Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Bristol, Connecticut and Middletown, Connecticut

Traveling from Bristol, Connecticut to Middletown, Connecticut is an exciting journey filled with beautiful sceneries, serene roads, and fascinating attractions. With a distance of approximately 52 miles, this scenic drive takes approximately 1 hour, making it ideal for a memorable road trip experience.

One of the highlights of this trip is the halfway point, Farmington, CT. Farmington is known for its charming historic district, stunning colonial architecture, and beautiful parks. Travellers can have a picnic at the picturesque Farmington River, take a walk along the Unionville Walking Trail, or grab a tasty treat at the delightful grocery store, the Village Market.

Here are the top 5 activities to enjoy on a road trip from Bristol, Connecticut to Middletown, Connecticut:

1. Visit the Mark Twain House and Museum

This museum, located in Hartford, Connecticut, is a must-visit for anyone who loves literature. The famous American writer, Mark Twain, lived in this house from 1874 to 1891. Visitors can take a tour of the house to learn more about the author's life and his works, such as "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." An interesting fact about the museum is that it has been designated as a National Historic Landmark since 1962.

2. Explore the Mystic Seaport Museum

The Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic Connecticut is one of the largest maritime museums in the world. Its exhibits tell stories about America's maritime history and the role of vessels in connecting people and goods across the seas. Visitors can tour historic ships, visit the planetarium, see a working shipyard, or explore nautical galleries. Did you know that the museum is home to the only surviving wooden whale ship, The Charles W. Morgan, in the world?

3. Visit the Connecticut Science Center

The Connecticut Science Center, located in Hartford, CT, is a fantastic place for visitors of all ages. There are over 165 interactive exhibits including a hands-on science laboratory, an outdoor science patio, and the largest domed IMAX theater in the state. At the Science Center, visitors can discover the wonders of science and technology, ranging from human biology to space exploration. Fun fact - The building has 154,000 square feet and has received numerous architectural awards.

4. Take a stroll in Elizabeth Park

Elizabeth Park, located in Hartford, Connecticut, is the third largest park in Hartford and is well-known for its magnificent rose garden. The roses in this garden are breath-taking, and there are over 800 varieties to behold. Besides the rose garden, visitors can also enjoy a peaceful walk around the park's paths, ponds, and birdhouses. Did you know that Elizabeth Park was designed by the famous landscape architects, Frederick Law Olmsted and Charles Eliot?

5. Visit the Durham Green and Museum

Durham Green, located in Durham, Connecticut, is a picturesque park surrounded by historic buildings. The park used to be a central meeting place for people and a marketplace where people traded goods. Visitors can also explore the Durham Museum, which houses artifacts from Durham's history. Some of the highlights of the collection include old photos, newspapers, and other antique objects. A fun fact- Durham is home to the annual Durham Fair, the largest in Connecticut!

Overall, this road trip from Bristol to Middletown has numerous exciting attractions to explore. The trip, which takes approximately an hour, is full of scenic beauty and history, offering something for everyone. Whether exploring historic buildings, discovering the wonders of science, or taking a peaceful stroll in the park, this Connecticut road trip is sure to be remembered.