Connecticut

Shop

Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.

Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2025

$19.99

Mystic River Bascule Bridge, lit up at night.

Overview

Known for its commuter cities, New York's neighbor is synonymous with the affluent lanes and mansions of The Stepford Wives and TV's Gilmore Girls. In old-moneyed Greenwich, the Litchfield Hills and the Quiet Corner, these representations ring true.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Wadsworth Atheneum

Connecticut

In 2015 the nation's oldest public art museum completed a five-year, $33-million renovation, renewing 32 galleries and 15 public spaces. The Wadsworth…
Mark Twain House & Museum

Connecticut

For 17 years, encompassing the most productive period of his life, Samuel Langhorne Clemens (1835–1910) and his family lived in this striking orange-and…
Yale University

New Haven

Each year, thousands of high-school students make pilgrimages to Yale, nursing dreams of attending the country's third-oldest university, which boasts…
New Britain Museum of American Art

Connecticut

Moved to its present, modern premises in 2003 in honor of its centenary, the impressive yet little-known New Britain Museum of American Art houses a stand…
Yale Center for British Art

New Haven

Reopened in 2016 after extensive restoration, this fabulous gallery was architect Louis Kahn’s last commission and is the setting for the largest…
Connecticut Science Center

Connecticut

Designed by Argentinian architect Cesar Pelli, the Connecticut Science Center is both an exciting architectural space and an absorbing museum for adults…
Yale University Art Gallery

New Haven

This outstanding museum was architect Louis Kahn's first commission and houses the oldest university art collection in the country; it includes Vincent…
Philip Johnson Glass House

Connecticut

Inspired by Mies van der Rohe, this icon of mid-century modern architecture was the home of late Pritzker Prize–winner Philip Johnson and his art…