25 Best Date Ideas in Connecticut
If you’re looking for a fun and unique date idea, Connecticut has plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re into nature or history, there’s something for everyone in this charming New England state. Here are just a few of the best date ideas in Connecticut:
1. Take a hike
Connecticut is filled with hiking trails, making it the perfect state for an outdoor date. It’s especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color, and spring when the flowers start to bloom. Looking for some places to explore? Check out :
- Hartford Reservoir 6 for a peaceful stroll around the water
- Mattabesett Trail in Middletown for a bit of challenge
- Devil’s Hopyard in East Haddam for a bit of short scenery
2. Taste some wine
Connecticut is home to over 40 different wineries, so there’s plenty of opportunity for a romantic wine-tasting date. Many of the state’s vineyards offer tours and tastings, so you don’t have to plan too much extra into your date — book a tour, show up on time and enjoy. Not sure what winery to check out? Try:
- Silvermine Vineyards in New Canaan
- Gouveia Vineyards in Wallingford
- Bishop’s Orchards in Guilford
3. Get lost in history or culture
There’s a museum out there for everyone, and Connecticut has some awesome options. The state is home to both large and small museums that touch on art, history, and science, so you can easily find one that suits your interests. What’s more romantic than learning something new together? Need a few recommendations to get your planning juices flowing?
- Connecticut Science Center, Hartford
- The Glass House, National Trust for Historic Preservation, New Canaan
- Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, Hartford
3. Hit up the Mansfield Drive-in Movie Theater
This one is a bit of a hidden gem, but the Mansfield Drive-in Movie Theater is a great option for a fun and unique date. The theater has been around since 1948, making it one of the oldest drive-in theaters in the country. They run events from April until mid-October, with the nights and times dependent on the month. They also have a full 50s inspired concession stand so you can enjoy some classic movie snacks. Who doesn’t want an old fashioned-inspired date?
4. Visit the Five Mile Point Lighthouse
For a truly romantic date, head to the Five Mile Point Lighthouse in New Haven. The views out on the harbor are absolutely stunning, and it’s the perfect place to watch the sunset. You can also explore the surrounding beach area, which is beautiful in its own right. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, take a walk along the harbor and look out over the ocean.
5. Go apple picking
Apple picking is one of the best fall date ideas in Connecticut. Really what’s more romantic than a day spent in the crisp autumn air? There are plenty of great places to go apple picking in Connecticut, so you’re sure to find one that’s close by. Once you’ve got your fill of apples, head home and bake an apple pie together — perfect for a cozy night in.
6. Enjoy the views from Gillette Castle State Park
Gillette Castle State Park is a great option for a day date. It offers stunning views of the Connecticut River, and you can also explore the castle itself, which was built in 1919. If you’re feeling active, there are also plenty of hiking trails to choose from. Once you’re done exploring, head to one of the nearby towns for a bite to eat — Essex, Deep River, and Chester are all great options.
7. Take a romantic stroll through the Elizabeth Park Rose Garden
The Elizabeth Park Rose Garden is one of the most beautiful places in Hartford, and it’s the perfect spot for a romantic stroll. The garden is home to over 200 different varieties of roses, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. If you’re visiting in the summer, make sure to catch one of the free concerts — it’s a great way to spend an evening without emptying your wallet.
8. Have a picnic at Hammonasset Beach State Park
Hammonasset Beach State Park is a great option for a summertime date. The park offers the longest stretch of beach in the state, so you can spend the day swimming, sunbathing and relaxing. Once you’re done at the beach, head to one of the picnic areas for a romantic lunch. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, go for a hike along one of the many trails in the park.
9. Go birdwatching at the Audubon Society
The Audubon Society is a great place to spend an afternoon, and it’s the perfect spot for a nature-loving couple. The society offers a variety of different programs, so you can learn about the different bird species that call Connecticut home. After the program, go for a walk around the grounds and see if you can spot any of the birds yourself.
10. Check out Muse Paintbar
Muse Paintbar is a great option for a creative date. The studio offers painting classes, so you can paint together and create a masterpiece. You can paint right in the studio, but if you want something a little more private you could opt for a virtual event. They have food, wine, and beer so you can have a full date night.
11. Take a road trip to Mystic
Mystic is the perfect little day date trip. What was once a major seaport is now a small, sleepy village that’s perfect to explore. Start walking along the docks where you can check out the boats and ships. Then, head to the Mystic Aquarium to see some amazing marine life. After that, stroll through downtown Mystic and grab a bite to eat. Lastly, head to the Mystic Arts Center to see some incredible artwork.
12. Splash in the water at Ocean Beach Park
Ocean Beach Park is a great place to spend a summer day. From swimming and sunbathing to volleyball, the park offers a variety of activities for love birds (or first dates!). What’s awesome about this for a date activity, is that once you’re done you can head to a nearby restaurant for a bite to eat. Then, if you’re not ready for your date to end, try taking a walk along the boardwalk.
13. Throw some axes at Hatchet Harry’s
Hatchet Harry’s is a great option for an active date. The studio offers axe throwing, so you can compete against each other to see who can hit the target. They also have a full bar, so you can enjoy a drink while you play. If you’re feeling extra competitive, sign up for one of their leagues and see who can come out on top.
14. Try to escape from Mission Escape Games
Escape rooms are a good option for a fun and challenging date, and they’re particularly good if you’re headed for a double-date. The concept is simple — you’re locked in a room and you have to solve a series of puzzles to escape. There are a variety of different themes to choose from, so you can find an escape room that’s perfect for you. If you want something truly unique, try an escape room with a virtual reality component.
15. Get your adrenaline pumping at Skydive Hartford
For adventurous couples, there’s always skydiving. The experience can be exhilarating, and it’s something that you’ll remember for the rest of your life. Plus, what could be more romantic than jumping out of a plane together? Of course, this date isn’t for the faint of heart so feel free to skip it. But if you’re looking for an even bigger thrill, try skydiving at night.
16. Visit Lake Compounce
This fun family theme park is located in the heart of the state and is perfect for a warm weather date. Lake Compounce offers a variety of different rides, so you can spend the day unleashing your inner child together. If you want to add a splash to your date, check out the waterpark instead. What makes this such a great date idea is that you have food and fun all in one place.
17. Head for a coffee date at Story and Soil
Connecticut has plenty of great coffee shops to hit up, but Story and Soil is a cozy little shop that’s perfect for a date. The coffee is fantastic, and the food is even better. If you’re looking for something to eat, rumor has it they have a pretty good breakfast sandwich. Not to mention, there’s a great selection of coffee and tea.
18. Take a day trip to Litchfield
Litchfield is a great option for a day trip. This quaint little town is home to a variety of different shops and restaurants, so you can explore at your leisure. Plus, it’s the perfect place to go for a romantic hike. If you want to extend your date, there are a few bed and breakfasts in town that would make for a perfect overnight stay.
19. Check out the state capital building
The Connecticut State Capitol is the perfect date for history buffs. This Victorian-gothic building is full of interesting artwork and architecture. You can learn all about the history of Connecticut while getting a close up look at the building itself. Plus, it’s located in the heart of Hartford, so you can explore the city after your tour.
20. Catch a show at the Warner Theater
The Warner Theater is a classic movie palace opened by The Warner Bros (yes, those ones) that’s been restored to its former glory. Today, instead of showing the latest flicks, you’re more likely to catch a show of another kind. Check out their website to see what’s playing while you’re around the area.
21. Take a stroll through the Yale University Campus
Yale University is one of the most prestigious universities in the country, and their campus is just as impressive. Founded in 1701, the university is full of beautiful buildings and stunning architecture. The best part is, the campus is open to the public so you can explore it at your leisure. It’s perfect for a romantic stroll, and you can even sneak in a visit to the Yale Art Gallery.
22. Explore the Stanley-Whitman House
This historic house is the perfect place to learn about the history of Connecticut. The house dates back to 1720, and it’s been carefully restored to its original condition. You can take a tour of the house, and even see some of the original furnishings. Plus, the grounds are beautiful, so it’s the perfect place for a romantic stroll.
23. Visit the Dinosaur State Park
Dinosaur State Park is the perfect place to explore if you’re a fan of the prehistoric. The park is home to over 2,600 fossilized tracks, and you can even take a tour of the quarry. If you’re looking for a fun and educational date that involves dinosaurs, this is the perfect place.
24. Go rock climbing at the Ragged Mountain Preserve Trail
If you’re ready to go on an active date (and you’re both experienced rock climbers), then hitting the trail at Ragged Mountain Preserve is perfect. The trail is full of challenging rock formations, so you can test your skills (and your relationship) while you climb. Plus, the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking.
25. Grab ice cream at the Scoopy Doo’s
Described as one of the best ice cream shops in Milford, Scoopy Doo’s is a hidden gem. The ice cream is some of the best you’ll ever have, and they have a great selection of flavors. Even better, they’re always changing up their menu, so you can try something new every time you visit.
Ready to plan your date?
No matter what your interests are, Connecticut has something to offer. From historic houses and beautiful gardens to challenging rock climbing trails, there’s something for everyone in this great state. So get out there and explore! Who knows, you might just find your new favorite date spot.
