Things to Do for Young People in Connecticut

Foodies can find lots to love in Connecticut. You may want to start with the recently named Best Restaurants in the state! Or start by trying these creative winter dining experiences, like the igloo park at Dockside Brewery, where you can find way more than beer – more like 40 draft lines, cocktails, wine, New Haven-style pizzas, and a variety of tasty bites.

Breakfast fans won’t want to miss a boozy brunch at The Place 2 Be. Try the chicken & waffles, eggs benny, or Fruity Pebble french toast alongside a massive mimosa or cocktail in a bathtub (with a rubber ducky of course). Be prepared to take photos of both the food and the trendy, cheeky aesthetic! Find more Insta-worthy brunch spots here.

Check out the foodie scene in Mystic, which was recently named a Top Small Town Food Destination by Condé Nast Traveler. Grab superb seafood at Red 36 and The Oyster Club or treat your sweet tooth at Sift Bake Shop. In the summer, try cocktails and apps at MIX, Sift’s charming rooftop bar.

Another must-try culinary destination is New Haven’s Wooster Street area, home to Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, the #1 pizza in America (although some swear the best is down the street at Sally’s Apizza).

If you’re into plant-based eating, try these vegan spots across the state or find great options at these photo-worthy pho restaurants.

Find more ideas below.

Looking to get out for the day? Whether you’re going with a large group, a date, or one close friend, there are so many things to do in Connecticut… yes, even in your 20s and 30s!

A brewery trip is never a bad idea. Luckily, Connecticut’s craft beer scene is booming. Get flights by the water at Stony Creek Brewery and The Beer Garden at Shippan Landing or enjoy the taprooms at Willimantic Brewing Company, Hops on the Hill, Evening Sky Brew, or Bank and Bridge, a brewery in a repurposed bank.

Similarly, spending the day at a stunning vineyard is never a mistake. Enjoy specialty wine slushies at Hawk Ridge Winery, find unique seating from igloos to firepits at Aquila’s Nest Vineyards, and get amazing views at Gouveia Vineyards and Saltwater Farm Vineyards.

Explore art and culture at these Instagrammable murals or admire modern art at The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum. At Real Art Ways, discover one of the country's early alternative arts spaces, which presents visual arts exhibitions, concerts, literary readings, public art, social events, and community projects. Or see indie films at Avon Theatre Film Center in Stamford.

And if you like getting active, travel these hiking and biking trails with incredible views or try a bike tour in Kent.

Find more spots below.

You know when you just feel like doing something different? Something unique and memorable? We have a few ideas for you and your crew.

Get geared up with your group and ride New England’s first and foremost pedaled party and sightseeing bike, Elm City Party Bike. Drivers steer you through the streets cruising with the power of your legs and feet, and take you to popular bars, restaurants and shops offering guests drink specials. Or try a Taste of New Haven Tour to explore more of the city’s culinary culture.

For the daredevils, check off the “skydiving” line on your bucket list at Skydive Danielson, try rock or ice climbing with Ascent Climbing, or speed things up on a UTV with Backyard Adventure UTV Tours. If you're looking to get active indoors, try a variety of acrobatic activities from aerial yoga and pole dancing for fitness to troupe dance classes, chair dancing, equestrian vaulting, and more at Aerial Arts Fitness. Don't worry, you don't have to be a guru to have a good time — beginners are always welcome!

In the warmer months, plan a luxury picnic with The Picnic Gals at these great picnicking parks. The whole setup will be provided, complete with décor, charcuterie, an irresistible aesthetic, and beyond.

Here are some more out-of-the-box ideas:

If you’re looking for nightlife, there’s plenty to go around – but some areas are particularly ideal for going out.

Hartford & West Hartford

One great spot for barhopping is West Hartford Center, home to many great restaurants that blossom with nightlife once the sun goes down. And they’re all conveniently located on the same block, so it’s easy to pop into three or four spots in one night. Try Halfway for a live band atmosphere, The Elbow Room for pub vibes and a rooftop bar, and Bartaco for amazing margaritas.

One city over is the state capital, which boasts great spots for after dark. Spend the night at The Russian Lady’s three floors of fun, grab craft beers at Pig’s Eye Pub, or find LGBTQ+ events at Chez Est.

New Haven

New Haven is a walkable city with vibrant nightlife. Find pizza, beer, and dancing at BAR or head over to Barcade for the perfect combination of nightlife and an arcade with a focus on classic video games and American craft beer. If it’s cocktails you love, you must try Elm City Social, where bartenders evoke the spirit of the Prohibition era. And music fans will have a blast seeing live shows at College Street Music Hall.

Stamford

Stamford is alive and buzzing with a young community and plenty of fun. Discover Cisco Brewers and great private party spaces at The Village or enjoy fantastic bites, cocktails, and a rooftop bar at Sign of The Whale (which also has igloo seating during winter). If you prefer a night club atmosphere, The Palms Night Club is the perfect spot.

The Casinos

Connecticut’s casinos are always jam packed with nightlife and exciting events. At Mohegan Sun, try Avalon Nightclub or the Vista Lounge for DJs and dancing or TAO for great Asian cuisine, an extensive drink menu, and a photo-worthy backdrop.

At Foxwoods, you’ll find an energetic club scene at Shrine. Or if you prefer a bar scene, try The Scorpion Bar, which offers over 100 types of tequila.

Find more nightlife hot spots below.

You know how it goes… pics or it didn’t happen. If you’re a lover of all things picture-perfect, check out our Instagrammable Connecticut series for some fun spots.

Learn more about life for young professionals in Connecticut at CTforMe.com.