Connecticut Coastal Tour
Hartford, CT, USA
About this trip
Connecticut Coastal Tour
June 19-21, 2026
Get ready to embark on an enlightening journey at the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center! Our engaging tour begins on the first floor of the historic Stowe House, where you'll discover the profound impact of the abolitionist movement on Stowe’s renowned anti-slavery novel. As you explore the three floors of the home, you’ll also have the opportunity to delve into the enriching self-guided offerings available in the Museum Center, including special exhibits, a captivating documentary film, beautiful seasonal gardens, and the charming Mark Twain store. For those who can’t make it to the upper floors, we are excited to offer a virtual tour on our website, ensuring everyone can experience the beauty and significance of Stowe’s home. Join us at the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center and create lasting memories with family and friends as you immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural importance of this remarkable place!
Next, journey into the past with the Mark Twain House Living History Experience! Step into the world of one of America’s greatest literary figures as you embark on a captivating General House Tour, where the echoes of Twain’s wit and wisdom resonate within the very walls he called home. After marveling at the historic charm, you'll gather in the enchanting Carriage Barn for an engaging 30-minute presentation and a lively Q&A session with our talented Living History interpreters, who will bring the late 19th-century to life in their delightful period costumes. But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Finally, prepare to be awestruck by the breathtaking Gillette Castle Tour. This magnificent 14,000-square-foot stone fortress, built in 1914 by the illustrious William
Hooker Gillette—famed for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes—perches majestically 200 feet above the scenic Connecticut River, surrounded by 184 acres of lush woodlands.
Imagine the delightful evening that awaits you at a charming local restaurant, where the ambiance is as warm and inviting as the delicious cuisine served, perfectly setting the stage for the exhilarating performance of "Crazy For You" at the esteemed Goodspeed Opera House. Your final day, experience a unique 2 1/2-hour adventure aboard a historic steam locomotive, which gracefully chugs through the picturesque New England towns of Deep River and Chester. As the vintage coaches glide along, you'll be treated to mesmerizing views of Pratt Cove and Chester Creek, where vibrant wetlands teem with diverse wildlife, including Cormorants, Ducks, Swans, and elegant Egrets. Once you arrive at Deep River Landing, you’ll board the enchanting Becky Thatcher riverboat for a leisurely 1 1/4-hour cruise along the stunning Connecticut River. Here, the breathtaking beauty of the river valley unfolds before your eyes from multiple decks, showcasing serene waters, lush inlets, and rocky shorelines, all framing remarkable historical landmarks like Gillette Castle and the iconic Goodspeed Opera House. This journey is not just a trip; it’s an immersive experience designed to create cherished memories in a friendly and supportive community. We encourage you to book your spot for this extraordinary adventure with Garden State Getaways, where every moment is crafted for enjoyment and discovery.
Package includes motor coach transportation, driver’s gratuity, trip leader, snacks, game, prizes, 2 nights of accommodations, 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners at a local restaurants, Gillette Castle Tour, Harriet Beecher Stowe House, Mark Twain House, Goodspeed Opera House performance, Essex Steam Train and Riverboat Cruise with box lunch.
Departures from Toms River NJT Bus Station, Target (Brick) and Jackson Church
$1089 pp triple occupancy $1277 pp double occupancy $1,653 single
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