The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Bristol and Tolland, Connecticut
Bristol and Tolland, Connecticut, are two quaint towns known for their small-town charm and rich history. Driving from Bristol to Tolland, and vice versa, is a scenic route that is filled with stunning landscapes and hidden gems that both locals and tourists can explore. The halfway point of the trip is Hartford, Connecticut, where visitors can enjoy a thriving arts and entertainment scene and world-class museums.
Discover Quirky Artifacts at the Mark Twain House and Museum
The Mark Twain House and Museum is a National Historic Landmark in Hartford, Connecticut, that was once the home of the famous author Samuel L. Clemens (Mark Twain) and his wife, Olivia Langdon Clemens. Visitors can explore the Victorian Gothic-style home and get a glimpse of how the author lived and worked. The house is filled with quirky artifacts, original furnishings, and memorabilia that tells the story of Twain's life and legacy. Guests can take guided tours of the house, attend lectures, and events throughout the year.
Interesting fact: Mark Twain wrote some of his most popular works while living in the house, including "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer."
Visit the Connecticut Science Center
The Connecticut Science Center is a popular destination for families, science enthusiasts, and students alike. It offers over 165 hands-on exhibits that explore the world of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Visitors can explore the rainforest, learn about space and astronomy, and discover Connecticut's natural history. The science center also offers educational programs, summer camps, and adult events.
Interesting fact: The Connecticut Science Center has a butterfly encounter exhibit where visitors can interact with live butterflies and learn about their life cycles.
Go Hiking at Talcott Mountain State Park
Talcott Mountain State Park is a stunning natural reserve that offers breathtaking views of the Connecticut River Valley. The park is famous for its 165-foot Heublein Tower, which was once the summer home of Gilbert F. Heublein, a prominent businessman, and politician. Visitors can hike the many trails in the park, including a 1.5-mile trail that leads to the Heublein Tower. The tower has an observation deck that offers stunning views of the park and beyond.
Interesting fact: The Heublein Tower was featured in the 2003 American film "Mystic River."
Shop and Dine in Storrs Center
Storrs Center is a vibrant downtown area located in the heart of Storrs, Connecticut, that offers a diverse mix of shops, restaurants, and bars. The area is home to the University of Connecticut, which attracts a diverse crowd of students, faculty, and staff. Visitors can explore the local boutiques, dine at award-winning restaurants, and experience the local nightlife. Storrs Center also hosts a weekly farmers market during the summer months.
Interesting fact: Storrs Center is the only LEED-ND certified development in Connecticut, which means it meets certain sustainability standards.
Explore a Slice of American History at Old Sturbridge Village
Old Sturbridge Village is an outdoor living history museum located in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, a short drive from Tolland and Bristol. The village offers a look back in time to the 19th century, where visitors can explore a 200-acre working farm, meet costumed interpreters, and experience everyday life in a New England town. The village has over 40 historic buildings, including a sawmill, a blacksmith shop, and a pottery barn. Old Sturbridge Village also hosts special events throughout the year, including a popular Christmas by Candlelight event.
Interesting fact: Old Sturbridge Village has been used as a filming location for several movies, including the 2014 film "The Judge" starring Robert Downey Jr.
Conclusion
A road trip from Bristol to Tolland, Connecticut, and back is a perfect way to explore some of the best attractions and hidden gems in the area. The trip offers a diverse mix of natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and historical sites that appeal to a wide range of interests. The entire trip will take around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your chosen route and stops. Don't forget to bring your camera, as you'll want to capture some of the unforgettable moments on this road trip adventure.