Connecticut Museums

Florence Griswold Museum

Old Lyme, CT Located just a short drive from Westbrook, the Florence Griswold Museum in Old Lyme offers a fascinating glimpse into Connecticut's artistic legacy. Housed in a charming Georgian mansion surrounded by lush gardens and overlooking the Lieutenant River, this museum celebrates the legacy of the Lyme Art Colony, a renowned gathering of American Impressionist artists who found inspiration in the natural beauty of the Connecticut countryside.



Visitors to the Florence Griswold Museum can explore the historic home, adorned with period furnishings and artwork, and wander through the picturesque landscape that once was a muse to painters such as Childe Hassam and Willard Metcalf. With rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and special events throughout the year, the Florence Griswold Museum offers an enriching experience for art enthusiasts of all ages.

Mystic Seaport Museum

Just a scenic drive east of Westbrook lies Mystic, Connecticut, home to one of the nation's premier maritime museums: Mystic Seaport Museum. Set along the banks of the Mystic River, this sprawling living history museum brings to life the seafaring heritage of New England through its meticulously restored ships, historic buildings, and engaging exhibits.



At Mystic Seaport Museum- (a national historic landmark), visitors can step back in time as they explore a recreated 19th-century coastal village, climb aboard tall ships, and learn about maritime crafts and traditions from costumed interpreters. From whaling history to maritime art and navigation, the museum offers a captivating journey through America's maritime past, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and nautical enthusiasts alike.

Yale University Art Gallery

New Haven, CT Venture a bit farther afield to New Haven, Connecticut, and discover the cultural treasures housed within the Yale University Art Gallery. As the oldest university art museum in the Western Hemisphere, the Yale Art Gallery boasts a vast and diverse collection spanning thousands of years and encompassing a wide range of artistic traditions.

From ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern masterpieces, the museum's extensive holdings offer something for every taste and interest. Highlights include works by renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Jackson Pollock, as well as treasures from civilizations around the world. With free admission and a convenient location in downtown New Haven, the Yale University Art Gallery is a must-see destination for art lovers visiting the Westbrook area.

Connecticut River Museum

The Connecticut River Museum, located in the picturesque town of Essex, Connecticut, stands as a beacon of maritime history. Situated on the banks of the majestic Connecticut River, the museum offers visitors a captivating journey through the region's rich maritime past. With its stunning waterfront location, the museum provides an immersive experience, allowing guests to explore the river's significance through engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs.



Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a treasure trove of artifacts, models, and stories that highlight the vital role the river has played in shaping the identity and economy of the surrounding communities. The Westbrook Inn is located minutes from Essex- (book your stay now). From its early days as a bustling hub for trade and transportation to its environmental significance today, the museum chronicles the river's evolution with depth and authenticity. Whether admiring historic vessels, learning about the ecology of the river, or discovering the tales of the people who have called its shores home, the Connecticut River Museum offers a captivating experience for all ages, inviting guests to embark on a voyage of discovery through the heart of New England's maritime heritage.

Yale Peabody Museum

An enriching journey through time and space, where the wonders of natural history and anthropology converge in a captivating display of scientific discovery. Take a day to visit New Haven and a museum offering a look into the fascinating world of ancient civilizations, prehistoric creatures, and the diversity of life on Earth. From towering dinosaur skeletons to exquisite gemstones, the museum's extensive collections beckon with a sense of wonder and awe, inviting guests to delve into the mysteries of the natural world. Among the highlights are the fossilized dinosaur tracks and fossils that provide a glimpse into the ancient past, offering a tangible connection to creatures that roamed the Earth millions of years ago. With its engaging exhibits, interactive displays, and world-renowned research programs, a visit to the Yale Peabody Museum promises to inspire curiosity, ignite imagination, and foster a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of our planet's history and biodiversity. Admission is free to the public.



Danbury Railway Museum

If trains are in your blood, adventure inland a bit. The historic railway hub of Danbury, Connecticut, stands as a testament to the region's rich railroad heritage. Housed within a meticulously preserved railway station dating back to the early 20th century, the museum offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the golden age of rail travel. Stepping onto the museum grounds is like stepping back in time, with vintage locomotives, passenger cars, and cabooses lining the tracks, each bearing the stories of countless journeys taken across the country. From exploring the meticulously restored interiors of historic train cars to witnessing the power and grandeur of steam locomotives up close, the museum provides an immersive experience for train enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With its engaging exhibits, hands-on activities, and scenic train rides through the picturesque Connecticut countryside, the Danbury Railway Museum offers a nostalgic journey through the sights, sounds, and sensations of railroading's heyday.



The Carousel Museum

Also inland in Bristol, Connecticut, is a captivating tribute to the artistry and nostalgia of carousels. Nestled within a charming historic building, the museum invites visitors on a whimsical journey through the rich history and craftsmanship of these beloved amusement park attractions. Boasting a diverse collection of beautifully restored carousel animals, ornate carvings, and intricate mechanisms, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the golden age of carousel artistry. From majestic horses to exotic creatures, each carousel figure tells a story of skilled craftsmanship and enduring beauty. With its engaging exhibits, hands-on activities, and guided tours, the Carousel Museum provides a delightful experience for visitors of all ages, celebrating the timeless joy and enchantment of these cherished rides.