The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chester, CT to Southington, CT

The scenic drive from Chester, CT to Southington, CT, offers a mix of charming small towns, scenic routes, and historical landmarks, all in one trip. At the halfway mark, Middletown, CT, lies between both towns, offering a perfect stopover.

Top 5 Things to do

1. Connecticut River Museum

Visiting the Connecticut River Museum in Essex, CT, offers a unique combination of maritime history and natural science. Its ideal location next to the Connecticut River provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the area's significance and the river's impact on surrounding communities. Visitors can explore the museum's exhibits, featuring artifacts, ships, and displays of the historic steamship era.

Interesting fact: Did you know the Connecticut River is the longest river in New England, stretching over 400 miles?

2. Gillette Castle State Park

The Gillette Castle State Park in East Haddam, CT, is a must-see landmark for architecture and design enthusiasts. Built by famous actor and playwright William Gillette, the castle dates back to the early 20th century. The castle, which presents a medieval appearance, features twenty-four rooms, an extensive collection of antiques, and a unique design that mirrors its owner's personality.

Interesting fact: The stone for the castle was sourced from the local area, and the interior decorations are made from custom-built materials.

3. Dinosaur State Park

Located in Rocky Hill, CT, Dinosaur State Park offers visitors the unique opportunity to explore nature's history. The park features displays of skeletons of herbivorous dinosaurs, footprints, and a nature trail. Visitors can experience the thrill of seeing ancient artifacts up close while learning about the state's geological and natural history.

Interesting fact: In 1966, a bulldozer operator revealed the first set of dinosaur tracks in Connecticut while excavating material for a new highway.

4. Lake Compounce

For a fun family adventure, Lake Compounce, located in Bristol, CT, has something for everyone. It is one of the oldest amusement parks in the country, boasting over 168 acres of rides, games, and entertainment. The park features thrilling rides, including a large water park. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy live performances, arcade games, and various food options.

Interesting fact: Lake Compounce was first opened to the public in 1846, making it the oldest amusement park in the United States.

5. Mount Southington Ski Area

Located in Southington, CT, Mount Southington Ski Area is the perfect destination for winter sports enthusiasts. There is a lift-served snow area, a terrain park, cross-country ski trails, and a snow tubing park for family fun. Additionally, the area offers ski lessons, rentals, and various bundle packages to cater to all types of visitors.

Interesting fact: The ski area is located on 51 acres of land and has a skiable terrain of around 14 acres.

Conclusion

The road trip from Chester, CT to Southington, CT, provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the state's diverse tourism offerings. With midway stops in Middletown, CT, visitors can break up the journey and explore. The trip took around 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering 54 miles of beautiful countryside and scenic routes.