As the summer heat fades and the crisp autumn air settles in, Connecticut transforms into a haven of fall activities and scenic beauty. Whether you're a local looking for new adventures or a visitor eager to experience the best of New England, our list of 50 must-do activities this September will ensure you make the most of the season. From leaf-peeping to festival-hopping, here's your ultimate guide to fall fun in the Nutmeg State.

Outdoor Adventures

1. Take a scenic hike to enjoy early fall foliage in state parks like Talcott Mountain or Sleeping Giant.
2. Go glamping under the stars at spots like Tamarack Lodge for a luxurious outdoor experience.
3. Kayak or paddleboard on serene lakes like Candlewood or along the scenic Connecticut River.
4. Experience a thrilling zipline tour at The Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum in Bridgeport.
5. Try axe throwing at outdoor venues for a unique and exciting challenge.
6. Bike on scenic trails through changing landscapes on the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail.
7. Go sailing on Long Island Sound for a refreshing maritime adventure.

Sports and Recreation

8. Attend a UConn football game to cheer on the Huskies and feel the college spirit.
9. Play a round of mini golf at courses like Saybrook Point Miniature Golf.
10. Go horseback riding through fall scenery at Lee's Riding Stables in Litchfield.
11. Have a beach day at Hammonasset Beach State Park before summer truly ends.
12. Go trout fishing in scenic rivers like the Farmington or Housatonic.

Arts and Culture

13. Visit outdoor art exhibits like the Sculpture Mile in Madison.
14. Enjoy the Connecticut Renaissance Faire for a journey back in time.
15. Explore Gilmore Girls-inspired towns like Washington Depot, the real-life Stars Hollow.
16. Visit historical museums such as the Mark Twain House & Museum in Hartford.
17. Follow the Connecticut Art Trail to discover world-class museums and galleries.
18. Attend a live theater performance at the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam.
19. Take a historical walking tour of a Connecticut town like Mystic or New Haven.

Food and Drink

20. Attend the Norwalk Oyster Festival for fresh seafood and live entertainment.
21. Savor barbecue at local destinations like Hoodoo Brown BBQ in Ridgefield.
22. Get a last lobster roll of the season at Abbott's Lobster in the Rough in Noank.
23. Try seasonal flavors at local ice cream shops like Ferris Acres Creamery in Newtown.
24. Dine outdoors at a waterfront restaurant like Sunset Ribs in Waterford.
25. Tour vineyards and breweries along the Connecticut Wine Trail or Beer Trail.
26. Take a walking food tour in coastal towns like Mystic or New London.
27. Shop at a local farmers' market for fall produce and artisanal goods.
28. Visit a pumpkin patch and pick your own at Lyman Orchards in Middlefield.
29. Go apple or pear picking at a local orchard like Bishop's Orchards in Guilford.

Festivals and Events

30. Participate in the Maritime Heritage Festival in New London for nautical fun.
31. Navigate through a corn maze at Ekonk Hill Turkey Farm in Sterling.
32. Attend a fall harvest festival like the Garlic and Harvest Festival in Bethlehem.
33. Experience a spooky haunted house attraction at The Haunted Graveyard at Lake Compounce.
34. Attend a craft fair featuring local artisans, like the Southington Apple Harvest Festival.
35. Enjoy a cozy evening by an outdoor bonfire at state parks offering evening programs.

Scenic Experiences

36. Go leaf-peeping on a scenic drive along Route 7 through the Litchfield Hills.
37. Take a hot air balloon ride for aerial foliage views with Aer Blarney Balloons.
38. Go on a sunset cruise on the Essex Steam Train's Becky Thatcher riverboat.
39. Explore Connecticut's covered bridges in charming towns like West Cornwall.
40. Take a scenic train ride through fall foliage on the Essex Steam Train.

Relaxation and Indulgence

41. Stay in a cozy bed and breakfast like the Inn at Harbor Hill Marina in Niantic.
42. Indulge in a spa day with fall-themed treatments at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina.
43. Enjoy sunset drinks at a rooftop bar like High George in New Haven.

Unique Experiences

44. Visit a wildlife center or zoo like Action Wildlife Foundation in Goshen.
45. Watch a movie at a drive-in theater such as the Mansfield Drive-In Theatre.
46. Wander through charming small towns like Essex or Kent.
47. Visit botanical gardens with autumn blooms at Elizabeth Park in West Hartford.
48. Go antiquing in quaint shops throughout Woodbury, the "Antiques Capital of Connecticut."
49. Participate in a ghost tour of historic areas like New London or Hartford.
50. Explore state parks with changing leaves, such as Kent Falls State Park.

September in Connecticut offers a perfect blend of summer's last hurrah and fall's first embrace. From outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to food festivals and scenic drives, there's something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your flannel shirt, put on your hiking boots, and get ready to create unforgettable memories this fall in the beautiful Nutmeg State.

Remember to check event dates and make reservations where necessary, as some activities may have limited availability. Happy exploring!

Last updated: August 2024