14 Best Romantic Weekend Getaways In Connecticut, USA - Updated 2024

weekend getaways in connecticut
Trina Joy Cassey
Trina Joy Cassey 
Updated
| 6 min read

Situated in southern New England, Connecticut is a vast US state that is characterized by its charming rural towns and breathtaking coastal cities. It is home to cities and municipalities with diverse offerings. Norwalk, one of the most highly urbanized cities in Connecticut, is known for its must-visit beaches and iconic landmarks. On the other hand, New Haven is home to the prestigious Yale University and numerous fascinating museums. Stamford will enchant you with its stunning nature centres and historic architectural wonders too. Other cities you’ll find in the state include Greenwich, Bridgeport, Waterbury, and more. With its limitless attractions, this side of the US is perfect to explore with a special someone. If you are planning a dreamy adventure with your significant other anytime soon, here is a list of the best romantic weekend getaways in Connecticut, USA.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on March 02, 2024.

1. Salisbury, CT

SalisburyCT TownHall
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Doug Kerr used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Known for the history of its iron ore, Salisbury is a town in Connecticut that is perfect for weekend getaways. Located 49.1 mi (79.02 km) away from Hartford, it has been recognized for its fair share of natural attractions.

With its proximity to the Wononskopomuc Lake and Twin Lakes, couples can hop on a romantic boat ride as they enjoy the serene nature in the area. If you seek an adrenaline rush, you can also hike and camp overnight atop Mount Riga State Park. And after a busy day, you can wrap things up and check in at the White Hart Inn, a prestigious accommodation remarked by its New England facade.

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2. Putnam, CT

Putnam Connecticut
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user ML.Nature.Photo used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Putnam is a quaint town in Connecticut that is named after the heroic Israel Putnam, an American military officer. Included in the roster of the best small towns to check out in New England, this community is home to the Antiques Marketplace, a hub for precious relics.

With over 300 antique shops, you can shop until you drop into this area. To further appreciate the downtown area, you can ask your partner for a romantic adventure at the Putnam River Trail, which stretches to 1.8 miles (2.90 kilometers) and is an ideal spot for biking and walking.

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3. Mystic, CT

Mystic Aquarium Penguin Feeding
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Mystic is a village in Connecticut and is another notable getaway spot for couples who love exploring diverse attractions. This seaport village served as the harbor point of ships that needed refuge whenever great storms pass by the area.

Within its perimeters, you can tag along with your special someone on a romantic date at the Mystic Aquarium. If you want to appreciate the place at its core, drop by the Olde Mistick Village to look for great deals in retail shops. Also, don’t waste the chance to try one of the local goods at B.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill.

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4. New Britain, CT

WalnutHillParkRoseGardenJune
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user EGryk used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The city of New Britain sits across Hartford County and has over 1200 ac (485.62 ha) of recreational land area. If you’re planning a weekend getaway within Connecticut, choose this spot and bring your significant other on a romantic trip down Walnut Hill Park, an adorable public park in the community.

The New Britain Museum of American Art is a must-visit, especially for those with a fiery love for the arts. Also, you can discover and appreciate the local history by walking along the New Britain Historic Walking Trail, where the city’s humble beginnings are reflected.

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5. Gillette Castle State Park

Gillette Castle 14 (9366304980)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Joe Mabel used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Nestled on an elevated area on the Connecticut River, Gillette Castle State Park is a must-visit point of interest in East Haddam Connecticut. This enchanting park houses a stunning castle that takes guests back to the medieval times. It was named after William Hooker Gillette, the actor who played the role of the famous fictional detective - Sherlock Holmes. This castle is a 24-room mansion on one of the majestic hills of the Seven Sisters. Aside from its numerous rooms, it houses secret passageways and boasts intricate wood craftsmanship. Aside from the castle, the natural surroundings and the views from the edifice will surely take yours and your lover’s breath away. East Haddam is 26 mi (42 km) away from Hartford - the capital city of Connecticut.

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6. Hartford (from USD 443)

Blue Back Square in West Hartford, Connecticut 2, August 10, 2008
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ragesoss used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Hartford, the capital city of Connecticut, is one of the most highly urbanized cities in Connecticut. It is home to bustling business districts and corporate centres. No wonder it bears the nickname “The Insurance Capital of the World”. Although insurance may be the city’s major industry, it also has offerings that will excite couples on a romantic getaway. You might want to check out the fascinating American High Gothic-styled Mark Twain House & Museum or explore each corner of Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art to see stunning European Baroque art. Also, Hartford is home to the enchanting Elizabeth Park Conservancy, Butler-McCook House & Garden, and the Historic Main Street.

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The Goodwin

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 1 Haynes Street
79.69 km (49.6 mi) from Seaside Park

Parking Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms Business centre Dry cleaning

7. Cornwall - Mohawk Mountain (from USD 364)

West Cornwall, CT - 02
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Joe Mabel used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Planning to visit Connecticut during the winter season? If so, be sure to plan a side trip to the beautiful town of Cornwall, where the Mohawk Mountain is located. Cornwall is 40 mi (64 km) away from Hartford the capital city of Connecticut. This town is a popular ski area. Imagine playing in the snow with your significant other while admiring the limitless views of nature. Aside from challenging slopes that are perfect for pro skiers, there is a slope for kids and beginners to utilize. Mohawk Mountain Ski Area also offers ski lessons, and equipment and gears are available for rent. Also, lodging and dining are available for guests of the resort.

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74.16 km (46.1 mi) from Seaside Park
99 reviews  
House 9 Guests 3 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 9
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it’s a good thing there was wifi in the house
i personally appreciated the kitchen which is stocked with all the cooking tools you need
the pool was fabulous ruth was very communicative and easy to get a hold of
the pool was great for those hot afternoons
the house is comfortable and well-equipped
Cleanliness:
the house is clean well furnished and very comfortable
the house was clean and comfy and well located to get around
Host:
the owner was lovely and very responsive to any questions or concerns we had during the stay
overall it was a great stay and the owner was very communicative and accommodating
ruth is very responsive to questions and made sure we had everything we needed
this is our 2nd time renting from ruth who is a lovely woman and very accommodating
ruth thank you for being such a great host and allowing us to use such a fantastic space
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8. Milford - Silver Sands State Park (from USD 109)

Silver Sands State Park (21029)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Rhododendrites used under CC BY-SA 4.0

For couples who are planning an exciting holiday in Milford, be sure to add Silver Sands State Park to your itinerary. This must-visit attraction is a scenic recreational area that nestles in Long Island Sound, 48mi (13km) away from Hartford. It is a majestic place to unwind and admire the beauty of nature. Silver Sands State Park boasts 120 hectares (297mi) of waters. More so, you’ll witness restored salt marsh and dunes in the area. On top of these, there is a beautiful bird sanctuary in the park that you must not miss. For people who want to go on a picnic in the Silver Sands State Park, there are benches where you can sit and set up.

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Hilton Garden Inn Milford

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 291 Old Gate Lane
15.74 km (9.8 mi) from Seaside Park

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Non-smoking rooms

9. Essex - Essex Steam Train & Riverboat (from USD 195)

Essex CT - museum 01 (9363087823)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Joe Mabel used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Essex is a lovely little town situated in Middlesex County, Connecticut. It is home to fascinating museums, charming parks, and historic attractions. Make your vacation in town a memorable one by taking your special someone on a date to Essex Steam Train and Riverboat. Hop on the elegant Essex Clipper Holiday Dinner Train for an adventure of a lifetime. Ride on a stunning 1920s Pullman dining car while indulging in a sumptuous four-course meal and enjoying the scenic views of Connecticut River Valley. The adventure lasts for two and a half hours. Lots of time for you and your partner to bond and make meaningful conversations. Essex is 37mi (60km) away from Hartford.

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The Griswold Inn

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 36 MAIN ST
70.23 km (43.7 mi) from Seaside Park

Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms

10. Kent - Macedonia Brook State Park (from USD 139)

Macedonia Brook State Park-Kent Connecticut - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Susan Popielaski used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Another beautiful town that you might want to add to your travel plans in Connecticut is Kent, 53 mi (85 km) away from Hartford. Nestled in Litchfield County, this town is known for its boarding schools - Kent School, The Marvelwood School, and South Kent School. Not only that, but it is also home to breathtaking natural wonders that offers a multitude of outdoor opportunities for adventure-seekers. If you and your special someone likes nature, be sure to swing by Macedonia Brook State Park. This 932-hectare (2303 acre) park is a 51-site campground, where you can swim, fish, and picnic. You can also hike and see wildlife in its natural habitat in the Macedonia Ridge Trail inside the park.

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64.98 km (40.4 mi) from Seaside Park
24 reviews   Wifi Available
cottage 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Host:
bev and forrest were great hosts and very responsive
they were both very friendly and they were so responsive before and during our stay
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11. Madison - Hammonasset Beach State Park (from USD 262)

Hammonasset sunset
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Pepper used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Nothing’s more dreamy and romantic than a day on the beach with the one that you love. Imagine basking in the warmth of the sun, playing in the water, building sandcastles, and sipping daiquiris. Sounds exciting, right? If you agree, visit the town of Madison and make the most of your Connecticut getaway at Hammonasset Beach State Park. It is a stunning public beach and the state’s largest shoreline park. For tourists who wish to spend the night, there are campsites in the park that are available for rent. More so, there are shops, restrooms, dump stations, and stores within the camp for guest’s convenience. Madison is 38mi (61km) away from Hartford.

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Madison Beach Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 94 W Wharf Rd
50.0 km (31.1 mi) from Seaside Park

Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Golf course (within 3 km)

12. Simsbury - Talcott Mountain State Park (from USD 130)

Heublein Tower on Talcott Mountain
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Craig R. used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Indeed, you will never run out of natural wonders to see in Connecticut. Good for you if you like being one with nature and spending your days doing exciting outdoor activities. If you and your partner are both outdoorsy and adventurous, check out the enchanting Talcott Mountain State Park in Simsbury, Connecticut. Nestled on Talcott Mountain, this public park is home to The Heublein Tower - a historic home and museum that is accessible on foot. Be prepared for a 1.25 mi (92 km) hike to the tower on the top of the mountain. The climb is all worth it as the views from above are definitely jaw-dropping. Simsbury is 12mi (19km) away from Hartford.

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81.09 km (50.4 mi) from Seaside Park
27 reviews   Wifi Available
Apartment 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2
Minimum Nights: 2
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 14 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the coffee table books were a nice touch
many nice touches yogurt coffee snacks and cozy socks
thanks also for the treats bottled water coffee and a surprise pool table
this beautiful apartment exceeded our expectations
the apartment is immaculate comfortably and tastefully furnished bright and airy with gorgeous views of the surrounding woods
Cleanliness:
very clean and everything is brand new
very cozy and clean
we loved our time in this beautiful spotless quiet and spacious residence
they were clean spacious and well equipped
house was sparkling clean and very nice amenties
Host:
great property and nice hosts
the owners are wonderful people and make you feel right at home
the hosts are gracious and easy to get ahold of
helpful suggestions when i needed them
we too are hosts and will recommend brad's place to other travellers
Location:
*close to excellent restaurants
super private property and easy location
the apartment is absolutely beautiful and in a quiet location
Read more reviews
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13. Westport - Compo Beach (from USD 896)

Compo Beach, Westport, CT
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user WestportWiki used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Your Connecticut road trip will not be complete without a day at Compo Beach in Westport Connecticut. It is a long charming public beach with clean waters and sandy shore, only 63 mi (101 km) away from Hartford. Visitors are expected to bring their own swimming equipment and picnic valuables. There is a picnic area on-site where you can take shelter and enjoy your food. More so, there is a concession stand that offers snacks and drinks. Aside from swimming and sunbathing, you and your partner can play some volleyball at courts on the beach. Restrooms and outdoor showers are also accessible in Compo Beach.

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14.92 km (9.3 mi) from Seaside Park
3 reviews   Wifi Available
House 8 Guests 4 Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 8
Minimum Nights: 30
Refund Policy : 100% refund if you cancel at least 60 days before check-in.

Top guest reviews
Location:
location is fantastic - 1 minute walk to compo beach
Read more reviews
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14. Old Saybrook (from USD 278)

Lynde Lighthouse, Old Saybrook, Connecticut
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user June Mita Photogr... used under CC BY 2.0

Located in Middlesex County, Old Saybrook is one of the most captivating towns in Connecticut. Just like most cities and municipalities in the state, this little town is home to stunning beaches, beautiful parks where wildlife thrives, and remarkable landmarks. North Cove is a picturesque bay that you’ll find in Old Saybrook. It showcases a magnificent body of water with yachts floating everywhere. The views at Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse and Lynde Point Lighthouse are like taken out of an artsy postcard. Be sure to see them. For swimming, camping, and sightseeing, Knollwood Beach is a paradise to visit. Old Saybrook is 43mi (69km) away from Hartford.

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Saybrook Point Resort & Marina

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: Two Bridge Street
71.34 km (44.4 mi) from Seaside Park

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Sauna

Make your Connecticut escapade a romantic experience

Connecticut is a vast state that is home to stunning coastal cities and charming little towns. More so, you’ll find highly urbanized metropolises in the state that boasts upscale attractions, excellent dining spots, and busy shopping districts. Whether you and your special someone are into nature or modern attractions, you will never run out of places to check out in Connecticut. To help you with planning your itinerary, use this list of the best romantic getaways in the state as your guide.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Trina, a preschool teacher, is a working mom and a devoted wife to an analyst programmer. She's also a writer, cook, and travel enthusiast. Trina firmly believes that travel is a valuable...Read more

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