Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Canton, Connecticut and Branford, Connecticut

A road trip is always an exciting adventure and there is nothing better than exploring beautiful destinations with scenic views. The road trip from Canton, Connecticut, to Branford, Connecticut, is one such journey that offers plenty of incredible stops en route. This road trip covers a distance of nearly 50 miles, and the halfway point is in Meriden, CT. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip.

1. Visit the Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford, CT

One of the most engaging places to visit on this road trip is the Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford, CT. The house is where the famous American writer Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) lived with his family from 1874 to 1891. The 19-room house is a restored Victorian mansion, and visitors can explore the interiors filled with period furnishings and exhibits about the author's life and work. The house also offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year.

Interesting fact: The house was designed in a distinctive American Gothic style, and it is believed to be one of the first homes in the US with a telephone line.

2. Enjoy the Beauty of Wadsworth Falls State Park in Middletown, CT

Wadsworth Falls State Park is a beautiful stop on this road trip that is worth visiting. Located in Middletown, CT, the park covers over 285 acres of rolling woodlands and features a scenic waterfall and natural swimming area. There are also hiking trails throughout the park, offering stunning views of the falls and the area's natural beauty. The fall colors in autumn are stunning, making it the perfect time to visit.

Interesting fact: The Wadsworth Falls State Park was established in 1942 as a gift to the state by the Wadsworth family and was named after them.

3. Discover the Rich History of the New Britain Museum of American Art

The New Britain Museum of American Art is the oldest museum in the US devoted exclusively to American art. It houses a permanent collection of over 8,000 works of art from the 18th century to the present day. The museum also has a vast collection of American Impressionist paintings. Visitors can enjoy the works of some of the most famous American artists, including James McNeill Whistler, Winslow Homer, and Frederic Church.

Interesting fact: The museum was first opened in 1903 and was located in a small room in the New Britain Public Library.

4. Taste the Wine at Gouveia Vineyards in Wallingford, CT

Gouveia Vineyards is a winery located in Wallingford, CT, which offers panoramic views of the valley where their grapes are grown. The vineyard covers over 140 acres and has a tasting room where visitors can sample their award-winning wines. The winery also offers tours of the vineyard and the winemaking process. Sitting on the outdoor patio overlooking the vineyard with a glass of wine is a wonderful experience and a great way to relax.

Interesting fact: The vineyard has been featured in many films and TV shows, including "The Big C" and "American Gangster."

5. Go on a Quirky Adventure to the PEZ Visitor Center in Orange, CT

One of the most unique stops along this road trip is to the PEZ Visitor Center in Orange, CT. PEZ is a well-known candy brand, famous for their candy dispensers shaped like characters from films and TV shows. The PEZ Visitor Center offers a self-guided tour of the factory and the museum, where visitors can learn about the history of the candy and see how it is made. The museum also has a vast collection of over 900 unique dispensers, making it a fantastic and fun stop for all ages.

Interesting fact: PEZ candy was first invented in Austria in 1927, and the first American version of the candy was introduced in 1952.

The trip from Canton, Connecticut, to Branford, Connecticut, is filled with exciting stops and beautiful destinations. From museums to vineyards, this journey is a great way to explore the area's cultural and natural beauty. The entire trip takes around two hours if driven without any stops, but it is recommended to take breaks along the way to enjoy these incredible sights.