Stuck in the same old routine and looking for something that actually feels exciting?
Connecticut is packed with unexpected magic…you just have to know where to look.
From fairy-tale nature trails and storybook castles to hands-on exhibits that bring legends to life, this list is all about Unique Things to do in Connecticut that turn an ordinary weekend into an unforgettable adventure.
Get ready to explore secret gardens, step into history, and let your imagination run wild in some of the most enchanting places the Nutmeg State has to offer.
Your next magical escape starts here!
Photo Credit: LOC Public Domain Image
Step into the world of architectural brilliance and artistic inspiration at the Glass House, located in picturesque New Canaan, CT.
Designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson, this National Trust Historic Site is a masterpiece of modern design. Built between 1949 and 1995, the Glass House and its surrounding landscape offer a surreal setting for exploration.
About The Glass House
The Glass House comprises fourteen structures set amidst a 49-acre idyllic landscape.
Highlights include the Glass House, constructed in 1949, and a remarkable collection of 20th-century art displayed throughout the property.
Fairy Tale Features
The themes of rescue and wonder from “The Glass Coffin” fairy tale perfectly align with the Glass House’s ethereal beauty.
You can visit and explore the Glass House to experience its enchanting allure.
Plan Your Visit to The Glass House
Tickets:
Admission to the Glass House requires tickets, which can be Purchased Online. Tours are available from April through December, and advance reservations are recommended.
Tour Options:
Choose from Various Tour Options, including the concise Glass House Tour (1 hour), the Immersive Glass House + Galleries Tour (2 hours), the Extended Tour (2 1/2 hours) or a Self-Guided Tour.
Parking:
Parking is not available at theย Visitor Center. Instead, utilize municipal metered lots nearby, with parking passes available for purchase.
Children:
Please note that children must be at least ten years old and accompanied by an adult to participate in tours.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Perched majestically atop a hill overlooking the Connecticut River,ย Gillette Castleย is a testament to the ingenuity of its creator,ย stage actor William Gillette.
Known for portraying Sherlock Holmes on stage, Gillette crafted this medieval-inspired stone fortress in 1914, leaving behind a legacy ofย historic architectureย and artistic flair.
About Gillette Castle
Built over five years by local stonemasons, Gillette Castle features 24 rooms and 14,000 square feet of intricate design.
Its whimsical furnishings and intricate woodwork reflect Gillette’s unique imagination and creative genius.
Fairy Tale Features
Much like the castles in classic fairy tales,ย Gillette Castleย exudes an aura of mystery and enchantment, inviting you to step into a world of wonder for aย closer look.
Plan Your Visit to Gillette Castle
Hours:
Open daily from 8:00 a.m. until sunset
Admission:
You can explore the park grounds and trails for free. Castle Tours are Available for a nominal fee, with discounts for young children and seniors.
Castle Tours:
During peak seasons, the castle offers one-hour guided daily tours that allow visitors to explore its history and architecture. Advance reservations are recommended.
Special Events:
Experience the magic of Gillette Castle through special events and programs, including stunning holiday tours and seasonal outdoor exhibits.
Journey to the summit of East Peak at Hubbard Park in Meriden, CT, and behold the grandeur of Castle Craig, a stone observation tower dating back to 1900.
Perched atop Hanging Mountains, thisย historic siteย offers panoramic views of the Connecticut landscape, stretching from Hartford to theย Long Island Sound.
About Castle Craig
Built by local stone masons, Castle Craig stands 976 feet above sea level, providing one of theย best placesย to admire the beauty of theย third smallest state. Accessible by car, hike, or paved path, the tower beckons adventurers of all ages.
Fairy Tale Features
Castle Craig, with its scenic beauty, evokes images of medieval romance, princesses, and knights. You may even feel like Rapunzel in her secluded tower.
Plan Your Visit to Craig Castle
Access:
You can reach Castle Craig by car or hike through Hubbard Park. The castle’s access road is open from May through October from 9 to 5:30 pm.
For hiking directions, check out this Comprehensive Guide to Hiking to Castle Craig.
Hours:
The tower is accessible during park hours, 8 am- 10 pm,ย offering ample time to explore and enjoy the views.
Activities:
Take a leisurely hike or scenic drive to the summit, where Castle Craig awaits with its captivating vistas. Pack a picnic and make a day of your visit to Hubbard Park.
Why let the magic end when the day is over?
Turn your trip into an unforgettable getaway with a stay at one of the Most Unique Airbnbs in Connecticutโfrom treehouses to historic schoolhouses, these stays are anything but ordinary.
Step into the realm of legend and adventure at Robin Hoodโs Medieval Faire in Harwinton, CT.
This immersive event promises a journey back in time to the age of chivalry and valor, where knights clash in epic jousts, performers dazzle with their talents, and the air is filled with the aroma of savory delights.
Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of cosplay, or simply seeking a weekend of unique enchantment, this fantasy-filled faire has something for everyone.
About Robin Hood’s Faire
Robin Hoodโs Medieval Faire offers a blend of entertainment, cuisine, and artisan crafts inspired by the medieval era.
From thrilling jousting tournaments to a bustling marketplace filled with unique treasures, the faire captures the spirit of adventure and camaraderie associated with the legendary outlaw Robin Hood.
Fairy Tale Features
Immerse yourself in the world of Robin Hood, where daring feats and noble deeds abound.
The faire celebrates the timeless tale of the outlaw hero who stole from the rich to give to the poor, inviting visitors of all ages to experience the magic of Sherwood Forest.
Love that storybook charm?
Connecticut is home to so many real-life Hallmark Christmas Movie Locationsย where you can step right into a holiday sceneโno cameras, just cozy small-town magic.
Plan Your Visit Robin Hoodโs Medieval Faire
Dates:
Every Saturday and Sunday from mid-May until the end of June. You can find all the Faire details HERE.
Admission:
General admission is for ages 16 and up, with youth and child admission available at discounted rates. Tickets can be Purchased Online or at the Faire’s box office.
Parking:
Free parking is available onsite, with donations accepted by the non-profit group running theย parking lot.
Embark on a magical shopping adventure at the Cloak and Wand, a fantasy store and potion bar dedicated to wizards and witches of folklore, myth, and literature.
Located in Mystic, CT, this enchanting establishment offers a wide array of magical items, from cloaks and wands to custom potions brewed on-site.
About Cloak and Wand
Owned and operated by potion master E.P Bergreen, the Cloak and Wand is a haven for magical enthusiasts seeking unique treasures and mystical delights.
Whether you need school supplies for wizarding and witchcraft studies or a custom potion to solve any problem, the shop caters to both novices and seasoned practitioners alike.
Fairy Tale Features
The Cloak and Wand embodies the essence of witches and wizards from fairy tales, offering a glimpse into a world of wonder and enchantment.
From on-site potion brewing to custom spellcasting, visitors can immerse themselves in the fantastical realm of magic and mystery.
Plan Your Visit to Cloak and Wand
Hours:
Open Daily. Please check out Cloak and Wand’s Website for the most current hours.
Offerings:
Browse an extensive selection of magical items, including cloaks, wands, potions, enchanted plants, and more.
Don’t forget to visit the Custom Potion Bar for a brew crafted by skilled potion masters.
Embark on a literary journey through the historic home of one of America’s most beloved authors, Samuel Clemens, aka Mark Twain.
Located in Hartford, Connecticut, the Mark Twain House & Museum offers a glimpse into the life and times of this iconic writer.
Here, he penned some of his most famous works, including “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” and “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.”
About The Mark Twain House
Built in 1874, theย Mark Twain Houseย was the Clemens family residence from 1874 to 1891.
Today, it is aย National Historic Landmarkย and a testament to Twain’s literary legacy.
Guided tours of theย historic siteย provide insight into Twain’s creative process and the Victorian-era surroundings that inspired his imagination.
Fairy Tale Features
While Mark Twain is renowned for his works of fiction grounded in realism, he also dabbled in fairy tales.
“The Purloining of Prince Oleomargarine,” a fairy tale Twain concocted for his daughters, showcases his whimsical storytelling style and enduring appeal to audiences of all ages.
Plan Your Visit to The Mark Twain House and Museum
Tours:
Reservations are required for guided tours of the Mark Twain House. Purchase Timed Tickets in advance to secure your spot.
Accessibility:
While the house’s first floor is wheelchair accessible, the tour involves stairs to explore the upper floors.
Special Events:
Besides house tours, the museum offers educational programs and special events that delve into Twain’s literary legacy and the historical context of his works.
Step into the realm of classic horror and fantasy films at Witch’s Dungeon: Classic Movie Museum, a tribute to the iconic actors and effects artists who brought these timeless tales to life.
Located in Plainville, Connecticut, this museum showcases highly accurate life-size figures inspired by the golden age of horror and sci-fi cinema.
About Witch’s Dungeon
Founded in 1966 by Cortlandt Hull, Witch’s Dungeon pays homage to the legends of classic horror, including Lon Chaney, Boris Karloff, Bela Lugosi, and Vincent Price.
The museum transports visitors back to a bygone era of cinematic enchantment through meticulously crafted life-size figures and immersive exhibits.
Fairy Tale Features
Drawing inspiration from classic fantasy films and folklore, the Witch’s Dungeon evokes the eerie charm of witches and wicked enchantresses found in stories like “Snow White” or “Sleeping Beauty.”
Plan Your Visit to the Witch's Dungeon: Classic Movie Museum
Tours:
Explore the museum’s movie prop room and wax museum with Guided Tours available for children and adults.
Hours:
The museum welcomes visitors on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, offering special evening hours to explore its spine-tingling delights. Check their schedule here for detailed visiting hours and to plan your visit.
Special Events:
Keep an eye out for special screenings, guest appearances, and other events hosted by the museum, celebrating the legacy of classic movie monsters and the art of filmmaking.
Escape into the enchanting beauty of Elizabeth Park Conservancy, where your family can be immersed in the splendor of formal gardens, green spaces, and the breathtaking Helen S Kaman Rose Garden.
Located inย West Hartford, Connecticut, Elizabeth Park offers a serene retreat for nature lovers and garden enthusiasts alike.
About Elizabeth Park Conservancy
Elizabeth Park spans 102 acres and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
At its center lies the magnificent Helen S Kaman Rose Garden, a horticultural masterpiece that stands as a testament to the enduring allure of roses.
Established in 1904, this historic garden is the first municipal rose garden in theย United Statesย and remains one of the largest inย North Americaย today.
With over 15,000 rose bushes and 800 varieties of roses, the garden is a vibrant tapestry of colors and fragrances, captivating visitors year-round.
Fairy Tale Features
The Helen S Kaman Rose Garden at Elizabeth Park evokes classic fairy tales’ timeless romance and enchantment. Wander through the garden’s winding pathways and immerse yourself in a world of floral magic and wonder.ย
Plan Your Visit to Elizabeth Park
Hours:
Elizabeth Park is open 365 days a year, welcoming visitors from dawn to dusk.
Admission is free, allowing everyone to experience the beauty of the park and its gardens.
If you love being surrounded by beautiful flowers, check out our guide to the Best Botanical Gardens in Connecticut.
Special Events:
Elizabeth Park Conservancy hosts various annual special events, including live music, garden workshops, and guided tours.
Check the Park’s Calendar for upcoming events and activities that promise fun and entertainment for the whole family.
Step into a world of magic and whimsy at Fairy Tails Days, a magical event hosted by Connecticut Beardsley Zoo.
Transforming the zoo into a land of enchantment, Fairy Tails Days is a great place for visitors of all ages, a day filled with princesses, storytelling, face painting, and captivating animal presentations.
About Fairy Tails Days
Fairy Tails Days at Beardsley Zoo enchants visitors of all ages with interactive activities and immersive experiences.
From princess meet-and-greets to enchanted storytelling sessions, the event celebrates the magic of fairy tales and fosters creativity and imagination in children and adults alike.
Fairy “Tail” Features
Fairy Tails Days at Beardsley Zoo embraces the diversity of fairy tales, inviting guests to embark on a journey through the pages of classic stories and modern favorites.
Whether you’re a fan of princess tales, animal fables, or magical adventures, there’s something for everyone.ย
If you’re looking for even more exciting ways to keep the kids entertained, check out our Fun Places to Take the Kids Over School Breakย for the best family-friendly adventures in Connecticut.
Experience the allure of royalty and the thrill of competition at the Greenwich Polo Club in the scenic backcountry of Connecticut.
Established in 1981, this esteemed venue is renowned worldwide for its high-goal polo matches, attracting distinguished players, passionate spectators, and many VIPs.
About the Greenwich Polo Club
Greenwich Polo Club epitomizes the elegance and excitement of polo, a sport steeped in tradition and prestige.
Each match is a spectacle of athleticism and grace, as players and their majestic horses gallop across the field at breathtaking speeds.
Fairy Tale Features
The Greenwich Polo Club conjures images of fairy tale romance and nobility, with its regal atmosphere and captivating matches reminiscent of stories featuring princes and princesses on horseback.
Whether you’re a seasoned polo enthusiast or a first-time spectator, the club offers an enchanting experience for all who attend.
Plan Your Visit to the Greenwich Polo Club
Sunday Matches
Immerse yourself in the excitement of polo with Sunday Matches at Greenwich Polo Club.
Gates open at 1:00 PM, and matches typically start at 3:00 PM, providing ample time to enjoy the festivities.
Ticketing Information
Purchase Tickets Online for reserved seating or general grounds admission.
Remember, one car pass grants entry for all passengers in the car, making it a convenient option for groups and families.
Delve into the enchanting world of the Yale University Art Gallery, where timeless masterpieces inspired by magical tales come to life.
Located inย New Haven, Connecticut, the gallery offers a captivating journey through centuries of artistry and imagination.
About Yale University Art Gallery
The Yale University Art Gallery is a vibrant showcase of over 4,000 works featuring a rich array of art from diverse cultures and time periods.ย
Fairy Tale Features
Explore real-life masterpieces inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairy tales, from whimsical illustrations to hauntingly beautiful paintings.
These artworks offer a glimpse into the enchanting world of classic fairy tales, where magic and adventure await around every corner.
Plan Your Visit to Yale University Art Gallery
Gallery Hours:
The gallery is open to the public from Tuesday through Sunday, with varying operating hours. Check the Gallery’s Website for current hours and special exhibitions.
Highlights:
This FREE museum offers a wide variety of art, ranging from ancient Chinese vessels and textiles from Borneo to Renaissance paintings, modern art, and masterpieces by Degas, van Gogh, and Picasso.
Embark on a journey back in time with theย Essex Steam Trainย & Riverboat, where history meets the beauty of theย Connecticut River Valley.
Thisย unique experienceย combines a vintage steam train ride with a scenic riverboat cruise, offering an unparalleled view of New Englandโs untouched natural beauty.
About Essex Steam Train and Riverboat
Starting from the historic 1892 Essex Station, this 12-mile, narrated round-trip takes you through Deep River and Chester’s quintessential New England towns.
The journey showcases the areaโs rich wildlife and pristine landscapes, including the undeveloped Selden Neck State Park, only accessible by boat.
Fairy Tale Features
Delight in the Princess Academy & Royal Tea aboard theย Essex Steam Train.
Dress your young royals for an afternoon of elegance with Belle of the Valley and her companions.
Children can make tiaras, learn royal waves, and take part in a magical red carpet walk before enjoying the Royal Tea.
As for knights in training, they can decorate their magical swords and practice chivalrous deeds.
This enchanting experience ignites young imaginations and creates cherished family memories.
Plan Your Visit to the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat
Hours:
The Steam Train & Riverboat excursion operates weekends from June through August, departing at 11:00 AM, 12:30 PM, and 2:00 PM. Special Themed Events are available throughout the season.
Location:
All adventures begin and end at Essex Station, ensuring a hassle-free return to your starting point.
Offerings:
Choose from the 2.5-hour Steam Train & Riverboat combination excursion or a shorter 1-hour train journey.
Special events like the Essex Steam Train Polar Express and Princess Academy & Royal Tea offer magical experiences for families, with activities designed to enchant the entire family.
Step back at Mystic Seaport Museum, a vibrant recreation of a 19th-century seaport village that offers a deep dive into America’s maritime history.
This experience museum not only preserves history but also brings to life the trades that supported maritime life on land and at sea.
About Mystic Seaport Museum
Mystic Seaport Museum is an outdoor, interactive, living history museum.
It is home to the Charles W. Morgan, the last wooden whaleship in the world, and a fleet of historic wooden ships.
Step back in time as you wander through the recreated village, complete with original trade shops and businesses from the 1800s, painstakingly transported here from various New England locations.
Experience the bustling maritime trades firsthand as you explore shipsmiths, coopers, woodcarvers, and riggers at work.
Fairy Tale Features
Theย maritime museumโsย interactive exhibitsย transport visitors into a world reminiscent of old maritime fairy tales.
Witness traditional shipbuilding at the Henry B. du Pont Preservation Shipyard, where skilled shipwrights maintain historic wooden vessels, preserving the art of maritime craftsmanship.
Plan Your Visit to Mystic Seaport Museum
When to Visit Mystic:
Theย Mystic Seaport Museumย and its attractions are open year-round, offering seasonal activities and special events that highlight theย rich historyย of maritime culture.
Offerings:
Walk the decks of historic ships, explore the Discovery Barn, and let the children unleash their imagination at the Children’s Museum and the interactive outdoor playground. There is so much to do!
Check out the Treworgy Planetarium for a celestial navigation experience that ties the stars to the sea, echoing the navigational practices of old sailors. (for a small extra fee)
Nearby Attractions:
No trip to Mystic, CT, is complete without a stop at the top-rated Mystic Aquarium. If you plan to grab a bite after visiting the aquarium, check out my Guide to Restaurants Near Stonington, CT. It’s just aย short driveย away!
What Magical and Unique Things to Do in Connecticut Interest You?
As we’ve explored these 13 unique destinations, it’s clear that the Nutmeg State’s charm lies in its ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Whether youโre tracing Mark Twain’s footsteps, exploring world-class museums, or uncovering secrets in ancient castles, these adventures promise fun and lasting memories.
So pack your spirit of adventure and discover the magical tales Connecticut has to offerโitโs time to make your own story.
