A jutting coastline, a . And because theyre not as famous as the beaches in other states, theyre also much calmer and quieter. Small in global terms, the Thimble Islands are the largest archipelago in Connecticut. Celebrate New Years Eve in Connecticut with drag performances, clubbing, Pork, chicken, cheese, beans, or loroco (flower bud) just some of the many varieties of pupusas you can enjoy. Make it a fabulous morning at the semi-monthly Pink Eggs & Glam Drag Brunch! can walk the campus grounds, whose Gothic style, inspired by Cambridge and Oxford universities, are reminiscent of Hogwarts to some modern visitors. Inventive restauranteurs have transformed all sorts of landmark venues into showcases for fine food, whether it's a brick-oven pizza, fresh seafood, farm-to-table fare, or a classic hamburger (We invented it! Barnum of circus fame was born in Bethel, Connecticut, but loved Bridgeport. While the classic American fare at the Griswold Inn is worth a visit, the most intriguing part about the Griswold Inn is its history. As the most populous part of Connecticut, much of Fairfield County was shut-down for months. Plenty of the most interesting and unique attractions in Connecticut are also free, like viewing the mysterious and historic manuscripts of the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library. Overlooking theLitchfield Green,Market Place Tavern serves its patrons in one of the oldest penal facilities in the state. Below are our top 5 picks for the most unique things to do in Connecticut. But one of the most unique aspects of the city is the many holdovers from its days as an economic center of the Victorian era. Bun Lais mother, Japanese immigrant Yoshiko Lai, opened. You will however find quite a few ducks hiding in this place. A New Haven institution since 1976, the Atticus Bookstore on Chapel Street is a prime spot to rub shoulders with Yale students while grabbing a coffee and searching for an unexpected literary find. Website Accessibility Policy | Privacy Policy, https://stantonhouseinn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/logo.jpg, Historic attractions centered around one of the oldest settlements on the CT shoreline, Small hold farms centered around charming rural towns, Unique things to do in CT during Covid lockdown. William Hooker Gillette is best known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes. Phone: (203) 869-2110 Dine "underwater" in Singapore Imagine tucking into your meal as a manta ray or hammerhead shark glides by languidly, accompanied by divers swimming in choreographed motion. 1,750 Sq. He also designed such quirks as a brick guesthouse with no windows, an edgeless gatehouse called Da Monsta, and an underground art gallery styled after Agamemnons tomb. Its sister restaurant,Oyster Club, is located right down the road. And its largely a difference between mayonnaise and butter. It holds the title for being the worlds first sustainable sushi restaurant. Highly motivated registered dietitian passionate about helping students and clients with their unique nutrition needs. TV screens inside Mystic Pizza run the movie on a continuous loop, in case you need a refresher. are wonderfully safe and calm. The only remaining steam train and riverboat connection in America is based in Essex, Connecticut, as the name implies. Dining out doesn't have to be just eating - it can be an adventure. The US has more than its fair share of quirky and unusual dining experiences. Looking for the best restaurants in Connecticut? Not to mention their wine list, which is always changing, usually has a large number of names you cant seem to find at other places. Elephants Trunk staked claim to that title years ago. Treat yourself and your friends or family to special menus. theflyingmonkeygrillbar@gmail.com tel 860-436-5144. The Griswold Inn is the among the oldest of Americas continuously-run taverns. But the state also offers a number of opportunities that take food from the basic breakfast, lunch, and dinner to full-blown experiences you will never forget. 15. In downtown Bridgeport, close to I-95, sits a unique red and yellow domed building made of stone and terracotta. Purchase a gift certificate online or by calling toll free, 888-759-8368. Even more unique? You cant enjoy a Connecticut lobster roll in its birthplace, but it was such a hit here that this dish spread up and down the Connecticut coast. Actors are dressed like guests and begin the night seated amongst the crowd anyone in the room may become part of the show! To this day, locals hold such a grudge that Benedict Arnolds name is used as a severe insult synonymous with traitor. A multi-course meal featuring corn on the cob, potatoes, clams, salad, and dessert are all served under a tented pavilion on the lighthouse lawn. They're worth, Mystic Country is rich with locally owned and operated businesses for all your shopping needs. Dont bother asking for other condiments, as they simply dont have them. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Make the trek to see this Gothic holdover, and recreate your own medieval pilgrimage. During Foxwoods Resort Casino's Ice Rink and Winter Patio, you can take your group inside and rent an igloo accompanied by special menus. has occupied the same location since the 1970s. Today, Present Company serves the finest farm-to-table American fare. Out-of-the-ordinary restaurants. With the grounds of Weir Farm open year-round, its one of the best free things to do in Connecticut. Johnson famously joked that he had the most beautiful and expensive wallpaper the world had ever known. And Bun Lai has created an innovative menu serving local invasive species. The Thimble Islands were a favorite summer playground of famous turn-of-the-century Americans as President William Taft and Tom Thumb. The cute, affluent Norwalk neighborhood of Rowayton hosts an annual tradition that locals love. Ascot's has a seasonal drink menu and several Wine Flights. Swing by to mix with a buzzing crowd while grazing on daily specials served fresh from the kitchen. New Haven, CT 06511. Built in 1911, this theatre is the oldest continuously performing summer theatre in the United States. Sunday Brunch 10:15am-2:30pm. This restaurant sends you straight on a journey to the south with their inspired cuisine. The Board Room is the first board game cafe in Connecticut. Enjoy an authentic Cajun seafood boil that is packed with flavor and then ask for a marker and leave a comment on the wall. Taste the original burger the way it was intended at Louis Lunch, the birthplace of the hamburger. Many places claim to be the birthplace of the hamburger. the birds bring a bit of whimsy to this sandwich shop. Today a National Historic Landmark, it serves seafood in a quaint, historic setting that harkens back to Boston's colonial days. Collinsville has to be one of the most charming villages in Connecticut, defined by the landmark and sprawling former ax factory complex, the Farmington River rail trail, antiques and hometown shops, and dining with a truly local flair. Then, spend 2 and a half hours on a narrated trip up the Connecticut River Valley, seeing such sights along the way as Gillette Castle and the Goodspeed Opera House. Kids love dog drool and swamp juice. The original Red Brick store first opened in 1908and legend has it that one of its frequent shoppers was Marilyn Monroe. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Youll choose from a flavorful variety of ingredients and can even get creative at the make-your-own sauce bar! It has still maintained its local offerings, as well, to keep what youll find here unique and interesting. Any time of year can be an appealing time to take this trip, as the 30 miles or so of the river from the mouth up to Middletown is picturesque villages and marshes. A SkyVenture adventure is the perfect gift for everyone from kids as young as 3 to seniors in their 90s. During the early 1900s, this building was the home of justice. hosts over 200 events a year, hosting authors from around the country. We're hiring. It has still maintained its local offerings, as well, to keep what youll find here unique and interesting. Open May through October in Guilford, this entirely open-air camp kitchen cooks all its dishes over a fire pit since it opened in 1971. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! The Place is an unusual restaurant where diners perch on tree stumps and eat outdoors at bright red tables. Northern Quarter Party Bar Cocktail Bar Restaurant Bar Tell me more And starting just a year after the burning in 1782, the citizens of New London carried a two-faced effigy of Benedict Arnold before burning him. 14 Unusual Dining Experiences in Connecticut. Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center, Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center. No plane ticket needed to travel to this slice of Germany. But the main draw is the Sheffield Island Lighthouse. When you step inside, youll be greeted by shelves of books, framed and signed photos of authors, and a menu filled with literature-themed dishes. Lusail Food Arena, Lusail (7441 4481). Take a unique culinary journey at Koox Ich Kool: an organic Mayan farm located along the Ruta de los Cenotes offering an authentic farm-to-table dining experience. CTvisit.com is proud to partner with some of the region's most popular content, From Yale University football to world-class golf tournaments, high-scoring college sports to high-energy professional, Looking for the best restaurants in Connecticut? They're the sorority everyone wants a bid from whether they admit . This order started in France, but fled to the United Kingdom in the 19th century before settling on Enders Island, always traveling with their religious relic. Featuring, Whats the next best thing to growing your own fruits, vegetables, plants, flowers, and more? Dianes Books is worth perusing whenever youre shopping Greenwich Avenue. Keep scrolling for the full list (and a map): Of the lengthy list of CT activities, what are the most unique? While it comes with challenges, including inclement weather, restaurant owners have been . Check out these places for a dining experience youll never forget. The Future Sushi Voyage tasting menu offers an experience in Bun Lais vision of what the sushi experience may offer in 2150. Its why The Nature Conservancy deemed the Connecticut River Valley one of , An early 19th century example of that eccentricity is, William Gillette was even the source of the phrase, , A system of hidden mirrors for spying on public rooms from the master bedroom, Strange door knobs, locks, and light switches, A steam engine and railroad tracks that once circumnavigated the property, Walking trails featuring wooden trestles and arched bridges, 13. Connecticut was the home of Americas nuclear submarine production. Explore southern Connecticut for some of the best events distinctive to our corner of New England. As in, what are ones you would have a hard time experiencing somewhere else? Judges Cave, New Haven. While its size makes Elephants Trunk unique, there are fantastic Connecticut flea markets in every corner of the state. Some farms have been in operation since the 1700s. This spot also features a tequila bar with over 30 options and some of the best margaritas in the state. One of the most unique and well-known displays of New England cuisine is the clambake. This one-of-a-kind spot is more than just a rest stop its a destination for food, music, community and fun. Built over 37 years on 49 acres, Philip Johnson turned homebuilding on its head with The Glass House. If something wasnt closed, like Greenwich parks, it was swamped with other people who had suddenly discovered the outdoors. From 1910 to 1966, this stately building was an active post office. A Marine Corps veteran, turned trial lawyer, turned brewery owner, Walt traded in his combat boots for dress shoes and now flip flops. Even more uniquely Connecticut activities, Connecticuts museums, from Hartford to New Haven, Greenwich to Stonington. Celebrate New Years Eve in Connecticut with drag performances, clubbing, Pork, chicken, cheese, beans, or loroco (flower bud) just some of the many varieties of pupusas you can enjoy. Chow down on hanging kebabs, sharing boards and crispy halloumi burgers, all while the bartenders whip you up some of their award-winning cocktails packed with fresh herbs, fruits and spirits. The unique experience of a fancy multiple course meal outside on a picturesque farm comes at a price. in downtown Greenwich for what is arguably the best lobster roll in Connecticut. This little restaurant is also a marketplace if youre looking for some new flavors to cook with. From checking off, Looking for the best restaurants in Connecticut? With one of the earliest public school systems in the country, Connecticut has long had a high literacy rate. One of the oldest universities in America sits in downtown New Haven, Connecticut. What was once a muddy country road in a backwoods town is now one of the most cosmopolitan shopping districts in America. 7994 Faith Ct Frederick, CO, 80530 This stunning home sits on a quiet cul-de-sac in the unique and sought-after Angel View Estates, offering a lifestyle of luxury and convenience. While his stature has diminished of late, he is considered one of the most influential 20th century architects. The bridges themselves are a draw. The battle line of lobster roll devotees fluctuates, but there are two schools of thought for what a real lobster roll is: Maine and Connecticut. Plenty of the most interesting and unique attractions in Connecticut are also free, like viewing the mysterious and historic manuscripts of the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library. Maker's Mark Bourbon sponsors the event, so the dinner is paired with their offerings. to the Frisbie Pie Company). She is a social boss who has worked with several major sites and brands. It could very well be one of the most romantic. There is no shortage of funky items on display here. You can also buy books from the library downstairs, but who doesnt love the idea of perusing for a free novel while your food is being prepared? Whether you want to come face-to-face with a green sea turtle, get hands on with sharks in our touch tank, feed our cownose rays, visit our belugas, seals, and sea lions in their outdoor habitats, roam our marsh trek, learn about ways you can help fight water pollution, or meet . Barnum designed the three-story building himself, intending it to be an institute for science and history. Writer Ayn Rand even spent some time here. $2,300 /mo. Pizza restaurants here frequently win national awards. Website Design by Q4Launch. Check out this pizza filling station that has something special going on. You can dine directly on the water; Be served outdoors while seated on tree stumps; Solve a mystery while enjoying your entre. This despite such historic hurdles as invading British troops (Essex is one of the only towns in America invaded by a foreign power) and Prohibition. wealthy, NY/CT/NJ skinny girls. , he is considered one of the most influential 20th century architects. 02 of 10 Sitting off the coast of Connecticut, accessible by a causeway, sits Enders Island. From ducking into mouse holes to perching on shelves, Constructed in 1910 in grand Spanish Colonial Revival-style, this iconic building closed in the 1960s. Foodies can indulge themselves at an historic mill, a train station, even a gas station. With a combination of traditional plates and more familiar items like coconut shrimp, this place is a festive spot to catch up with friends. Both locals and tourists flock to La Caverna for its intimate and relaxed dining and memorable food experience. Instead of dividing a single interior into rooms, he divided the space into 14 structures, each with a different function, for example: One of the most famous quirks of the house is that almost the entire structure is one room. If you're looking to experience one in Doha, you'll have to head up to the Lusail Food Arena for Ink Caf.