Whether it’s the first date or the hundredth one, it can be slightly tricky to think of something that will always have the same romantic effect. Lucky for you, Connecticut is one lively city housing some of the best destinations for romantic getaways that will guarantee an enjoyable time for you and your significant other. Whether you choose an outdoor trip or a more intimate setting, it will surely be a memorable adventure. You can even stay in one of the treehouse hotels and rentals or have a seaside getaway at a beachfront rental around the city.
The best part? You can take advantage of all these romantic places all year round. When in need of recommendations on the best things you can do with your loved one while in Connecticut, consider continuing scrolling down below. Check out our list of the best romantic things to do in Connecticut, USA, for a day filled with romance and sparks.
1. Embark on a spooky pub crawl tour (from USD 100.0)
An evening of ghost stories might not sound romantic at first but put delicious cocktails into the mix, and you’ll have a new and fun date idea in Connecticut. The state has its fair share of haunted establishments, and those locations are where you’ll be visiting. At each stop, you’ll be regaled by the Seaside Shadows guides with tales of hauntings and dark happenings in Mystic, all while you sip some pubs’ signature blends.
Although the tour will be in Downtown Mystic, make sure you’re well-rested beforehand. There’s also a minimum number required for the group, so if you’re expecting a small, intimate gathering, you may want to book another private tour instead.
Mystic Cocktail Pub Crawl: Spirits of Mystic
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
2. Hop on a private sailing trip to Thimble Islands, Branford (from USD 650.0)
Connecticut, as a part of New England, boasts many scenic coastlines along the North Atlantic. Those looking for a cool day trip in Connecticut for couples can charter a private yacht for a sailing trip exploring the Thimble Islands. The boat has a skipper who’ll be in charge of the craft and will also be your guide. As you make your way around the archipelago, you can take a swim at certain spots or slow down to admire the sunset.
However, do note this activity is dependent on good weather, so you’ll have to reschedule or cancel if the conditions are less than optimal. You may also want to prepare some food, as only bottled water and soda will be provided.
Private Yacht Charter with Flexible Timing, Thimble Islands
Duration: 3 hours
3. Enjoy a morning stroll around the stunning Mystic River Park
If you’re someone who loves simple and intimate activities as long as you’re with your loved one, you might enjoy taking a morning stroll around the famous Mystic River Park. Known for its magnificent and warm ambiance, a lot of locals and tourists alike visit the place when they want to have a peaceful time away from the noise of Connecticut’s main streets. Lining the riverside are benches ideal for guests to sit at after taking a long stroll around the area. If the time is right, you might even get to watch the sunset together. One of the things you can’t help but love when visiting this place is its crystal water that adds a serene atmosphere to the entire setting.
Mystic River Park
Address Cottrell Street, Mystic, CT 06776, United States
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Indulge in a lovely hike around Lovers Leap State Park
True to its name, Lovers Leap State Park is indeed the perfect romantic place for lovers to visit in Connecticut. It is set on 160 acres (65 ha) and divided into three parts. All the trails here are suitable for all skill levels; you won’t have to worry if you’re a beginner in hiking. You can even bring your pets with you.
Along the trails, you’ll find yourself learning the deep-rooted history of the park, including the rock formation that gives the park its name and the story of the two lovers who plunged to their deaths in the Housatonic River.
Lovers Leap State Park
Address: 178 Short Woods Rd, New Milford, CT 06776, United States
Website: Lovers Leap State Park
Opening hours: 7am - 8pm (daily)
5. Have a romantic meal at The Mill on the River
When you have to cross a rustic entrance to get to a restaurant, you know you’re in for a unique and spectacular night. If there’s one romantic thing you shouldn’t miss while in Connecticut, it’s definitely trying the famous The Mill on the River. Its outdoor dining offers you grand views of a lake and a superior gastronomic endeavor especially since it has a boardwalk that wraps around the river. If you’re a big fan of old movies where the setting is quite magical and you want to experience them for yourself, you know the place to go. Have a lunch or dinner date like no other or even host a wedding here.
The Mill on the River
Address: 989 Ellington Rd, South Windsor, CT 06074, United States
Website: The Mill on the River
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30am - 9:30pm; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 10pm; Sun: 11am - 8:30pm
6. Have fun under the sun at Hammonasset Beach State Park
Hammonasset Beach State Park is one of the wonderful places Connecticut takes pride in, not only for its crystal waters but also for its cleanliness. Running for miles, this beach is perfect for enjoying a picnic, camping, swimming, strolling, and everything in between. Make unforgettable memories with your loved one by visiting Hammonasset Beach State Park. Whether you’re staying for a whole day or spending an hour or two, you’ll surely leave with treasured memories.
Hammonasset Beach State Park
Address: 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443, United States
Website: Hammonasset Beach State Park
7. Relish in tasty wines and panoramic views at Jonathan Edwards Winery
Situated on 48 acres (19.4 ha) of hilltop countryside, Jonathan Edwards Winery is a classic New England-style winery that demands a visit. Boasting stunning landscapes and extensive samples of wines that match its great ambiance, this site makes the romantic experience more memorable and fun. The entire space, with its greens and old wood, bricked wine storage, makes a perfect venue for deep conversations and hand-holdings. Apart from that, in case you’re planning to pop the big question soon, you might consider giving this place a tour. It’s the best place for wedding receptions and proposals.
Jonathan Edwards Winery
Address: 74 Chester Maine Road, North Stonington, CT 06359, United States
Website: Jonathan Edwards Winery
Opening hours: 11am - 5pm (daily)
8. Have a thrilling hike at Devil's Hopyard State Park
Calling out all adventurers out there, Devil’s Hopyard State Park might be the place to satisfy your hunger for adventure. Devil’s Hopyard State Park is a mysterious place in the city that most travelers go to whenever they’re looking for a thrill. Its location is at the Eightmile River’s Chapman Falls in East Haddam. It offers plenty of trails for people of all levels, so you’re guaranteed to have a good time whether you’re just starting out or an expert. It’s a great place to hike as it will offer you the chance to see breathtaking waterfalls, lush forestry, and a little bit of mystery. The trails around here stretch from 2.9 km (1.8 mi) to 4.2 km (2.6 mi).
Devil's Hopyard State Park
Address: 366 Hopyard Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423, United States
Website: Devil’s Hopyard State Park
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
9. Pop the big question at Wickham Park
If you’re planning to make a grand engagement proposal while in Connecticut, a magical place to do this is at Wickham Park. Known for its flora and fauna, it’s a great setting for a romantic event. You can arrange with the staff to make your proposal a little more special. Imagine asking the big question at night in the park’s pavilion with dim lights acting like fireflies and illuminating the whole place. Wouldn’t it make your proposal more enchanting? Fulfill your loved one’s dream proposal by giving them a fairytale moment.
Wickham Park
Address: 1329 Middle Turnpike W, Manchester, CT 06040, United States
Website: Wickham Park
Opening hours: 9:30am - 8:30pm (daily)
10. Bike and dine at Elizabeth Park
Elizabeth Park is a massive piece of land that covers almost everything you’ll want for a visit. Travelers can enjoy nature scenes, blooming gardens, picnic spots, and of course, recreational areas. There are tons of tours, garden workshops, and special events held in the park. Most of them are free to the public. With so much to offer, you’ll have plenty of options and ideas for your anniversary holiday in Connecticut.
Because of its expansive landscape, guests will enjoy taking a scenic bike around the area. Afterward, if ever you find yourself getting hungry, Pond House Café of Elizabeth Park is the best place for eclectic cuisines and mouth-watering dishes. Spend time with your partner taking photos of each other before treating yourselves to a lunch date.
Elizabeth Park
Address: 1561 Asylum Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117, United States
Website: Elizabeth Park
11. Ride a carriage together at Wood Acres Farm
One of the most memorable things you can experience in Connecticut is riding a horse-drawn carriage at Wood Acres Farm. Whether you’re celebrating an occasion with your special someone or planning to bring the family with you on a new adventure, this charming farm is always a great place to start. Wood Acres Farm is a place people go to whenever they want to experience something new in the outdoors. If ever you visit, make sure to enjoy a private carriage and indulge in sleigh rides. There’s nothing better to experience than trying those things you see in fairytale movies.
Wood Acres Farm
Address: 68 Griffin Rd, Terryville, CT 06786, United States
Website: Wood Acres Farm
Opening hours: 9am - 3pm (daily)
12. Have fun on a romantic sunset cruise (from USD 60.0)
If there’s one thing wondrous about Connecticut, it will be its endless list of romantic things couples can do while in this captivating city. If by chance, you want to end your day in a little more intimate setting, you can always choose to join one of Connecticut’s coast cruises. The best part about this is that you get to choose whether you want to be an active participant and help sail the ship or just lay back and enjoy the provided drinks and appetizers. One of the highlights of this cruise is the breathtaking views of the sun setting from the horizon.
Connecticut Coast Sunset Cruise
Duration: 3 hours
Thrilling days and romantic nights at Connecticut
When planning a date with our lovers, we always want to make it extra special. One of the best ways to keep things interesting and exciting is to try new things. You can start your date with a thrilling activity or a laidback one and end it with a candlelit dinner. Another option is to spend a cozy weekend together in a cabin rental in the forest. Whichever you prefer to do, in Connecticut, you’ll have plenty of options.
Frequently asked questions about romantic things to do in Connecticut, USA
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to