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Darien Farmers Market
Mechanic Street behind Fire House
Darien, CT  06810
Phone: 860-739-7240  860-739-7240

Dates in 2010:
Wednesdays, 11 a.m.-6 p.m., May 12-December

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This market has got everything to kick off the season: greenhouse tomatoes, lettuces of many varieties, other greens and baby root veggies, organic produce, fresh cut herbs and flowers, annuals and perinnials, hanging baskets, honey, free range eggs, non-hormone beef, pork, chicken, goats milk soaps, pies and pastries, breads, pesto, jams and jellies, and a whole lot more.

David Northrop House
Route 37
Sherman, CT
Phone: 203-354-3083

Historic home with exhibits on geneology and cooking on the open hearth.

Deacon John Grave House
581 Boston Post Road
Madison, CT
Phone: 203-245-4798

Open: June - Labor Day, Wednesday - Sunday

Built in 1685, this home has also been a hospital, school, courthouse and inn during its lifetime. A donation is requested from visitors.

Dr. William Beaumont House
169 West Town Street, on the Green
Lebanon, CT

Open: Mid-May to Mid-October, Saturdays, 1 - 5 pm

Birthplace of Dr. William Beaumont, the "father of gastric physiology," built in 1760. The Lebanon Historical Society maintains this site, which features a small exhibit of historical medical instruments.

East Village Barn Hill Schoolhouse
Old Tannery and Wheeler Roads
Monroe, CT

Phone: 203-261-8554 Open: By appointment only

1 room schoolhouse, built in 1790. Contains authentic colonial and victorian school material.

Elijah Lewis House
1 Mountain Spring Road
Farmington, CT

A privately owned home that was once a stop on the Underground Railroad. Not open to the public.

Enoch Kelsey House
1702 Main Street
Newington, CT
Phone: 860-666-7118

Open: May - October, Sat - Sun, 1 - 4 pm; Jan - Feb, Sun 1 - 4 pm

This home, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was built in 1799. The home is decorated with hand-painted murals, and still contains the original fireplaces, a beehive oven and paneling. $2 admission.

Festival of Lighthouses
The Maritime Center at Norwalk, 10 North Water Street
Norwalk, CT
Phone: 203-852-0700

November 14, 2009-January 18, 2010

More than 20 hand-crafted working lighthouses displayed throughout the Aquarium. Visitors can follow these creative beacons through the galleries and then cast a vote for their favorite. Time: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost: Museum admission. Information: www.maritimeaquarium.org

Francis Gillette House
540 Bloomfield Avenue
Bloomfield, CT

A stop on the Underground Railroad. Currently a private home and not open to the public.

Frank T. Simpson House
27 Keney Terrace
Hartford, CT

Simpson holds a special place in Connecticut's history: He was the first employee of the first Connecticut state civil right agency.

Gay-Hoyt House Museum
18 Main Street (Route 41)
Sharon, CT  06069
Phone: 860-364-5688

Open: Tuesday-Friday, 1-4 p.m. or by appointment

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Built in 1775, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, featuring furniture, paintings, photographs, textile collection, hands-on history room for children, changing exhibits. Admission: free.

General David Humphreys House
37 Elm Street
Ansonia, CT
Phone: 203-735-1908

Open: Monday - Friday, 1 - 4:30 pm

Built in 1698, this house was home to George Washington's aide and the first American ambassador. Now restored, exhibits on colonial history can be found on the site. Children's programs are held during the school year. Free admission.

General James Mitchell Varnum House
57 Peirce Street
East Greenwich, RI  02818
Phone: 401-884-1776

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James Mitchell Varnum was one of George Washington’s generals. His mansion was built in 1773, and visitors can enjoy the Colonial garden, the paneled walls, and period furnishings.
Hours: June-August, Saturday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Donation suggested.

General Mansfield House
151 Main Street
Middletown, CT
Phone: 860-346-0746

Open: Sunday 2 - 4:30 pm, Monday 1 - 4 pm

Exhibits highlight Middletown history, particularly the Civil War era. Admission: $2 adults, $1 children under 13.

General William Hart House
350 Main Street
Old Saybrook, CT  06475
Phone: 860-388-2622

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A Georgian-style Colonial built in 1767, featuring an herb garden and intricate decor. Of particular interest are the eight corner fireplaces. Notice the nine-window facade with 12 over 12 panes, the cornices, cornerboards and graduated clapboards.
Hours: June 12- September 13, Friday - Sunday, 12:30 - 4 p.m. Donation is requested.

Glebe House and Gertrude Jekyll Garden
Hollow Road / P.O. Box 245
Woodbury, CT  06798
Phone: 203-263-2855

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Farmhouse built in 1740 is set in the picturesque Litchfield Hills in historic Woodbury’s village center. It offers a glimpse of Revolutionary War-era Connecticut. Birthplace of the Episcopal Church in the New World and graced by the only existing American garden planned by Gertrude Jekyll.
Hours: May-October, Wednesday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m.; November, weekends only, 1–4 p.m. Fee charged.

Guilford Fair
Guilford Fairgrounds, corner of Lovers and Stone House Lanes
Guilford, CT

September 21-23, 2007

Live music by Sonny Geraci (oldies); Keith Anderson (country); Stephanie Hansen (country); also in the Family Circus ring, the Flying Wallendas, Dondi the Performing Elephant; Hilby, The Skinny German Juggler Boy; horse, pony, oxen, and tractor pulls; antique tractor show; children’s zoo, mechanical bull ride, climbing wall, exhibits, midway with rides, food, games and more; parade on Saturday at 10 a.m. Time: Friday, 1-11 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Cost: General admission, $10; seniors over age 60, $8; children ages 6-11, $2; two-day pass, $16. Parking: Free parking and shuttle buses at Exits 57 and 59, off I-95. Parking on site is $3.

Guilford Fair
Stone House Lane
Guilford, CT

September 19-21, 2008

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Entertainment by Andy Griggs; Chad Burdick; Sonny Geraci; Keith Anderson; Stephanie Hansen; The Guilford Fair Family Circus featuring: The World Famous Flying Wallendas; Records & Burpee petting zoo; flowers, arts & crafts, fruits, vegetables, canning, collections, baked goods, photography, group exhibits, needlework, landscaping, barnyard, adult & junior departments, midway, antique machinery, state adult/junior baking contest, dairy & beef cattle, poultry, rabbits, sheep, goats, swine, petting zoo, instructional demonstrations, giant pumpkin contest, antique farm museum. Cost: Adults, $10; Children age 6-11, $2; children under age 11, free; senior citizens, $8; two-day discount pass, $16. Parking: Fairgrounds, $3; off-grounds free parking with shuttle bus off I-95 at exits 57 and 59. Hours: Friday, 1 p.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Sunday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pets: Not allowed. Alcohol: Not allowed. Information: www.guilfordfair.org

Harriet Beecher Stowe House
77 Forest Street
Hartford, CT  06105
Phone: 860-522-9258

Open: Tours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m.; open on Mondays, Memorial Day to Columbus Day and December. Closed major holidays.

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Her words changed the world with "Uncle Tom's Cabin," the groundbreaking anti-slavery novel (1852). Tour the Victorian Gothic home (1871), the Katharine Seymour Day House (1884), and the Victorian grounds and gardens. Stowe Visitor Center showcases exhibitions, museum shop. Admission: Adults, $8; seniors,$7; children age 4-12, $4.

Harrison House
124 Main Street
Branford, CT
Phone: 203-488-4828

Open: June 1 - October 1, Thu - Sat, 2 - 5 pm

This traditional colonial saltbox, built in 1724, has been restored and accurately decorated with 18th century furniture and decor. Outside the home, visitors will find a barn exhibiting antique farming implements and an herb garden. Free admission.

Hartford Old State House Farmers Market
Old State House, 800 Main Street
Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-522-6766

Dates in 2010:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; mid-June-October

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Hatheway House
55 South Main Street
Suffield, CT  06078

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This mansion is a showplace for the history of the 18th century including a formal Colonial garden. Exhibits include French wallpaper and neo-classical architecture.
Hours: Open for afternoon tours on designated days from May 15 to October 15, or by prior appointment. Call for current schedule. Fee charged.

History Day & Fall Harvest Festival
Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden, 9 Main Street North
Bethlehem, CT
Phone: 203-66-7596

October 18, 2008

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Celebrate the season with fall-related activities including landscape walks, pumpkin decorating, crafts, hay rides, and house tour. Time: 1-4 p.m. Cost: $5; children free. Information: www.ctlandmarks.org

Holley - Williams House Museum
15 Millerton Road
Lakeville, CT  06039
Phone: 860-435-0566

Open: Early July-Labor Day, Memorial Day and Columbus Day weekends: house tours, Friday-Sunday and holidays, noon-5 p.m. or by appointment. Grounds and outside exhibits open daily year-round.

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Nineteenth-century family museum with original and period furnishings. Living history house tours, Holley pocket knife exhibit. Grounds include visitor center, ice-house, maze, outhouse, gardens, and medicinal plants. Admission: Suggested donation: adults, $5; seniors and students, $3; children under age 5, free.

Hotchkiss - Fyler House
192 Main Street
Torrington, CT
Phone: 860-482-8260

Open: April 1 - December 31, Mon - Fri 9 am - 4 pm, Sat 10 am - 3 pm

Built in 1900, this mansion is elaborately decorated, and features furnishings and family artifacts. Permanent and changing exhibits on local history. Admission: $2 adults, children under 12 free.

Housatonic Meadows State Park
Route 7
Sharon, CT
Phone: 860-927-3238

Along the banks of the Housatonic River, this park features fly-fishing, hiking and cross-country skiing trails, canoeing and a public camping site.

Housatonic Meadows State Park
Route 7
Sharon, CT
Phone: 860-672-6772

95 sites in rustic setting near Housatonic River. Dumping station, bathrooms, showers. No swimming. No pets. Alcohol-free campground. Cost: $13/night/campsite plus a processing fee. Open April through December.

Housatonic Rail Trail in Trumbull (Pequannock Valley Greenway)
Tait Road to Old Mine Park
Trumbull, CT

Trail Length: 3.4 miles

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This fairly flat trail overlooks the winding Pequonnock River for much of its 3.4 miles. The trail starts at Tait Road with an asphalt entryway up a short hill. From Whitney Avenue to the Monroe town line the trail is paved with asphalt. As Route 25 crosses the railroad right-of-way, there is a short hill to climb in Parlor Rock Park to access the wooden bridge under Route 25. Through Old Mine Park, the trail parallels the park entry road. (Note that Trumbull restricts parking to residents).
Use caution when crossing Route 111. Shortly after Route 111, the trail splits: the original trail continues straight and a new trail, which is paved, but involves a climb, bears right and ends just before the Victorinox property in Monroe. From the Victorinox property, turn left and cross through the parking lot. Just after crossing a bridge, turn left on the dirt surface to resume the trail.

Parking & Trail Access:
To park near the old town hall, take State Route 25 to Exit 9 and turn south on Daniel's Farm Road. At the light, take a right on State Route 127, followed by an immediate right on Tait Road (not Tait's Mill Road) to the unsigned, six-car parking area beside the old town hall. The trailhead lies 50 yards down the road on the left.
Only permitted town residents can park at Old Mine Park; visitors may park on neighboring streets. To reach the park, take State Route 25 North to State Route 111, continue north on 111, and take the first right turn into the park. The signed trailhead is near the main parking area. The Whitney Avenue trailhead offers a larger parking area, but only town residents and state residents with fishing licenses may purchase the required permit.
Trail Surfaces: Crushed stone, dirt, cinder
Trail Activities: Bike, mountain biking, walking, cross country skiing

Housatonic River Boat Launch
Milford, CT

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Location: I-95, Exit 34. Turn west on Route 1 then north on Naugatuck Avenue. Launch is on the left. Trailered. Open year round. Docks are floating wood. Chemical toilets in season. Access road and parking lot are paved. 80 parking spaces. Concrete plank ramp. Disability access.

Houses Where History Was Crafted

Three homes of great historic significance are nestled in Wethersfield, a town of more than 300 historic houses, including 50 built before the American Revolution. The Webb-Deane-Stevens houses sit adjacent to each other and all offer something worthwhile to see. The first house, a three-and-a-half story house where lavish entertaining took place, was where George Washington stayed and planned a joint military campaign with French general Comte de Rochambeau. The residence next door was specially built for a diplomat to France and was used as both his residence and as a power base. The third house depicts Puritan life in New England in the 17th century.

Hoyt - Barnum House
713 Bedford Street
Stamford, CT
Phone: 203-329-1183

Open: May - September, Sundays 12 - 4 pm; also by appointment

Originally a blacksmith's home, now restored and set up for exhibits. A donation from visitors is requested.

Huguenot House
Martin Park, 307 Burnside Avenue
East Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-568-6178

Open: Memorial Day - September, Thursday and Sunday, 1-4 pm

Historic property features a restored colonial home onced own by a saddlemaker, a schoolhouse built in 1820, and an 1850 blacksmith shop.

Huntington State Park
Sunset Hill Road
Redding, CT
Phone: 860-424-3200

State park has trails for hiking and cross-country skiing, fresh water fishing and picnic areas.

Hurlbutt Street Schoolhouse
157 Hurlbutt Street
Wilton, CT
Phone: 203-762-7275

Open: Tours by appointment only

A one room schoolhouse built in 1834. A donation is requested.

Hyland House
84 Boston Street
Guilford, CT
Phone: 203-453-9477

Open: June - October, Tues - Sun, 10 am - 4:30 pm, weekends only after Labor Day

Red colonial, built in 1660, features walk-in fireplaces. Admission: $2 adults, $1.50 children and seniors.

Adams Schoolhouse
Westport Road
Easton, CT

Open: Memorial Day, the Christmas season, and other times by appointment.

A mid-19th century 1 room school house, complete with furnishings and trappings from the period.

Allis - Bushnell House
853 Boston Post Road
Madison, CT
Phone: 203-245-4567

Open: May 31 - September 2, Wed, Fri, Sat, 1 - 4 pm or by appointment

Cornelius Bushnell lived in this home, built in 1785. As the sponsor of the S. S. Monitor, Bushnell played an important part in American naval history. The house features antique furniture, household items and ship models. A focal point of every visit is the model of the S. S. Monitor. Free admission.

Amasa Day House
Moodus Green (Routes 149 and 151)
East Haddam, CT  06469
Phone: 860-247-8996  860-873-8144

Open: Mid-May to mid-October, Sunday, 1-4 p.m.

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A Federal style house (1816) remained in the hands of Day's heirs until 1967. Furnished primarily with Day family possessions. Admission: Adults, $4; children, $2.

Austin F. Williams House
127 Main Street
Farmington, CT

A local abolitionist, Austin Williams, built this site as a home for the Amistad Africans during their stay in Farmington. He later built his own home nearby and converted the first structure into a carriage house. The home also served as a stop on the Underground Railroad.

Bates Scofield House
45 Old Kings Highway North
Darien, CT
Phone: 203-655-9233

Open: Thursday and Sunday 2 - 4 pm

Headquarters of the Darien Historical Society, this saltbox was built in 1736, and is now maintained by the society with exhibits of 18th century furniture, costumes and a quilt collection. A working herb garden is grown outside the home. Small admission fee for tours.

Bellamy-Ferriday House and Garden
9 Main Street
Bethlehem, CT  06751
Phone: 203-266-7596

A formal garden with historic roses, peonies, lilacs, and other flowers

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Built in 1754, this Colonial home is filled with American and European antiques. The property offers garden lovers a formal parterre garden with a collection of roses, peonies, and lilacs.
Hours: May through August, Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; September 1 through Oct 12, Saturdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; open Memorial Day, Labor Day and Columbus day.

Benjamin Douglas House
11 South Main Street
Middletown, CT

A stop on the Underground Railroad. Currently a private home and not open to the public.

Brace/Stephen House
1349 Main Street
Newington, CT

A stop on the Underground Railroad. Currently a private home and not open to the public.

Brick School House
Merrow Road
Coventry, CT

Open: Mid-May to Mid-October, Sundays, 1 - 4 pm

This structure was the one-room district school from its construction in 1825 until 1953. In 1976, the Coventry Historical Society restored the building, which houses school artifacts and furniture from the mid 19th century. Free admission.

Burnham-Hibbard House
185 Main Street
Hampton, CT

Open: June - October, 1st Sunday of each month

Built in the early 19th century, this home is open for visitors as a representative house of the period. Informational exhibits combine with reconstructed rooms to give visitors an introduction to life in 1800's New England.

Bush Holley House
39 Strickland Road
Greenwich, CT
Phone: 203-869-6899

Open: Tuesday-Sunday, noon-4 p.m.

The circa 1730 National Historic Landmark Bush-Holley House was home to Connecticut’s first art colony. The site was the home and business headquarters of colonial merchant and mill owner David Bush, his wife Sarah, their children and their slaves. From 1890 to 1920, the house was run as a boarding house and was a gathering place for artists, writers, and editors. Admission: adults, $6; seniors and students, $4; children under age 6 and members, free. Free admission on Tuesday

Buttolph-Williams House
249 Broad Street
Wethersfield, CO
Phone: 860-529-0612

Open: May 1 - October 31, Wed - Mon, 10 am - 4 pm.

A mansion built during the late 19th century, with furnishings on display.

Canal House and Pitkin Basin
128 Garden Street
Farmington, CT

In this spot, one of the Amistad Africans, Foone, lost his life. In his memory, the other Africans began their journey to other towns to raise money for their trip back to Africa at this site.

Captain Elisha White House
103 East Main Street
Clinton, CT
Phone: 860-669-2148Open: Sep 1 -

Open: Sep 1 - June 30, Tues 9 - 11 am; July - Aug, Sat - Sun, 2 - 4 pm

A 1750 home, the oldest brick house in the region. Decorated with 19th century paintings, historic furniture and antique household items. The property also has an herb garden. Free admission.

Catharine B. Mitchell Museum and Captain David Judson House
967 Academy Hill
Stratford, CT  06615
Phone: 203-378-0630

Open: June–October; Wednesdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

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Catharine B. Mitchell Museum exhibits local Native American artifacts and displays devoted to early town government, early African-American history, changing exhibits. Captain David Judson House (1750) furnished with period accessories and furniture. Open June through October, Wednesdays and Sundays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission: Adults, $5; seniors, $4; students, $2.

Isaiah Tuttle House
4040 Torringford St.
Torrington, CT

A stop on the Underground Railroad. Currently a private home and not open to the public.

Jennings Beach
South Benson Road, off I-95 at Exit 22
Fairfield, CT

Beach has playground for children, bathhouse and food concession. Parking fee per car: $15 weekdays, $25 weekends.

Jillson House Museum
627 Main Street
Willimantic, CT  06226
Phone: 860-456-2316

Open: Call for hours of operation

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This home was built in 1825 for a mill owner. The structure is made from stone taken locally from the banks of the Willimantic River. Exhibits include artifacts, antique furniture and local memorabilia.

Jonathan Trumbull House
169 West Town Street
Lebanon, CT
Phone: 860-642-7558

Open: Mid-May to Mid-October, Tues-Sat, 1-5 pm

This home, built in 1735, was home to the only colonial governor to back the rebels during the Revolutionary War. Visitors will see period furniture and household items. Maintained by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Admission $2 for adults, children under 12 free.

Jonathan Trumbull, Jr. House
Route 87
Lebanon, CT
Phone: 860-642-6100

Open: Open by appointment only

Currently under renovation, this home features 18th century furnishings and artifacts, as well as eight corner fireplaces with elegant cornice-work.

Joseph Rainey House
299 Palisado Avenue
Windsor, CT

Home of the first African-American to be elected to Congress as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Kellogg-Eddy House
679 Willard Avenue
Newington, CT
Phone: 860-666-7118

Open: Mar - Dec, Sat-Sun 1 - 4 pm; Jan - Feb, Sun, 1 - 4 pm

This 1808 colonial home was built by General Martin Kellogg III. The restored property features a parlor with hand-carved woodwork. A visitor donation is requested.

Lake Housatonic Boat Launch
Shelton, CT

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Location: Indian Well State Park on the western side of the lake, 2.5 miles northwest of Shelton, off Route 110. Trailered. Open April through September. Seasonal floating wood dock. Seasonal chemical toilets. Parking for 45 vehicles. Concrete plank ramp. No special disability regulations. Information: 203-735-4311.

Lighthouse Point Park
Lighthouse Road
New Haven, CT
Phone: 203-946-8005

Open: Memorial Day - Labor Day, 6 pm - sunset

This 82 acre park on Long Island Sound features exhibits on natural history, swimming areas, nature trails, a bird sanctuary and an antique carousel. There is a parking fee.

Madison Farmers' Market
Madison Green, 26 Meetinghouse Road
Madison, CT  06443
Phone: 860-713-2500

Dates in 2010:
Fridays, 3 – 6 p.m.; May 7-October 29

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LIve music weekly, fresh seafood and shellfish, baked goods, organic micro greens and tomoatos, breads, flowers, corn, eggs, berries, pies, herbs, dairy products, bath and body products, organic meats, and more.

Marian Anderson House
46 Joe's Hill Road
Danbury, CT

The home of one of America's most famous sopranos. Marian Anderson broke the color barrier in opera in the 1930's.

Martha A. Parsons House
1387 Enfield Street
Enfield, CT
Phone: 860-745-6064

Open: May - October, Sundays 2 - 4:30 pm, and by appointment.

Built in 1782, this house focuses on the life of one family over the period of 180 years. The only house in the U.S. with George Washington Memorial wallpaper (produced following the Revolutionary War). Open in December for a Christmas display. Free admission.

Matthew Curtiss House
44 Main Street
Newtown, CT
Phone: 203-426-2607

Built in 1750, this traditional New England salt box home is reknowned for its fireplace.

Meeting House, Flagpole and Trinity Church
Main Street
Newtown, CT

These three historic landmarks sit in the center of Newtown. Most notable is the weathervane at the top of the Newtown Meeting House, with bullet-holes said to have been made by Revolutionary War soldiers.

Mystic Farmers Market
Quiambaug Fire House, Route 1
Mystic, CT

Open: Tuesdays, June-October, 3 - 6 p.m

Nathan Hale School House
Main Street
East Haddam, CT
Phone: 860-873-9547

Open: Memorial Day - Labor Day, weekends and holidays, 2 - 4 pm

Revolutionary War hero and CT state hero Nathan Hale taught in this one-room schoolhouse during 1773 - 1774. Set in the rear of St. Stephen's Church, which contains one of the oldest church bells in the U.S., cast in 815 AD. Admission: 25 cents.

New Canaan Historical Society
13 Oenoke Ridge
New Canaan, CT  06840
Phone: 203-966-1776

Open: Town House: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Other buildings: summer hours, Tuesday-Friday, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; other months, Wednesday and Thursday, 2-4 p.m. Call for Sunday hours.

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The historic society maintains several buildings, housing a variety of exhibits. Buildings include the old Town House, with its costume collection, changing exhibits, library of genealogy and local history; the Pharmacy (1845); the Hanford-Silliman House (1764), the Rock Schoolhouse (1799), the John Rogers Sculpture Studio (1878), and the Tool Museum and Print Shop. Donation requested.

Noah Webster House & West Hartford Historical Society
227 South Main Street
West Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-521-5362

Open: Thursday-Monday, 1-4 p.m., closed Tuesday and Wednesday

The restored 18th-century birthplace of author and educator Noah Webster offers tours of the historic home, changing exhibits about West Hartford, a gift shop, and public programs. It is a National Historic Landmark. Admission: Adults $6, AAA members and seniors $5, Students 6-18 or with ID $4, children 5 and under free.

Ogden House and Gardens
1520 Bronson Road
Fairfield, CT  06824 - 2828
Phone: 203-259-1598

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Built in the 18th century, this traditional New England farmhouse is host to exhibits detailing the daily lives of colonial Americans. The property also has a wildflower garden and a kitchen garden.
Open: Sundays, June to September, 1 to 4 p.m. and by appointment. Fee charged.

Old State House
800 Main Street
Hartford, CT
Phone: 860-522-6766

Open: Tues - Fri, 11 am - 5 pm; Sat, 10 am- 5 pm. Closed Sundays and Mondays.

Connecticut's original statehouse is the oldest in the U.S. Many historic events took place here, including the signing of the first written Constitution in the nation, and the Amistad and Prudence Crandall trials. The site contains a the restored, original Senate chamber and a Gilbert Stuart portrait of George Washington. Free admission.

Old Stone Schoolhouse
Coppermine and Red Oak Hill Roads
Farmington, CT
Phone: 860-674-9931

Open: May - October, Sundays, 2-4 pm

One-room school, built in 1790, with a chapel and community hall added later. Exhibits feature the history of Farmington and the surrounding area.

Pardee-Morris House
325 Lighthouse Road
New Haven, CT
Phone: 203-772-7060

Open: June - August, Saturday - Sunday, 11 am - 4 pm

Built in 1780, this home has been restored and displays a variety of furniture and household items spanning three centuries. Admission: $2 adults, $1 seniors and children under 17.

Pine Grove School House
West Avon Road
Avon, CT
Phone: 860-678-7821

Open: June - September, Sundays 2-4 pm and by appointment

Actively used until 1949, this schoolhouse was originally built in 1865, and has been restored. Museum includes a working wood stove, antique desks, the outhouse and the original sliding chalkboard.

Plumtrees School House
Plumtrees Road
Bethel, CT

The last one-room school house to operate in the United States.

Pratt House
19 West Ave.
Essex, CT
Phone: 860-767-0681  860-767-1191

Colonial home, built in 1734, features antique American furniture and an herb garden. The house documents the life of early Essex through a single family over 200 years.
Hours: June-Labor Day, Saturday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m. Fee charged.

Reverend Noah Porter House
116 Main Street
Farmington, CT

Home to the minister of the Congregational Church. The Reverend's family housed one of the three Amistad children during their stay in Connecticut. This site was also the location where the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions was founded.

Richard Alsop IV House
301 High Street
Middletown, CT
Phone: 860-685-2500

Open: Tues - Fri 12 - 4 pm, Sat - Sun 2 - 5 pm

Built in 1838, this home is an excellent example of Greek Revival architecture in the U.S. The building houses the Davison Art Center.

Sachem Country House
111 Goose Lane
Guilford, CT

A stop on the Underground Railroad. Currently a private home and not open to the public.

Samuel Deming House
66 Main Street
Farmington, CT

A privately owned home that was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Not open to the public.

Samuel Parsons' House
180 South Main Street
Wallingford, CT
Phone: 203-294-1996

Open: Sundays, 2 - 4:30 pm

Built in 1759, this home was also a tavern and a stop for the stage coach. Exhibits focus on local history. Free admission.

Schoolhouse Brook Park
Clover Mill Road, off Route 195
Mansfield, CT

18 trails (for walking or cross-country skiing) around Bicentennial Pond. The park is maintained by the town of Mansfield.

Seaside Park Beach
Barnum Dyke, Off I-95 at Exit 27
Bridgeport, CT
Phone: 203-576-7233

Open: Memorial Day - Labor Day

Beach with a picnic area, food concession, bathhouse and restrooms. $5 parking fee per car.

Seely - Dibble - Pinkney House
Pinkney Park
Rowayton, CT

Open: By appointment only

Home, built in 1820, set on the water. A barn and an oyster shed are also on the site.

Smith - Cowles House
27 Main Street
Farmington, CT

A privately owned home that was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Not open to the public.

Solomon Goffe House
677 North Colony Street
Meriden, CT
Phone: 203-634-9088

Open: First Sunday of every month, 1:30 - 4:30 pm

This 1711 homestead is now the site of a living history museum. The exhibits are hosted by guides in period costumes. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Solomon Rockwell House
225 Prospect Street
Winsted, CT
Phone: 860-379-8433

Open: Mid June - Mid October, Tues - Wed 10 am - 12 pm, Thurs - Sun 2 - 4 pm

19th century Anti-bellum style home, with antique furnishings, decor and clocks. Of special interest are the Revolutionary and Civil War memorabilia and an antique musical instrument called a melodeon. Admission: $2 adults.

Stanley-Whitman House
37 High Street
Farmington
Phone: 860-677-9222

Open: May 1 - October 31, Wed - Sun 12-4 pm; Mar/Apr, Nov/Dec, Sun 12 - 4 pm

Built in 1720, this home features period furnishings, a garden, historic exhibits and a giftshop.

Stanton House
63 East Main Street
Clinton, CT
Phone: 860-669-2132

Open: June 1 - Sep 30, Tues - Sun, 9 - 11 am

Visitors to this homestead will see more than a 1789 Colonial: The building was the site of the first Yale University classroom. Free admission.

Stone House
254 Main Street
Deep River, CT
Phone: 860-526-1449

Open: July - August, Saturday - Sunday, 1 -4 pm

Exhibits cover the history of the area, as well as period furniture and household items. Of particular interest are the locally cut glass, Indian artifacts, and Victorian piano.

Stratford Point Light
Stratford, CT

Location: Mouth of the Housatonic River, entrance to Stratford Harbor

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Accessibility: The station is home to a Coast Guard family and is not open to the public. Best views are by boat. The facility: Active U.S. Coast Guard aid to navigation. Lighthouse built in 1881. Light white flashes every 20 seconds.

Strong-Porter House
2382 South Street
Coventry, CT

Open: Mid-May to Mid-October, Saturday and Sunday, 1 - 5 pm

This farmhouse, home to Nathan Hale's mother's family, was built in 1730 and expanded in 1758. Visitors may tour the house, carpenter's shop, barn and carriage shed and view historic artifacts. Admission is $1 for adults, children are free.

Tapping Reeve House and Law School
82 South Street
Litchfield, CT  06759
Phone: 860-567-4501

Open: Mid May - Mid October, Tues - Sat, 11 am - 5 pm, Sun 1 - 5 pm

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Tapping Reeve moved to Litchfield in 1773 and began taking students the following year. Visitors explore the life of a real student of the 19th Century. Open: Mid-April to End-November, Tues-Saturday, 11 am - 5 pm, Sun 1 - 5 pm. General Admission(Includes the Litchfield History Museum): $5; Seniors & Students: $3; Members & Children under 12: Free

Taste All of Guilford
The Fair Gounds, Lovers Lane and Stone House Lane
Guilford, CT
Phone: 203-453-9677

June 28, 2009

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The day will be filled with food from Guilford's many excellent restaurants and food establishments. There will be family entertainment, including both live and recorded music by a number of talented performers, contests and children activities. The culmination of the day will be an evening of music accompanied by food served by some of the best restaurants on the Shoreline. Information: www.guilfordct.com

Thankful Arnold House
Hayden Hill Road, off Route 154
Haddam, CT  06438
Phone: 860-345-2400

Open: July 4 weekend - Columbus Day weekend, Sat - Sun, 2 - 4 pm

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This three-story, 1794 home has been restored to reflect the lifestyle and furnishings of the period. A garden on the property features herbs, vegetables, and flowers.
Hours: Open year-round; Wednesday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; Thursday, 2 -8 p.m.; Friday, noon-3 p.m.; Sunday (Memorial Day to Columbus Day), 1- 4 p.m. Fee charged.

The Housatonic Valley

Spend your time in Connecticut's Housatonic Valley. Travel scenic roads and enjoy the fresh air, or stroll through historic villages and browse incredible shops. Get away and find your own quiet spot!

The Housatonic Valley

Spend your time in Connecticut's Housatonic Valley. Travel scenic roads and enjoy the fresh air, or stroll through historic villages and browse incredible shops. Get away and find your own quiet spot!

The Housatonic Valley

Spend your time in Connecticut's Housatonic Valley. Travel scenic roads and enjoy the fresh air, or stroll through historic villages and browse incredible shops. Get away and find your own quiet spot!

The Housatonic Valley

Spend your time in Connecticut's Housatonic Valley. Travel scenic roads and enjoy the fresh air, or stroll through historic villages and browse incredible shops. Get away and find your own quiet spot!

The Mark Twain House & Museum
351 Farmington Ave.
Hartford, CT  06105
Phone: 860-247-0998

Open: Monday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sunday, noon-5:30 p.m.; first Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.-8 p.m.; closed Tuesday from January-April; Closed January 1, Easter, Thanksgiving, December 24 and 25.

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Elaborate Victorian (1874) mansion with rare interiors by Louis Comfort Tiffany (1881) was the author's home for 17 years (1874-1891). Nineteen furnished rooms including many of Twain's possessions. National Historic Landmark. The Museum Center features fine gift shop, cafe, Ken Burns' documentary, orientation and changing exhibition galleries, lectures and special programs. Admission: Adults, $12; seniors, $11; students age13-18, $10; children age 6-12, $8.

Thomas Griswold House
171 Boston Street,
Guilford, CT
Phone: 203-453-3176

Open: June - October, Tues - Sun, 11 am - 4 pm, weekends only after Labor Day

Unusual saltbox, built in 1774, features a blacksmith shop and special exhibits. Admission: $2 adults, $1 seniors and students.