Remember the oft-repeated quote in the 2010s, Winter is coming?
That was a common feeling in New England even before the advent of Game of Thrones.
And yet, harsh winters always give-way to a glorious summer in Connecticut.
Once warmer spring weather arrives in CT, tourists and locals alike start planning their summer vacations.
And whether it’s a weekend getaway or a week or two:
Connecticut is a New England playground, offering something for everyone.
From:
- Art galleries and museums to the theater
- And from exciting zip lining through treetops to hiking the pastoral fields and woodlands of the vast parkland
Connecticut steeps itself in history, sophistication and fun.
And that goes for art lovers, history buffs and sun and fun-seekers alike.
Here we explain everything you need to know about summer in CT to plan the perfect trip.
Connecticut Summer Weather
Summer weather in Connecticut is picture-perfect.
It offers a sunny, warm climate; ideal for visiting the many beaches spanning the Connecticut coastline.
You’ll love the average temperatures which reach the 80s. That said, you can sometimes see the temperatures spike into the 90s or even low 100s.
If you love to swim or partake in water sports, the temperature in Long Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean is cooling yet never frigid. Water temperatures host averaging temperatures in the low 70’s all summer long.
Do you enjoy a little drama in your weather?
The early summer months often give way to showy thunderstorms. They’re perfect for spotting lighting and swapping out your beach towel for an umbrella.
Summer activities and things to do during the summer in CT
If you consider yourself an active sort, there is no end to summer activities in CT.
Little, unassuming, Connecticut offers the best parts of:
- Upper New England (Vermont, Inland New Hampshire)
- Coastal New England (Cape Cod, Coastal Maine)
And all in a much more accessible, less remote package.
Litchfield Hills are in northwest Connecticut, offering everything visitors love about New England.
Some of the points of interest that make this a must-see area include:
- Lovely covered bridges
- Stunning waterfalls
- Farm stands with fresh local berries and veggies
- And hiking the Appalachian Trail
The local Housatonic River also offers plenty of fun outdoor activities such as kayaking, fishing, and canoeing.
Another great way to spend your day is biking the Connecticut Shoreline Bike & Boat Tour. It’s an enjoyable way to take in the sights of Guilford and Branford.
Rest your legs and enjoy a boat tour of the Thimble Islands before cycling back.
Fun Things to Do in CT For Adults
While this list might read like a kids’ delight, Connecticut parks offer some of the most fun summer experiences here:
- Adventure parks
- Amusement parks
- State parks
- And water parks
Next only to the lovely beaches in Connecticut, it’s your choice in what to enjoy first.
Whether you love:
- The thrill of the rides and water at Lake Compounce
- The beauty of state parks like Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison
- Donning your dark sunglasses and beachwear to people watch or bask in the sun on the white beaches of New London
- Watching a polo match at the Greenwich polo club
You’ll find boredom is not possible in Connecticut.
Or finally appreciate that old adage that only boring people get bored.
Summertime Indoor Activities in CT for adults
If you encounter a rainy day on your visit, don’t fret, there are still tons of sites to see.
A few top indoor activities throughout Connecticut include:
Gillette Castle is a stone mansion built in 1914. Sitting atop a cliff in East Haddam, CT the 24 rooms and surrounding property is ready to be explored. Built by a wealthy eccentric, and the first actor to play Sherlock Holmes, it’s one of the most unique attractions in Connecticut.
If you love marine creatures, two aquariums offer an up-close and personal experience with creatures found in local waters:
- Mystic Aquarium in Mystic, CT
- Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk, CT
While you’re in the area you can also visit some of the top museums in Connecticut, including:
- The New Britain Museum of Art
- Mark Twain House and Museum
- Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art
Throughout Connecticut, there are also tons of museums and art galleries, perfect for rainy days.
In fact, Bruce Museum in Greenwich offers a convenient combination of art, science and natural history. It’s a one-stop-shop for museum enthusiasts.
Things To Do in CT This Weekend for Couples
One of the best-kept secrets of Connecticut is that the state is one of the fastest-growing wine regions in the U.S.
Nothing makes a better weekend getaway for couples than a wine tour.
The Connecticut Wine Trail started with just five CT wineries and now includes over 25. If you visit the Litchfield Hills region, the area has seven alone.
And yet, winos can travel the state from Danbury and Milford in the west to Norwich in the east and from Branford in the south to Putnam in the North.
End every evening watching the sunset from many lovely spots by the water including:
- Greenwich Harbor
- Ferry Landing Park, on the mouth of Connecticut River
- The beach at Hammonasset State Park
- Stonington Point at the tip of the peninsula
Just Drive: Summertime road trips
One of the best things about CT in the summer is you can jump in the car and head in any direction.
Driving through the state will bring you to charming and historic CT towns like Cromwell.
Visit their historic district on the bank of the Connecticut River to view a beautiful collection of historic houses.
Other classic CT driving routes that will take you to some of the best places to visit in CT in summer include:
- Merritt Parkway, one of the most uniquely Connecticut attractions
- Loop around Mystic Seaport and Mystic, Connecticut
- Connecticut Coast Scenic Drive from Greenwich to Stonington
- Route 169 through the Northeast Corner of the state
- And the Countryside Loop through the Litchfield Hills
Fun Things to Do in CT At Night
Night in Connecticut always begins with a first-class meal.
Regardless of your taste or budget, you can enjoy everything from:
- A glass of fine wine and French cuisine in elegant surroundings
- To beer and seafood at a local clam shack
Be sure to read our guides to downtown Greenwich restaurants and romantic restaurants throughout Connecticut for a preview.
Following your dinner, you can plan to attend live entertainment whether it is music or a play.
The many historic and contemporary CT theaters offer unique experiences in intimate settings. There, you can buy tickets for live performances ranging from:
- Bawdy fun
- The symphony
- Comic skits
- World-renowned plays and productions
Connecticut is even home to some of the last drive-in movie theaters, for the nostalgic.
Finish the night off with drinks and dancing at one of the many bars and nightclubs, some of the best things to do in Greenwich, CT, at night, for example.
Book a Stay at a Connecticut Inn
Connecticut isn’t the kind of place to waste on everyday hotels. Instead, it is home to dozens of lovely inns offering all the charm of the state.
Lavish, yet comfy accommodations in historic CT bed and breakfasts are a must when visiting an area known for its history and charm.
Stanton House Inn: Greenwich, Connecticut
Stanton House Inn is a perfect example of Connecticut hospitality.
This charmingly elegant inn is the home away from home for hundreds of discerning vacationers enjoying each summer. The CT inn is the iconic stay visitors should never miss.
Stanton House Inn was built in 1843, a landmark building in the lovely small town of Greenwich. It was once a private mansion and has been lovingly restored offering:
- Cozy, private guest rooms
- Lush gardens
- Well-appointed common space
- And an immaculate outdoor swimming pool
Upscale lodging in 20 beautiful rooms offer everything you expect in a CT inn. It’s your home away from home while exploring the wonders of Connecticut.
Stonecroft Country Inn: Ledyard, Connecticut
Rustic charm oozes at Stonecroft Country Inn.
A short drive from all the attractions, activities, and things to do in Mystic, Connecticut, the inn sits on 6.5 tranquil acres.
Rooms here are split between guest rooms in the historic farmhouse and updated CT king bedroom suites in the barn.
Inn at Harbor Hill Marina: Niantic, Connecticut
Niantic is an old beach town on the train line between New York and Boston.
Another charming Connecticut town, Niantic’s main street is adorable in the summer months especially. And the beach is an easy walk under the train tracks.
And the Inn at Harbor Hill Marina overlooks Niantic harbor, with balconies and views from the back lawn adding to the appeal.
Keep exploring things to do during the summer in CT
Not quite ready to plan a trip?
Then keep exploring our guides to summer in Connecticut, including:
- Charming towns throughout the state, perfect for a CT day trip
- The best Connecticut beaches along the CT shoreline
- The top attractions, activities, and things to do in Greenwich, Connecticut, the first town on the drive from New York City
You’ll be sure to see why Connecticut is a top destination for Northeasterners!
