5 Connecticut Attractions That Fly Under The Radar

Connecticut is New England’s two-sided coin of natural wonders. Shoreline spots and countryside marvels are all within an hour or two from each other — and that hodgepodge holds some hidden Connecticut attractions that go unnoticed by the masses. Before you build a travel itinerary solely off big-name tourist titles, add these top 5 insiders travel tips to get in touch with lesser-known Connecticut attractions sent our way by Nutmeggers themselves via Facebook and Instagram.

Tip 1. Enders Falls (Granby, CT)

Diverse woods and wetlands make Enders State Forest in northern Connecticut a nature lover’s paradise, but they wouldn’t be complete without the serene sights of Enders Falls. You’ll find five waterfalls including cascades, plunge pools, slides, and horsetails, all located on side trails within a half-mile distance. Whether you suit up in swim trunks on a splash-worthy summer day or you bust out your best camera for prime waterfall photography, Enders Falls is worth going out of your way for. At less than a half-hour’s drive from Hartford, the falls offer a scenic detour during a city getaway. Insider  travel submission from Richard D. and Abby L.

Tip 2. Flower Bridge (Simsbury, CT)

While you’re in northern Connecticut’s neck of the woods (so to speak), make a pit stop at the Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge in Simsbury, known by locals simply as the Flower Bridge. This 19th century metal-truss bridge boasts a breathtaking assortment of flowers on each side, with a total of 32 hanging baskets and 48 flower boxes bursting with every color of the rainbow. Strictly a pedestrian and bicycle way since 1984, folks who are fortunate enough to have heard of the aromatic attraction are treated to a worthy photo op in front of brilliant blossoms and the picturesque Farmington River. Insider travel submission from Susan on Instagram.

Tip 3. White Memorial Trails (Litchfield, CT)

Whether you’re a hardcore hiker or you’d rather set foot on a simple, scenic stroll, the trails at Litchfield’s White Memorial Conservation Center offer plenty of reasons to stretch your legs. With more than 40 miles of trails, a variety of habitats from hills to wetlands, and some trails open to biking and horseback riding, White Memorial makes every visit to the Litchfield Hills as fresh as the first. Strap on your hiking boots in the summer, your snowshoes and cross-country skis in the winter, or your binoculars for bird-watching in between. Insider travel submission from Alison P.

Tip 4. The Peace Sanctuary (Mystic, CT)

Maritime museums and succulent seafood make the seafaring town of Mystic a magnet for tourism. Not all attractions live in the limelight, however. For beautiful water views minus the busy crowds, head to the forty-river acre Peace Sanctuary and stroll along the Mystic River on a meticulously-maintained nature trail. Flower fans, you have reason to think pink — stop by the sanctuary in May to catch the simultaneous bloom of over four hundred pink lady's slippers. Insider travel submission from Vanessa D.

Tip 5. Charles Island (Milford, CT)

No boat? No problem. Charles Island, about half a mile off the coast of southwestern Connecticut, is fully accessible by foot at low tide. It’s little-known beyond the natives (and at 14 acres, just plain little), but this tiny island is large on local lore. Legend says it’s been subject to a pirate’s curse three times since 1639, preventing it from seeing a permanent settlement. Some also claim it’s home to a long-lost pirate’s treasure — if you’re feeling brave enough to search for it, keep your eye on the local tide chart so you don’t get separated from the mainland. Even if you come up short on doubloons and gemstones, you’ll be rich in bird sightings during the spring or fall. Located right on I-95, Milford makes a perfect pit stop on your way to the colossal collection of coastal attractions in southeastern Connecticut. Insider travel submission from Bernie S.

Whether your Connecticut vacation adventure calls for hiking boots in the hills or a swimsuit for exploring at sea level, you’re going to have to call it a day eventually. Be sure to make a reservation at one of our Connecticut inns or resorts — we’ll be your go-to guides on activities and attractions worthy of filling one (or five) Nutmeg State itineraries.