The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from City of Newburgh, New York and Ellington, Connecticut

If you're looking for a weekend getaway that's relatively close to the City of Newburgh, New York, head east towards Ellington, Connecticut. There are plenty of things to do along the way, so make sure to plan your itinerary accordingly.

The trip takes approximately two and a half hours, and the halfway point is Oxford, CT. This charming little town is worth stopping at, with its historic buildings and picturesque streets.

Top Five Things to Do

1. Visit Lake Waramaug Lake Waramaug is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, known for its stunning natural beauty and a variety of outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and swimming. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, making it an ideal place for a picnic or a scenic drive. Interesting Fact: The lake is named after Chief Waramaug, a prominent Native American leader who once lived in the area.

2. Go to the Gillette Castle State Park Gillette Castle State Park is a perfect place for history buffs to learn about one of the most eccentric actors and filmmakers of the 20th century, William Gillette. The castle, built by Gillette in the early 1900s, is now a museum that showcases his life and work. Located on a hilltop overlooking the Connecticut River, the park offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and the river itself. Interesting Fact: The castle's exterior was designed to look like a medieval fortress, while the interior is a combination of Victorian and Craftsman styles.

3. Explore the Mark Twain House and Museum Mark Twain, one of the most celebrated American writers, lived in Hartford, Connecticut, for many years and wrote some of his most famous works there. The Mark Twain House and Museum is a beautifully restored Victorian-style mansion that offers guided tours, exhibits, and educational programs for visitors of all ages. Interesting Fact: The house was built in 1874 and features Tiffany glass windows, an ornate staircase, and a library with over 3,500 books.

4. Drive through Kent Falls State Park If you're looking for a scenic drive, Kent Falls State Park is a great place to visit. The park is known for its stunning waterfall, a series of cascading falls that drop about 250 feet in total. Along the way, you can hike one of the many trails in the park, have a picnic, or simply relax near the water. Interesting Fact: The falls are seasonal, and the water flow can vary depending on the time of year and the amount of rainfall.

5. Shop at the Yankee Candle Village For a unique shopping experience, head to the Yankee Candle Village in South Deerfield, Massachusetts. With over 200,000 square feet of shopping space, the store offers everything from candles and home decor to toys and clothing. The complex also includes a Bavarian-style Christmas village, complete with a toy workshop and a bakery. Interesting Fact: The store's flagship location in South Deerfield is so big that shoppers can rent golf carts to get around the store.

In conclusion, the road trip from City of Newburgh, New York to Ellington, Connecticut is a great way to explore the natural beauty and cultural attractions of the region. With a few stops along the way, visitors can experience everything from historic mansions and museums to stunning waterfalls and scenic drives. The trip takes approximately two and a half hours, but the memories will last a lifetime.