Long Island Sound, Connecticut
All along Connecticut’s coast, the Long Island Sound is open to visitors. However, when visiting its beaches, guest are asked to stay seaward of high tide as to go beyond this point can be quite dangerous. In addition, one should note that there are some beaches only open to Connecticut residents.
Fairfield County, Connecticut along the Long Island Sound offers a wide variety of activities and attractions. From boat tours on the Sound to art displays at the Stamford Center for the Arts to “petting” a boa constrictor at the Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport. You can tour the house and gardens at Fairfield’s Ogden House, and during the second week in July there is even a hands-on Children’s Camp and archeological digs for high school students. Also in Fairfield is the Quick Center for the Arts and the J. Russell Jinishian Gallery where you will see numerous artworks featuring maritime adventure. For catching some rays, visit Penfield Beach, Jennings Beach or Southport Beach which offer fun for the whole family.
Long Island Sound’s community of Stratford was once home to Igor Sikorsky, the inventor of the first successful single-rotor helicopter. It is the site of the Catharine B. Mitchell Museum and Captain David Judson House where you can see numerous antiques. For an unique afternoon activity take some time to learn about recycling at the interactive exhibits at the Children’s Garbage Museum. For a glimpse into the past, visit the Boothe Memorial Park and Museum.
The city of Milford is a favorite of naturalist—especially bird watchers who will delight in the Connecticut Audubon Center. Other area attractions include the homes of the historic Wharf Lane Complex, Milford Landing and the Center for the Arts.
Guilford, settled in 1639, is home to many historic houses, including Henry Whitfield State which is the oldest stone house in New England. For more history, spend time touring the Hyland House and the Thomas Griswold House. For hiking and biking, explore the trails at Westwoods, Jacob’s Beach or Chaffinch Island Park. Additional outdoor adventure is found at Dudley Farm, Bishop’s Orchard or Faulkner Island Lighthouse.
You could spend a week (or two) exploring the sights along the Long Island Sound. For additional information about the Sound, check out Doe Boyle’s book Guide to the Connecticut Shore which gives detailed descriptions of attractions, eateries, and accommodations along the Long Island Sound.
Photo Credits: Fiarfield Beach Picture by Joe Shlabotnik, Stratford Point Lighthouse by Bill Plearn; |
