Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Cheshire, CT to Watertown, CT
Are you looking for a fun and educational road trip? Look no further than the museums, parks, and landmarks located between Cheshire and Watertown, Connecticut! From fascinating history to beautiful scenery, there's something for everyone on this drive.
Did you know that the distance between Cheshire and Watertown is only about 20 miles? While it may seem like a short drive, there are plenty of interesting stops along the way.
As you approach the halfway point of your journey in Watertown, consider visiting the Watertown Historical Society Museum. Here, you can learn about the town's history through exhibits and artifacts, including a 19th-century fire engine and a collection of vintage clothing.
The trip from Cheshire to Watertown can be completed in under 30 minutes, but we recommend taking your time and enjoying the sights along the way. Now, let's take a closer look at the top five places to visit on this road trip.
1. Barker Character, Comic & Cartoon Museum
If you're a fan of comics or cartoons, you won't want to miss this museum in Cheshire. With over 80,000 pieces of artwork, toys, and memorabilia, the Barker Museum is a treasure trove for pop culture enthusiasts. Notable exhibits include original work by Charles Schulz (creator of 'Peanuts') and Walt Disney, as well as a life-size replica of the Flintstone's car.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Grab lunch or a sweet treat at the nearby Country Creamery.
2. Sleeping Giant State Park
Named after the distinctive mountain formation, Sleeping Giant State Park is a beautiful natural area with hiking trails and scenic overlooks. The park features over 30 miles of trails, varying in difficulty from easy to challenging, so it's perfect for hikers of all levels. Plus, at the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a break at the Sleeping Giant Tower, a stone observation tower built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
3. Mount Carmel Cemetery
While it may seem morbid to visit a cemetery, Mount Carmel is a fascinating historical site. It's the final resting place of many notable figures, including Roger Sherman ("the forgotten founding father") and over 100 Civil War soldiers. The cemetery is well-maintained and beautiful, with impressive monuments and historical markers.
Point of Interest Recommendation: After visiting Mount Carmel Cemetery, head over to the nearby East Rock Park for more natural beauty.
4. Litchfield Green
The Litchfield Green is a historic district in the charming town of Litchfield, CT. The area features beautiful colonial-era homes, as well as the Litchfield History Museum and the Tapping Reeve House and Litchfield Law School (the first law school in America). This is a great spot to stretch your legs and explore a bit of Connecticut's rich history.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Take a walk from the green to West Street, where you'll find unique shops and delicious restaurants.
5. Lake Waramaug State Park
Last but not least on our list is Lake Waramaug State Park. This park is located in the town of Kent and features a pristine lake surrounded by scenic forests. Visitors can swim, boat, hike, and fish at the park, or simply relax and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. There's also a charming covered bridge that's perfect for photo ops.
Point of Interest Recommendation: Check out the nearby Kent Falls State Park, which features a stunning waterfall and scenic trails.
In conclusion, this road trip from Cheshire to Watertown may be short, but there's plenty to see and do along the way. We recommend taking your time and stopping at these top five places: Barker Character, Comic & Cartoon Museum, Sleeping Giant State Park, Mount Carmel Cemetery, Litchfield Green, and Lake Waramaug State Park. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or pop culture, there's something for everyone on this drive. Enjoy the journey!