Hidden Gems Places To Visit in Connecticut, United States

1. 5.0 Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center & Museum (100 reviews)
   - Experiencing Katharine
   Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Theaters
   
   
   The Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center (affectionately known as the Kate) is a non-profit performing arts organization located in an historic theatre/town hall on Main Street in Old Saybrook. Originally opened in 1911, the building is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Kate includes a 285-seat theatre with state-of-the-art sound and light abilities that presents work in several genres including music, theater, opera, dance, comedy, film, and a variety of children’s programming. The Katharine Hepburn Museum is located on the first floor and is open Tues. - Fri. from 10 am to 4 pm. It is the only museum of its kind honoring Katharine Hepburn, Old Saybrook’s most celebrated resident. Exhibits feature costume and personal wardrobe items, photographs, home movies, awards, and other memorabilia. See more..
   
2. 5.0 trap't Escape Room Adventures (95 reviews)
   - Great fun! Challenging!
   Wednesday: 4:45 PM - 12:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
   
   
   trap't is an award-winning real life escape game that will challenge you to think, work together & most of all have fun. Great for families, friends & corporate teams. See more..
   
3. 5.0 Pursue the Clues (88 reviews)
   - Great Way to Celebrate our 60th Birthdays
   Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
   
   
   Pursue the Clues offers live, interactive experiences in Torrington, Connecticut. Your group will use critical thinking and teamwork to accomplish a common goal within a 60-minute time limit. Bookings are available to the public on weekends and for private groups/corporate bookings on weekdays. See more..
   
4. 5.0 Ivoryton Playhouse (87 reviews)
   - A Gem
   Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM Theaters
   
   
   I'm angry that it took us so long to find this pearl. Such a treasure. We saw A Chorus Line. I admit I didn't expect much from a regional production on a such a small stage. I was very much mistaken. It was fantastic. Production values super high. Now I will try to see everything they do. See more..
   
5. 5.0 Dunkin' Donuts Park (87 reviews)
   - Fun without the sun
   Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Arenas & Stadiums
   
   
   They have done a great job at creating spaces inside and out for all ages. They have side amusements to keep everyone engaged and interested. Clean and catered style food. I would recommend for gatherings or just a fun time out See more..
   
6. 5.0 Indian River Marina (80 reviews)
   - Great business and great people
   Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Stand Up Paddleboarding • Kayaking & Canoeing
   
   
   They are terrific. I rented three kayaks for a long weekend, which they delivered to my local beach house, and then I bought two used kayaks from them at the end of the summer. Whenever I called, Sarah was always super helpful and friendly, and gave me good advice on the best kayaks for my purposes. The delivery and pickup was also easy and they were very accommodating. It was a pleasure to deal with them and I recommend them highly. See more..
   
7. 5.0 Grace Farms (76 reviews)
   - An amazing private park that is free to the public!
   Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Lessons & Workshops
   
   
   Grace Farms is a welcoming new place for people to experience nature, encounter the arts, pursue justice, foster community, and explore faith. See more..
   
8. 5.0 Backyard Adventure UTV Tours (72 reviews)
   - Exhilarating drive on fun and beautiful trails
   4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
   
   
   What a great time! My husband took me on this UTV excursion for my 40th birthday, and having never driven one of these I didn't know what to expect. Well it exceeded my expectations! The machine felt very stable and had incredible power going over rocks, hills, sand, you name it. It was easy to control and so much fun to drive. The knowledgeable and awesome guide, Len, took us on an hour and a half drive on trails through the woods and quarry, stopping for some breathtaking views along the way. Initially I told my husband we'd swap driving half way through, but I wouldn't give up the steering wheel. We'll definitely be going back. See more..
   
9. 5.0 Beardsley's Cider Mill & Orchard (69 reviews)
   - Best Cider Donuts
   Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM Farms
   
   
   They have pick your own apples on the weekends, many different varieties. I happen to run into the market quickly and spent $75 worth of good eats!Cider, apples, donuts, pie, and honey I love supporting small businesses and besides there offerings are delicious! See more..
   
10. 5.0 Playhouse on Park (66 reviews)
    - A bright and shining Jewel on Park Road
    Theaters
    
    
    All I can say is that I wish I had found this place much much sooner. We were invited for a special event here so there was a small reception held in the quaint lobby area prior to hitting the theater. Boldly and brightly decorated with sequins and lots of color, there was a card game/poker theme to it with available playing pieces. The staff could not have been more accommodating and inviting, simply a pleasure. The theater itself has seating on three sides of a large stage and backdrop, almost a theater in the round. When I say that each and every seat is a winner I mean it— an ample incline allowed for the 5 to 6 rows deep to each have close and intimate views of the action. We had the pleasure viewing a comedy show featuring Linda Belt—fun and funny!! A gander at the upcoming attractions showed a wide range of offerings, to suit every taste. Can’t wait to return See more..
    
11. 5.0 The Westport Library (64 reviews)
    - Westport’s newst gem!!
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Libraries
    
    
    The Library is committed to empowering the individual and strengthening the community through dynamic interaction and the lively exchange of ideas. See more..
    
12. 5.0 Connecticut Parachutists Inc. (60 reviews)
    - Incredible!! Go Jump Already!!!
    Air Tours
    
    
    I made 4 jumps at CPI back in 1997 and had a blast. So when my sister mentioned skydiving to celebrate my nephew's college graduation I told her the BEST place to go was at CPI. Once again they did not disappoint. There were 7of us including 5 who had never jumped before and everyone had an incredible time. Everyone at CPI are so friendly & welcoming. I was shocked to see Mike there who I remember from way back then. I can't say enough about the crew and experience. If your thinking about skydiving, just do it!! And go with CPI. You won't regret a second of it. See more..
    
13. 5.0 Cedar Hill Cemetery (57 reviews)
    - Rest in Peace
    Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Cemeteries
    
    
    We have lived in the Hartford area for over 50 years and never visited this place where many of CT's rich and famous are buried. Recently they celebrated their 150 year anniversary with an event called "Beyond the Gates". It was a fascinating day with which included the Governor's Foot Guard Band and many other performers. They do have other events through out the year which should be interesting as well. Even if nothing is going on, you can walk through the grounds, which are lovely and well maintained. Perhaps something of the likes of J.P. Morgan, Samuel Colt, Audrey Hepburn, or Wallace Stevens will rub off on you as you walk past their graves. See more..
    
14. 5.0 Garde Arts Center (54 reviews)
    - Always a Treat
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Theaters
    
    
    We have been attending events at The Garde for many years and have always enjoyed the experience. Recently we saw "The Buddy Holly Story" and it was awesome. Staff is very helpful and the theater is small enough to be intimate but big enough to produce a wonderful show. It is such a bonus having this venue in New London. We love nights out at The Garde. See more..
    
15. 5.0 Connecticut Watersports (52 reviews)
    - We loved our day with CT Watersports
    Surfing & Windsurfing • Boat Tours • Waterskiing & Jetskiing • Private Tours • Speed Boats Tours • Day Trips
    
    
    We loved our afternoon waterskiing. Braydon was a professional driver and gave on point tips for learning how to surf. The other employee was fast and efficient at keeping the ropes clear, giving helpful advice, and switching equipment. We all had a great time and we will definitely be back. See more..
    
16. 5.0 Diane's Books (50 reviews)
    - One of the best book stores I've been to!
    Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    We always find the bookstore when exploring. It always makes the day a little better. This is the kind of bookstore I like. Lots of diverse selections with not a blatant agenda to the books they want to sell. My favorite was a little hidden spot by the travel section to sit down and read a bit of the books you're interested in. The lady working the counter is friendly and knowledgeable. You can tell she loves her books and her work. I look forward to our next visit. See more..
    
17. 5.0 Topsmead State Forest (49 reviews)
    - Quiet Gem in the Litchfield Hills
    Forests
    
    
    The former summer estate and working farm of Edith Morton Chase is a peaceful retreat in the Litchfield hills. State 'forest' is misleading, as the part we walked is open fields and rolling hills with scenic vistas and a Cotswold/Tudor inspired mansion that was closed during our visit. The property is well-maintained and the garden areas around the house and the butterfly garden located two fields away still had blooming plants. Visitors enjoyed picnics on the expansive lawn around the house, walks, and kite flying but this beautiful park is a quiet, almost hidden gem. When the house tours resume next year, I will make a return visit. See more..
    
18. 5.0 Thorncrest Farm and Milk House Chocolate (49 reviews)
    - It's name is "Milk House" for a good reason
    Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    Lots of reviewers are saying that Kim's chocolates are terrific (no argument there!) but the milk from their dairy is so good it's worth the trip to Thorncrest Farm even if you're not buying chocolates. At $6.50 a gallon you will pay more than you might at the grocery; but, if you're in the habit of buying half gallons because of freshness issues, go ahead and get a gallon here. It is so fresh that your refrigerator will keep it good for weeks and it might be more economical than those two half gallons you've been buying. And it's really good! See more..
    
19. 5.0 Fromage Fine Foods & Coffees (48 reviews)
    - make a stop here
    Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    Great shop, everything I want to own. A mix of international products and local finds. Great collection of condiments. See more..
    
20. 5.0 Lucky Hook Charters (46 reviews)
    - The perfect fishing experience on the Connecticut sound
    Fishing Charters & Tours • Private Tours
    
    
    This is my fourth trip out on the Lucky Lady and highly recommend this experience for families, friends, couples or even solo. Captain Tony and his crew are top notch. Trip is six hours and I have caught lots of fish every time out. More sea bass in June, porgies in July. The mates filet your catch and also help with tangles, take fish off the line and providing bait. There is nothing like being out on the open water in the Lucky Lady! If you are really lucky you might win the pot for catching the largest fish!!! See more..
    
21. 5.0 Premier Limousine (45 reviews)
    - Efficient and Courteous
    Taxis & Shuttles
    
    
    We have used Premier Limousine for quite a few years now to journey from Southbury, Ct., to JFK and this year to EWR airport. Always arriving in good time to load the car and kept informed of how the journey is progressing by the driver. The drivers are always helpful and polite and we look forward to using them again next Christmas See more..
    
22. 5.0 Essex Indoor Golf Center (44 reviews)
    - Great place to host a private party or event!!!
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Game & Entertainment Centers
    
    
    Essex Indoor Golf Center is a year-round golf entertainment and training facility located in Essex, Connecticut. Experience an amazing 3D golf adventure within our 6 Simulator Bays! Work on your game, challenge your family for mini-golf bragging rights, or choose from more than 70 world-famous golf courses (plus 3 mini-golf courses!) And we are part of aG Locker! See more..
    
23. 5.0 Montana Nights Axe Throwing (44 reviews)
    - Why just drink a few beers with friends when you can chuck axes too?
    Game & Entertainment Centers
    
    
    Highly recommend Newington, CT MNAT. We did BYO hotdogs from Doogies down the street, that went good with the micro beers offered on site.Then lots of laughs throwing axes (I think hatchets really?). Kind of a bowling alley league night atmosphere (without the funny shoes or cigarette smell) with folks on each site of our throwing stall screaming from time to time with excitement. We were 7 guys in our late 50s who all had no problem physically with this activity. Co-ed teams on one side of us. Expert tutorial. See more..
    
24. 5.0 Shoreline Segway (43 reviews)
    - Great Segway tour with Rick
    Segway Tours
    
    
    We had a great Segway tour this morning. Our guide was Rick and he was terrific. We toured the green, the harbor area, some very interesting architecture,and some historical sites. Rick was engaging and full of information and history of the town. See more..
    
25. 5.0 Litchfield Distillery (43 reviews)
    - Generous and Informative
    Spent 1-2 hours Distilleries
    
    
    We are in CT for a family emergency but always make an effort to go to a Brewery or Winery wherever we are. This is a great stop!! The tour was extremely comprehensive! Really appreciated a focus on the barreling process and not just the distilling process like many places do. All of our questions were answered. Also, unlike others, there was no pressure to make a purchase (but of course we did!!) If you’re in the area (or close we were about 40min our) this is a great stop! Maybe eat before hand as the pourings are generous and copious! Thank you for making our sad trip from Alaska have a bright spot! See more..
    
26. 5.0 Quandary (40 reviews)
    - Fun Birthday Adventure!
    Wednesday: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    
    
    Fun for families, friends & co-workers! Our rooms accommodate 4 - 8 players (ages 13 and older). Great team-building for companies and businesses. As long as you can climb the stairs to our second floor, you are fit enough to play: there is no crawling, carrying, climbing or lifting involved. All you need is imagination, communication, creative thinking and a sense of adventure! See more..
    
27. 5.0 Empower Adventure Park at Nomads (40 reviews)
    - Treetop Workout
    Wednesday: Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks
    
    
    Challenging and loads of FUN!!! Bring your upper body strength, Legs/Back/Stomach muscles and you'll enjoy the "American Ninja" like obstacles...just to get to the ziplines. Looking forward to the next time. See more..
    
28. 5.0 Codeword Escape (40 reviews)
    - Made for a very special birthday party!
    Spent < 1 hour Escape Games
    
    
    Immersive escape room for team building, birthday parties, date night, families, corporate events, wedding parties. Solve puzzles, find hidden objects and complete a mission in 60 minutes or less. See more..
    
29. 5.0 Walker Road Vineyards (36 reviews)
    - A great visit while traveling
    Spent < 1 hour Wineries & Vineyards
    
    
    We just happened upon this winery while taking back roads through Connecticut and we’re pleasantly surprised by the atmosphere, friendliness and especially the quality of the wines. We bought a box of cheese and crackers and a flight and went on the rear deck to find both were really good. The winery has crafted a blend of local grapes with some imported to offer a great red and white that we would purchase in a minute. Give it a try and you too will be impressed with the the setting, the owners and conversation with visitors. See more..
    
30. 5.0 Tribus Beer Co. (36 reviews)
    - Tribus Fest
    Wednesday: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Breweries
    
    
    Tribus Beer Co. is Milford, Connecticut’s first brewery and taproom, offering an ever-evolving tap list, as well as guest taps, wines and ciders. The sprawling taproom and outdoor biergarten combined with a family (and pet) friendly atmosphere and staff makes Tribus Beer Co. the brewery destination in Connecticut. Perfect for friends, family or just grabbing a beer, Tribus Beer Co. also hosts weekly food trucks, exciting events and collaborations. See more..
    
31. 5.0 Steep Rock Preserve (36 reviews)
    - Amazing any season
    Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    
    
    This place is truly a hidden jam. If you’re looking to get some fresh air especially with kids and during COVID this place checks all the boxes. Beautiful ride getting here, parking is limited depending on time of the year. If this is your first time save a picture of the map. The signal is very weak. The trails vary in difficulty but all very manageable. Wear comfy hiking shoes, bring your camera and enjoy the nature. See more..
    
32. 5.0 Captain Dave's Thimble Island Cruises (34 reviews)
    - Get to know Branford, CT
    Boat Tours
    
    
    Lovely 45 minutes! The stellar crew and detailed narration made a very pleasant start to this Sunday morning. We hadn’t a reservation but were accommodated as there was plenty of room for the 10:15 departure. The line was much longer for 11:15 so get your reservations to be safe Highly recommended for all. See more..
    
33. 5.0 Collis P. Huntington State Park (32 reviews)
    - History and Fun in Redding
    State Parks
    
    
    full of history. Fun to walk around. A gem in town for residents and visitors. Beautiful all 4 seasons See more..
    
34. 5.0 Faith and Fire Forge (30 reviews)
    - A wonderful way to spend some time learning while having fun.
    Wednesday: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Lessons & Workshops • Educational sites
    
    
    We had a great time yesterday for our first visit. My son got an amazing educational experience in how to make a railroad spike knife for his 10th birthday. I would absolutely recommend anyone who interested in knowing more about this art to go and visit Brian, it was time well spent. See more..
    
35. 5.0 Danbury Museum & Historical Society (30 reviews)
    - A fascinating trip into Danbury’s past
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums
    
    
    The Danbury Museum & Historical Society Authority acquires, preserves, exhibits, and interprets Danbury's past. Situated in downtown Danbury, the museum preserves the John and Mary rider House 9c.1785), the Dodd Hat Shop (c. 1790), the Marian Anderson Studio, the old King Street Schoolhouse, the Little Red Schoolhouse and the Charles Ives Birthplace. Huntington Hall, a modern exhibit building contains the museum offices and a research library. The Danbury Museum and Historical Society has evolved out of efforts to preserve endangered historic properties. One of the City's oldest structures, the Rider House on Main Street, would have been demolished in 1941 to make way for a gas station had it not been for the intervention of concerned citizens (including the Mary Wooster DAR Chapter). After raising money to purchase this property, these citizens found the Danbury Historical and Arts Center. A merger, in 1947, between the Scott-Fanton Museum and the Danbury Historical and Arts Center, saw the creation of the Danbury Scott Fanton Museum & Historical Society Inc. During the 1950's and 60's, the museum acquired the John Dodd Shop, the Ward House, the Charles Ives birthplace, two one room schoolhouses and erected Huntington Hall, where many of its exhibits have been displayed. In 2004, theMuseum was thrilled to add the Marian Anderson Studio to its collection. Famed opera singer Marian Anderson lived in danbury for over 50 years. It was moved to the Main Street campus of the museum in 1999. Restoration of the studio was completed in early 2004. 2006 saw the merger of the Danbury Scott Fanton Museum with the City of Danbury and a new entity was born on July 1, 2008 . . . the Danbury Museum and Historical Society Authority. Tours of the historic buildings on our Main Street campus are available on Saturdays only from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. during the winter season. Check our website regularly for updates, news and events or to sign up for our email newsletter. See more..
    
36. 5.0 Darien Library (29 reviews)
    - Beautiful, new library
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Libraries • Educational sites • Theatre & Performances
    
    
    Darien Library among the busiest public libraries in Connecticut, with over 1,300 people visiting on an average day. Aside from books and movies, we offer free WiFi, computers, programs for all ages, and helpful staff to answer your questions. The building is award-winning, so stop by today! See more..
    
37. 5.0 SoundWaters (28 reviews)
    - Afternoon sailing trip
    Lessons & Workshops
    
    
    SoundWaters was founded in 1989 with the mission to protect Long Island Sound through education and action. SoundWaters programs include: Rigorous, experiential science education, preK through high school Floating Classroom education sails aboard SoundWaters Summer Young Mariners STEM Academy for underperforming students Skill-building internship and mentoring for high school students Summer sailing and ecology camp Events and seminars for adults Public education sails and charters for all ages Kayak and Paddleboard rentals See more..
    
38. 5.0 MAGIC at the DELAMAR (27 reviews)
    - Michael Stetson show.
    Spent 2-3 hours Dinner Theaters • Theatre & Performances
    
    
    MAGIC at the DELAMAR brings the world’s most prolific sleight-of-hand artists to the stunning venues of the DELAMAR properties for rare, intimate performances. Your journey begins with a glass of wine, contains astonishment and laughter, and ends with an entirely new understanding of the word “impossible.” See more..
    
39. 5.0 Lucy Robbins Welles Library (27 reviews)
    - Great library and wonderful folks run it
    Spent 2-3 hours Libraries
    
    
    Library is state of the art. Has great programs for kids and adults. The research desk is a great source to help you find information. See more..
    
40. 5.0 Sharon Playhouse (26 reviews)
    - Broadway Quality Shows
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Theaters
    
    
    This theatre is in a beautiful country setting with spectacular productions. Totally first rate. Their shows are cast with New York professionals See more..
    
41. 5.0 Institute for American Indian Studies (26 reviews)
    - Lovey, lesser-known museum
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums
    
    
    The Institute for American Indian Studies (IAIS) is a museum and research center in rural Washington, CT. IAIS preserves through discovery and education the vitality, cultural knowledge, and traditions of Native American Peoples with a focus on Eastern Woodland Communities. Our museum exhibits feature 12,000 years of human history and lifeways though artifacts and art from across America. Visitors can experience the past first-hand with our replicated tools, instruments, and other items used in daily life located in our indoor Sachem’s longhouse classroom. The 15.5 acres of the museum’s natural surroundings contain several hiking trails, a medicinal garden, and a replicated 16th century Algonkian village. The museum collections, housed in the research center, include over 355,000 Native American artifacts and ethnographic items, two libraries, and archival records available to researchers by appointment. Museum programming includes annual festivals, various workshops, children’s programs, academic lectures, and an archaeology club that participates in excavations, performs lab work, and hosts lectures. Our education department serves over 10,000 school children annually from the tri-state area with hands-on programs and curricula aligned to Connecticut State Standards. Curious adult learners also will find numerous educational program offerings on a variety of topics. Find your adventure today. See more..
    
42. 5.0 Connecticut Antique Machinery (26 reviews)
    - New Addition of Gems and stones is amazing a true work of love
    Speciality Museums
    
    
    This is a true work or love, labor, and amazing dedication. The new exhibit of the Gems and history of mining in the area is FANTASTIC, had a great time visiting with all the volunteer docents these guys and gals really know their stuff. Working Tractors, Steam Units, Trains, and mining equipment makes this a DEFINITE VISIT if you are close. See more..
    
43. 5.0 Captain Morgan's Boat Training & Charters, LLC (25 reviews)
    - Incredible experience with the best captain ever!
    Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Multi-day Tours • Safaris • Taxis & Shuttles • Boat Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours • Private Tours • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Day Trips
    
    
    Captain Morgan made my husband’s birthday experience so special and fun! We did the two hour fun ride and he took us on a tour of the CT River that was relaxing and fun, with perfect music. He slowed down while we enjoyed snacks, and did some impressive boating skills to make us laugh. He also helped us get an incredible shot of the birthday boy out in the water. We relaxed and felt so comfortable while we enjoyed a gorgeous afternoon out on the water! On top of all of that, the Cove was flooded and he went waist-deep in the water to make sure that WE didn’t have to get wet walking to and from the dock. I would recommend him to anyone, and we can’t wait to go out on the boat with him again! See more..
    
44. 5.0 Wigwam Escape (25 reviews)
    - Excellent Escape Room
    Wednesday: Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games
    
    
    Can you thrive for a day in 1518? Come experience history in a way you never have before. More than just a game, Wigwam Escape is built to teach through experience and foster dialogue about the ways Native peoples lived 500 years ago in a game that's dynamic, challenging and entertaining. 3-7 people, ages 12 and up. See more..
    
45. 5.0 Rock Climb Fairfield (24 reviews)
    - Good for kids and adults
    Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Sports Camps & Clinics
    
    
    Formerly Carabiners Fairfield - Rock Climb Fairfield is Western Connecticut's largest indoor climbing gym and fitness facility. We offer the regions best bouldering, top rope climbing, auto belays and lead climbing for climbers of any age or ability. Amenities include: 100's of routes and boulder problems with weekly updates Fitness facility, free weights and cardio center Locker rooms w/showers Auto belays for solo climbers Instructional courses Climbing teams, youth programs, birthday parties See more..
    
46. 5.0 The Wood Memorial Library & Museum (24 reviews)
    - Wonderful little library and museum all decked out for the Holidays!
    Libraries • History Museums
    
    
    I went with several friends to the annual Gingerbread Festival that they hold at Wood Library each year. It exceeded my expectations! There were easily 100 Gingerbread Houses of varying degrees of expertise scattered all throughout the building. Some were traditional gingerbread houses with candy accents, others were replicas of area landmarks. There was no theme to the houses so I saw everything from a candy baseball field, to a gingerbread car club, The Grinch overlooking Whoville and Santa stuck in a chimney. There was holiday music playing in the background and snowflakes and decorations all over the building. It really was enchanting. They also had a "shop" set up off to the side selling crafts and holiday gifts along with baked goods. It was a fun afternoon. Although the event was free we were happy to drop a few dollars in the donation jar on our way out. We will definitely be back. See more..
    
47. 5.0 HIckory Stick Bookshop (22 reviews)
    - A Little Old Book Store
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops
    
    
    Oh my! What a quaint and charming book store. The first thing I noticed upon entering was the smell of books!! It was a small book store with a bit of everything and it had personal help. There was a person with knowledge happy to assist you and because of that personal touch I bought a book I probably would have never considered otherwise. We all bought books….you want to stay and look around. The only thing this place is missing is a fireplace, so you can curl up with a book next to it. LoL. Worth a visit to this adorable this book store. See more..
    
48. 5.0 Ilovekickboxing (21 reviews)
    - Best full body workout
    Spent 1-2 hours Health Clubs
    Best type of gym and cardio workout!! Full body workout, structured class, great music, helpful fun instructors and I always feel great after!!! See more..
    
49. 5.0 Old Drake Hill Flower Bridge (21 reviews)
    - Beautiful flowers on bridge
    Wednesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Bridges • Scenic Walking Areas
    
    
    Visiting Simsbury. When I was young we drove over this bridge one care one way at a time. Closed now and decorated with flowers over the river. Pavilion and benches for sitting. Brought back memories. See more..
    
50. 5.0 Antiques on the Farmington (20 reviews)
    - Spend a Fall Day Exploring Canton Antiques!
    Spent 1-2 hours Antique Shops
    
    
    My family has always loved this place because of its so colorful! Just two weeks ago, we visited Canton Antiques, and explored both floors, locating great furniture and jewelry finds, and chatting with the receptionists. We had lunch in town, and thoroughly enjoyed seeing the Farmington River. We plan to return within the next 4 or 5 days to see some foliage, which is most glorious at this time of year. See more..
    

What's a Hidden gem?

We call places hidden gems that are new, extremely good, but are not that popular yet - you should check them out. The criteria is to have a rating of 4.5 or more and more than 20 reviews and less than 100 reviews.