This little restaurant is also a marketplace if youre looking for some new flavors to cook with. Now I warned you about this place not being a restaurant, but it does serve drinks so Im stretching the rules because it is something you have to do at least once. Northern Quarter Party Bar Cocktail Bar Restaurant Bar Tell me more Chowdafest happens annually in Sherwood Park. Must try: Al Pastor Tacos for sure! Long Wharf in New Haven is such a popular food truck destination that its been named Food Truck Paradise. And when he died and was buried there, he bequeathed much of his most unique treasures to the city. Set in a repurposed car garage, Olive Oyls brings delicious carry-out bites to the heart of walkable downtown Essex. It could very well be one of the most romantic things to do in the summertime in Connecticut. The Connecticut lobster roll, meanwhile, is hot lobster meat dressed with butter and served in a warm, toasted bun. Arent these places cool? Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History New Haven. Looking to show your pride year round? Let us know in the comments section below. Youll have to taste to find out! This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, perfect for those who love to dine in unique settings. Theyre open for lunch and dinner, Tuesday through Saturday. And in more than a few cases, especially Greenwich, fabulously wealthy. Lobsters, clams, corn, and other items are deliciously grilled on a 18 foot fire pit. change throughout their lives. Below, we've picked out 20 of the most unique places of interest you'll find anywhere in Connecticut. You can dine directly on the water; Be served outdoors while seated on tree stumps; Solve a mystery while enjoying your entre. Explore ten individual custom igloo experiences at Dockside's very own igloo park. It has still maintained its local offerings, as well, to keep what youll find here unique and interesting. Thank you! A few top restaurants in downtown Greenwich include Le Penguin. Out-of-the-ordinary restaurants. 2023 is almost here so ring it in right. At least according to the current owner, Bun Lai Yoshiko. With a stellar list of rotating performers, each brunch is filled with games, theater, comedy, music, and debauchery! - will answer hunger and intrigue the palette. For a pitch-black experience: Nox - Dine in the Dark. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Here are some exciting upcoming LGBTQ+ events. The Thimble Islands were a favorite summer playground of famous turn-of-the-century Americans as President William Taft and Tom Thumb. This place serves Venezuelan food, and is known to be quite busy on a Friday night. Overlooking theLitchfield Green,Market Place Tavern serves its patrons in one of the oldest penal facilities in the state. You will however find quite a few ducks hiding in this place. And the service areas were recently renovated for drivers needing a Dunkin Donuts fix. Some have survived, while others have fallen by the wayside (R.I.P. Many of these unique ingredients are often foraged by Bun Lai himself. Some of the most unique points of interest here include: Connecticut offers a culinary tour of historic and futuristic firsts. The original Red Brick store first opened in 1908and legend has it that one of its frequent shoppers was Marilyn Monroe. ; house many of these native-born treasures. Directions to Greenwich, CT, and Stanton House Inn. A clambake is a traditional, New England, method of cooking seafood using seaweed to steam the quahogs, clams, lobsters, mussels, et cetera. During the Revolutionary War, Connecticut was known as the arsenal of America, as it was the most industrialized state in the Union. Exuding a refined and elegant atmosphere, the Oyster Club is an excellent spot for a romantic dinner or special celebration. hosts over 200 events a year, hosting authors from around the country. Judges Cave, New Haven. Some of the best hiking trails in Connecticut are scattered along the route of the Merritt. The most extraordinary detail? Here are some exciting upcoming LGBTQ+ events. The state capital deserves its own guide. From being the second state to legalize same, Putting together your 2023 priorities? She is a social boss who has worked with several major sites and brands. We pride ourselves on making things work, and making them work well. But what makes this place especially unique is that it's built in a beautifully restored 1920s gas station. Having explored much of Connecticut, another category of attraction that stands out is quirky eccentricities created by excess wealth. Each one was individually designed to represent architectural styles popular in the 1930s: The Merritt Parkway is also the site of the nations first clover leaf entrance and exit ramps. Dining out doesn't have to be just eating - it can be an adventure. in downtown Greenwich for what is arguably the best lobster roll in Connecticut. Built over 37 years on 49 acres, Philip Johnson turned homebuilding on its head with The Glass House. Most known for their seafood combo bags, The Hungry Crab lets you choose your ingredients, sauce and even sauce heat to create your very own flavorful mix of seafood served in a big heap on your table. Its where he spent much of his life, and even served as its mayor for a time. 6. The Magic Time Machine. The bartenders at this establishment are mad scientists in the cocktail brewing world. As the most populous part of Connecticut, much of Fairfield County was shut-down for months. And of these spots would be perfect for unique birthday party spots for adults in Connecticut. The Merritt Parkway was built before I-95 to help lower traffic volumes on the Post Road. Shakespeare on the Sound hosts 16 performances in the open-air of Pinkney Park in Rowayton for two weeks each summer. We're hiring. E By Jose Andres /*-->*/. Writer Ayn Rand even spent some time here. This bookstore on the main street of Madison, opened over two decades ago with a mission to be a place where writers meet readers. If youre ready for some mealtime mystery-solving, this interactive dinner spot offers a murder mystery show paired with a tasty four-course meal. A Marine Corps veteran, turned trial lawyer, turned brewery owner, Walt traded in his combat boots for dress shoes and now flip flops. Copyright 2023 Connecticut Office of Tourism, Connecticut: An LGBTQ+ Summer Destination, The Best Christmas Tree Farms in Mystic Country, New Year's Eve Events in Connecticut 2022. Located in picturesque Newburyport, Massachusetts, this private dining experience for two is ranked among the Top 35 Things To Do in all of New England by Yankee Magazine. The Melting Pot - Westwood, Red Bank, and Maple Shade Enjoy a sweet and savory experience like no other with menu options that include accompaniments for chocolate and cheese fondue, as well as beverages and adult spirits. happens annually in Sherwood Park. From spring to fall, youll be sure to enjoy the beautiful views on your approach to the castle and state park. Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, As far as historic attractions focused on the performing arts goes, much of the attention goes to the. Check-out our guides for more: There are plenty more attractions, activities, and things to do throughout the Land of Steady Habits. 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 . 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. Tucked in the center of a quaint New England town, this intimate restaurant serves delicious American fare in the historic Collinsville Train Depotpart of the iconic Collins Axe Factory complex. The tavern hosted Elizabeth Taylor and Eddie Fisher on their honeymoon and received frequent visits from Hollywood heartthrob Spencer Tracy. Alfresco dining is standard now in Connecticut, at least until the next phase of the state's reopening. How about brunching in a fire station? A gastronomic tour starts with the farm, gardens and surrounding jungle, where you'll learn how a range of organic fruits, vegetables . Afterwards, grab a bucket and go berry picking! 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. 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. Established in 1826, Union Oyster House is one of the oldest operating restaurants in the US. The true location in Connecticut is a hot spot for many visitors, travelers, and Connecticut natives. Take away your sight and you're left with enhanced senses for taste, smell, touch and sound. Though its New York neighbor gets more culinary street cred, Connecticut is a hotbed of local flavors, including a local take on the lobster roll, collegiate-level ice . [CDATA[/* >
Connecticut packs plenty of variety in its approximately 100 miles from Greenwich to Stonington. But what makes it so unique is that every meal comes with free books. Freelance restaurant writer Mike Urban of Old Saybrook has written a book about great Connecticut restaurants. Here are our 21 picks where you can have a unique dining experience across America. The tradition of, parading and burning the traitors effigy. The people of New London never forgave him. Birmingham City Centre Making your own sodas is good old fashioned fun, and at this factory you get nice glass bottles and low low prices. in Niantic, Connecticut, requires some exploring, based on your personal literary interests: sits at the entrance, with new arrivals waiting to be processed, is a makeshift structure devoted to thrillers and romance novels, at the back of the property hosts two stories of thrillers and mystery novels, hosts fiction, paperbacks, essays, and poetry, is the final maze of books, especially more non-fiction. Some of the most popular Yale museums include: Afterwards, be sure to take the free daily tour of campus led by current Yale students. Enjoy healthy fresh soups and seasonal salads plus restaurant-style entrees like chicken pot pie, chili, chowders, stews, meat loaf, Cajun shrimp, short ribs, and more. Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to get the latest ideas, deals, and getaways. And today, vendors from across the country trek to New Milford, Connecticut, each Sunday to sell their wares. If you're looking to experience one in Doha, you'll have to head up to the Lusail Food Arena for Ink Caf. The impressive collection is nestled in an ancient cedar forest close to Foxwoods. Spud Point Crab Company, owned by Tony and Carol Anello, opened on July 10, 2004. Even more uniquely Connecticut activities, Connecticuts museums, from Hartford to New Haven, Greenwich to Stonington. Website Design by Q4Launch. One of the [] See details . Make it a fabulous morning at the semi-monthly Pink Eggs & Glam Drag Brunch! Bring a blanket and a picnic to stake your space and make an evening of it. Open since 1973 on the main drag of Mystic, Connecticut, all pizzas are made with a secret sauce, the recipe of which, just like in the movie, is a mystery to outsiders. And Connecticuts museums, from Hartford to New Haven, Greenwich to Stonington; house many of these native-born treasures. The experience certainly makes for one of the most unique date ideas in Connecticut. Specializing in food allergies, on campus dining accommodations, menu . 2 Beds. 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. Farms in Connecticut have stood the test of time. If you dont have an open invitation to one of the private cottages, some of which have been owned by families for generations, you can always ride one of the ferry services for a special day trip. After all, floor-to-ceiling glass doesnt afford much privacy. And because theyre not as famous as the beaches in other states, theyre also much calmer and quieter. Everyone who dines leaves with a free book a book lovers dream! 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. 12 Connecticut Travel Resolutions for 2023, Great Places for Workcations in Connecticut, 34 Things to Do in Connecticut This March, Winter - Celebrating Places to Dine and Drink in Connecticut, Stories >
From being the second state to legalize same, Putting together your 2023 priorities? Discover even more unique things to do in CT, Find even more interesting things going on in Connecticut on our. From a restaurant where diners can watch mermaids swim while eating, to spots inside . Maker's Mark Bourbon sponsors the event, so the dinner is paired with their offerings. Libby's Italian Ice and Pastry Shop New Haven Still serving tasty treats after decades and decades, Libby's has the ultimate in Italian desserts, pastries, Italian ice, and ice cream. 1. This has girls (or guys) night written all over it. Foodies can indulge themselves at an historic mill, a train station, even a gas station. In addition to naming the . Otherwise, the home is around 2,000 feet of open space with only floor-to-ceiling glass and the steel to hold the panels in place around the entire exterior. The unique experience of a fancy multiple course meal outside on a picturesque farm comes at a price. 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. 1. 15 of the most unique things to do in Connecticut 1. Tell us what interests you most (check all that apply), Connecticut is a place for everyoneso all our fun is LGBTQ+ friendly fun. Some of the top Stamford antique shops include: Theres no question that some of the best antique stores in Connecticut are located here. Hosted at Barberry Hill Farm in Madison and White Gate Farm in East Lyme, the experience is $150 per person. Be sure to bring your own beverages (including beer or wine), and plenty of bug spray. The downtown Greenwich Avenue shopping district is a destination for all of Connecticut and beyond for the huge number of high-end luxury boutiques that line the street. And everything is served on their firetruck red tables with tree stump seats. Today, its been transformed into an ornate restaurant that accentuates the features of the original buildingand serves up tantalizing seafood, chicken, steak, pasta and gluten-free favorites. The award-winning landmark restaurant and pub brewery is located in the heart of northeastern Connecticuts Quiet Corner. Infinity Hall is home to a vibrant restaurant and bar scene as well as a fabulous four-star menu. This classic American food restaurant serves everything from crab cakes to pizza. The experience certainly makes for one of the, As befits an unstuffy yet luxurious affair, be sure to bring a picnic of at minimum a bottle of champagne and cheese spread for this, Bring your hiking boots on your trip, if youre so inclined. His San Diego roots and love for Cali Reggae music create a laid-back, chill, kid-friendly atmosphere that makes this production brewery and taproom a must-stop when visiting Mystic. most unique of outdoor activities in Connecticut, attractions, activities, and things to do in Norwalk, CT, Mystic, Connecticut, is itself an attraction, unique birthday party spots for adults in Connecticut, activities, attractions, and things to do in Danbury, Connecticut, and nearby, things to do in the summertime in Connecticut, Concours dElegance a quintessentially Greenwich tradition, Summer fairs, festivals, and carnivals in Connecticut, Fall festivals and fairs across Connecticut, Cos Cob CT: A Quaint, Quirky, and Charming Town, 12 of the most unique antique stores In CT, The Thimble Islands: A Guide To CTs Most Unique Attraction, A More Unique Way to See the Gold Coast of Connecticut, Connecticut Fall Foliage: Everything You Need to Know, Directions to Greenwich, CT, and Stanton House Inn. Watched over by its iconic rock painted like a frog, Frog Rock Rest Stop includes a gift shop, a menu of tasty treats from seafood to ice cream, tables with awnings, and live music frequently playing right outside. The island is lovely, too, and worthy of its own pilgrimage for an afternoon. A jutting coastline, a . From the perfect Christmas gift for the person who has . 14 Unusual Dining Experiences in Connecticut. The menu has simple and delicious local staples. Customize your own seafood experience at this unique spot that operates by the phrase "No plates, no forks, no rules!" Guests can sample and judge more than 40 different chowder recipes from various restaurants. And because theyre not as famous as the beaches in other states, theyre also much calmer and quieter. Thank you! These eight unique dining experiences are some of the most memorable meals you'll have anywhere. To acquiesce to certain stereotypes about Connecticut, there are indeed a fair number of wealthy people here. ". Open only seasonally, many Connecticut residents anticipate the opening of this hot spot every year. the birds bring a bit of whimsy to this sandwich shop. Centuries later, New London, Connecticut, still really dislikes Benedict Arnold. Dining here is definitely a unique experience. From the bustling downtown of South Norwalk, ride the ferry from May to September out to Sheffield Island in the Norwalk Harbor. This is seasonal dining at its finest, but not for kids. New Britain was later the source for not only many manufactured goods in the 1800s, but also the machines and know-how to operate them. William Hooker Gillette is best known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes. Foodies can indulge themselves at an historic mill, a train station, even a gas station. . This is seasonal dining at its finest, but not for kids. What other wacky restaurants should be added to our list? And of these spots would be perfect for, 1. While it comes with challenges, including inclement weather, restaurant owners have been . You'll receive your first newsletter soon! They're worth, Mystic Country is rich with locally owned and operated businesses for all your shopping needs. Connecticuts Severed Arm of Saint Edmund, list of activities, attractions, and things to do in Hartford, Mark Twain House, where the celebrated writer wrote many of his most famous works, Wadsworth Atheneum, the first public museum in America, Elizabeth Park Rose Garden, first municipal garden and oldest public rose garden in America, Connecticut offers a culinary tour of historic and futuristic firsts. And peddlers traveling the American frontier were stereotypically from Connecticut. Only the bathroom features enclosed and opaque walls. These are as delightful affairs as those much better known horse-focused sporting events. The learning experience continues with more exhibits about life from 1675 until the 1970s. And its been self-supporting for the entirety of its history. But the coolest exhibits are the life-size dioramas. Connecticut is all about quaint and appreciating the history of the state. So of course Connecticut has some unique places for retail therapy. For extra fun, try a cocktail or frozen drink served in a fishbowl! And we REALLY love our job. kappa alumnae You're always a Kappa Find out more about what your lifetime member experience can look like. Guests order off one large menu which towers above the tables and join in a lively experience much like a large community cookout. Dining out doesnt have to be just eating it can be an adventure. But the white-tailed deer population has exploded in Connecticut without predatory species to keep them in check, wreaking havoc on native plant populations. This is one of the few Mexican restaurants Ive visited where the food is powerfully flavored and quite authentic. Let us take a look at some of the hidden gems in Connecticut and know the state better. Photo courtesy Koox Ich Kool. Some farms have been in operation since the 1700s. Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center, Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center. A Maine lobster roll is lobster meat tossed with mayonnaise in a buttered and toasted hot dog roll, served cold. are scattered along the route of the Merritt. The only remaining steam train and riverboat connection in America is based in Essex, Connecticut, as the name implies. , next door to Greenwich, hosts an entire antiques district for aficionados. They're the sorority everyone wants a bid from whether they admit . Sign up for our newsletter and be the first to get the latest ideas, deals, and getaways. The Future Sushi Voyage tasting menu offers an experience in Bun Lais vision of what the sushi experience may offer in 2150. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! The Tee-Pee, Lunchbox, a Dunce-cap and a Carousel are some of the most popular dining spots. Judges Cave, New Haven. While its size makes Elephants Trunk unique, there are fantastic Connecticut flea markets in every corner of the state. The curious, or those who sincerely hate Benedict Arnold as well, can head to New London in September to witness the parade and burning. Take a stroll along the water and sample delicious food from tacos to hot dogs, ice cream to pizza, Thai cuisine to Middle Eastern food from the nearly 30 food trucks parked along Food Truck Paradise. Enter if you dare. And it has one, as the list of activities, attractions, and things to do in Hartford is lengthy. Of Culture Nigerian Bedford-Stuyvesant Perfect For: Special Occasions Date Night Unique Dining Experience $$$$ 327 Nostrand Avenue, New York View Website Earn 3X Points A SkyVenture adventure is the perfect gift for everyone from kids as young as 3 to seniors in their 90s. Newington CT 06111. Grab the family for a memorable drop-in the kids can even play on the playscape! The Melting Pot's fondue is a crowd-pleaser. If youre looking for something truly unique to coastal Connecticut, look no further than the seasonal restaurant. Instead of dividing a single interior into rooms, he divided the space into 14 structures, each with a different function, for example: Johnson entertained and enjoyed the views of the surrounding landscape at the Pavilion in the Pond, He called his warm weather retreat with both air conditioning and a television Grainger, Johnson read and slept in the Brick House, And used the Stucco Studio as a workplace and library, Architecture is the art of how to waste a space, A roundtrip on the ferry to Sheffield Island. Looking for another unique eating adventure? 2. Hosted at Barberry Hill Farm in Madison and White Gate Farm in East Lyme, the experience is $150 per person. Bring a blanket and a picnic to stake your space and make an evening of it. This Restaurant In Connecticut Is The First Of Its Kind And Youll Want To Visit, Youll Find Doggone Good Crab Cakes At This Quirky Restaurant In Connecticut, Walk Into Another Decade At This 30s Themed Restaurant In Connecticut, 11 Wackadoodle Restaurants In Connecticut That Will Change The Way You Think Of Eating Out, This Cheese Themed Restaurant in Connecticut Is What Dreams Are Made Of, This British Themed Restaurant In Connecticut Makes The Most Whimsical Pot Pie, You Can Watch Planes Land At This Underrated Restaurant In Connecticut, The Most Delicious All-You-Can-Eat Dining Experience In Connecticut Youll Absolutely Love. Enjoy delicious dishes while you watch and find out who done it. Cajun Boiled Seafood CT is clean, bright, and fun. New Haven, CT 06511. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. Featuring acclaimed Jazz and Blues artists to enhance your dining experience. The bridges themselves are a draw. Now, pull in for exceptional pub fare with distinctively delicious meats. p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px 'Helvetica Neue'; color: #454545} Help support local Connecticut farms while enjoying such bucolic activities as: Few other states offer beaches lining one of the largest estuaries in the world (Long Island Sound). The menu has casual American fare that features tasty burgers, sandwiches, and salads. In downtown Bridgeport, close to I-95, sits a unique red and yellow domed building made of stone and terracotta. Fresh baked bread and homemade jam add extra personality to these one-of-a-kind menu options. A few of the famous names that have made appearances at Ivoryton Playhouse include: In non-pandemic periods, the troupe produces award winning comedies, dramas, and musicals throughout the year. Some other Connecticut restaurants serving great lobster rolls include: Save an appetite for the home of a heavy-hitting first in America, in New Haven, Connecticut. 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. Navigators meet at the historic 1892 Essex train station to start their excursion. 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. Sitting off the coast of Connecticut, accessible by a causeway, sits Enders Island. Anthony J's Bistro Anthony J's Bistro In 1882, Impressionist painter J. Alden Weir, established himself, his work, and his family at Weir Farm. Love Connecticut? But the proceeds go to a number of charities. 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? Contact: nclunan@onlyinyourstate.com. Noshing in the Nutmeg State. New England's 38 Essential Restaurants. This place is full of friends, family, and fun. Show more. season 6 60 . This museum is a tribally owned complex documenting Native American and the natural history of Southern New England. Books are carefully and lovingly curated, with little descriptions and teasers hand-written above each book on sale. You can find your vibe in Connecticut, no matter how unique, and no matter the season. initiative combines industry-leading health and safety standards with virtual technologies designed to keep real estate moving forward, and give our employees, customers and partners confidence and support to stay safe. Shortly before the Parkway ends after crossing the Housatonic River, youll find a small museum in Stratford devoted to the design and construction of this bucolic holdever through Fairfield County. . From 1931 to the 1980s, these brick walls were headquarters of the Vigilant Hose Company, firefighters protecting the community. Full of charm, this friendly spot is definitely worth visiting. We like. To this day, locals hold such a grudge that Benedict Arnolds name is used as a severe insult synonymous with traitor. With a transparent acrylic roof above, the restaurant offers its diners a 270-degree panoramic view of sea creatures swimming in the Maldives' crystal clear waters. But there are plenty of things to do in New Haven, even if youre not an alum. 3 Beds. Saus is a solid pick if you're seeking a unique and quick bite for lunch or dinner. One of the most cool places to eat in Manchester's Northern Quarter, Trof is a staple for its easy-going vibes, delicious grub, unique interiors and purse-friendly prices. One of which is the Mashantucket Pequot Museum & Research Center, the largest Native American museum in the world. Small in global terms, the Thimble Islands are the largest archipelago in Connecticut. The Magic Time Machine is a unique restaurant in Dallas with costumed characters and fun themed dining areas. 5300 S Atlantic Ave New Smyrna Beach, FL 32169. That said, theyre a bit stern in their requirements of enjoying a hamburger their way.