Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Cheshire, CT to Cromwell, CT
Are you craving a road trip filled with fascinating museums, breathtaking parks, and iconic landmarks? Look no further than the route from Cheshire, CT, to Cromwell, CT. This scenic voyage is jam-packed with must-see attractions for all ages.
Did you know that this particular route was once a vital Native American path for trade and travel? The path later became a colonial post road, carrying mail and goods between Boston and New York City. Today, this road is known as Route 9, and it is a beautiful drive with plenty of stops to stretch your legs and take in the sights.
At the halfway point of our journey lies the city of Meriden, CT. This charming town boasts an accumulation of incredible parks and open spaces. The famous Hubbard Park encompasses 1,800 acres and features an iconic Castle Craig tower with incredible views of the surrounding area. Nature lovers can take a walk on the Wilcox Technical High School Trails, where they can admire the diverse flora and fauna.
The trip from Cheshire to Cromwell takes approximately 45 minutes. The length of the trip depends on the number of stops and traffic. However, the real question is, where should you stop?
Here are the top five must-see destinations along the way:
Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art
Located in downtown Hartford, the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is one of the oldest public art museums in the United States, dating back to 1842. The museum has over 50,000 works of art, ranging from ancient Egypt to contemporary times. Visitors can expect artworks from famous artists such as Salvador Dali, Picasso, and Monet.
Point of interest recommendation: The museum has free admission on the first Thursday of every month from 4 pm to 6 pm.
Mark Twain House and Museum
Located in the charming city of Hartford, The Mark Twain House and Museum is a fantastic destination for literature enthusiasts. The beautiful Victorian Gothic-style house served as the home of Mark Twain and his family from 1874 to 1891. Inside the house, visitors can explore interactive exhibits and listen to guided tours to learn about the life and works of the celebrated author.
Point of interest recommendation: The museum offers ghost tours that take visitors around the house while sharing spooky tales.
Dinosaur State Park
Located in Rocky Hill, CT, Dinosaur State Park features an incredible display of dinosaur footprints from the early Jurassic period. The park has multiple trails and exhibits, allowing visitors to experience the prehistoric time and learn about the environment during that period.
Point of interest recommendation: The park has one of the largest dinosaur track sites in North America, with over 500 intact prints discovered in 1966.
Glastonbury, CT
Glastonbury is a quaint town located in Hartford County, The town features charming shops, delightful restaurants, and incredible views of the Connecticut River. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks, bike rides, or even hop on a paddleboat to admire the beautiful scenery.
Point of interest recommendation: Visit Glastonbury during the fall to experience the famous apple fests, which features live music, crafts, and delicious apple treats.
Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park
Located in Middle Haddam, the Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park is a must-see for history aficionados. The park features steam locomotives, period railway buildings, and a vintage rail yard. Visitors can ride historic trains or take a train-themed walking tour through the park.
Point of interest recommendation: Visitors can take a scenic two and a half-hour train ride through the Connecticut River Valley and enjoy an exceptional dining experience aboard the train.
In conclusion, this road trip is a perfect excuse to get out of the house and explore the beautiful state of Connecticut. Take some time to visit the museums, parks, and landmarks along the way, and soak up the rich history and culture of the area. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a fun day trip, this route has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, grab a friend, and hop on the road to adventure!