Things To Do In Connecticut
Gillette Castle State Park
Hiking trails and incredible views of the Connecticut river at this state park, which is just steps away from the wedding venue. Gillette Castle itself is a one-of-a-kind mansion designed by the actor and playwright William Gillette, and is now open to the public for tours as a museum dedicated to Gillette's life and many possessions.
Modern Apizza
New Haven is famous for its pizza, and the area's residents love to argue over which restaurant serves the best. The debate usually centers around the "Big Three": Pepe's, Sally's, and Modern. There are no wrong choices here, but Modern's white clam pizza is an essential New Haven original.
Yale University Art Gallery
If art galleries are your thing, New Haven has one of the best in the world. Better still, admission is free. Yale's flagship gallery features a works from renowned artists like Picasso, Monet, and others. After visiting, grab coffee or lunch at Atticus Bookstore Cafe across the street, or visit the nearby Yale Center for British Art, where admission is also free.
Bishop's Orchards Farm Market & Winery
September is apple season in Connecticut, and at Bishop's Orchards, you can pick your own at an orchard that grows over 20 varieties. The farmers market indoors features homemade cider and baked goods such as pie and cider donuts.
Le Petit Café
A cozy French cafe serving world-class 4-course meals in the New Haven suburbs. Menu changes by week, but fall staples include steak frites, French onion soup, and creme brulee. Seating is limited and reservations are required.
East Rock Park
East Rock has some of the best hiking and walking trails in the state. Located at the northern edge of New Haven, a short hike to the top allows you to see a panoramic view of the city. An alternate trail leads you around the Mill River, where you can rarely see swans. Free parking is available at the Eli Whitney Museum and a parking lot off of Farnam Drive.
Neils Donuts
Trust us: If they're not the best donuts you've ever had, they're close.
Salem Valley Farms Ice Cream
Rural Connecticut has some of the best ice cream makers in the country, and Salem Valley Farms is one of the best. Our favorites are the Grasshopper (mint Oreo) and Cherry Robere.
Liuzzi Gourmet Food Market
This Italian market has a wide range of specialty groceries, but the star of the show is the deli, which will serve you an Italian combo that renders all other Italian combos obsolete. They also feature a number of classic Italian subs including chicken parm, as well as homemade pizza. The cannoli are fantastic as well.
Liv's Oyster Bar & Restaurant
Fresh Atlantic seafood in an upscale eatery in downtown Old Saybrook. Serves local oysters & other raw bar fare along with classic seafood entrees.