Connecticut has no shortage of fun adventures for all ages. This New England coastal state boasts scenic coastal areas, historic sites and mainland adventures suitable for any group.
Explore Mystic Seaports recreated 19th century coastal village complete with tall ships and endless activities. Memorial Day weekend is a wonderful opportunity to see this New England village at its best as they celebrate Lobster Fest. New England style lobster dinners are served during the event and visitors are invited to explore the shops and sites of Mystic Seaport. More than 30 old New England trade shops and businesses line the streets, many of which are home to maritime trades such as shipsmith and coopers to woodcarvers and riggers. Visitors will encounter historians, musicians and role players who interact and teach about New Englands history.
The majestic tall ships of Mystic Seaport are a premier attraction for any visitor to the area. Thirteen historic tall ships are available for tour and visitors can take a ride on the Sabino, an island steamer vessel. The Sabino is the last wooden coal-fired steamboat still in operation and was built in Maine in 1908 for passenger service on the Damariscotta River. Steamboat rides are available mid-May through mid-October. Fare for this half-hour ride is $5.25 for adults. 888-932-7678, www.visitmysticseaport.com
Racing fans can enjoy the thrill of high-speed track racing at Skip Barbers Racing School. Throughout the months of April through mid-November, the Skip Barber Racing School is offered at Lime Rock Park. Progressive programs are available for beginners and advanced drivers, making multi-day and week trips possible. The three-hour introduction to racing course combines the fundamentals of open-wheel racing with hands-on experience driving a 2.0 liter Formula Dodge racecar.
The three-day racing school includes the basics of racing, track experience and classroom instruction where graduates can apply for a regional racing license upon completion. After completing the basic racing programs, participants can practice and advance their skills in the advanced two-day racing school with the Formula Dodge R/T 2000, which is used in the race series.
Racing school programs can range from $695 to $3,495 per person, depending on the program. The Skip Barber Racing School is a rush of adrenaline and the adventure of a lifetime. Class schedules are available online. 800-221-1131
The Mark Twain House in Hartford stands today as a monument to one of Americas greatest writers and social commentators. The Mark Twain House has been restored to look as it did when Associated Artists completed its work in 1881. The house is one of only two Tiffany-designed domestic interiors open to the public. The Museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily and until 8 p.m. on Thursday. From January to April, the house will be closed on Tuesdays. Admission is $12 for adults and $11 for seniors. Special rates are available for groups of ten or more with advance reservations at least two weeks prior to visiting. 860-247-0998
Groups can stop by the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center and visit both the Harriet Beecher Stowe House and the Katherine Seymour Day House. A tour of the Stowe House provides an intimate glimpse into the life of the author of Uncle Toms Cabin. The Day House offers magnificent interiors with changing exhibits and a research library. Admission for house tours is $8 for adults and $7 for seniors. Both houses are surrounded by majestic historical Victorian Gardens. Garden tours are offered June through October on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. Cost for the garden tour is $8 for adults and $7 for seniors. Combination tickets for both the garden and house tours are available for adults and seniors for $13. The house tours are given year round Tuesday to Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Sundays from noon to 4:30 p.m. and on Mondays 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 pm. from Memorial Day through Columbus Day and in December. 860-522-9258, www.harrietbeecherstowe.org
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