Growing up in Connecticut- it can often feel like there isn’t much to do, and anyone who lives here can attest to that. Sometimes we forget about the beautiful farmlands and urban cities that dot the small state, and that fun things do exist here- and especially during the summer! Below is a list compiled of some of the summer hot spots in CT. If you’re spending the summer in the Nutmeg state and can’t think of anything to do- hopefully this will give you some inspiration!

Visit some of the beautiful parks and forests that cover a vast part of the state.

Such places as Talcott Mountain State Park, Elizabeth Park, and People’s Forest make for great daytime walks and trips with family or friends. Bringing a picnic basket along can make for a wonderful summer afternoon.

Visit some of the beautiful waterfalls that Connecticut is known for.

Nothing is more refreshing than taking a dip in a beautiful natural pool under some waterfalls, and places like Kent Falls, Enders, and Diana’s Pool are great for outdoor activity, especially if you like a little adventure- or if you just like to snap some beautiful photos!

Take a close trip to one of the many beaches surrounding the state.

Because of the size of Connecticut, you’re never too far from a local beach. Hammonasset Beach, Rocky Neck, and Fairfield Beach are some of the many places to spend your summer, and there are several cute towns surrounding the beaches to go for lunch or shopping.

Get a cold treat at one of the many handcrafted, artisan ice cream stores.

New England has always been recognized as the number one producer of hard ice cream in the nation, and Connecticut maintains this standard. With local cattle and farm product, visiting adorable stores such as Grass Roots Ice Cream in Granby, Connecticut, is a necessity for some delicious ice cream on a hot summer day.

Learn a little in one of Connecticut’s history museums.

Historical monuments and dedications cover a large percentage of the state, but if you would like to really learn more about Connecticut’s development as a state, taking a trip to one of the several museums around is an educational and entertaining experience that’s fun for anyone. The Hill-Stead Museum, the Mark Twain House, and the Children’s Museum are just some examples of several museums you can spend a whole day exploring.

Branch out and visit one of ‘Live CT’ events.

The state has several festivals and carnivals that occur every year that show the extent of cultural diversity and local entertainment. The Hartford Riverfest, The Goshen Stampede, and Willimantic Third Thursday Street Fest always produce great food, music, and handmade products and crafts.

Jam out at one of our concert venues.

Love music and performances? Connecticut has several locations that provide drastically different music scenes for all genres. From Infinity Hall and The Meadows in Hartford, to Toad’s Place in New Haven, there is a place for everyone!

Hopefully this article has provided a little more information about what is around to do in Connecticut this summer- because as it turns out, there’s a whole lot more to do than one might expect! Whether it be exploring one of Connecticut landmarks, taking in the beautiful scenery on a long drive, or just relaxing- Connecticut is a beautiful place to spend your summer!