Points of Interest between Burlington, Connecticut to East Haven, Connecticut

picture of Burlington, Connecticut

The Ultimate Road Trip from Burlington to East Haven, Connecticut

If you're looking for a weekend getaway, there's nothing quite like a good old-fashioned road trip. With so many incredible places to explore along the way, the drive from Burlington to East Haven in Connecticut offers an adventure-packed journey.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the stretch of Route 68 between the cities of Yalesville and Wallingford was the original main highway between New Haven and Waterbury in the early 1900s?

As you embark on this journey, don't forget to stop at the halfway point of Meriden, CT, where you can explore the historic Meriden Green and Hubbard Park.

The trip from Burlington to East Haven is approximately 55 miles long, which should take you no more than an hour (depending on traffic). The route will take you through a scenic countryside along with quaint New England towns, which offer plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.

Here are the top five places to explore on this road trip:

  1. Litchfield Hills: Drive through the picturesque Litchfield Hills, where you can stop by and explore the numerous farms, river walks, and highway overlooks that offer breathtaking views of the countryside. Don't forget to stop by the White Flower Farm, a horticulturist's paradise, where you can shop for plants and gardening supplies.

Point of Interest: Stop by the Hopkins Vineyard, where you can enjoy some of the region's best wines while taking in the stunning views of Lake Waramaug.

  1. Mattatuck Museum: Head to the city of Waterbury and visit the Mattatuck Museum, which showcases the city's rich history and industrial past. The museum features collections of American art, furniture, and decorative arts.

Point of Interest: Grab a bite at the Palace Theater Cafe, located in the historic Palace Theater building, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and a light snack.

  1. Yale University Art Gallery: Once you reach New Haven, visit the world-renowned Yale University Art Gallery, which boasts an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and other rare objects. The museum also has one of the largest collections of African art in the United States.

Point of Interest: Take a stroll through the acclaimed Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, located on Yale's campus, which is home to an impressive collection of rare books, manuscripts, and other archival materials.

  1. East Haven Town Beach: Located on the Long Island Sound, the East Haven Town Beach is a popular spot for families and couples to soak up the sun and splash in the waves. The beach also has picnic areas, playgrounds, and volleyball courts.

Point of Interest: Head down the road to the Lighthouse Point Park and visit the historic Lighthouse, built in 1847, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Sound.

  1. Wooster Square: Take a stroll through New Haven's charming Wooster Square, which boasts a beautiful garden and a picturesque fountain. The Square is also home to some of the city's finest Italian restaurants.

Point of Interest: Grab a slice of authentic pizza at the family-operated Sally's Apizza or Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, which are both located in the Square and are hailed by locals as the best pizza in town.

In conclusion, the drive from Burlington to East Haven, Connecticut, is the ideal weekend trip for travelers looking for a blend of countryside drives and charming city exploration. The best part of this trip is that you can cover the distance quickly and still have plenty of time to explore each of these top destinations and the many other hidden gems you'll find along the way. So gather your friends and family, and hit the road for a memorable adventure.