So, I have been doing these scenic Connecticut drives for the past week now. There are seven of them and I have done four so far. Today’s travels brought me towards the Connecticut River Valley and surrounding areas. The foliage was just okay I’d give it a B rating. There were a lot of yellows, but very few bursts of oranges and reds. It is still kind of early for this region though. So it will give you plenty of time to enjoy it, if you choose to.
Peak foliage dates for this region are approximately October 16th to November 6th.
The drive was approximately 80 miles and I spent about six hours for this trip. My map looked something like a hot mess as evidenced by the photo. So I’ll just lay it out for you if you would ever like to take this scenic journey.
- I began in Middletown heading south on route 9 and getting off exit 10.
- I went south on 154 to route 148 about 13 miles heading east. You then come to the ferry the fare is $5 dollars per car and totally worth the fee for the nice cute ride across bonus is you get great views of Gillette Castle. Don’t be afraid to get out of your car to snap a few pics; it is acceptable.
- After getting off the ferry continue east on Route 148 which then turns into route 82 for about 5 miles.
- Take a right onto Route 156, and then turn south to I-95 south to exit 69. Once on route 9 get off exit 2 and head north on Route 154 for about 12 miles.
- Take a right onto Route 82 and cross the river via the swing bridge and continue along route 82 and then head east onto route 151 for about 11 miles.
- Turn left on Route 66 across the Arrigoni Bridge and head back into Middletown to end the trip.
Places to stop along the way…
- Devil’s Hopyard is a great place to have a picnic and explore Chapman falls and the covered bridge. Be sure to take your four-legged friend. CT loved it. – East Haddam
- Essex Steam Train and River Boat is an excursion that could last for a better part of the day. However, it’s one of the best ways to enjoy the river valley and all of the autumnal colors. They also offer dinner trains on Friday and Saturday nights. – Essex
- Lyman Orchards is a weekend destination for many *TIP* Visit during the week when it’s not so crowded. The corn maze is always fun to get lost in. – Middlefield
- Town of Chester is a quaint little idealistic New England village. You will find many little shops and restaurants that line the town center. It’s definitely worth grabbing a quick bite to eat while visiting. – Chester
- Gillette Castle; this one is really a no-brainer. Who wouldn’t love to go see a castle with all of this fabulous foliage around? *TIP* definitely take the ferry over to the castle for some fantastic views. – East Haddam
- Arrigoni Winery is a fantastic stop too. Because let’s face it, who doesn’t like a little vino? They have a tasting room, patio and pavilion to enjoy. The best part; Fido is welcomed here as long as he’s lashed. – Portland
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