While this pandemic continues on, it does not mean your plans for fun have to be put on hold. This upcoming Presidents’ Day Weekend is the perfect time to hang out with your friends and family in a COVID-friendly way, all while experiencing different parts of Connecticut.
Going for a drive:
If you feel the need to get out and explore the state in a safe manner, scenic drives are an excellent way to spend the day seeing hidden parts of the state, and there are many areas to choose from.
For those who love the quiet, snowy hills, visit the northern corners of the state to see views of the rural areas and rolling hills of Litchfield, Tolland and Windham counties. Take Rte. 8 or Rte. 202 to see the northwest parts which are home to the foothills of the Berkshires and the quaint Litchfield hills. Visit the quiet rural towns and tall forests of northeast Connecticut by taking a drive on Rte. 44.
If you are a shoreline lover, drive along the Boston Post Rd to view the Long Island Sound and the charming homes and towns along the shore. If you are more into the woodlands, drive along Rte. 169 from Norwichtown to Woodstock to see this quaint area of the state.
For those who are interested, visit visitconnecticut.com for more inspiration and specifics on scenic drives in the state.
Take a hike:
Given that the weather is nice, this four day break is a great opportunity to go out and get some fresh air, all while hanging around the people you love. Take the time to go to local state parks to hike along the beautiful nature trails and see sites that you cannot get elsewhere.
Kent Falls State Park is a popular park in the state, since you are able to walk along the falls and hear the rushing sounds of the water right by you. The hike up the falls is .25 miles, and while it is short, it should be reminded that it is steep. However, you will be able to see many scenic views while traveling up and down the area.
For those who want to get out and take a walk while also experiencing some history, visit Putnam Memorial State Park. Dubbed “Connecticut’s Valley Forge”, the park consists of scenic views, memorials and remains of buildings and artifacts from when it was a winter encampment during the Revolutionary War.
There are many state parks around the area and in the state that you are still able to visit, although it is important to check the COVID guidelines for the parks on their websites.
If you want to get a taste of nature and art, visit one of the two national historical parks in the state: Weir Farm National Historical Park in Weston. The buildings are currently closed, but you can still walk along the many trails that are on the property. In addition to this, the National Park Service is holding a virtual art exhibit everyday until March 31 which displays artworks influenced by the beautiful scenery there. For more information on COVID guidelines and to see the virtual art gallery, visit nps.gov/wefa.
Arts and Culture:
For those who want to get a taste of diverse art styles and culture, visit the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art in Hartford. The museum holds styles of Baroque art, Egyptian bronzes, Hudson River School landscape paints and so much more. Visit their website for more information regarding COVID guidelines and hours.
If you are a book lover or simply a fan of Mark Twain, take a virtual tour with your family of his American High Gothic style home in Hartford. While in-person tours are temporarily closed due to the pandemic, you can visit marktwainhouse.org to take a 3D tour of the house and read a brief history of Twain and his home.
COVID may be putting a damper on traditional plans for your break, but there is still time to enjoy what Connecticut has to offer. Take advantage of what there is; you might be able to learn something new or see a forgotten part of the state!
Masuk Free Press 