Inspiration
10 Ways to Enjoy a Summer Evening
One of the things we love most about summertime in Connecticut is that pleasant period at the end of the day when the sky turns purple, the midday heat breaks, and many of us are ready to unwind. Here are some great ways to spend those summer hours at the end of a busy day.
Up on the Roof
When you feel like getting out, one fun way is to make the festivities outdoors, & even better, on the roof. Some of the places where you can give it a go are the spectacular Rooftop 120 in Glastonbury, High George in New Haven, & Elbow Room in West Hartford.
The rooftop beer garden at Area Two in Stratford by Two Roads Brewing Company & the rooftop bar at Cava Restaurant in Southington have so much to offer!
Evening Concert
Revive your spirit with live outdoor music by the Hartford Symphony Orchestra or experience a diverse line-up of free performances at the Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts in Westport.
Be sure to check our events page for more upcoming concerts – new events are added every day! Want to try a different kind of concert? Enjoy other musical stylings and music more at drag shows across the state.
Sunset Cruise
Board sunset cruises by The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk or Argia Mystic Cruises. Tour the Thimble Islands with The Islander in Branford, cruises start late afternoon, but will give you an opportunity to explore the surrounding areas afterwards to catch a beautiful sunset. Or simply sit with a drink at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina and watch the sky turn pink above the boats. Want even more ways to take in the sunset? Try these breathtaking spots!
Drive-In Movies
This throwback treat is a great way to get your movie fix while enjoying the night sky & fresh air.
Head east to the Mansfield Drive-In & you will experience the magic of dusk as it deepens around the big screen. It’s a great activity to connect with the kids & share a past of your childhood with them.
Poetry in a Garden
The Fresh Voices Poetry Competition at Farmington’s Hill-Stead Museum is one of Connecticut's great verbal treats. Attendees are encouraged to come early to walk the trails on the extensive grounds & picnic in the garden as the music & poetry take hold.
Hooked on Evening Fishing
Not that you can always believe a fisherman’s story, but many swear the fish bite harder & more often once the sun begins to go down. Whether you catch lots or not, fishing from the shore is a wonderful way to enjoy summer’s long dusk hours. Check out a fishing guide to some of Connecticut’s best state-owned properties along the shore & the best spots on state-owned property along the water!
Sip Back and Relax
The Connecticut Wine Trail boasts over 40 wineries & vineyards. Relax, & enjoy the stunning scenery while sipping on award-winning wines. Not into wine? No worries – Connecticut is home to many breweries that offer outdoor seating, dining, and music … like Urban Lodge Brewery and Elicit Brewing Company in Manchester. Be sure to visit Urban Lodge's Hartford Taproom & Kitchen on Pratt St!
The Sycamore Scene
Speaking of outdoor pleasures, the Sycamore Drive-In Restaurant in Bethel (est. 1948) was around long before the movie American Graffiti made drive-ins cool again, and its timeless charms are maybe best appreciated on a summer evening. Get there on one of their Summer Cruise Nights and munch on a tasty burger, followed by a homemade root beer to go. More of a hot dog fan? Go to Blackie’s in Cheshire (est. 1928) at dusk & unlock those core memories. Discover more drive-in eateries here!
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