“Good things come in small packages” is a popular idiom that is undoubtedly true for the third smallest state — Connecticut. Known for its fall foliage — according to U.S. News & World Report, about 58% of its landmass is forests — the Land of Steady Habits is filled with quaint small towns.
It is New England’s second-smallest state; however, with 3.6 million residents, it’s the fourth most densely populated state in the country.
Although small in size, Connecticut’s roots run deep. Indigenous Tribes, including Pequots, Mohegans, Paugussets, and Schaghticokes, have lived on the land for more than 12,000 years. Founded as a colony in 1636 as a settlement for a Puritan congregation, Connecticut wrote and adopted “The Fundamental Orders” in 1639, considered by many historians to be the first written constitution of a democratic government — hence the nickname, the Constitution State. It gained statehood in 1788.
Whether going to Yale to visit a friend or relative or swinging through New Haven to try the city’s distinctive “apizza” on your way to see that fall foliage, Connecticut holds several spots in its small borders to entertain and educate you. Many of them are contained in its National Monuments and landmarks. Read on to learn more!
Barnum Museum: If you are a fan of “The Greatest Show on Earth,” this destination is for you. Located in Bridgeport, Connecticut, The Barnum Museum showcases the life work of Phineas Taylor (“P.T.”) Barnum, the co-founder of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. It contains more than 60,000 artifacts about Barnum, Bridgeport, Connecticut, and the United States in the 19th century. The entrepreneur and entertainer had many interests outside the circus and played many roles in his community. He was a Bridgeport mayor, Connecticut legislator, urban developer, philanthropist, abolitionist, and author. The Barnum Museum was completed in 1893, and in 1972, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 2023, the museum remains committed to Barnum’s mission: “growing curiosity, creativity, and confidence through instructive entertainment.”
Photo Courtesy The Barnum Museum
The Henry Barnard House: This National Historic Landmark in Hartford, Connecticut, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. The house is the lifelong home of educator Henry Barnard, a reformer who was instrumental in developing the American public school system. The Yale graduate established Connecticut’s and Rhode Island’s statewide educational systems, serving as models for such infrastructure in other states. Barnard also was the first U.S. Commissioner of Education and was an editor of the American Journal of Education. The Henry Barnard House is now owned by a religious charity — the Sisters of Mercy — and the residence is used as a homeless shelter.
Photo Courtesy NPS
Connecticut State Capitol: Located in the Nutmeg State’s capital, Hartford, the Connecticut State Capitol was declared a national historical landmark in 1971. The building was designed by architect Richard Upjohn and constructed by James Batterson in the High Victorian Gothic and Second Empire styles, popular when it was built between 1872 and 1879. One hundred years later, the capitol was restored, taking 10 years to complete. Housing the state’s executive offices and legislative chambers, visitors can take a tour of the capitol given by the League of Women Voters of Connecticut Education Fund.
Photo Courtesy CT Visit
