When midterms are in full swing and you find yourself basically living at Homer Babbidge, there’s nothing better for your overworked brain than a quick getaway. A day trip to somewhere new can be the refreshing boost of energy you need to power through the rest of your exams. Here are a few suggestions for a fun, fall-themed one day getaway.
Apple Harvest Festival
Glastonbury, CT
Taking place at Riverfront Park on the weekend of October 16th through the 18th, the Apple Harvest Festival in Glastonbury, CT offers a little bit of everything. Spread across multiple fields, more than 100 vendors display jewelry, clothing, delicious fresh fudge and more. Thirty food trucks line the park selling all the fall favorites, including apple fritters, fried dough, and candy apples. The amusement rides, petting zoo, and pony rides might be aimed at the younger crowd, but certainly provide a good time for all ages. Forty bands keep the party going throughout the weekend and the firework show on Saturday night is a must-see.
Lyman Orchards Corn Maze
Middlefield, CT
(Photo Credit: Eye for Fashion CT)
If you’re looking for a classic fall experience, Lyman Orchards is the place to go. Open through November 1st, their four acre corn maze is one of the best in Connecticut. It contains more than two miles of pathways that you are guaranteed to get lost in more than once. Take in the crisp fall air on a wagon ride and definitely try the apple cider donuts- you won’t regret it.
The Adventure Park
Storrs, CT
(Photo Credit: Hartford Courant)
Located less than five miles off campus, The Adventure Park in Storrs is a necessity for the active, thrill-seeking UConn student. A series of aerial trails line the forest, ranging from beginner to advanced in difficulty. Check out the park at night if you’d like to zip line under the LED lights that brighten up the park at night. If you’re into cold weather, tickets are 40% off when it’s 50 degrees or below.
Six Flags New England Fright Fest
Springfield, MA
If you love a good scare, Fright Fest is for you. Through November 1st, Six Flags New England transforms upon sunset, overflowing with ghouls, goblins, and zombies. With five horrifying haunted houses, terrifying roller coasters in the dark and zombie dance parties, you are bound to have an experience unlike anything else. Word of advice: buy tickets online in advance for the best deal.
Sleeping Giant State Park
Hamden, CT
If you’re one with nature, a hike through the fall foliage is the perfect way to de-stress. Try Sleeping Giant State Park, where two miles of mountaintop resemble an enormous person sleeping. A scenic trail about 1.5 miles in length leads to a stone observation tower and offers ‘Gram-worthy views of the Long Island Sound and New Haven.
The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze
Van Cortlandt Manor in Croton-on-Hudson, NY
If you’re looking for a bit of a road trip, The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Croton-on-Hudson, New York is quite the attraction. Over 7,000 hand carved illuminated pumpkins create a spectacular display and will leave you counting down the days until Halloween. The walkthrough event is truly unique and definitely worth the drive. It attracted tens of thousands of visitors last year so get your tickets ASAP. The attraction lasts until November 15.
Mystic Seaport and Downtown Mystic
Mystic, CT
Mystic Seaport is the largest maritime museum in the world, notable for its unique display of sailing ships and its re-creation of a 19th century village. Enjoy a hot bowl of chowder and other delicious seasonal favorites like clam fritters and apple fritters from Chowder Days. Meander through the village, explore the museums, and tour the incredible National Historic Landmark vessels. Bring you college student ID and receive a discount. After checking out the seaport, you can also visit dozens of shops and restaurants in picturesque downtown Mystic.
Try out one of these trips soon, before it gets too cold!