Connecticut Bucket List: 172 Things to Do in the Constitution State

This article has links to products and services we love, which we may make commission from.

Welcome to the ultimate Connecticut bucket list, where we’re about to uncover the best things to do in the Constitution State!

Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or a visitor eager to explore all that Connecticut has to offer, this comprehensive guide is your key to unlocking fun and unforgettable experiences across the state.

From charming coastal towns to serene countryside retreats, Connecticut is a treasure trove of diverse attractions and activities. 

Get ready to embark on thrilling adventures, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, immerse yourself in rich history, and discover the natural beauty that awaits at every turn.

Our carefully curated selection of must-visit CT destinations and must-do experiences will take you on a journey through picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities, and cultural hotspots. 

Whether you’re seeking outdoor escapades, historical landmarks, artistic endeavors, or culinary delights, we’ve got you covered.

For easier navigation, we grouped the attractions by town and cities where they are located.

You may also like our other guides for the best things to do in Connecticut during spring, fall, or winter. 

If you love the outdoors, then check out our list of CT state parks.

Free Connecticut Bucket List

Cornwall Bucket List

Nestled in the picturesque Litchfield Hills, Cornwall offers a serene escape with its breathtaking natural beauty. 

From the enchanting Mohawk State Forest to the iconic West Cornwall Covered Bridge, this small town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

• Check out the fall foliage at Mohawk State Park.
• Hit the slopes on Mohawk Mountain.
• Visit the West Cornwall Covered Bridge.
• Rent an Ebike from Covered Bridge Electrical Bike Rental.
• Dine at RSVP.
• Look around the Cornwall Historical Society.
• Admire the Cathedral Pines.
• Enjoy a meal at the Cornwall Country Market.

Farmington Bucket List

Farmington is a quaint, historic town that offers visitors a glimpse into the state’s rich history and cultural heritage. 

Add Farmington to your list of Connecticut activities and discover all the entertaining things to do in this lovely town.

• Go cross-country skiing at Winding Trails.
• Visit the Hill-Stead Museum.
• Stop for some sushi at Bamboo Asian Cuisine.
• Grab a hotdog at Carol’s Lunchbox.
• Test your skills in an escape room at Complexity: A Puzzling Adventure.
• Spend some time at Farmington Miniature Golf and Ice Cream Parlor.
• Get a massage at Healing Arts Therapeutic Massage.
• Shop at Antiq’s.
• Learn about local history at Stanley-Whitman House.
• Relax by the river at Farmington Boat House.
• Go for a hike in Will Warren’s Den.
• Indulge in retail therapy at The Shoppes at Farmington Valley.

Greenwich Bucket List

Known for its affluence and natural beauty, Greenwich offers a luxurious escape just 30 miles away from New York City. 

Explore the museums and art galleries or immerse yourself in the world-class shopping on Greenwich Avenue- this is one of the places to see in Connecticut if you’re seeking a taste of the high life.

• Explore the Audubon Center.
• Play a round of golf at Tamarack Country Club.
• Visit the Bruce Museum.
• Shop and dine on Greenwich Avenue.
• See the art at Flinn Gallery.
• Have dinner at Blackstone’s Steakhouse.
• Go to the historic Putnam Cottage.
• Grab a coffee at Coffee for Good Inc.
• Buy a new book at Diane’s Books.
• Eat at Elm Street Oyster House.
• Watch a magic show at Magic at the Delamar.
• Dine at the Thai Basil Restaurant.
• Add to your jewelry collection with something from Manfredi Jewels.
• Treat yourself at the Thai Serenity Spa.

Hartford Bucket List

Explore more things to do in Connecticut in Hartford, the state’s capital city that boasts a rich historical legacy and a thriving cultural scene. 

From the iconic Mark Twain House and the vibrant Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art to the picturesque Elizabeth Park, there is no shortage of attractions to explore. 

• Visit the Mark Twain House and Museum.
• Take a tour of the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center.
• Visit the stunning Cathedral of St Joseph.
• Explore Bushnell Park.
• Look around the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art.
• Learn something new at the Connecticut Science Center.
• Walk along the waterfront at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza.
• See what shows, plays, or musicals are on at Hartford Stage.
• Catch a ball game at Dunkin’ Park.
• Celebrate happy hour at Max Downtown.
• Tour the Connecticut State Capitol.
• Check out what events are on at the Real Art Ways.
• Try out the cocktails and spirits the Hartford Flavor Company has to offer.
• Stop at Parkville Market for a variety of food options.
• Sip on a coffee from Story and Soil Coffee.
• Have a few drinks at Little River Restoratives.
• Spark your interest in history at the Connecticut Historical Society.
• Stop to smell the roses at Elizabeth Park.
• Grab a cozy meal at Tisane Tea and Coffee.
• Ride the Bushnell Carousel.
• Explore Ancient Burying Grounds.
• Take a tour of the Hartford Flavor Company Distillery.
• Watch a movie at the Spotlight Theaters Front Street Stadium.
• Experience the nightlife at The Chez Est.
• Try some international food at Tangiers International.
• Stop for dinner at Salute.
• Enjoy some BBQ at Bear’s Smokehouse BBQ.
• If you’re looking for a spooky good time, check out Curioporium.
• Enjoy a stroll around the Cedar Hill Cemetery.

Kent Bucket List

Nestled in the beautiful Litchfield Hills, Kent is a cozy New England town that captures your heart with its rustic charm. 

You can’t miss the breathtaking Kent Falls, grab delicious bites, or go on a bike tour to explore many spots in the area. 

With its peaceful vibes and artsy community, Kent is perfect for anyone looking for calm but enjoyable activities in Connecticut and a taste of New England living.

• Check out Kent Falls State Park any time of the year.
• Visit Bull’s Bridge.
• Get out on your bike on the Western New England Greenway.
• Browse The Covered Wagon Country Store Inc.
• Stop to eat at Kingsley Tavern.
• Admire the art at Morrison Gallery.
• Go to the Connecticut Antique Machinery.
• Get a glimpse of what life was like for early Americans at the Eric Sloane Museum and Kent Furnace.
• Rent a bike or join a bike tour at the Bicycle Tour Company.
• Add another book or two to your collection and stop at the House of Books.
• Fill your belly at Villager Restaurant and Catering.
• Enjoy some beer and learn about farm life at Kent Falls Brewing Company.

Litchfield Bucket List

With its quaint village center, historic homes, and beautiful countryside, Litchfield is a picture-perfect New England town that’s worth exploring. 

If you’re wondering what to do in Connecticut, this town offers a wide array of activities and destinations that’ll keep you entertained.

• Learn something new and take a tour of Litchfield Distillery.
• Enjoy a hike at the White Memorial Conservation Center.
• Indulge in a sweet treat from Love’s Heart Bakery.
• Try something new at The Dutch Epicure Shop.
• Learn about the conservation efforts of waterfowl at Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy.
• Connect with nature at Litchfield Land Trust.
• Enjoy a meal at Litchfield Saltwater Grille.
• Have an interactive experience at Tapping Reeve House and Law and learn what life was like for law students over a hundred years ago.
• Admire the architecture of St. Michael’s Parish.
• Grab a slice at Ollie’s Pizza.
• Learn about the history of the town at the Litchfield History Museum.
• Eat at Meraki.
• Shop at the Casa Bacchus Wine Shop.
• Buy yourself something nice from C.P. Farmhouse.
• Join a yoga class or relax with a beauty treatment from Charym.
• Dine at West Street Grill.
• Have a wine tasting at Connecticut’s oldest winery Haight-Brown Vineyard.
• Explore Topsmead State Forest.
• Enjoy the daffodils of Laurel Ridge Farm.
• If you are looking for a spiritual getaway check out Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center.
• Splurge on ice cream from Peaches n Cream.
• Stop for lunch at The Ripe Tomato Deli.

Mystic Bucket List

Discover Mystic, a captivating coastal town that offers lots of experience that’s worth adding to your Connecticut summer bucket list.

Seamlessly blending maritime allure and captivating history, immerse yourself in seafaring traditions at the renowned Mystic Seaport Museum, indulge in delicious fresh seafood at waterfront eateries, and more!

• Learn about American Maritime history at the Mystic Seaport Museum.
• Feast on fresh seafood from S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar.
• Visit the historic Liberty Pole Square.
• Explore the historic Downtown Mystic area.
• Learn more about the spooky side of Mystic during this tour.
• Check out the Mystic Museum of Art.
• Satisfy your sweet tooth at Sift Bake Shop.
• Savor the iconic taste of Mystic Pizza.
• Try tasty in-house brews at Barley Head Brewery.
• Dine at Via Emilia.
• Watch the boats pass by at Mystic River Bascule Bridge.
• Grab a meal at Captain Daniel Packer Inne Restaurant and Pub.
• Admire the Mystic and Noank Library.
• Be daring at The Fearless Flyers Academy- Flying Trapeze.
• Go on a boat tour with Argia Mystic Cruises.
• Browse the Spice and Tea Exchange.
• Gather up your family and dine at Rocks 21.
• Take a yoga or pilates class at Mystic Yoga Shala or The Kula Project.
• See what shows are playing at the Mystic Dark Room.
• Explore the Denison Homestead Museum.
• Indulge in Asian cuisine at Johnny’s Peking Tokyo.
• For all things magical stop to shop at The Cloak and Wand.
• Test your skills at Mystified Escape Rooms.
• Stop for some food at McQuade’s Marketplace.
• Learn about local wildlife and the importance of conservation at Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center.
• Wander around the shops and diners in the Olde Mistick Village.
• Start your day with a hearty breakfast from Bleu Squid Breakfast and Bakery Café.
• Walk around the scenic Elm Grove Cemetery.
• Enjoy some seafood from Sea View Snack Bar.
• Visit the Whittles Willow Spring Farm.
• Grab a slice from Gold Star Pizza.
• Shop for glass art at Studio Jeffrey P’an.
• Find a special treat for yourself at Franklin’s General Store.
• Enjoy the variety of chocolate at Munson’s Chocolate.
• Spend the day paddleboarding with Mystic Adventure.
• Try out ziplining at Tree Trails Adventures Mystic.

Check out our comprehensive list of things to do in Mystic, Connecticut.

New Hartford Bucket List

New Hartford offers a tranquil escape with its breathtaking landscapes and abundant outdoor opportunities. 

This pleasant town beckons nature enthusiasts with its lush forests, meandering rivers, and a playground of hiking, kayaking, fishing, and lots of sightseeing.

• Shop for antiques at The Collinsville Antiques Co.
• Experience the Jerram Winery.
• Try American and Belgian ales at Brewery Legitimus.
• Sip on local vintage wine at Connecticut Valley Winery.
• Dine on the sushi at Fuji Japanese Restaurant.
• Spend the time on the river with Farmington River Tubing or Main Stream Canoes and Kayaks.
• Explore Satan’s Kingdom State Recreation Area.

You may also like our list of the best places to kayak in Connecticut.

Norwich Bucket List

Steeped in history and vibrant with cultural charm, Norwich combines a rich heritage with a thriving arts scene. 

Explore its historic landmarks, such as the Leffingwell House Museum, and immerse yourself in the diverse culinary experiences and lively arts community that make Norwich a captivating destination.

• Spend an afternoon wandering around Slater Memorial Museum.
• Stop for a brew and some food at These Guys Brewing Company.
• Visit Leffingwell House Museum for a history lesson.
• Walk through the Old Norwich Historic Cemetery.
• Connect with nature and check out Yantic Falls.
• Dine at Canggio Restaurant.
• Catch a game at Dodd Stadium.
• Enjoy a meal at Lazizah Bake Shop.
• Check out what shows are being put on at Norwich Arts Center.
• Enjoy local beers at Epicure Brewing.
• Grab a pizza from La Stella Pizzeria.
• Indulge in some self-care at The Spa at Norwich Inn.
• Satisfy your taste buds at Kensington’s.
• Test your skills with The Ultimate Escape.

Stonington Bucket List

Stonington is a charming coastal town in Connecticut with stunning waterfront views and colonial architecture. 

It’s the perfect place to enjoy delicious seafood, wander through cozy village centers, and soak up the enchanting coastal vibes that make this town so special.

• Enjoy the grounds of Saltwater Farm Vineyard or a tasting from April to December.
• Buy some baked goods from Zest Fresh Pastry.
• Dine at Whitecrest Eatery.
• Learn about local history at the Stonington Lighthouse Museum.
• Browse the Stonington Village Farmers Market.
• Shop at Grand and Water Antiques.
• Eat at Noah’s Restaurant.
• Get a history lesson at Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer’s House.
• Enjoy a brew at Beer’d Brewing Company.
• Have a meal at the Dog Watch Café.
• Get some sun at Dubois Beach.
• Stop for a tasting at Rum Tropic Distillery.
• Check out local artists at The Velvet Underground Studio.
• Buy something unique at Pelham Grayson.
• Check out what’s playing at La Grua Center.
• Spend the day on the water with Coastline Surf and Paddle.
• Take a boat tour, paddleboard, kayak, or canoe with New England Science and Sailing.
• Relax at Stonington Natural Health Center.
• Visit Stonington Vineyards.

Final Thoughts

We hope this CT bucket list has inspired you to explore all the amazing things the Constitution State has to offer.

Have you been to any of these places or have suggestions for other must-visit spots in CT? Leave a comment and let us know!