Sterling ConnecticutATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Sterling, Connecticut.
1. Moosup Valley State Park Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY PATH
Moosup Valley State Park Trail offers a peaceful walking path through Connecticut's beautiful countryside on a former railroad line. Visitors can enjoy the quiet and serene environment while hiking or biking along gentle paths suitable for all experience levels. The trail provides numerous opportunities to observe local wildlife and native plant species in their natural habitat.
2. Ekonk Hill Turkey Farm
FARM FRESH EXPERIENCE
Ekonk Hill Turkey Farm allows visitors to see turkeys up close and learn about sustainable farming practices. The farm features a popular store offering fresh produce, homemade ice cream, and locally-sourced products that showcase the region's agricultural bounty. Families particularly enjoy the seasonal activities including corn mazes in fall and opportunities for wildlife watching throughout the year.
3. Quinebaug Lake State Park
TRANQUIL WATERFRONT ESCAPE
Quinebaug Lake State Park offers a serene lakeside setting perfect for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The park's peaceful atmosphere makes it ideal for picnicking and relaxation while enjoying views of the pristine waters and surrounding woodland. Nature photographers frequent the park for its diverse ecosystems and opportunities to capture scenic New England landscapes.
4. Sterling Playground
FAMILY FUN ZONE
Sterling Playground provides a well-maintained recreational area for families with children of various ages. The playground features modern equipment, shaded areas, and open spaces for both structured and free play activities. Parents appreciate the safe environment where children can develop physical skills while enjoying outdoor time in the heart of Sterling.
5. Buttonwood Farm
SUNFLOWER FIELD PARADISE
Buttonwood Farm is famous for its spectacular sunflower fields that bloom in mid-July through early August, creating a stunning sea of yellow across 14 acres. During the annual Sunflowers for Wishes fundraiser, visitors can purchase fresh-cut sunflowers with proceeds benefiting the Make-A-Wish Foundation. The farm also features award-winning homemade ice cream available year-round with over 50 flavors that draw crowds from across the region.
6. Pachaug State Forest
VAST WILDERNESS EXPLORATION
Pachaug State Forest, Connecticut's largest state forest, spans over 26,000 acres of diverse terrain including hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping areas. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore miles of multi-use trails ideal for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and off-road vehicle use in designated areas. The forest's varied ecosystems support abundant wildlife, making it a prime destination for nature photography and bird watching.
7. Creamery Brook Bison
AMERICAN BISON RANCH
Creamery Brook Bison offers visitors the unique opportunity to see American bison up close on a working farm in rural Connecticut. The family-owned ranch provides educational tours where guests learn about bison history, behavior, and the sustainable farming practices used to raise these magnificent animals. Their farm store sells a variety of bison meat products, educating consumers about the health benefits of this leaner alternative to beef.
8. Old Furnace State Park
SCENIC HILLSIDE VISTAS
Old Furnace State Park features a challenging hiking trail that rewards adventurers with spectacular views from its 200-foot rock face overlooking Half Hill Pond. The 367-acre park offers diverse recreational opportunities including fishing, picnicking, and wildlife observation throughout its forested landscape. History enthusiasts appreciate the park's namesake connection to the region's industrial past when iron ore was smelted in furnaces throughout the area.
9. Ross Pond State Park
HIDDEN WOODLAND RETREAT
Ross Pond State Park centers around a picturesque 33-acre pond nestled within a serene wooded setting ideal for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The park's quiet atmosphere makes it a perfect retreat for those seeking to escape the bustle of everyday life while enjoying Connecticut's natural beauty. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding forest, offering opportunities to observe local wildlife and native plant species in their undisturbed habitat.
10. Slater Memorial Museum
ART AND HISTORY COLLECTION
Slater Memorial Museum houses an impressive collection of fine and decorative arts, artifacts, and cast replicas spanning 4,000 years of global history. The museum's distinctive Romanesque architecture provides a fitting backdrop for its diverse collections, which include American, African, Asian, and European works. Educational programs and changing exhibitions complement the permanent collection, making it a cultural cornerstone of eastern Connecticut.
11. Route 146 Scenic Drive
PICTURESQUE COASTAL JOURNEY
Route 146 Scenic Drive offers a breathtaking journey through Connecticut's coastal landscape, passing salt marshes, historic villages, and scenic waterways. The winding road provides numerous opportunities to stop at local farms, antique shops, and seafood restaurants that showcase the region's character and cuisine. Travelers particularly enjoy the drive during fall foliage season when the coastal views are framed by vibrant autumn colors.
12. Mohegan Sun
PREMIER ENTERTAINMENT RESORT
Mohegan Sun stands as one of the largest casino resorts in the United States, featuring gaming floors, luxury accommodations, and world-class entertainment venues. The resort complex includes over 30 restaurants and bars ranging from casual dining to gourmet experiences helmed by celebrity chefs. Beyond gambling, visitors enjoy shopping at high-end boutiques, relaxing at the luxurious spa, or attending concerts and sporting events at the 10,000-seat arena.
13. Mystic Aquarium
MARINE LIFE WONDER
Mystic Aquarium invites visitors to explore ocean life through interactive exhibits featuring over 5,000 marine animals including beluga whales, African penguins, and sea lions. The aquarium's research and conservation programs provide educational opportunities while supporting global marine preservation efforts. Guests particularly enjoy the touch tanks where they can have hands-on experiences with rays, sharks, and various invertebrates under staff supervision.
14. Sun Ridge Resort
RELAXING RURAL GETAWAY
Sun Ridge Resort offers comfortable accommodations nestled in Sterling's picturesque countryside, providing a peaceful retreat for travelers. The resort features amenities designed for relaxation and recreation, allowing guests to unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of rural Connecticut. Visitors appreciate its convenient location that provides easy access to local attractions while maintaining a sense of tranquil seclusion.
15. Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN ARCHITECTURE
Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge represents New England's traditional architectural heritage as a picturesque wooden covered bridge nestled in a serene woodland setting. Though a modern reconstruction completed in 1994, it faithfully follows historical building methods and serves as a functional crossing over the Moosup River. The bridge and surrounding trails offer photographers and history enthusiasts a glimpse into the region's past while providing a charming backdrop for nature walks.