10 Ways to Enjoy a Summer Evening

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

The Show of Swallows

This doesn’t happen until late summer, but the earlier you can reserve a space, the better. In late August & early September, a spectacular show of nature takes place at the mouth of the Connecticut River when as many as a half-million birds, mostly swallows, converge just before sunset over their roosting island. They create an extended ballet in the air before finally coming down to earth in what’s been described as a “funnel” or “rain.” 
Anyway, picture it for yourself [maybe bring a camera] on the river aboard the RiverQuest, a fantastic way to enjoy the views of the river - while keeping dry [mostly].

Sunset Cruising

Since we're on the subject of boats, float on Connecticut waters for a  gorgeous sunset & allow yourself to unwind. 
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.
Want even more ways to take in the sunset? Try these breathtaking spots!

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 while remaining socially distant. 
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 & Stroll

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 in Manchester.
Be sure to visit Urban Lodge's Hartford Taproom & Kitchen on Pratt St!