead is where Hale grew up and is furnished with items used by the Hales as well as other period antiques. Tours are given from May until October.

Phelps-Hatheway House & Garden, Suffield, CT

The tours at Phelps-Hatheway House tell the tale of two wealthy Connecticut families living in the 1700s before, during, and after their wealth was lost during the American Revolution. Visitors will be able to enjoy the largely intact interiors that were decorated with imported goods and 18th century American furniture. The formal garden has been restored to its glory and can also be visited.

Thimble Islands Cruise, Stony Creek, CT

Enjoy a 45-minute long sightseeing tour of the Connecticut coastline and Thimble Islands in a narrated boat ride. Those on this seafaring guided tour will learn about the natural history of the area, shellfish industries, as well as local legends.

Yale Campus Tours, New Haven, CT

Tours of the Yale campus are available on weekdays throughout the year and are led by Yale students. Tours focus on specific sections of the campus; for example, Science Tours, Engineering Tours, and general campus tours are available. 

Kayak and Paddleboard Tours by Downunder, Westport, CT

Active guided tours are available along the Saugatuck River via kayak and standup paddleboard. Tour leaders describe the ecology of the river as well as the wildlife that can be seen in and around the river. Do keep in mind that some experience is suggested for those participating in a tour. 

Madison Earth Care Earth Day Festival

Colorblends house and spring garden show, connecticut football spring fan fest, meriden mall food truck festival, aquila's jazz spring music festival, strawberry festival, exhibition: it will go on, exhibition: spring heat, sesame street live say hello photo experience, sesame street live say hello, hubbard park's castle craig tower.

On Track Karting - Wallingford

Castle View Balloons

Barker Character, Comic and Cartoon Museum

New Britain Youth Museum At Hungerford Park

Prime Climb

Golf Quest Family Sports Center

Cheshire Skate Park

New Britain Museum of American Art

Paradise Hills Vineyard and Winery

Peckham Park

Stanley Quarter Skatepark

New Britain Youth Museum

Norton Skatepark

Gouveia Vineyards

Fairfield County

• Greens Farms
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• West Redding

Hartford County

• Broad Brook
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• Windsor Locks

Litchfield County

• Barkhamsted
• Bridgewater
• Cornwall Bridge
• East Canaan
• Falls Village
• Gaylordsville
• New Hartford
• New Milford
• New Preston Marble Dale
• Pine Meadow
• Washington Depot
• West Cornwall
• Winchester Center

Middlesex County

• Centerbrook
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• Killingworth
• Middle Haddam
• Middlefield
• Old Saybrook

New Haven County

• Beacon Falls
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New London County

• Gales Ferry
• Jewett City
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• Quaker Hill
• West Mystic

Tolland County

• Mansfield Center
• Mansfield Depot
• Somersville
• South Willington
• Stafford Springs
• Staffordville
• Storrs Mansfield
• Vernon Rockville

Windham County

• Ballouville
• Central Village
• East Killingly
• East Woodstock
• Grosvenor Dale
• North Grosvenordale
• North Windham
• Pomfret Center
• South Windham
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Change State

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April 21, 2024

• Year overview

Open Properties

Operating schedule is subject to change

The Breakers

The Breakers is the grandest of Newport's summer "cottages" and a symbol of the Vanderbilt family's social and financial pre-eminence in the Gilded Age.

Marble House

William Vanderbilt built Marble House as a 39th birthday present for his wife, Alva. It was a social and architectural landmark that set the pace for Newport's subsequent transformation from a quiet summer colony of wooden houses to the legendary resort of opulent Gilded Age mansions.

The Elms was modeled after an 18th-century French chateau but featured the latest technology of the Gilded Age. It houses an outstanding collection of paintings, statuary and tapestries, and its landscape features formal gardens, terraces, pavilions and fountains.

Rosecliff was built for Nevada silver heiress Theresa Fair Oelrichs, who used it to host many fabulous Gilded Age entertainments. Architect Stanford White modeled Rosecliff after the Grand Trianon, the garden retreat of French kings at Versailles.

Chateau-sur-Mer

Chateau-sur-Mer epitomizes High Victorian architecture, furniture, wallpapers, ceramics and stenciling. It was the most palatial residence in Newport until the appearance of the Gilded Age Vanderbilt houses in the 1890s.

Kingscote is a landmark of the Gothic Revival style in American architecture. Its appearance in Newport marked the beginning of the “cottage boom” that would distinguish the town as a veritable laboratory for the design of picturesque houses throughout the 19th century.

Isaac Bell House

Isaac Bell House is one of the best surviving examples of shingle-style architecture in the country. Its architects and designers drew from a mix of international and American influences to create a unique Gilded Age style.

Green Animals Topiary Garden

Home to more than 80 topiary animals and other figures for more than a century, Green Animals also blazes with colorful flowers from May until October. The 7-acre property overlooks Narragansett Bay.

Hunter House

Hunter House (c. 1748) is one of the finest examples of Colonial architecture in Newport. The house was owned by wealthy merchants who furnished it with decorative arts produced by expert craftsmen. Such a luxurious lifestyle depended on the labor of enslaved people of African descent. Recent research by the Preservation Society has identified at least 13 enslaved individuals who lived and worked at Hunter House. Today's Hunter House honors their perseverance and incalculable contributions to Newport’s past. Guide-led tours only, advance reservations required

Chepstow is highly evocative of the taste and collections of a descendant of one of America's founding families, placed in the context of a contemporary Newport summer home. Guide-led tours only, advance reservations required

The Breakers Stable & Carriage House

Tours, events and exhibitions, beneath the breakers tour, daily 10:30 am.

Explore the underground systems that made this great house a marvel of technology for its time.

Servant Life Tour

Daily starting april 1, 10:30 am and 2:30 pm*.

See and hear how the other half lived. This tour will highlight the stories of some of the men and women who worked to service the social whirl of Newport during the Gilded Age. * May 11-May 31, tour will be offered daily at 10:30 am & 3:30 pm. June 1-Aug. 31, 10:30 am, 2 pm & 3:30 pm. Sept. 1-Oct. 14, 10:30 & 3:30. Oct. 15-Jan. 1, 2025, 10:30 & 2:30.

Gilded Age Newport in Color

March 15 – june 30, 2024 10:00am – 3:00pm.

This exhibition explores a largely unknown but important chapter in American history: the experience of a thriving African heritage community in Newport.

Open Properties and Events

Updated April 2, 2024. Schedule is subject to change.

April 1 – May 10, 2024

Please note: Advance reservations are required for all guide-led tours

Open daily 10 am – 4 pm for self-guided tours

House & grounds close one hour after last tour admission

Beneath The Breakers Tour – Guide-led tours daily at 10:30 am

The Elms Servant Life Tour – Guide-led tours daily at 10:30 am & 2:30 pm

Open daily 10 am – 3 pm for self-guided tours

May 11 – may 31, 2024, open daily 10 am – 5 pm for self-guided tours.

The Elms Servant Life Tour – Guide-led tours daily at 10:30 am & 3:30 pm

Grounds close one hour after last tour admission

June 1 – August 31, 2024

The Breakers Children’s Cottage will be open to tour daily July 1 – August 17, 10 am – 4 pm

The Elms Servant Life Tour – Guide-led tours daily at 10:30 am, 2 pm & 3:30 pm

Open daily 10 am – 3 pm for self-guided tours*

*Rosecliff will be closed to tours June 19 – June 24; open to Newport Flower Show ticket holders only

*Rosecliff will be closed July 1 – August 29

Open Sundays through Thursdays, 10 am – 5 pm for self-guided tours

Open fridays & saturdays, 10 am – 5 pm for guide-led tours, open fridays & saturdays, july 1-31, 10 am – 4 pm.

Closes one hour after last tour admission

September 1 – September 30, 2024

*Rosecliff will be closed to tours September 19 – 23; open to Newport Mansions Wine & Food Festival ticket holders only

Open weekends & holidays 10 am – 5 pm for self-guided tours

October 1 – october 14, 2024, october 15 – october 31, 2024, november 1 – november 22, 2024, open daily 10 am – 4 pm for self-guided tours*.

*The Breakers will close at 3 p.m. on Friday, November 22

*Rosecliff will be closed November 22 – December 8 for “The Newport Nutcracker”

November 23, 2024 – January 1, 2025

Holidays at the newport mansions.

All houses closed Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day

All houses close at 2 p.m. on December 24

Get the Newport Mansions app

Download our tour app before your visit and bring your earbuds.

Do you want to visit multiple houses?

With the Duo and Trio tickets, you can tour multiple mansions and gardens at a discounted price. These tickets can be used on different days and they do not expire.

Plan your visit

See tour options, frequently asked questions, information on our policies and everything else you need to know.

• Visitor Info
• Where to Eat
• Group Reservations

Additional Visitor Info

Map & parking info.

Parking is free onsite at all properties except for Hunter House and The Breakers Stable & Carriage House, where street parking is available.

Answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

Mansions & Gardens

Explore the 11 properties under the stewardship of the Preservation Society and open as historic house museums.

Partners in Preservation

The Mansion's Gilded Age Tea - May 19, 2024

In collaboration with Fairfield Museum and History Center at 370 Beach Road, Fairfield, CT, the Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum will present The Mansion’s Gilded Age Tea. This event will feature luxurious tea refreshments, a silent auction, a hat contest, and a fascinating exploration of Fairfield Museum’s exhibit titled, "Money Talks: The Gilded Age in Fairfield."

Dining in the Gilded Age - June 2, 2024

The Lockwood-Mathews will feature renowned food historian Becky L. Diamond and a special presentation and tasting titled, “Dining in the Gilded Age,” based on her book, The Gilded Age Cookbook: Recipes and Stories from America's Golden Era.

Old Fashioned Flea Market - Sept 15, 2024

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum's 17th annual "Old-fashioned Flea Market" returns to Mathews Park, Norwalk, CT. The event will offer bargains and treasures including antiques, repurposed furniture, upcycled collectibles, jewelry, crafts, household items, clothing, toys, specialty farm-to-table foods and more.

The Mansion's Costume Ball - Oct 19, 2024

The Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum will hold, "The Mansion’s Costume Ball," at the Shore & Country Club, in Norwalk, CT. The Museum will put its unique spin on a practice that Victorians were obsessed with, including Prince Albert and Queen Victoria, who hosted several costume balls during her long reign.

We Thank Our 2024 Season Benefactors

Tarrywile Park & Mansion

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

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Tarrywile Park & Mansion - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Mon - Fri 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
• (1.41 mi) Ethan Allen Hotel
• (1.13 mi) Residence Inn Danbury
• (2.89 mi) Courtyard Danbury
• (3.40 mi) Hotel Zero Degrees Danbury
• (2.95 mi) Hampton Inn Danbury
• (0.42 mi) Sesame Seed
• (0.45 mi) China King Chinese Take Out Restaurant
• (0.59 mi) Main Street Diner
• (0.59 mi) Dunkin'
• (6.40 mi) Ferris Acres Creamery

Most People Don't Know These 9 Castles Are Hiding In Connecticut

Taylor Ellis

Taylor Ellis grew up in southern Connecticut. She is a social boss who has worked with several major sites and brands. Follow her at taylorellisblogger.com

More by this Author

Castles are a must to prove your state has hosted greatness. But Connecticut boasts more than just the classic stone walls. There are also mansions and estates, equipped with all the modern furnishings your heart desires, but all the architectural lure and design of the 1700s.  And the best part is that most of these castles in Connecticut can be used for weddings and parties.  Nothing says classy like toasting champagne in a centuries old tower, am I right?

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Here Are The 10 Oldest Towns In Connecticut... And They're Loaded With History

These 16 Churches In Connecticut Will Leave You Absolutely Speechless

I’d love to know if you’ve made a trip to any of these wonders yet.  And whether or not you’ll be inviting me to any of your castle festivities. I’m a great dancer!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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• Things to Do in Greenwich, CT | Greenwich CT Visitor's Guide

Greenwich Mansions: You’ll Swoon on these 5 Roads

• June 10, 2022

There’s more to our town than Greenwich, CT, mansions.

But it is what’s normally shown on TV or in magazines whenever the media mentions our town.

So we host plenty of guests asking where to see some of the biggest, most luxurious mansions in Greenwich.

And we’d be remiss as hosts to pretend the wealth that’s made Greenwich famous doesn’t actually exist here.

It does. You can learn more about how wealthy Greenwich is, and why it’s so wealthy, in our guide to the Greenwich, CT, real estate market .

But if you’re just curious where to see how the 1% lives, even if just while driving by from the street, read on.

Common Questions about Mansions in Greenwich, Connecticut

The three most common questions guests ask about the mansions in Greenwich are:

• What’s the most expensive house in Greenwich?
• What are the most expensive neighborhoods in Greenwich?
• Where do all the celebrities live?

Watch this short video to get some answers. Or, keep scrolling to read on.

Or both, you do you:

What’s the Most Expensive House in Greenwich, CT?

That would be Copper Beech Farm.

It grabbed headlines in 2014 for being the most expensive piece of real estate ever on sale in America.

The initial listing price was $190 million, but dropped within a year to the price at which it sold at $120 million .

Still, that’s a lot of money for a house.

And it sold again recently, this time for $139 million .

What are the most expensive neighborhoods in Greenwich, Connecticut?

So, which neighborhoods are the most expensive:

• Belle Haven, overlooking the waterfront, close to downtown Greenwich ?
• Conyers Farm, with sprawling mansions and former home of many celebrities?
• Riverside, the most residential neighborhood in Greenwich?
• Old Greenwich, where every plot appears to host a huge mansion?

I mean, you’re splitting hairs between average home prices in the above neighborhoods.

1) Riverside, Connecticut

The most expensive neighborhood in Greenwich, and the 70th most expensive neighborhood in the country, is Riverside, Connecticut. The average home there in 2019 was $1.63 million .

2) Old Greenwich

The runner-up on the list is the neighborhood of Old Greenwich . The average home price in 2019 was $1.625 million .

3) Greenwich

The much larger zip code that makes-up the rest of Greenwich rounds-out the list of neighborhoods in the top 100 most expensive neighborhoods in America that are in town.

The average home here only costs a paltry $1.45 million .

Do Belle Haven and Conyers Farm make the list?

They do, and their presence in the larger town of Greenwich definitely brings-up Greenwich’s average home price.

Two Greenwich roads made it to the list of the most expensive streets in America by home price:

• Conyers Farm Drive
• Field Point Road

These roads feature fantastic mansions.

They are private, gated, enclaves, however, so don’t bother trying to see these roads yourself without an invitation from a property owner.

Conyers Farm

According to Zillow, the average home price in the sprawling back Greenwich enclave of Conyers Farm is $13.033 million . Celebrities including Ron Howard and Judge Judy called mansions here home for years.

Belle Haven

Quaint and elegant Belle Haven and its main road, Field Point Road, has a median home price of $12.113 million as of 2015 .

Most of the largest, most fantastic mansions in Greenwich are in gated communities, or set far back from the road. And you definitely don’t want to get caught trespassing.

Fortunately, the mansions that you can easily see from the road are still impressive for us hoi polloi . All you need is a solid street map of Greenwich, CT .

A Bike Trip as a Greenwich Mansion Tour

Below are a few of my favorite back roads to bike or drive. They include both beautiful Greenwich mansions as well as historic New England homesteads.

While the farms of back Greenwich have largely been subdivided, visitors can still see the old rock walls and apple orchards to get a taste of the agrarian past of Greenwich history .

Many of these roads also lead into the hills of Westchester County. I selected most of them because they travel inland (and uphill) with a gentler slope, hence walking or biking is not quite as arduous.

All directions are from Stanton House Inn and downtown Greenwich, Connecticut .

Glenville to Armonk, NY

From downtown Greenwich, drive over to the Glenville neighborhood before heading north on Riversville Road.

Riversville Road is beautiful. As the name implies, it follows the Byram River for a significant part of its trip before it heads uphill to reach the small village of North Greenwich and the Greenwich Audubon Center and Preserve .

Continue driving up Riversville into New York State to reach Route 22 in Armonk, New York and turn right onto Creemer Road

Follow that back down into Greenwich where you’ll meet Roundhill Road.

Roundhill Road

The northern part of Round Hill is my favorite stretch of road in Greenwich.

It’s on a high ridge, so the beautiful historic Connecticut homes , country estate Greenwich mansions, and open fields are complemented by open views of the surrounding hills.

Supposedly, this point is high enough to see the Manhattan skyline of New York City, and a fort was here during Revolutionary War times.

Once you’re up at the northern end, it’s also a downhill slope back towards town, which also makes for a great trip by bike. This route also gives you a chance to catch a glimpse of one of the most haunted places in CT , Dunnellen Hall.

North Street

North Street remains a scenic drive from the Merritt Parkway into town.

Years of building-up prime real estate has created a few stretches of road lined with high walls and hedges to block the view.

But it’s still got some cool mansions along it, including one built as an exact replica of the Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette’s estate, in Versailles, France.

North of the Merritt Parkway, North Street reverts back to how the length formerly appeared:

• Open fields
• Estates on expansive pieces of property
• And even a polo field (ie: the Greenwich Polo Club )

Eventually, you’ll hit the neighborhood of Banksville, and enter the town of Bedford, New York .

The Mansions of Taconic Road

Taconic Road from North Street to the New York State border has some more historic colonial homes than what’s left on North Street. That said, it also has its fair share of massive mansions.

Lake Avenue

Other runners-up in town include Lake Avenue, which is not as high as Roundhill Road but has plenty of beautiful mansions and bucolic scenery along it.

If you attempt to drive a bit of all these roads in one drive, it would need about an hour of driving up and back the length of Greenwich.

A bike would require a rather tiring day.

What about Celebrity Homes in Greenwich, CT?

Many celebrities have moved-out in recent years.

Some of the recent homes sold owned by celebrities include one owned by Vince Camuto .

And a celebrity didn’t live in this house, but a 1920s home updated by the Property Brothers in town recently changed hands.

Mel Gibson, Ron Howard, and Judge Judy are long gone. Although Tom Brady and Gisele Bündchen moved in a few years ago .

Diana Ross has been a fixture in town for decades , I almost went to school with her daughter.

So you’re still likely to get celebrity sightings here, you just won’t necessarily be able to stalk them.

Which, please don’t, by the way.

You can still check-out some other celebrity-owned mansions in other nearby Connecticut towns , though.

Looking for Greenwich mansions for sale, or your very own luxury home?

There are plenty of realtors in town that would love to show you the various mansions or luxury homes for sale in Greenwich .

Be ready for a long weekend, though, as there are more estates on the market the larger your purchasing budget is.

Here’s a video from Forbes magazine of one of the most expensive homes recently on the market:

Do you need a better understanding of why the fabulously wealthy choose Greenwich to be their home?

For one, it’s an easy commute from NYC to Greenwich . And the local community and amenities make it ideal. You can find out more on a visit to Greenwich .

Check-out our list of top things to do in Greenwich, and download your copy of the Greenwich Visitor’s Guide .

And you’re more than welcome to stay at our historic mansion bed and breakfast while you’re in town, of course.

Updated and republished: June 10, 2022

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Fairfield Southwest

Hartford Central

Litchfield Northwest

Mystic Eastern

New Haven South Central

Connecticut has rich variety of historic homes, museums, cemeteries, trails.

Connecticut is steeped in the history of our country's earliest days, beginning with the Colonial period, through the Revolutionary War and up to the present. CT welcomes visitors interested in historic homes and historic sites. Some historic sites are museums located in the homes of legendary writers like Mark Twain and Harriet Beecher Stowe. Families with kids interested in history will be fascinated by the Ancient Burying Ground in Hartford, locations of the Underground Railroad,museums honoring historic railways and trolleys, the Amistad Museum, and much more. Lighthouses on the shoreline and covered bridges in the inland Litchfield area also speak of the state's deep New England character.

Historic Wethersfield

Rediscover the nation’s heritage at a variety of historic homes and buildings

Mark Twain House & Museum

351 Farmington Avenue Hartford, CT, 06105 Phone: 860-247-0998

See why Mark Twain boasted his Hartford house was ‘the loveliest home that ever was’

Roseland Cottage

556 Route 169 Woodstock, CT, 06281 Phone: 860-928-4074

Bellamy-Ferriday House and Garden

9 Main Street Bethlehem, CT, 06751 Phone: 203-266-7596

Weir Farm National Historic Site

735 Nod Hill Road Wilton, CT, 06897 Phone: 203-834-1896

Lockwood-Mathews Mansion Museum

Mathews Park, 295 West Ave. Norwalk, CT, 06850 Phone: 203-838-9799

Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum

211 Main Street Wethersfield, CT, 06109 Phone: 860-529-0612

Boothe Memorial Park & Museum

5774 Main Street Stratford, CT, 06614 Phone: 203-381-2046

Nathan Hale Homestead (1776)

2299 South Street Coventry, CT Phone: 860-742-6917

General William Hart House

350 Main Street Old Saybrook, CT, 06475 Phone: 860-388-2622

Phelps-Hatheway House and Garden

55 South Main Street Suffield, CT Phone:

Noah Webster House

227 South Main Street West Hartford, CT Phone: 860-521-5362

Osborne Homestead Museum & Kellogg Environmental Center

500 Hawthorne Avenue Derby, CT, 06418 Phone: 203-734-2513

The Connecticut Freedom Trail

Shore line trolley museum.

17 River Street East Haven, CT, 06512 Phone: 203-467-6927

Bush Holley House

39 Strickland Road Greenwich, CT Phone: 203-869-6899

Harkness Memorial State Park

275 Great Neck Road - CT Route 213 Waterford, CT, 06385 Phone: 860-443-5725

Old State House of Connecticut

800 Main Street Hartford, CT Phone: 860-522-6766

Hill-Stead Museum

35 Mountain Road Farmington, CT, 06032 Phone: 860-677-4787

Henry Whitfield State Museum

248 Old Whitfield Street Guilford, CT, 06437 Phone: 203-453-2457

Yale University

Information Center at 149 Elm Street New Haven, CT, 06510 Phone: 203-432-2300

Amistad Memorial

165 Church Street New Haven, CT, 06510 Phone:

Harriet Beecher Stowe Center

77 Forest Street Hartford, CT, 06105 Phone: 860-522-9258

Slater Memorial Museum and Converse Art Gallery

Norwich Free Academy - 108 Crescent Street Norwich, CT, 06360 Phone: 860-887-2506

Connecticut Historical Society Museum

1 Elizabeth Street at Asylum Avenue Hartford, CT Phone: 860-236-5621

Keeler Tavern Museum

132 Main Street Ridgefield, CT, 06877 Phone: 203-438-5485

Danbury Railway Museum

120 White Street and Patriot Drive Danbury, CT, 06810 Phone: 203-778-8337

Lock 12 Historical Park

487 North Brooksvale Road (Route 42) Cheshire, CT, 06410 Phone: 203-272-2743

Monte Cristo Cottage

325 Pequot Avenue New London, CT, 06320 Phone: 860-443-0051

Ancient Burying Ground

corner of Main and Gold streets Hartford, CT, 06103 Phone: 860-337-1640

Topsmead State Forest

Buell Road Litchfield, CT, 06579 Phone: 860-567-5694

Gillette Castle State Park and Mansion

67 River Road East Haddam, CT, 06423 Phone: 860-526-2336

Prudence Crandall Museum

Junction Routes 14 and 169 Canterbury, CT, 06331 Phone: 860-546-7800

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Museum opening hours: Third Saturdays of every month: 11 am - 2 pm May thru September or by appointment by emailing [email protected]

778 Palisado Avenue

Windsor, Connecticut

860.688.8717

ellsworthhomesteaddar.org

Oliver Ellsworth Homestead History

The  Oliver Ellsworth Homestead , also known as  Elmwood , is a historic house museum at 778 Palisado Avenue in Windsor, Connecticut. Built in 1781, it was the home of the American lawyer and politician Oliver Ellsworth until his death in 1807, and was designated a National Historic Landmark because of this association. Ellsworth (1745–1807) helped draft the the United States Constitution, served as the third Chief Justice of the United States, and was a United States Senator from Connecticut. The house is owned and maintained and operated as a museum by the Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution, and is open for tours upon request.

I have visited several countries and I like my own the best. I have been in all the States of the Union, and Connecticut is the best State. Windsor is the pleasantest town in the State, and I have the pleasantest place in the the town of Windsor. I am content – perfectly content to die on the banks of the Connecticut River.” Oliver Ellsworth

The house is a 2-1/2 story wood frame structure, with a side gable roof and clapboarded exterior. Its main facade is five bays wide, with a two-bay extension to the south that is recessed beneath a shared roofline supported by Tuscan columns. The original five-bay block has end chimneys. The main entrance is at its center, sheltered by a 19th-century gabled portico. The interior retains features of the late 19th century, including furnishings and decorative materials associated with Oliver Ellsworth and his family.

A house was built on this site in 1740 by David Ellsworth, and it is in that house that Oliver Ellsworth was raised. Documentary records show that Oliver Ellsworth, having inherited the property, contracted in 1781 for the construction of a new house on the site of the old, which may have reused some of its elements, including the foundation. His family moved in the following year, and it remained his home until his death in 1807. The two-bay extension to the south was added in 1788, although the roofline and Tuscan columns are a 19th-century alteration.

The name Elmwood derives from the thirteen elm trees Ellsworth planted in honor of the thirteen colonies. Elmwood was visited by two sitting Presidents: George Washington (on October 21, 1789) and John Adams (October 3, 1799). The house was occupied by the Ellsworth family until 1903 when it was given to the Connecticut Daughters of the American Revolution. The homestead was restored in the late 1980s and early 1990s and is now a museum. The property includes a meeting hall built in the 1930s, which the DAR make available as a function and event space.

The house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1970, and declared a National Historic Landmark in 1989.

Recent Projects at the Homestead

Recent Grants from:

• Make Campaign

All the Pretty Houses

During the holidays, many of Connecticut’s historic homes sparkle with seasonal finery. Get your reindeer and sleigh ready - here’s a tour of notable chimneys to slide down.

Stowe and Twain’s Olde-Fashioned Christmas

Old wethersfield, festivals of light, stars in the west, harriet beecher stowe center, hartford.

The Stowe Center and the Mark Twain House join forces and open their doors to families for an old-fashioned Christmas experience as the clans of Harriet Beecher Stowe and Mark Twain might have enjoyed them. Both houses, which are located on adjacent lots, will be decked with family decorations, Christmas trees, garlands and more – with many special events as well.

Webb Deane Stevens Museum, Wethersfield

Next, get to nearby Wethersfield, where the Webb-Deane-Stevens Museum will be holding “Three Centuries of Christmas” tours through December. The museum sits at the center of one of Connecticut’s most notable historic districts, including 50 houses built before the American Revolution.

Lake Compounce Amusement and Water Park, Bristol

After dark, Lake Compounce in Bristol will be ablaze with a Holiday Lights . Here, enjoy Connecticut's tallest Christmas Tree, spectacular light shows around the park set to your favorite holiday music, and meet your favorite holiday characters. In addition,  The Festival of Silver Lights  is on view in Meriden’s Hubbard Park.

Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center, Ridgefield

Next day, you can head west to Torrington, where the Hotchkiss-Fyler House Museum is festooned with traditional Victorian garlands, decorated trees and floral arrangements. The mansion itself is a spectacular sight as well. Another holiday highlight can be found further west, where the 18th-century Keeler Tavern Museum in Ridgefield features holiday decorations, special luncheons and a seasonal boutique.

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Tour a Tailored Country House in Warren

A second home infused with color, texture, and unexpected touches.

This Saugatuck Shores Home Exudes Vacation Vibes All Year Long

The founder/owner of JL Rocks and her husband turn a split-level ranch into a modern, vertical beach house.

King George II Once Recognized This Litchfield County Home

A true New England Colonial is restored into an inviting weekend retreat.

What’s New

Six Must-See Projects Recognized at the HOBIs

Inside a Recently Remodeled 25-Year-Old Dutch Colonial

This Custom Home on the Water in Greenwich Won a HOBI

A Waterfront Oasis With an Abundance of Outdoor Living Amenities

An IDA-Winning Architect Designed This Imaginative Home for His Sister

A Designer’s Story: Get to Know Fifth-Generation Greenwich Native Amy Aidinis Hirsch

The Remodeled Home of the Year

Segerson Builders won multiple HOBI awards for this reimagined classic Colonial.

Tour Two Linked Structures on the Banks of the Saugatuck River

Cardello Architects connects a party barn and guest house with a glass-walled bridge corridor.

Details in This Brand-New Shingle & Stone Residence Lend a Sense of Familiarity Throughout

Grand mansions of the Gilded Age inspired this new residence by Burr Salvatore Architects.

Greenwich Transitional Where Traditional Meets Cali-Cool

Steel and glass helped the design team create modern flair while adhering to the historic area’s strict architectural parameters.

Views of Long Island Sound Inform This New-Build’s Interior Palette

Tour an Updated 19th-Century Sea Captain’s Cottage in Mystic

Step Inside a Classic Georgian With Vibrant Interiors

Light Hues Lend a Modern Feel to a 19th-Century Victorian in Ridgefield

Peek Into a Kitchen Filled With Natural Tones

Tour a Barn Home With a Brand-New Kitchen

All Connecticut

17 Unique Hidden Things To Do In Connecticut

L ooking for a fun-filled summer vacation destination? There is something for everyone in Connecticut. This charming state offers many hidden gems from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences.

Whether you are into history, art, nature, or coastal views , you’ll find something fun to do in the state. And with its mix of quaint small towns and bustling cities, it makes for the perfect weekend seaside getaway or more extended vacation.

So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure. Here are some of the top fun things to do in Connecticut that you can check out during your trip.

1. Gillette Castle State Park

Gillette Castle State Park is located in East Haddam and features a stunning hilltop castle with breathtaking views of the Connecticut River. The castle was built by William Gillette, an American actor famous for portraying Sherlock Holmes on stage.

The castle features unique architectural details such as hand-carved wooden doors and medieval-style turrets. Visitors can tour the castle or explore its grounds on their own. The park also features hiking trails that offer spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

2. Thimble Islands

The Thimble Islands are located off the coast of Stony Creek in Branford and consist of up to 365 small islands depending on the tide. Visitors can take a boat tour around the islands or rent a kayak to explore them on their own.

Private residences are on the islands, so boats must respect their privacy. The islands are home to various wildlife, including ospreys, egrets and herons.

3. The Glass House

The Glass House in New Canaan, Connecticut, is a modernist masterpiece and a landmark of 20th century architecture. The design of the house is a statement about space, light and minimalist living. Its transparent walls blur the boundaries between inside and outside, creating a seamless connection between nature and architecture.

4. Book Barn in Niantic

The Book Barn is a unique bookstore located in Niantic that every book lover should visit. The main location has several themed buildings along with gardens.

Outside at the original Book Barn in Niantic.

There are also two other locations within a mile. You’ll find hundreds of thousands of gently used books of all genres waiting to be discovered at the shops.

5. Devil’s Hopyard State Park

Devil’s Hopyard State Park is a stunning natural gem located in East Haddam, Connecticut. The park is well known for its beautiful hiking trails that provide breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and waterfalls.

One of the most popular hikes in the park is the Chapman Falls Trail which leads to one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Connecticut . Chapman Falls is a 60-foot-tall waterfall that cascades over a series of rocky ledges. It’s an incredibly peaceful spot, perfect for relaxing and taking in the beautiful scenery.

6. Shubert Theatre

The Shubert Theatre in New Haven is a historic venue that has been showcasing theatre productions for over a century. The theatre’s stage has seen performances by famous actors like Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart, and it continues to host Broadway shows, concerts, comedy acts, plays and dance performances. Visitors can enjoy the stunning architecture of the building while taking in a show.

7. Sheffield Island

The Sheffield Island Lighthouse and Harbor Tour includes views of three lighthouses in Norwalk: Peck Ledge Light, Greens Ledge Light and the stunning Sheffield Island Lighthouse.

At the end of the tour, you will arrive at Sheffield Island for a one-hour stop. You can explore Sheffield Lighthouse, nature trails and beaches during your time on the magnificent island.

8. New England Carousel Museum

The New England Carousel Museum in Bristol is a unique museum that celebrates the artistry and history of carousels. Visitors can admire beautifully restored carousels from different eras and learn about their history through interactive exhibits.

Lake Compounce is also in Bristol. It’s been open since 1846, making it one of the oldest continuously operating amusement parks in America.

9. Watch Rock Loop

Watch Rock Preserve is one of the most peaceful and serene locations in Old Lyme, Connecticut. It’s a 25-acre nature preserve that has become a popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Watch Rock Loop trail is an easy 0.7 hike that should take less than fifteen minutes to finish. It takes you on mostly flat terrain at the mouth of the Duck River which is an estuary near the mouth of the Connecticut River. There is a great view from the rocky shoreline.

10. Talcott Mountain State Park

Nestled in the heart of Simsbury, Connecticut, lies Talcott Mountain State Park. This hidden gem boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and offers some of the best hiking trails near Hartford . But the centerpiece of the park is Heublein Tower, a 165-foot tower that sits atop the mountain’s summit.

“When I lived back east I spent a weekend at The Avon Old Farms Hotel, in the lovely little community of Avon, northwest of Hartford. The hotel itself was just charming, with comfortable rooms and very pretty grounds. I enjoyed a tour of The Mark Twain House and Museum, a walk at Talcott Mountain State Park and a scrumptious Sunday brunch at the hotel dining room. If you’re looking for a quiet getaway and you love American history, I highly recommend it.”

—  Sarita Harbour, Thrive at Home

11. Mark Twain House and Museum

The Mark Twain House and Museum is located in Hartford, Connecticut. It was the home of American author Mark Twain from 1874 to 1891. The house has been restored to its original condition and visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about Twain’s life and work.

12. Dinosaur State Park

Dinosaur State Park in Rocky Hill is home to some of the best-preserved dinosaur tracks in North America. Visitors can take a tour of the park’s exhibits or hike on one of its many trails.

13. Dividend Pond

One of the unique things to do in Connecticut is visiting the Dividend Pond in Rocky Hill. This scenic spot offers a great escape for nature lovers. You’ll find a stunning waterfall, easy hiking trails and a rough vista at the end of the property. There’s also a two-mile mountain bike trail.

14. Mashantucket Pequot Museum

The Mashantucket Pequot Museum is one of the most fascinating museums in Connecticut. It offers visitors a chance to learn about the rich history and culture of Native Americans in Connecticut. Visitors can also see artifacts from various Native American tribes that once lived in Connecticut.

15. Tarrywile Park and Mansion

Tarrywile Park and Mansion is a hidden gem that offers visitors various activities from hiking to walking through gardens.

“The Tarrywile Park and Mansion in Danbury is a fab place to spend the day. The 700-acre park has tons of trails you can explore either hiking or on bikes, and it includes multiple types of terrain to keep it interesting. Make sure you set an appointment in advance to visit the Hearthstone Castle on the site. While you can visit other buildings the day of, this one requires advance arrangements, and it’s absolutely worth it.”

 — Michelle Price, Honest and Truly

16. Lantern Hill

Lantern Hill in Ledyard, Connecticut, is a popular hiking destination for locals and visitors alike. The trail is approximately three miles long and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The hike isn’t too strenuous, making it perfect for families with children or those who are new to hiking.

The top of Lantern Hill provides panoramic views of the Mystic River Valley and Long Island Sound. Hikers can also spot several landmarks such as Foxwoods Resort Casino from atop Lantern Hill.

17. Submarine Force Museum

The Submarine Force Museum in Groton, Connecticut, is a must-see for any history buff or military enthusiast. This free attraction has an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits where visitors can explore the history of submarines. Visitors can also tour parts of the USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine.

More things to do in Connecticut

From picturesque small towns and charming coastal cities to rolling hills and scenic hiking trails, Connecticut is a hidden gem in New England. Whether you’re into shopping at Mystic Village or going ziplining at an adventure park, there are plenty of activities and attractions for everyone.

There’s also no shortage of special events that go on throughout the year. For more things to do, check out the events schedule at the Connecticut Tourism Office .

• Kent Falls State Park is home to a cascading waterfall and is perfect for a hike or picnic.
• Ocean Beach Park is a relaxing spot to swim and enjoy the coastline in New London.
• Fort Shantok Park is near Mohegan Sun Casino on the Thames River in Uncasville.
• Mystic Pizza Restaurant is a local icon featured in the hit movie Mystic Pizza.