Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cheshire, CT to Sterling, CT

Are you searching for a leisurely weekend drive within Connecticut? Starting from Cheshire, CT, and traveling to Sterling, CT, there are plenty of places that can surprise you on the way. The drive distance is about 56 miles and typically takes around an hour without stops, but why rush when you can make fun memories along the way? Here are the top five unexpected places you should add to your itinerary.

Marlborough, CT - The Midpoint

Marlborough, CT, sitting at the midpoint of the Cheshire to Sterling drive, makes a perfect stop for rest and lunch. This historic town has been around since 1803 and oozes with a peaceful, small-town vibe. The Marlborough Country Barn is a must-visit spot that hosts a farmer's market for fresh, locally grown produce, homemade jams, and baked goods that please the taste buds. The Barn also serves as an antique showroom, where visitors can find all types of vintage collectibles. Visit a local deli Ron's Market for some sandwiches and don't forget to try their famous roast beef sandwich loaded with sautéed onions and cheese.

1. Miller's Pond State Park, Durham, CT

Miller's Pond State Park in Durham, CT, is a hidden gem surrounded by a lush forest. The park offers various recreational activities to suit families, couples, and solo travelers. Visitors can go fishing in the pond, hike through the trails, or enjoy a picnic in the well-maintained park grounds. Miller's Pond offers a peaceful, off-the-beaten-track atmosphere and the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can bring their food and enjoy a picnic lunch while enjoying the serene setting.

2. Buttolph-Williams House, Wethersfield, CT

Buttolph-Williams House, located in Wethersfield, CT, is an antique house museum built-in 1711. The house was home to several generations of the Buttolph and Williams families and has since been transformed into a colonial-era museum that offers a view of the past. This house-museum displays several period rooms with handmade furniture and other artifacts like clothing, paintings, and other colonial-style decor. Visitors can stroll through the picturesque gardens and learn about the history of Wethersfield. A stop at the local bakery, the Sweet Cupcasions, and try their chocolate ganache cupcakes would make for a tasty treat.

3. Dinosaur State Park, Rocky Hill, CT

Dinosaur State Park is a family-friendly park that features dinosaur tracks in the sandstone dating back 200 million years. Located in Rocky Hill, CT, it is an educational and fun stop on the drive. Visitors can wander along the trails, watch a video about dinosaurs, check out the exhibits, and even see woolly mammoth bones! The park offers a gift shop and a picnic area where visitors can have lunch and a dinosaur-shaped cookie from the cafe.

4. Cedar Ridge Golf Course and Driving Range, East Lyme, CT

Cedar Ridge Golf Course and Driving Range in East Lyme, CT, offers a perfect break for golf enthusiasts. It is a picturesque 18-hole course and an excellent spot to take in the peaceful surroundings. The course offers a relaxed environment and a friendly staff. The driving range is a great place to practice and enjoy some fresh air. After playing some rounds of golf, visitors can try the Cedar Ridge Restaurant. The restaurant serves an array of American cuisines with fantastic options of seafood, steaks, and pasta.

5. The Book Barn, Niantic, CT

The Book Barn in Niantic, CT, offers a unique and inviting experience of browsing through used books, including rare and out-of-print book collections. There is a vast selection of books, including children's books, mystery books, history books, and even comic books. The beautiful outdoor surroundings give off a similar feeling to a country fair. This charming bookshop has something special to offer for everyone. Visitors can browse through the books and enjoy a delicious crepe from The Crazy Crepe Cafe.

Conclusion

Traveling from Cheshire, CT, to Sterling, CT, is an excellent way to discover some hidden treasures in Connecticut. Along the drive, visitors can see vintage collectibles, dine at local eateries, and learn about the history of colonial-era homes. The city of Marlborough makes for an excellent midpoint to take a break and have some delicious roast beef sandwiches. These five stops are unique and offer a diverse range of activities. So, the next time you embark on a Connecticut road trip, make sure not to miss these five unexpected locations from your itinerary.