Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Brookfield, Connecticut and Branford, Connecticut

Brookfield and Branford, two charming towns in Connecticut, are rich in history and natural beauty. Embarking on a road trip from one town to the other can be an excellent way to explore the state and discover new attractions. The trip from Brookfield to Branford, via Route 34, is approximately 50 miles long, taking about an hour to complete. The trip passes through the scenic Monroe, CT, and offers several attractions and pitstops along the way. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip, along with their interesting facts.

Visit the Beardsley Zoo

The Beardsley Zoo is located in Bridgeport, CT, and offers a fun-packed experience for visitors of all ages. The zoo features a vast array of animals that are representative of both North and South America. Visitors can enjoy viewing rare and endangered species such as the Amur Leopard, Ocelot, and the Red Panda. The Beardsley Zoo features various informative exhibits, and the staff is very knowledgeable about the animals. Interestingly, the Beardsley Zoo has been around for over 90 years, making it one of the oldest zoos in New England.

Hike At Sleeping Giant State Park

Located in Hamden, CT, the Sleeping Giant State Park is a perfect destination for hikers and nature lovers. The park features a 1.5-mile-long hike that leads to a fantastic viewpoint at the top of the Giant's chin, where visitors are rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Along the hike, visitors can enjoy the magnificent Quarry and Giant Steps Trails, which offer challenging climbs through rock formations. The Sleeping Giant State Park is Connecticut's fourth largest state park, covering over 1,500 acres of land.

Tour the PEZ Museum

The PEZ Museum, located in Orange, CT, is a haven for candy lovers. The museum is dedicated to the PEZ candy dispenser, which is known for its colorful, fun designs. Visitors to the PEZ Museum can explore the fascinating history of this iconic candy dispenser, view an extensive collection of vintage and newer dispensers, and enjoy interactive exhibits. Additionally, visitors are allowed to make their own custom PEZ dispensers, making it a great activity for families and children. Interestingly, the PEZ Museum is one of the only two PEZ museums in the world, and it receives thousands of visitors each year.

Play at Lake Quassapaug

Lake Quassapaug, located in Middlebury, CT, is a beautiful crystal-clear lake that offers a wide array of water activities. Visitors can swim, boat, fish, or just relax on one of the sandy beaches. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for a picnic or a barbecue. Additionally, Lake Quassapaug features an amusement park that caters to young and old visitors alike, with thrilling rides and games. Interestingly, Lake Quassapaug is one of Connecticut's largest natural lakes and is fed entirely by precipitation and groundwater.

Explore the Shoreline Trolley Museum

The Shoreline Trolley Museum, located in East Haven, CT, is a unique museum dedicated to trolley cars and the history of electric railways. The museum features more than 100 trolley cars, many of which have been restored to their original condition, and visitors can take a ride on an authentic 100-year-old trolley through the scenic Branford Electric Railway Historic District. The museum also offers exhibits on the history of electric transportation and its impact on society. Interestingly, the Shoreline Trolley Museum is the oldest continually operated suburban trolley line in the United States.

Conclusion

A road trip from Brookfield to Branford is an excellent way to explore Connecticut and discover new attractions. The trip offers various activities, including exploring zoos, hiking scenic parks, indulging in candy, enjoying a swim in a lake, and exploring a trolley museum. The halfway point of Monroe, CT, offers several pitstops that visitors can check out or rest at, such as Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts. The trip takes approximately an hour and is a great way to spend a day outdoors.