Connecticut has a beautiful location along the Long Island sound, and its close proximity to large urban centers make it the perfect place to enjoy a family vacation any time of year. There are many things to do in Connecticut, from swimming at some of the best New England beaches to enjoying world renowned art museums. How ever you decide to explore Connecticut tourism, rests assure that there is something for everyone in the Nutmeg State.

One popular option for Connecticut vacations is to hop in the car and take your own tour of the most scenic parts of Connecticut. In the fall months when the leaves are changing to brilliant shades of red and orange, New England travel enthusiasts should consider checking out the wineries on the Connecticut wine trail. The self-guided tour along New England highways is a feast for all senses. Tasting some of the best wines in the world along with learning how wine grapes are grown is just a couple of the reasons to explore the trail.

Connecticut is a state rich in history and there are always events happening year round, making it a great place to base your New England travel. Check out the annual jazz fest happening in New Haven or head over to Stamford to play some golf.

If a visit to Hartford is on your agenda, check out the Mark Twain House and Museum or the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, two of the finest Connecticut tourism hotspots. Even if you aren’t a major art enthusiast, there is probably something visually interesting at the museum that will catch your eye. Hartford is also home to the legendary Bushnell Park which is right next to the majestic state capitol.

Connecticut is also home to the Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun casinos, both of which are fun for Connecticut vacations. The Mohegan Sun is located along the foothills of Southeastern Connecticut and features over 6,200 slot machines. Besides gambling, visitors can also view some constellations at the world’s largest planetarium and marvel at a giant indoor waterfall. The Connecticut tourism industry is made strong by these casino giants.

New London is most famous for Ocean Beach Park, a huge beach area popular for swimming, hiking, and recreational activities. Nearby New London in the town of Mystic, you’ll find the homes of some of the most popular tourist destinations in Connecticut. The Mystic Seaport Museum is the nation’s leading maritime museum and features a collection of historical ships.

While many states practically shut down tourism wise during the winter, most of Connecticut’s attractions stay open all year long, making it easy for travelers to plan Connecticut vacations any time of year. Deciding where to stay is also a breeze because of the plethora of hotels, resorts, and bed and breakfasts in the area.

Connecticut travel is possible by air transportation, by car, or by public transport depending on if you live in one of the major metropolitan areas. Because Connecticut is such a short drive from New York, plan to fly into any one of New York’s major airports, including JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark Liberty. Flying into Hartford is also an option.

With the rich historical backgrounds of its cities, great outdoor destinations, and entertainment options, Connecticut is one state to include in your New England travel itinerary.