Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Canton, Massachusetts and Trumbull, Connecticut

Are you looking for a road trip adventure? How about a drive from Canton, Massachusetts to Trumbull, Connecticut? This drive offers picturesque New England scenery, winding roads, and plenty of stops to explore. The journey will take approximately three hours and forty-five minutes, but with numerous places to stop, it can become a full day's adventure.

Stafford Springs, CT- The Halfway Point

Stafford Springs, CT acts as the halfway point between Canton and Trumbull, making it an ideal stop for lunch or a quick stretch. This small town emanates rural beauty, with its quaint downtown area and architecture. One of their most notable sites is the Stafford Springs Train Depot, operating from 1875-1955. The depot has since been transformed into a museum housing train memorabilia. Visitors can explore their seasonal exhibits and enjoy watching the trains on the nearby track. After exploring the museum, stop by the town's farmers' market, where fresh produce and specialty cheeses are available. Stafford Springs is also home to several restaurants, boasting of American cuisine and unique coffee blends.

Place 1: The Mark Twain House & Museum, Hartford, CT

The first stop during this scenic drive should be to The Mark Twain House & Museum, located in Hartford, CT. The classical building dates back to 1874 and was Twain's family home from 1874-1891. Today, it's been transformed into a museum to honor Twain's legacy and works. Visitors can walk through the grand house and view Twain's colorful decor style. The museum offers various tours, including "Living History," where actors dress in period clothing to scout authentic experiences. When visiting, don't forget to dine in their Nook Farm Nook Cafe, specialising in hearty soups, salads, and paninis.

Place 2: The Beer'd Brewing Company, Stonington, CT

For a unique stop, Beer'd Brewing Company, located in Stonington, Connecticut, is an ideal location. While it may seem like an unusual spot for a brewery, the company's name stems from after their founder's dog. The brewery prides itself on producing exceptional beer, with unique flavor profiles that satisfy even the most demanding beer connoisseurs. Visitors can sit in their taproom and admire the views of their brewing facilities while savoring one of their signature beers. Don't forget to try their power plant porter, the brewery's most popular beer.

Place 3: Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic, CT

For history enthusiasts, Mystic Seaport Museum is a must-visit on this drive. This museum curates artifacts from marine history and combines modern technology to create interactive exhibits. Once on the grounds, explore the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship in the world, then head over to the planetarium for a starry show. Visitors can visit the working shipyard and see how craftsmen build and restore historic vessels. You can also watch the cooks in the operating historic kitchens prepare food over an open hearth. The Mystic Seaport Museum is a delightful experience for both children and adults. When at Mystic, visiting Sea View Snack Bar is mandatory, their lovely seafood and clam fritters are what cravings are made of.

Place 4: The Old Cider Mill, Glastonbury, CT

The next stop on this drive should be the Old Cider Mill, located in Glastonbury, CT. While cider finds its way into stores year-round, there's nothing better than a freshly pressed one. The Old Cider Mill has been producing apple cider for over a century. Their apple cider has won many local accolades and has been featured in major newspapers and magazines. Visitors can witness their apple press in action and savor a warm cider donut or a slice of apple pie. The mill also has a petting zoo and an outdoor picnic area, perfect for a family-friendly afternoon.

Place 5: Yale University Art Gallery, New Haven, CT

The last stop on this drive should be the Yale University Art Gallery, located in New Haven, CT. The museum boasts of vast collections from Ancient Americas, Africa, and Europe, and their works feature contemporary artists from across the globe. The Yale University Art Gallery offers free admission, making it an inviting stop for art enthusiasts and visitors with tight budgets. The gallery also has a restaurant, the Claire's Corner Copia, which offers an expansive selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

Conclusion

This road trip offers a chance for adventurers to explore memorable stops and take in the scenic beauty along the way. From the historical landmarks and interactive exhibits to the apple cider mill and artisan breweries, there's something unique for everyone on this Canton-Trumbull route. Embark on this journey and witness the beauty that New England has to offer, along with the fantastic food and drink that complements it all.