CELEBRATE THE SEASON
A quick drive away for the perfect end-of-summer memories! From free outdoor options to hikes and trails to quirky, yet quintessential New England events, Connecticut offers an abundant variety of weekend getaways for the entire family.
Pick-Your-Own
With an abundance of local produce, Connecticut has plenty to share. For a weekend getaway, string together a visit of several pick-your-own farms and leave away with the perfect memento, one that’s edible, too! At Johnny Appleseed Farm (860) 875-1030 in Ellington, visitors can pick peaches and apples on their 60 acres of dwarf apple trees bearing 14 different varieties and 35 acres of easy to reach peach trees bearing 11 different varieties. Schedule a visit to Ellsworth Hill Orchard & Berry Farm (860) 364-0025 in Sharon and pick blueberries during the Blueberry Festival taking place September 1-25; raspberries for the Rasberry festival September 1 - October 15; and, apples during the Apples Festival September 12- November 7.
To appreciate both the rich Connecticut history and local produce, stop by Palazzi Orchards (860) 774-4363 in East Killingly. For a spectacular view of the Litchfield Hills, stroll around the 75 acres of preserved farmland that is set on one of the highest hills in Eastern Connecticut. From October 1 - November 10, pick-your-own apples of 24 varieties, enjoy weekend hay rides and replenish with fresh sweet cider. Finally, be sure to visit the Revolutionary-era cemetery with a 200-year-old charter oak tree.
Take a Hike!
Get up close and personal to the trees by stretching the legs and taking in a hike in one of Connecticut’s many hiking trails. At the Sleeping Giant State Park (203) 789-7498 in Hamden, take a three-hour hike through the park with the “Fall Wildflower Hike” taking place on September 27. Learn why the two miles of mountaintop resembling a sleeping giant gave this park its namesake! (Psst…One of the best views of the "giant" can be found at Quinnipiac University)
Litchfield is known for its rolling hills, idyllic New England landscape and rugged outdoor alternatives. The Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden (203) 266-7596 in Litchfield Hills is a Connecticut landmark. On October 4, the garden invites visitors to take a walk with artist Mary Havermale in the woods and experience the beauty of the unexpected with the artist/biologist herself to discover the source of her inspiration. Also in Litchfield, the 4,000 acre White Memorial Foundation (860) 567-0857 celebrates family and the outdoors with Family Nature Day. On September 26, a day of outdoor activities for the entire family is planned featuring nature walks, games, live animal demonstrations, music, crafts, food and access to the museum and library.
Pick Your Trail
A perfect weekend getaway alternative, Connecticut has compiled its “greatest hits” for a seamless and easy to follow trail. See the beautiful New England scenery that influenced local artists whose collections are featured in the Connecticut Art Trail (888) 288-4748. For $25, purchase the Art Pass (valid for two months) to gain access to fifteen world-class museums and historic sites.
To kick-off the fall foliage season, check out the Connecticut Wine Trail (860) 677-5467. The Connecticut Wine Trail is comprised of nineteen vineyards split into two trails. Sample some of New England's most delectable wines and glimpse some of the most beautiful countryside in the Northeast while catching a glimpse of the turning of the leaves!
While summer may be but a distant memory, the Ice Cream Trail is all-season tasty fun! Get the scoop (or a couple) in Mystic Country and follow the Ice Cream Trail. This scrumptious drive will have the kids up all night in anticipation! In its second tasty year, the Mystic area invites ice cream fanatics to get the scoop and all the trimmings along its popular ice cream trail.
Time-Travel Back to…
Connecticut comes alive with history this month with period-based events that become a verifiable time-machine. Travel back to the Civil War with “Civil War Living History Weekend” on September 12-13 at the Roseland Cottage (860) 928-4074 in Mystic. Observe as civilian and military re-enactors create a sense of life during the Civil War with period children's games and activities. Or, go even further back to the Medieval Ages at the Connecticut Renaissance Fair (860) 478-5954 on September 26-27, Oct. 3-4, 10-12, and 17-18 in Hebron. Experience an enchanted re-creation of a 400 year-old agricultural festival. Watch knights joust on the field of honor and enjoy over 40 hours of themed entertainment. Explore New England's largest Medieval Marketplace and taste a king's feast.
