Connecticut Travel Guide
Connecticut Travel Guide
"There's black people in Connecticut?" I get this question SO much. From people in the States and abroad. Just to be clear: Yes. There are black people in Connecticut, my home state.
Connecticut may not be a top destination to visit in the States, but there are things to do here in my home state. Believe it or not my state has a bunch of hidden gems. Since, I had time to kill this summer I used it to explore my own backyard to show you why Connecticut should be on your list. I'm talking outdoor activities, family fun, supporting local black owned businesses and more.
One of my long-term goals is to visit every state because EVERY state has something to offer. Can we all agree to stop sleeping on the little states like Connecticut? Let me help you.
Things to do in Connecticut
Connecticut is a hidden treasure if you take the time to look. Here’s three things you can do while in my home state.
🍔 Eat at Louis’ Lunch
Louis’ Lunch is recognized by the Library of Congress as the Birthplace of the Hamburger Sandwich. It started with a burger and that legacy continues today. All burgers are cooked to order and there are very limited options for variation to maintain the tradition of the burgers. You will not be able to doctor your burger up with a bunch of condiments and added ingredients because there are none. It's the birthplace of the burger, not Burger King where you can have it your way. Louis's Lunch is a hole in the wall, but worth the trip. Go in and ask for a cheese works with a salad... They'll know what you mean 😉
Link to more information: https://louislunch.com
🚣🏾♀️ Go Paddle Boarding or Kayaking
I stan water activities and paddle boarding has been high on my list for a while now. When you’re visiting Connecticut, head over to Branford River Paddles and learn how to paddle board or kayak OR BOTH. Go on a weekday when it’s not as crowded and less boat traffic on the river. Weather is a factor so the best thing to do is call the morning of and schedule for later that same day. I called at 9am and by 11:30 I was in the water. The staff were super friendly and informative before and throughout the entire lesson. Not to brag or anything, but I didn’t fall in the water not one time 💁🏾♀️
Link to more information: https://branfordriverpaddlesports.com
🧗🏾♀️ Hiking
Connecticut has a bunch of spots to hike, see waterfalls and take in that foliage. I’m by no means a hiking expert, but we’re breaking down those stereotypes. Hiking is not "White people shit" and if I can do it so can you. So, this summer I decided to give it a try and get out in them sticks.
•
My intro to hiking in Connecticut was at Lake Wintergreen. (Fun fact: I used to come to this lake to fish with my Nana back in the day 🎣) This hike was super chill and didn’t have me gasping for air at all. It’s suitable for adults and kids of all ages. If my 3 year old nephew can do it so can you. At first the lake seems huge and like you’ll be walking for days, but you finish before you even realize it. Keep your eyes peeled for mushrooms, flowers and berries (yes, you can eat the berries).
~ Parking and admission is free
Other places to hike in Connecticut:
🧗🏾♀️ East Rock (view of New Haven from the top)
🧗🏾♀️ Sleeping Giant
🧗🏾♀️ Wadsworth Falls State Park (waterfall at this location)
🧗🏾♀️ Westfield Falls (waterfall at this location)
🧗🏾♀️ Southford Falls State Park (waterfall at this location)
Black Owned Restaurants in Connecticut
One thing you can count on is me spending my black dollars at black businesses. Me you can take that to the bank.
•
I intentionally made a point to go to black owned restaurants in my state to showcase the black community in Connecticut and to get the good eats. There are some fan favorites and ones I discovered for the first time when I decided to be a tourist in my own backyard.
🍴 American Soul Kitchen Bar
They knew the assignment. This restaurant is in a cute little corner, but leaves a big impact. The drinks, the vibes, the GRITS. Everything was on point.
Link to more information: https://www.americansoulkitchenbar.com
🍴 Ricky D’s Rib Shack
A black owned restaurant owned by an HBCU grad? Oh, you know I had to go support. As soon as I walked in the door and saw a Tuskegee flag I knew I made the right decision. It was the culture for me.
The food was on point and the portion sizes were massive. I was eating ribs for the next few days and HAPPY about it, okay? The staff at Ricky D's was helpful and insightful as well. By the time we finished ordering we were cracking jokes with the hostess. There's just something about being with your people and supporting each other.
Link to more information: https://rickydsribshack.com
🍴 Sandra's
A local favorite. Sandra's is known for their soul food and never disappoints. I've had the chicken, pork chops, ribs, pulled turkey and plan to continue working through the menu. They currently don't have sit-in dining due to Rona, but it's worth it even just for take-out.
Link to more information:
https://www.sandrasnextgeneration.com
Other local favorites:
🍴 Guilty Kitchen & Lounge
🍴 Woody's Wings
🍴 Mama Mary's
Wineries to Visit in Connecticut
Let’s wine down and talk about Connecticut wineries. Did you get that pun? 😉
•
Imma be completely honest with y’all. Even I didn’t know Connecticut had so many wineries until I started intentionally finding things to do in my state. So, basically, I could’ve been getting lit at wineries right here at home. Let’s get into it.
🍷 Hawk Ridge Winery
This winery knew the assignment and delivered. The fields of grapes welcome to the property and the winery sits with a great view of the Connecticut foliage. Of course I went for the tasting and got to try 6 different wines (white, red and rose) for only $11.50. The wine tastings are from a set menu, but you get to keep the glass. The winery also serves food, but bringing your own food is not only welcomed, but encouraged. The main thing that attracted me to this winery was the wine slushies. Yes, wine slushies. Definitely do not leave Hawk Ridge without trying at least one. I recommend the peace. 10/10. Take pictures with the grapes, get you some wine and enjoy the view 🙌🏾
Link to more information: http://www.hawkridgewinery.net
🍷 Gouveia Vineyards
This place was super cute and in a peaceful location. The winery offered tastings that included 5 wines of your choice for $15, but only in a designated location which was a no for me. You can pick your wines, but not where you taste them 😂 I had my picnic food packed and didn't want to be at a community table for the tastings. Instead, we got a bottle, found a table with a good view and enjoyed the picnic.