Connecticut was the fifth state added to the Union, which means it is one of the oldest and most exciting states to explore. If you are all about art and history, there is no shortage of museums and interesting places that have worked to preserve the state’s rich history. Take a look at five top museums, galleries, and more to check out in CT once you settle in after your move.
1. Mystic Seaport Museum
The Mystic Seaport Museum is situated shoreside in Mystic, CT, and is a place you don’t want to skip visiting if you are all about historic sea voyaging. The “museum” is like an entire village filled with cool things to explore, such as an old schoolhouse and cooperage. However, the main attractions are the whale ship, sailboat rides, and ship figureheads. Best of all, admission is free if you visit the Mystic Seaport on your birthday.
2. Hill-Stead Museum
If you appreciate a combination of art and architecture, the Hill-Stead Museum outside Hartford, CT, is one you won’t want to miss. This gorgeous house from the Colonial Revival era was built by one of the very first female architects in this country, Theodate Pope Riddle. However, this house, situated on over 150 acres, has been reinvented as an art gallery. You can roam the grounds and then head inside to admire works of art like Monet, Cassat, and Degas.
3. Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art
The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, located in Hartford, is a massive art museum that looks much more like a castle. The facility is home to 16,000 square feet of space that exhibits everything from decorative arts and artifacts to costumes, drawings, and paintings. Some highlights include baroque paintings, colonial-era furniture from Wallace Nutting, and Hudson River School landscapes. Plan your visit for free admission during Happy Hour Thursday through Sunday between 4 and 5 pm.
4. Yale University Art Gallery
Are you looking to see teapots crafted by none other than Paul Revere or art hand-painted by Van Gogh? Take a trip to the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven. The Yale Art Gallery has been around for nearly 200 years and contains one of the most exceptional art collections, made up of almost 300,000 pieces. Pieces range from sculptures and paintings to photographs, many of which were gifted to Yale by bequest. The gallery is open to all free of charge.
5. Mark Twain House and Museum and Harriet Beecher Stowe Center
The Mark Twain House and Museum and Harriet Beecher Stowe Center are planted side by side in the Capital city of CT. Harriet Stowe and Mark Twain were neighbors and both known for their incredible prose works. Today, the two locations serve as popular destinations for anyone who wants to look at the life and works of either Stowe or Twain. A separate museum on the property also houses relics and artifacts collected over the years.
Need Help Moving to CT?
If you are relocating to CT—good choice! The Nutmeg State is the ideal place to connect with art and history. Reach out to our team of professionals for help with your moving project.
